Hello NAM,
I wanted to use this thread to document, learn and share my experience with my first Mini. I will try to be better with taking pictures and posting them as I maintain the car, and do a few things to it here and there. I've always modified my vehicles, but I've been awful about documenting it.

Two weeks ago 3/14 I purchased a 2006 Checkmate edition. Some of these photos were from the listing and a couple I've taken.







Not my legs

 

First thing was to debadge the stickers and fix the passenger window.

Installation was easy and I ended up installing some dynamat for sound quality and to make doors feel little more solid.

I also picked up a set of driving light covers in the classified section.

Since this picture I've removed the badge holder and ordered a headlight washer cover. I plan on installing it after I wetsand the headlights and remove the clear bra. Here is the mini next to my A4

I've also ordered a replacement scoop to replace this dog collar one which I painted today. Pics to follow soon

 

Welcome to NAM.

There is an immense amount of information on your model here between the threads, the members and the vendors. If are thinking on mods and if have not already done so, may I suggest you check out the Mod folders in the Gen1 section.

 

Thanks! I've been reading and searching. I appreciate the advice. Lot of useful info on the site. Maybe mods could move this thread to Gen 1 section

 

Consider it done.

 

Maybe keep the scoop.
Paint it pure silver but have someone airbrush the head of a bulldog on it !

 

Ended up with a new scoop. Paint matches the roofline perfectly, not so much the stripes.


Also did a quick overview. Looks like the power steering pump is newish, but the lines are leaking. I am going to try better clamps if not I will replace them.

 

Picked up a very lightly used Invidia exhaust with titanium tips. Exhaust shield (the bit that goes between two mufflers that is attached to the underside of the battery mount) had all 4 studs snap off while trying to unbolt it.

 

I like the hood scoop better your way.

You have a buddy with a lift? Makes it so much easier to work on things

 

Replaced a failing belt tensioner and found that the belt on it was K060535 so I ordered K060532 to go in its place. What I thought was a leaking power steering return line turned out to be just a poorly clamped hose. Tightened it and cleaned it up and no sign of leaks for 4 days now. Also had tint installed and a new "used" steering should be in the mail. Cabin filter installed. Car has a Craven 17% reduction pulley as well as ATI super damper. Also installed upper JCW grill and will hack up the bottom portion soon. Pics to come soon!

 

So the windows were tinted Friday and the project for this weekend was headlight clearing and polishing. When I got the car I noticed how hazed the lights were and it bothered me (along with a few other things). Here are some pics. "Torro" is finally becoming a little carcar I am truly enjoying to drive.

 

Next up was the steering wheel. I couldn't find another checkmate steering wheel for sale, so instead I found a regular 3 spoke in great shape. More than likely I will be swapping out the seats at some point since I am not the fan of the blue/silver combo currently. As you can tell the factory wheel was pretty beat up.

Halfway through

and finished product. Feel and looks much better! I took the time to really clean the buttons with a small detailing brush and some plastic cleaner.