Hi. I got my dream car less than a month ago and the tranny went out. We're looking at just buying a MINI that needs work (no engine) and using its tranny. It's basically the same cost as buying a new tranny. The thing is, it's a 6 speed super. How hard (relatively speaking) is it to convert? All of the parts are in the car with no engine, so we wouldn't be buying a kit I don't think.
Appreciate any thoughts. I love my car, but I'm really sad.

 

There isn't anything too difficult about the swap as most everything just bolts up. If the engine is missing in your parts car, you'll most likely need to source a flywheel and clutch kit but I would replace that anyways while you have it all apart. The only part that isn't bolt in or plug in is the reverse light. You'll need to wire that in yourself but again, very straightforward. If you have done any serious mechanical work on any vehicle you should be able to perform the swap.

 

The swap also needs a different starter, trans mount, flywheel, clutch, clutch lines, shifter
cables, shifter box, axles, etc from an R56, but you should have everything in the
donor car.

 

More info here:

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ll-how-to.html

 

Thank you, we did the swap, but now there is a weird noise from the clutch...grinding and banging. One video said something about the slave cylinder being "off". We're taking her a part again to try and fix the problem. We did buy a new clutch kit, so we know it's not bad.
Any thoughts? My boyfriend has worked on cars most of his life, but this MINI is a whole different beast!

 

That is the beauty of a donor car!