Hi folks,

i installed the front strut bar a few weeks ago, and while turn-in was certainly improved, as others have said, it really highlighted how sluggish the rear end can be when putting the hammer down in the turns.

so I got my 22mm rear ASB installed a couple of days ago on the FIRM setting, and got it out on the twisties. I know it's been said before by others, but it's absolutely true, a heavy gauge ASB makes a huge difference. Now, the handling is just so neutral. The rear end really stays planted. It also does not ride like a covered wagon as I was afraid it would. A little more taut than with the stock bar but certainly not jarring by any means.

I knew it was different as I was not getting tossed around in the driver's seat as I used to when taking turns hard. I don't have to re-position myself very often at all with the thicker bar in place. The rear end now rotates quickly and tracks the front end extremely well.

what I am finding now is with the improved handling the P-Zeros are screaming for mercy. Looks like the next mod will be Michelin Pilot SS tires !!

these are two inexpensive mods that make such as tremendous handling difference.

Can't wait to get the car on The Dragon in a couple of weeks

 

I just ordered the front bar for my 60S, how difficult was the rear to install?

 

I actually had mine installed by an indy BMW/Mini shop here locally. No way I would consider doing it myself. It's pretty involved since it runs over the diff and suspension pieces. i think at least one of the shock towers and other suspension pieces have to be loosened or dropped to get it in.

I'm not a seasoned wrench, so I just wrote the check!

I checked with both my local Mini dealer and this independent shop and both of them quoted me $300 for the install.

 

This will probably be my next mod (unless the JB+ comes out soon). I've had the front brace since right after I got the car, but this sounds like it will even out the steering a bit. I've been a little turned off on the install based on my experience changing shocks on my R53, but hopefully it won't be too bad. The fronts were the worst on the R53 anyway, rears were a lot easier.

 

Love me some mods!!! and a neutral Mini!

 

That's great! I started with the rear sway bar, had it for a few months and it does make a huge difference. Just ordered the strut bar few days ago so will get that installed soon. Can't wait!

 

what strut bars are you guys recommended or are even out there? I found this one on ebay but never even heard of it.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/321180966824...84.m1423.l2649

 

I have the VIP bar, but they're all pretty much the same. I think NM has one now if you need one in blue.

http://www.vipcustomparts.com

http://www.nm-eng.com/home.aspx

 

I have the VIP as well.

 

The title on eBay lists this suspect part as being for an R60 then in the body it says R53.

Look around Way Motor Works for a good selection of parts. NM Engineering too.

 

Hey guys
I just picked up a 2013 JCW CM and looking at Strut braces, obviously verylimited here as I only see the VIP and a generic looking one on eBay. I notice the JCW’s or on mine anyway has an extra side plastic/fiber looking vertical wall piece on eitherside that seals up to the underside of the hood. I assume these have to be modified to put the VIP on??? Does anyone have pictures of how it looks? And how is it as far as quality??
Thanks
]

 

 

See post #14 in this thread: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...brace-bar.html

 

Thanks,
Z06 Pilot just confirmed that you can just notch it out...Just wasn't sure how low or how it looked.

I thought there would have been more options on these or even a OEM like they have for the R56 and others....

I was hoping for one that covered and attached with a 3 nuts surrounding the entire top strut area. I sure this one will be great and looks like Z06 is liking his....

 

Sturat.....two beaties in that garage!

 

Beauties.....

 

I got excited about getting a rear sway bar but then I looked at the install. Not willing to do this myself.

I could do the front bar myself but if it just makes the roll of the back end even worse then I don't think I should even do that.

 

Nice MINI.