Hi everyone!

The R50 Base model has a different Harmonic balancer than the R50/R53 S. Its this kind of crummy solid piece one. I have a couple of questions.

1.) Do these go bad on a Mini Base model?
2.) Has anyone replaced this pulley on the Base R50 with one of the S versions? One of those liquid core ones or something? Is it possible?
3.) Is there a better pulley available for the Base? I can't seem to locate any except this basic design.
4,) Is this pulley a likely cause of engine vibration on the R50 Base? Have heard huge changes by people on the S models by upgrading / changing their pulley.

I am asking because my crank seal is leaking so I am going to be pulling this thing off anyway. Maybe one of you has done this or had experience with this! Thanks in advance!

 

1. NOT a balancer. They "balance" nothing. They are dampers. They dampen harmonic vibrations in the crankshaft and help with the damping of vibrations in other parts of the engine.
2. The damper pictured id NOT solid. See that rubber ring ? That is part of what does the "damping".

1. Do they go bad. Eventually, that rubber ring dries out and the outer ring will separate from the inner hub. Timewise, no definite time frame.
2. Can't answer the first part of your question, but the "ATI" damper is preferable to the silicone filled versions.
3. See above. ATI is a company that makes MANY different dampers for MANY different engines. Along with a few other goodies.
4. Sorry, can't answer this question with any accuracy.

Mike

 

The ATI should fit the non-S models as well according to the ATI site

http://www.atiracing.com/products/da...ts/dammini.htm

I have the 2% oversized version on my Mini Cooper S, a very high quality piece of kit and highly recommended. My goal is to make the Mini more reliable and the crank damper was 1 of the things that needs improvement. That is why I have chosen the ATI over stock or any of the lightweight options.




More pics here: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ml#post4559185

 

I also upgraded to an ATI damper when I did the front main seal and timing chain cover gasket (might as well replace that too while you have the pulley off).
I went with the stock diameter. There was a very noticeable improvement in engine smoothness, especially at low RPMs.

 

100% agree. It transformed it that much, that I thought that the car was slower. The power delivery was so buttery smooth after, that it looked liked it was slower. But a quick glance on the speedo proved otherwise :D

 

NO the ATI damper will NOT fit the Non S model as the crankshafts are different sizes.

The ATI damper is ONLY for the Cooper S.

Just go with a new stock one
https://www.waymotorworks.com/vibration-damper.html

 

ATI should update their site, thanks for the headsup!