I'm looking at purchasing a 2003 Mini S with a failing throw-out bearing. I've replaced a clutch myself in a FWD car before but I'm wondering if there is anything about the mini that makes it anymore difficult for a shade tree mechanic. (Special tools needed, engine removal, etc.) What might this cost for a dealer to do? Thanks in advance for any assistance you can lend. Looking forward to joining the ranks soon.

 

Q: Can a home mechanic replace a clutch?
A: Yes. Some of the other readers will be able to relate pricing information. I recall seeing nice color photos posted in one or more threads on this website showing this work completed by amatuer mechanics. Oh, and a very useful guide is the Haynes Manual for MINI.

 

Try the 1st gen Mini forum, you might get a better answer there. This is the 2nd gen .

 

It's a many hour job for the dealership and they have both the correct tools and experience in changing them.

 

it's just a car, not a freakin' fighter jet! Yes you can do the job at home and yes it's involved. K-huevo did a nice thread on it with lots of photos. If you're a good mechanic give yourself the whole weekend. If you're just ok, give yourself even more time. Don't do it without a manual. Do read all you can on the boards about it. Some one has a real good PDF on thier website, you may come across a reference in a thread if you search.

Matt

 

Based on my experience, I've met people working on fighter jets that I wouldn't let SIT IN my car, let alone work on it! Thank god for triple redundancy.

 

Yes, it's just time consuming. 2 recommendations:

1) Replace all the components (i.e clutch, pressure plate, TB, & pilot bearing)
2) Use an aftermarket clutch, such as Centerforce or other brand (they are far superior to the factory unit and many times cost less too)

Good luck on your quest...

Robb

 

TB? What about the flywheel? Should the axels be replaced preventatively? (has 90,000mi.)

 

There may be another option, other than a dealer or doing it yourself - there are tuner shops that specialize in working on the MINI. Often their labor rate is lower than a dealer. But since you didn't give any indication of where you are, we can't really reccommend anything specific...

 

Quote:
Originally Posted by Robb's 07 Red MCS
1) Replace all the components (i.e clutch, pressure plate, TB, & pilot bearing)


TB? What about the flywheel? Should the axels be replaced preventatively? (has 90,000mi.)

No need to replace the flywheel, just take it to a machine shop for resurfacing. The only need to replace it is if the clutch plate has worn groves in the flywheel surface.

I would replace the CV boots since you have it apart any way and would also replace the trans-to-axle seals as well.