Just purchased a 2006 MC S with JCW Aero and 18" wheels with 46K miles. I have been reading up on the strut tower problem and how to change the automatic transmission fluid as I am a DIY person. I have ordered metal plates for the strut towers and have a question. In using the 2X4 and hammer, do you adjust the top with the strut attached or do you remove the sturt and then adjust the metal? Is the top plate with the bolts pushed out from the mushrooming? I have purchased the tire tool kit, scan gage, and oil filter socket for DIY work as I have been working on cars all my life, 68 now. I took the Mini to an SCCA auto cross yesterday and improved my time by 5 seconds after 6 runs of the course. I was #13 out of 15 cars in the tire class running under D Stock. Not bad for a senior citizen. I learned how to use the paddle shifter and how the car handles in tight turns. I live in Smyrna, TN just 22 miles south of Nashville, TN.

 

I can't help with your questions, but welcome and good luck!

 

The mushrooming is on top of the strut where it uses three bolts. If you bought the strut defenders, you unbolt the top and put the defenders on and bolt it back together.

Welcome aboard and good luck. Don't forget the wave.

 

You sound like me, I'm 63 and still motoring hard.
Life in the slow lane is not for me, quite yet anyways.
Congrats on the car and course and welcome aboard.