I believe my N14 needs replacement valve guides. Took thr head off and the valves can be seen to wobble around, one in particular.

The valve guides are bronze inserts in the aliuminium head.

Has anybody done this job and what exactly is involved, please?

 

I believe you're referring to the "valve seats" where the valve closes and rest against. These are copper/bronze like rings which need to be precision seated in. You'd need to go to a head-work shop and have them do it for you.

 

I believe you're referring to the "valve seats" where the valve closes and rest against. These are copper/bronze like rings which need to be precision seated in. You'd need to go to a head-work shop and have them do it for you.

 

I would argue that if your guides are worn you valves are as well and should be replaced.

 

Ive not replaced valve guides but they are driven in and requires a special tool if I remember correctly so not to damage the guides. You can find many videos on YouTube of how to replace them yourself

 

Worn out valve guides are very common on these cars. MINI doesn't offer the guides, but we have them available as we rebuild the heads all the time.
https://www.waymotorworks.com/valve-...9-r60-r61.html

but doing guides is not an at home job you need a machine shop to do it. Or you are welcome to send your head to us as we are happy to do the rebuild and ship back.

 

"Wobble around" is a bit imprecise.
Have you taken the cams/springs off the head?
By "wobble" do you mean that the valve can be pushed off center (back and forth)?
Or do you mean that if you rotate the valve (while it is in the valve guide) that you can see eccentric motion?
As far as replacing the guides, Way is spot on, not a job for the inexperienced DIYer.