Does anyone have the JCW Strut Brace and care to comment on it? I'm thinking of adding it on as an option and am wondering about pros and cons...

 

I have it. Looks nice. Not aware of any cons. I couldn't tell you whether it makes a difference in handling, or not. Seemed like a good idea when I ordered the MCS. Installed it shortly after receiving the car.

 

I have one I added after 11K. I noticed a pretty big difference. Many say there are better, less expensive options, but I am trying for now to keep it "all Mini".

 

I have it...looks sweet, fits fine with my Alta intake...couldn't comment on handling difference cause it was installed before I picked my car up. But it will stiffen the front end of the chassis, maintain the front suspension geometry, especially on bumpy roads.

 

I'm thinking about this or the M7 with the anti-mushroom stuff - comments?

 

It stiffens the chassis a little, but hardly enough to notice. It looks nice.

Only con is the price.

 

I have it just got it put on couple weeks ago looks great does help w/ handling a little bit

 

Looks nice. Probably helps a little for track days. Is not legal for GS autocross events.

 

Is the JCW STB the only one available for the R56?

 

I'm considering getting one. For those who have the JCW front strut brace, how much did it cost?

 

So stupid question here...
Does a strut bar really do anything for the suspension? From what I've seen on the forum seems its mostly a cosmetic thing. *shrugs*

 

$275.00 when I ordered my MCS. Installed it myself. It required a little metal work as there was an error in which bolts were being used on the car.

 

I've searched far and wide. There is no other option yet although DDM has pics of a prototype which they refer to as 'ready for production' in their CAI thread. I suspect M7 will have one soon. These other brands will most likely be cheaper than the JCW and have the added benefit of integrated strut brace plates that will help prevent the mushrooming problem that many people are experiencing.

 

...with the JCW kit and I felt a little improvement in the way the car corners under acceleration.

I haven't had any mushrooming problems, I think the extra material helps with reinforcing that area.

I would have like a better price from the dealer but wanted to keep with Mini parts.

 

I'll probably go with the M7 option, although I wonder how many people with R56's are having mushrooming problems. Most of the reports I've read have been from the first generation crowd, and it would make sense that MINI (at least partially) addressed this issue with the R56.

This is just speculation, and I'm likely to go the M7 route unless I really think the problem has been fixed.

 

There was a thread about that awhile back. Seems that BMW did strengthen that area. Whether it is completely immune to problems is unknown. I don't recall anyone with an R56 complaining about mushrooming though.

 

could somebody post a photo of their JCW brace installed? I would love to see a real photo of it.

 

Here's a pic of my engine bay with JCW strut brace:

 

That sure is purdy Scott
So looking at the pic you have is there any sort of clearance or fitting issue with the Alta CAI?
Also did you notice any improvments with tighter chassis or suspension?

 

Funny because you can have uber fancy external reservoir struts (not springs), but you can't have a decorative strut bar in GS

 

No clearance issue with the Alta intake....and my car came with strut brace from the start, so I couldn't say how much of a handling difference it made.

 

that kills it for me.

 

So I've heard people say the JCW strut brace doesn't fit w/ the JCW airbox, yet others say they have both with no clearance issues. Who is right??? I drive over some nasty (unavoidable) bumps on a daily basis and am afraid of mushrooming. The improved rigidity would be an added bonus. I do plan on getting the JCW Stage 1 in the spring, so I would like to know if any strut braces fit with it.

 

100% sure...it fits around the JCW air box...I've seen it done.

 

i have a quick question...

i have other this bar and i try to install i get a screew on my way. do i need to replace the screw to another side in place my strut brace?