Anyone have one I can borrow? I’m in Tampa but would pay you shipping. Cheaper than the $50 bs on eBay. Or if someone can just point me in the direction of a basic plastic tool like what comes in a clutch kit

 

Easy solution -- you don't need it. Clutch alignment tools normally are for syncing the clutch disk, pilot bearing and input shaft. Your Mini doesn't have a pilot bearing. Only the clutch disk and input shaft have to be aligned (teeth) and the tool doesn't actually help do that (note that there are no teeth on the tool). Once the new clutch is installed, turn the crankshaft slowly as you push the transmission toward the block and the disk will align with the input shaft and slip on.

 

Good luck mating the transmission to the engine block if the disc isn't centered on the crank.

 

That's my point. The tool does nothing to center it.

 

Then I guess you have the wrong tool!!

 

I just helped a friend install a clutch on an old Porsche 914. We used the classic broomstick sharpened a little to make the alignment and the trans went in like butta!

 

I held the clutch disc center with my finger while i had my other hand on the wrench and tightened one of the pressure plate bolts. That locked it in the center of the pressure plate and made the marriage with the transmission a lot easier!

 

On the MINI clutches I've done, the clutch disc and pressure plate friction surface are almost identical in size. When I put the pressure plate on, I thread the bolts in by hand, then feeling around the perimeter of the clutch plate to make sure it is inline with the pressure plate. Every time I've done that, the transmission lines right up and slides home.

 

this may work...

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1257114

i can print and send you one for $20.

youd just have to check if its the same for a R53... let me know