So, I'm looking to change out the struts and shocks on the wife's R53. I have a few sets in mind, however, some sites say for R52 only, some say depending on power output, and some don't say anythingnregardless of part number, or vehicle specifics. I can see the rear shocks being a factor due to more weight in the back, and suspension geometry to fit canvas top, or the S having a sport suspension. Long story short, is there any differences, and if so, what is and isn't compatible with one another?

 

there is no diffrence between the r50, r53, and r52. just just spring stiffness.

try the vendors on this site. they are quick, knowledgeable, and helpful.

try waymotorworks.com , helix13.com , germanautoparts.com , minicarparts.net .... look around the site you will see the vendors.

 

Most cost effective and best solution is just to go with the Koni FSD shocks as a replacement. Technically there are several different versions of the stock shocks, but the difference is very minor if you could even tell.

 

I have FSD's on mine....they were a HUGE improvement over the stock shocks.

 

Good info, narrows down the selection! Does anybody have any input on Bilstein touring class shocks? I'll see if i can talk my wife into the fsd, but if not, my backup plan would be the bilsteins.

 

also, does Koni warrenty the shock tube for life, or do they not cover normal wear and tear? I know bushings, washers, and mounts are not, but since our o.e.m. ones go out in 40k, I'd hate to spend all that money on shocks, only to last another 40-60k.

 

yes koni has a lifetime warranty

 

+1 for the FSD, just put them on and it's like night and day. still sharp and aggressive, but no longer bone-jarring. it rides like a real car now.

 

+2 for the FSD's, 113000 hard earned miles and still going strong!
Definitely ride better than the OEM struts.

 

Did you know that there are actually 15* different R50/52/53 shocks (21* if you count the European MINI One model with standard suspension).

four levels of stiffness:

Standard, (One)
Sport Suspension (One, Cooper)
Sport Suspension Plus (Cooper, Cooper S)
JCW

Two more levels of stiffness:

Pre-5/2003 production (thicker fluid)
Post-5/2003 production (thinner fluid)
but ... I think there's only one fluid variant for the JCW shocks

and three unique locations:

Front Right
Front Left
Rear

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* actually 21 or 27 if you count the early front struts from before 3/2002

 

Oh, I forgot the early front struts before 3/2002 in 3 ranges.
That makes 6 more.

 

I know that Koni and maybe Bilsteins and the norm but has anyone got any input on Monroe Spectrums??