So I came home from the desert to find my daughters 2003 R50 parked on my driveway with a blown Midland transmission. Clutch feel good starts fine but when you put it in any gear, no go. She said it made no noise, just stopped when exiting the offramp. It has oil leaking and when I jacked the car up, the power steering pump has antifreeze on it. My question is, do I have something more than just a tranny job or something major.. I have an 05 mini that I can use for parts, just don't know if I should tackle it or part it. I know I have to dig into it to see the real issue, just wondering if anybody else had these same symptoms. Thanks

 

Seems to be just tranny - with maybe some power steering maintenance due soon.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ml#post4186506

 

First off; check w/dealer if your mini qualifies for free replacement of power steering pump and fan under recall.

I just had mine replaced under recall. 2004 r53. While in there, they diagnosed

leaking steering rack ends, and control arm bushings shot. Big bucks for them to

it so I decided to tackle it myself. With the subframe dropped , I decided to diy

the trans and a bunch of other things. If you have the time and tools, and can be

without the mini for awhile, I would encourage you to give it a shot.

Several diy videos to help. Pelican Parts is a good source for parts and excellent

diy projects w/lots of pictures.

Shoot me a pm if you decide to give it a try. I just finished up about a couple

weeks ago and my r53 is running super. I am a shade tree mechanic myself and

first time ever dropping a trans and replacing a clutch system. I can offer some

good tips and advice.

D. T.

 

Thanks for the replies, I'm in no rush so I'll probably do some research and start tackling it soon, I have tools and can turn a wrench, I'll keep the progress posted time will tell...

 

If you need any parts assistance or help during the process please don't hesitate to let me know. Also, you might also look into swapping the 6 speed into your R50. Check out this NAM thread for useful information: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ll-how-to.html.

 

The 2005 will probably have the Getrag 5-speed. You will need to change out a lot of stuff so you might as well do the 6-speed swap - it will essentially be the same job.

 

Yeah, I've noticed that, I might have it rebuilt or get a reman, ebay has a seller that sells them for $995 plus a good core. I have to do more research.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/331999848390?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

 

Oh, Spyder152, the antifreeze on the power steering is probably a leak from the thermostat housing gasket. The thermostat is fine but the plastic gasket is not. You will have to have it all replaced. It's not a big job but the coolant system is slightly pressurized. You will need to remove the air box and battery as well. Sounds like a large project but really isn't.

 

Thanks for the reply, I'll look into the housing when I tear into it.