Just got my '03 MCS back from the dealer today after investigation of a horrendous engine knocking. Turned out to be a connecting rod bearing at the crank end. We put the car on the lift yesterday and proceeded to tear the front end off and remove the oil pan. There it was, all in little pieces on the pan bottom. We then proceeded to pull the large end rod cap and the bearing was totally disintegrated. Not to my surprise the crank journal was also scored. Of course the car is out of warranty so we must bite the bullet and repair it.
Couple of questions from the Mini gurus.
1) Can the crank be reground and fitted with oversize rod bearings or is it not worth it?
2) I am assuming since the supercharger uses engine oil we must either replace or have this ine rebuilt?
3) Since we are going to pull the engine what performance modifications should we make at this time.
4) Can we purchase an aftermarket crank or should we try and scout up a used one??
5) Before we dive into pulling the complete engine are there any tricks we should be aware of??
6) What manual should I get prior to tearing the engine out?

Thanks in advance for any information, I am sure I will be a frequent visitor over the next few weeks, if you guys don't mind.

Tom in PA

 

You're in luck, the supercharger has it's own oil supply. The SC does not use the engine oil. I'd get the Bentley manuel for the engine removal/ tear down.

 

Thanks for the note on the S/C. One bullet dodged.
I'll order the Bentley manual right now.

Thnaks again,

Tom in PA

 

Stroker...
Hmm food for thought much.

 

Where's all the Mini gurus??
I take it no one here has ever broken a Mini engine open this far.

Thanks guys,

Tom in PA

 

I would talk to your local MINI Service Center and get them to price you out a new crank, main bearings, and rod bearings. Also ask them if they stock and sell over sized bearings if your local machine shop can machine your old crank 10 or 20 or 30 over or junk??? If you spun out that rod bearing that connecting rod may be shot too. ARP has rod bolts but I'm not sure if they have bearing ladder bolts for the crank mains. A new oil pump would be a good call while you're there too.

Finally what do you think caused the rod bearing failure? Good luck and keep us updated on your rebuild.

Jeremy

 

Maybe find a low miles complete motor? Shrapnel has a way of finding it's way into other areas of the motor.
www.car-parts.com has one with 10k on the clock for 3700$ with the S/C I assume.

 

MMM Stroker goodness!
Its a good thing.