I've had my MCS since January and in that time my local speed humps have destroyed my control arm bushes. They have previously wrecked bushes on my E46 (twice), Golf and my brother in laws merc three times in 6 years!!

I used powerflex on my E46 and they stood up to the abuse quite well. I remember there was an alternative brand which was significantly cheaper but can't remember for the life of me who.

Is there a brand you guys recommend or do I go with the powerflex ones?

 

What year and model Mini Cooper do you have?
Most people recommend the Powerflex.
If doing it yourself, I suggest the pre-pressed option from WMW.
Also if your car has many miles, I would suggest replacing the ball joints at the same time. Here is a good kit from WMW:
http://www.waymotorworks.com/powerfl...ll-joints.html

 

It's a 2008 with 50k on it - I'm tempted to do it myself, I can hire a garage ramp with all tools by the hour.

 

Powerflex performance from daily to track days, race if its going to a be a track car only, cage car.

2008 R56 MINI Cooper S ( Gen 2 )


http://www.ecstuning.com/Mini-2008-Cooper-R56-S-Coupe-L4_1.6L_N14B16A/Search/SiteSearch/Powerflex/

 

Yes the powerflex bushings are the best and last, we've literally installed hundreds of sets.

 

Does it make the ride harsher?

 

Whiteline bushings are an alternative. I've never used them, but was tempted to get them to try. Not sure of the price.

 

Not really harsher.

 

How fast are you going over these speed bumps?

 

not speed bumps but like expansion joints on an exit ramp, or a shallow pot hole, basic road imperfection type of stuff.

I should be getting it up on the lift this week to have a look. Not sure what the Mini components life span are for like tie rods and bushings. I had a thought today of maybe it being the sway bar bushings. But Ill check it out.

If poly wont make the ride that harsh, that is the way I would go last longer for sure

 

I've literally installed hundreds of sets of the powerflex bushings and not had anyone complain of it being harsh. Most people comment how the car feels new again. Can't go wrong with these.

 

Most people are concerned with NVH when upgrading to things like this. Because of Powerflex bushings superior design they offer much more effective control of the suspension components to a much greater extent than normal rubber items. With the technological advances in this material, it has been possible to overcome the common problem associated with harder bushings, which is increased noise. By correctly engineering the polyurethane compound, bushings can be made 25-30% stiffer than new rubber items, but with exactly the same noise absorbing properties. These bushings will give your MINI a whole new feel in handling. (More information about the bushings at the link above).

+1 I run all Whiteline on my car. Everything they make for my chassis. I am thoroughly impressed with how my car handles now.