Hey all doing a big project tomorrow on the mini and was just trying to decide the order of operations to maximize efficiency...

- new brake rotors/pads
- brake fluid flush
- new struts / shocks
- rear adjustable control arms (lower)

Appreciate advice thanks!

 

It looks like it might fall into place as you go along. When you remove the rotors it will give you more room and less weight to change out the struts and control arms. Then you can go back to putting the rotors and pads back on and then bleed the brake lines. You might only want to do one end at a time in case you run out of time, your MINI won't be down completely.

 

I would do the strip down and do the shock and control arms first, then the brakes, as you will be taken the wheel off anyway. You are doing this all in the same area , do you have a Bentley book ?

https://www.ecstuning.com/News/R50_R52_R53_MINI_Cooper_CooperS_Convertible_Conver tible_S_JCW_Bentley_Service_Manual_2002_2003_2004_ 2005_2006_2007_2008/

 

If it was me...I would replace the struts first, then put in the new brake rotors/pads, then flush the fluid, then move to the rear and do the control arms

 

Since you're doing suspension, it's a good idea to replace the strut/shock top mounts as well. Honestly, I'd do all of this at once if it were me, or all of it and then the adjustable control arms later. If you're wanting to only do it in sections at a time due to cost then I'd break it up. It also depends on what type of condition all of these items are in as well. If the brakes still have life, but the struts/shocks are bad then I'd go in the same order as above: struts/shocks and mounts, brakes and flush, and then rear control arms. We have articles on our site that can help you with all of these if needed. For the flush, I'd recommend a Motive Power Bleeder. Especially if you plan to DIY this job yourself a lot. Makes the job so much easier. http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/...pg5.htm#item18 If you need anything just let me know and good luck!

 

I'd do
1 front struts
2 front brake rotors/pads
3 rear control arms
4 rear shocks
5 rear rotors/pads
6 bleed brakes

I'd put it up on 4 jack stands for the duration but that's just me. If you haven't seen it, there's a you tube video out there on how to put the mini up on 4 jack stands quick and easy. Basically you put a piece of wood on your floor jack, put the jack a little farther back than the mirror and jack on the frame rail. It lifts the whole side evenly and you can put stands under front and rear jack points before going to the other side and doing the same thing.

 

I'd take a look at the front lower control arm bushings before you start anything. If they are worn out I'd order them and wait until you have them to install as well with all of that.

 

+1 on the Front LCAB while you are at it.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ll-joints.html





But if you drop the subframe for the LCAB, then you should do the front other bushings, I did my front end all at once.