I have a 2004 MINI Cooper S, and would like a short throw shifter. I found a brand new one for sale that a guy on Facebook has. He said it is adjustable and doesn't know the brand, but says it is a good one. (Not a Cravenspeed, I saw a photo of it). He is asking $30 + $12 Shipping. I've looked up how to install a short throw shifter on an R53, and all sources say remove the exhaust, then the heat shield, then dust cover, etc, etc. However, my exhaust bolts are VERY rusted. They have become corroded to the exhaust pipe so badly that I can't see a single side of the bolt. Is it possible to work around the exhaust pipe and complete the short throw shifter installation? If so, I'd buy this shifter and install it. I've got small hands, and a good set of sockets, extensions, wobble extensions, etc, but I'm really not wanting to mess with the rusted exhaust bolts. Please let me know if leaving the exhaust on is an option. Thank You!!

 

You need to drop the exhaust. Just shear off the bolts and install new. Yes, it's a dirty job but it needs to be done. If you don't want to mess with the bolts, just go to a muffler shop and get them to remove them and install new ones. Then you can take the car home and get to work on the short shifter.

 

How hard would you say installing the short throw shifter is? Would you say it is easier or harder than replacing the valve cover gasket on an r53?

 

The exhaust after the cat and then the heat shield must come off. Then you will find it rather fun to mess with the plastic cable cassette. Popping out the ball joints of the cables can be a struggle. You can plan on a all day job unless you have a lift. Consider a day that is warm so you don't risk breaking the plastic parts.

 

All of this!! Also check out his installation process with great photos to give you an idea what you will be dealing with https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...roject-15.html

 

I think OP is on March break; or has given up.