So, I started the lengthy task of replacing my own clutch. I started taking pictures along the way and was going to make a DIY for it, and then I stumbled upon this page: http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/foru...read.php?t=747. I obviously can't take credit for this, but I thought it might be a good thing to have on the How To forum.

 

Link is dead.

 

Alright I started doing my clutch replacement over the weekend.
found this thread and it's dead link and was sad.
then i found the following which helped me, but it looks like links to other similar forums can't be posted, but someone can probably figure out what belongs in the *'s and hopefully will help those that need it when doing such a job because details for the r56 aren't easy to come by:
http://www.*********************/library/2nd-generation-mini-cooper-how-to-4/r56-alta-positive-steering-response-system-psrs-15/#axzz2UVCPdONr

 

I just made a mechanic's-eye-view video of removing the transmission and installing a Valeo clutch. Hope it's helpful to someone:
BTW, this is for an R53 - I can't figure out how to delete a post so editing for clarification.