Hey Guys,

So I am not yet a mini owner (this may be a repost - although I can't find the original), however I am looking to buy a Cooper S in the near future but her comes the twist. I have always been interested in doing a cross country trek, however I don't want to drive both ways...so.

My intent is to fly to LA area - pick up a 2005/2006 Cooper S and head back through the southern states...hitting as many MINI performance shops as is convenient on the way back and getting one mod per shop.

I have already read the used mini buyers guide, much of the FAQ, and lots of posts on what to look for.

I previously had thought about buying a MINI (in 2003) but went with a 2003 VW GTI instead. Was a great car and I miss it -- but looking to do something different.

Questions:

1) Would you feel comfortable doing it - I am looking for something bullet proof -- I am on a 2 week timeline to get home which doesn't leave time for hefty repairs or downtime

2) What are the absolute critical things you would replace when buying a used MINI and/or embarking on such a trip? -- plugs, wires, coil, oil, filters, motor mounts ??

3) What are some of your favorite shops in the following states (my exact route is not yet mapped out)

California (Southern)
Nevada (Near Vegas)
Arizona (Near Grand Canyon)
New Mexico (Roswell)
Texas (Austin)
Louisiana (New Orleans)
Mississippi (probably skip this state -- but if there is a cool shop I would stop in for lunch)
Alabama (prob skip)
Georgia (Atlanta)
Florida (Northern)
South Carolina/North Carolina
Tennessee (Nashville)
Virgina (Richmond)
Maryland (Baltimore area)
New Jersey

4) What mods would you recommend that would take no longer than a few hours for a reputable shop (or me) to install in a hotel parking lot. For a grand total of $1500-$2000. I already want air intake ($200), Alta Pulley ($250-300)...what else?