I've removed my head and noticed the timing is way off due to the timing chain mechanism breaking. Can I just adjust the timing by just turning the shafts so the letters are upwards facing and lock it down? Will that correct the timing or do I need to mount the head first and correct it that way? Tks!

 

Locking the cams to the head will only align the camshafts to each other. To fully set the timing, you then have to lock the cams in relative position to the crankshaft, then lock down the timing chain. That can only be done with the engine complete.

 

It can also only be done with the correct cam locking tool for your engine, you must purchase a locking tool, these engines are not timed toTDC, you could trash the valves if you don't do this.

 

Here's a couple BMW procedures for you to use, depending on which engine you have --- https://bmwrepairguide.com/category/mini-r56/ Don't even think about setting your timing without using one of them.

 

These instructions include the (numerous and imho very tedious) steps in order to place the front into "installation" or "service" mode. But according to the instructions for both checking and adjusting timing, service mode is not necessary.

Correct special timing tools _are_ mandatory, of course. They differ depending on whether it is a Cooper S with an N14 engine or a Cooper S with an N18 engine (the linked to instructions refer to the N14 engine).

 

ok, question.....it doesn't matter at all that , with my head off, I turned the crank and cam shaft to show the letters facing upwards then, correct? Should I purposly rotate them off and then once I mount the head back on,, go by those instructions u sent me (thank u by the way), or....? My cams are all at 90° already..... I already have the timing tools, the guy I bought the Cooper from gave them to me...

 

Assembly sequence is critical. The objective is to not rotate the crank while head / cams are installed and chain is off. This will cause piston / valve "collision". Cams being at 90 deg is insignificant --- there are always valves in position to hit a piston if the crank is rotated.

My preferred process is to assemble block first, lock the flywheel, then assemble / install the head. This way, the crank is already at the 90 deg position and any cam rotation will not cause valve / piston contact.

Another key instruction --- NEVER rotate an assembled engine CCW. This will screw up the vanos positioning if setting timing.

 

Great timing set up info