well I know the new '05s allow camber adjustability on the back.. what about the front? are camber plates the only way to adjust camber up front?

 

yup.

 

I didn't think it was... tell us more if one can adjust 2005 model year front camber say past - 1.0 degree

 

it is adjustable in stock? or with camber plates?

 

It will require camber plates; there is no adjustability as it comes from the factory. With camber plates you can get about -1.5 degrees with stock springs before the LF spring contacts a stamping in the shock/spring tower. With coilovers or some aftermarket springs you can avoid the rubbing and get up to about -3.0.

 

I recall that someone posted you can increase the camber on one side at the
front while decreasing it the same amount on the other side by loosening
the subframe, shifting it, and tightening it down (?up?) again.....probably
a very small amount of adjustment, however, if true.
can anyone confirm this? (this would be all models, not just the 2005's)

 

note this quote from the 2002-2004 Bentley manual in the Front Subframe
section: (310-15)
"Caution - Removal or replacement of the subframe may affect suspension
and steering geometry, including front wheel alignment. Make appropriate
matching marks during removal and have the front end aligned once repairs
are complete."

 

I'm the one that posted the subframe movement idea. This came from my co-driver Courtney who is a MINI mechanic and has done this (camber corection) on at least one MCS and has had many a sub frame off.