From the research I've done, in order to keep a Midland 5sp in proper operation, keep the tranny fluid clean, the mechanic suggested a change at 7500 mi. interval. This will keep the output shaft bearings from self destructing.

Seems to me like some Lucas addiditives would help to coat. But I don't know how much better one could do than with a Red Line synthetic. I also would think that the drain interval for a syn would be longer.

Most of the junk was on the plug so that was working. I wonder if an oil analysis would help for a tranny. What about the other particles that weren't caught by the magnet?

Dave

 

hi everyone
i'm a new member here. i've just bought an used 02 mini cooper few weeks ago.
i'm planning to change the transmission fluid this weekend & i have a question how can i find out is mine a Midlands or Getrag trans? (mine is 5 speed manual)
also could someone let me know what wrench size for the fill/drain plugs?
thanks in advance

 

i did the tranny on my 02 MC fluid change today. i followed the instruction in this forum, it took me 45 minutes from start to finish. i use Redline MTL 70W80 manual trans fluid, hope it'll keep my trans runs smoother for the coming years.
thanks for helpful posts here

 

The Midland 5speed is in the 1st gen non-S Mini. What you did should help considerably concerning the Red Line fluid change. It should be shifting like butter now!

Keep her clean,
Dave

 

So how much fluid is needed?

 

I definitely noted smoother shifting when I changed to Redline MTL at 1,800 miles. The synchros seem to like the slightly thicker MTL.

Regarding the post about cold temps and MTL you can call Redline and they will discuss this with you. I was told if I was willing to take it easy for the first couple of shifts MTL will be fine.

I plan on changing every 30,000 miles to keep the synchros happy

 

Can you reuse the plugs, do they need new washers?