I want just a bit more performance out of my car. I decided to go with a pulley. Now I need some help, I can't decide between a 15,16,or 17 and then there are so many different brands to choose from! Please tell me what you think is the best and why. Thanks!

Also, does a 2% crank pulley really do anything?

 

I've had my 03MCS since it was new. In 2006 I had an Alta 15% supercharger pulley and an Alta 2% reduced main crank pulley installed along with a shorter drive belt, colder spark plugs (1 heat range under stock), an Alta CAI and a retune. Have been driving with howling banshees ever since. Have had no problems what so ever. The main crank pulley dispense with the heavy stock shroud trading about 20lbs of iron pulley and shroud for 3lbs of CNC aluminum. Having also drive an MCS with a 17% pulley my set up is just as powerful (via seat-of-the-pants measurement), it just seems to do it easier and a bit smoother than just a 17% pulley.

What ever you decide just do it because driving with banshees aboard is a blast. Especially when you're hunting Rice Rocket Sushi ____

 

If you're not going to track your car or do AutoX, and you don't spend a ton of time around the redline, go with a 17%. It's safe for a daily driver/street car and a helluva lotta fun. I started with 15% and just replaced it with 17%, and the change was well worth it.

As for brand, IMO that all comes down to preference. I bought the full kit from Way Motor Works, which included the shorter belt, colder plugs, and tensioner (along w/the pulley of course). Get whatever brand you want or have affinity for, just make sure you get the colder plugs and proper belt, then enjoy!

Edit: another upgrade you might consider is doing a cold air intake. Helps your MINI breathe better and gives you more supercharger whine as well. The pulley and CAI go very well together.

 

I like the Craven Speed pulleys that Way sells, well made out of stainless and easy to install. Get the kit with the plugs, belt and so on and you're set.

 

Thanks guys, I already have an Alta cold air intake. I guess I need to get around to making a signature...

 

That's what I've got on my 2005 msc and it works quite well.

 

I put on a 15% when I did mine. I wish now I had a 17%. I only drive on the street and don't redline and I wish I had just a bit more down low.

 

The 2% crank pulley does add about 1 to 2 psi of boost.
As others have said the % of pulley depends on how you drive.
I redline frequently so I use a JCW pulley with a 2% crank.
I use the ATI dampened pulley.

 

My aftermarket pulley is 15%. I selected this increase because:
1. it allows use of stock drive belt
2. provides enough extra oomph that air conditioner doesn't bog engine down (not too many people talk about this)

 

I'm thinking that 15% SC Pulley. I think I heard the regular ATI Super Damper Crank Pulley is 1%. (I know they also offer in 2%)

So would 15% plus the regular ATI put me at 16% ?? I want to be able to touch the redline if I want.

Also, undersized belts to match your new pulley size are not hard to find and are recommended. Don't forget plugs 1 heat-range-step cooler than stock.