I've tried to read every thread I could about the JCW tuning kit in (hopeful) anticipation of being able to make it part of my impending new car purchase. So, if I've missed the discussion of this somewhere, please let me know.

JCW makes a big deal out of their special head and special exhaust system. However, there's no mention of an exhaust manifold. I just went and had another look at my official 2004 (yes, I know I'll be getting a 2005) JCW brochure. No picture of an exhaust manifold either. Are they just lumping it in with the exhaust?

What's the deal? Enquiring minds want to know.

Hunter

 

JCW does make a manifold but it's not included with our kits . It is available in the UK, but you can only have it installed right there at the Works facility as it is technically a JCW Motorsports part. Maybe one day we'll be able to order it here...

 

Thanks

So, they go through all that trouble to make the engine breath better with the head and exhaust, and leave the stock manifold in place?

Doesn't make sense to me.

Has anybody put an aftermarket manifold on with the full JCW kit and dynoed it? I wonder how much it hurts or helps. Or, am I making a big deal out of nothing?

Hunter

 

The stock manifold is actually a header (in the typical aftermarket sense) where there are primary tubes for each exhaust port going into a collector, not a log of cast iron. It actually flows very well for a stock piece; there's no reason to change it until you want to start extracting every last HP past the 210cHP mark.

 

I have a 2003 MCS with the JCW kit(s) and a miltek header. Highly (as well as others with the same setup) recommend the header. Noticeable improvement in the mid to high rev range. The stock header has a pre-cat and cat with a predominate reduction in between the two. Miltek cat flows better as well. No problem with Ox sensor.

With the second kit installation (210 HP/air box and injector upgrade) installed, MINI goes like hell!

Good Luck!

 

While on this subject;

I just took delivery of my 05 JCW. I was under the impression that a new intercooler was part of the kit??? Also, since I appear to be having trouble entering Mini's site, what is the visual difference between 04 and 05 intake? Cannot remember - I'm old - what the stock 05 intake housing looked like...the 05 JCW appears to look the same from the outside. Hey, was I supposed to get some official paper work?

Initial impression; throttle tip in feels a tad stronger below 3,500 rpm, mid range much weaker, no full throttle. In fact, I was very easy on the car and will be for a while. Just hope it opens up a bit.

I feel sort of stupid since I'm typically right on top of this stuff.