From what I've found, BMW makes a special eccentric tool that is supposed to help adjust the rear toe.
The only info I could find was part number 324200 or 83300494002 for the tool.

Is this a must use or can you simply loosen the bolts slightly, then try to move the trailing arm another way? I've heard smacking it with a mallet is the tool of choice.

I'm not against buying the proper tool if it makes the job that much more precise and easier.

 

Tool makes it easier but not necessary.
Here's a good source:
https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-...ch/83300494002

 

Yeah, that's where I was going to buy it, but I wanted to verify it was the correct tool for the 2nd gen, because the ECS site says it only works on 1st gens.
I did send them an email asking if they could verify but haven't heard back from anyone yet.



Follow up question.

Is it necessary to put weight in the car per the alignment instructions, and have a full tank of gas? Does the MINI dealership actually do this when they do an alignment?


I don't have that kind of weight just laying around the shop, and I would rather not haul it back and forth.

 

Page 320-19 of the 2007-2011 Bentley manual for gen 2 cars
cites the exact same tool number and method, so ... yes.

Full loaded with 150 + 150 + 37.5 pounds in front rear and cargo + full fuel tank
is specified. Camber and toe will be a little different loaded vs empty, but probably
talking about a smidge more negative camber in front, a bit more negative camber
in the rear, and a smidge different toe front and back (in vs out?) fully loaded
compared to empty.

Not sure I'd bother, but might consider having a willing pair sit in the driver and passenger
seat and 40# in the boot when checking the values. If you usually drive with 3-4 people
in the MINI and junk in the trunk, then maybe fully load it as specified.

 

Cool. Thanks!

It's normally just me in the car, with the occasional passenger. So I might just have someone sit in the drivers seat, holding a case of beer.