I have been searching the forum and all I find is r53 repair instructions are they the same for the r50? Is a totally different method for the r50? also if it's the same has anyone tried doing it without removing exhaust manifold as they did on this video Thank you.

 

Same method of doing the starter, I've always taken them out the bottom, never the top.

On a Cooper it might be just a bit easier, because you don't have the oil cooler hard lines running from the heater core hoses to the oil cooler, so you're able to get in there a bit more so than on a W11.

It is a rather tedious job to do, and is worlds easier with the subframe out, but not many people have the luxury of a hoist.

Good luck, and make sure the battery is disconnected.