I spun a connecting rod bearing and I need recommendations for someone that could replace my crank and the bearings on my 2003 R50

I'm also considering maybe getting a JCW tuning kit head since I'm already looking at serious labor and have the JCW sound kit but I would need the correct DME software update

Does anyone live in the Miami area and know a shop that specializes in 1st gen BMW MINIs ?!

 

precision auto werks
http://www.pawmotorsport.com/

 

Unless you have some sort of very high sentimental value to this car or are deciding that it's going to be race prepped it would be cheaper to buy a new car. Spun bearing = engine rebuild. Probably not worth it on a 2003 R50

 

Just source a used motor in that case and don't rebuild that one. Otherwise rebuild it yourself. It's a pretty simple engine to work on.

 

With all due respect, don't whatever you do rebuild it yourself. Unless you're and engine builder that is familiar with high tolerance modern engines.

Rebuilding a W11 requires a number of specialized tools and knowledge that is not common and not available on the web.

Trust me and learn from my $16000+ experiences:

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...3s-engine.html

A mechanic and engine builder are two completely different things. If you choose to rebuild it make sure to get an engine builder that has done this engine before.

By the time you cost out the new crank ($1000) and new rods ($400), bearings, rings gaskets and labour you're in the $3000-$5000 range.

Good luck, and feel free to PM & call me directly (many have after they understand what I've gone through).

 

Yea, or rebuild an engine using used parts which will cost you a fraction of the cost. I was able to rebuild an engine for about $1000 no problem. The fact that you don't know how to build engines cost efficiently is a moot point here.

 

I'm glad your engine rebuild is working out for you. I wish you many miles of happy motoring - that's what it's all about. Most people aren't as lucky and fortunate.

In my case, I wasn't going for cost effective or cheap solution, I was going for long lasting and warranted work. I'm not one just to fix the one broken thing - I'll replace all of the possible affected parts. This is my DD and multiple wining showcar. I've been through 3 builds now, I do know what I'm talking about.

I never said that using used parts wasn't a solution - I was stating that the actual process of rebuilding these engines is nothing like a small block chevy et. al.

To do it properly, it requires a much more knowledgeable & skilled person who has the tools, knows/can access proprietary BMW Factory information that is not available through the web, forums, torrents or Ebay. Rebuilding engines is a dying art and I have mad respect for those who can handle it - and even more for those rebuilding modern engines like these.

People need to be aware that if a mechanic says they can rebuild it at a fraction of the cost, there is risks involved. Some are not aware that there is a subset of the mechanic world that specialize in engines only.

 

I have parts of an R50 JCW sound kit here if you need them. Then just do your own custom ported head.

Also you can ship us your DME and we can put the JCW software on it for you.

 

Thanks so much for all the input everyone! Truth is I have a serious emotional attachment to this car and nothing I can buy will replace it. I have decided to find a JCW head and get the engine rebuilt with a new exhaust manifold attached to my JCW exhaust, my only problem might be finding the head by itself and getting the right dme software to flash, but either way the guy I was talking to does flashes and they can figure it out. I'm thinking a new crank, head + manifold and labor will run me around 3k (I hope)
Which is well worth reviving my Coop

 

I doubt $3k will cover it because to change out a crank you have to take out the engine and take everything apart. You might as well consider put in new piston rings while you are at it to refresh the compression of the engine.

 

I might get a new clutch while I'm at and and I guess new rings would be a good idea. Anyone have any clutch suggestions for someone who's used to the soft stock but wants something a little harder and relatively cheap? Also I've been looking for aftermarket engine mounts because mine are worn and they always wear out quickly. Suggestions??

 

head gasket
head bolts
front and rear crank seals
inspect rod bearings and replace as necessary
maybe a connecting rod if you spun it hard
thermostat
inspect timing chain and chain guide/tensioner
Probably a few other things I am forgetting.