I made a video of how to put an R50/R52/R53 in front end service mode, and then remove the radiator if you need to do that as well.
Visit my channel on YouTube for a bunch of other MINI repair videos and some track videos as well.
Enjoy:

 

Awesome job on your video. Do you happen to have any on the R56?

 

Hi - no, so far I haven't done any moderate/major repair work to a R56. But if I get any in my garage, I will try to make something!

 

CORNERS thanks! You give a well detailed break down of the R53. Good job! Ive watched a few of your videos. I like them Very good reference when one would need to do such a thing.

 

Thanks - I'm not very good at thinking out what to say on my feet, but I figure pictures are worth a thousand words, and being able to I'm seeing what I see will help others anticipate their own MINI maintenance work!

 

I agree that pictures are worth a thousand words. But really you walked through it very well. And as for what you were saying as you were going through the process was very good as well. The video along with your words puts this spot on in my book! I will watch more of your videos for sure..

 

Love your videos. Question: Why did you use the wireless impact driver for the plastic bumper and the air impact driver for the aluminum part? I don't own an air compressor/tools, wondering if I can just use my wireless impact for everything.

 

You use the best tool for the job. I used a bigger tool for the bigger fasteners. You don't need any impact tools at all if you don't have them.

 

Rauls4: The better term is 'cordless' not 'wireless.'

 

Question about Front End Service Mode since I'll be doing this to my R53 for a fan fix and coolant flush, as well as other items. Can the belt be changed from this angle as well, as opposed to lifting the engine 8-10 inches?

 

You don't need to lift the engine, or put the car in Front End Service Mode to change the Serpentine Belt

 

Everything I have seen, from Mod-MINI to Pelican, recommends some variation of lifting the engine.. perhaps that's just to make it not a total PITA?

 

You only need to lift the engine slightly if you are changing the belt tensioner. No need for changing just the belt.

 

More than likely, you saw a video pertaining to changing the Super Charger pulley, that's when you need to raise the engine..