Sections: MF Feature Jan 4th, 2006 61 Comments Most people have New Years resolutions. MINI owners have New Years mod lists. And being MINI owners here at MotoringFile, we’d like to start the year off by hearing what everyone has in store for their cars. To get things started, here’s a quick list of some of the projects I’m considering for 2006:
So let’s hear your New Years mod lists. What do you have planned for 2006 when it comes your MINI?
meb Jan 4th, 2006 Link
05 JCW – 19mm rear bar and a set of SSR with R compound tires…a camber kit if I can find one that works with stock struts.
SSR is going thru a financial reorganization. These may be difficult to find until late spring according to Tire Rack.
Reply
Fishbulb Jan 4th, 2006 Link
first, pick up 06 RG/RG MCS tonight…. :)
I already have the alta intake, front mudflaps and Autometer gauges waiting. I will pick up my IceLink Plus on the way home from the dealer tonight. Also, waiting on a set of black Cooper side vents to arrive and my Rota rims.
I will add a pulley, rear sawy and maybe one-ball the exhaust as well.
Gabe, why the H&R over the Alta 19mm? I am about 100% set the 19mm, i was just looking at the alta mainly fro price reasons.
thanks!
Reply
TSizemore3 Jan 4th, 2006 Link
EBC Green brake pads. I made the mistake of switching to white wheels with the stock pads. Now I have gray wheels…
ReplyGabe, why the H&R over the Alta 19mm? I am about 100% set the 19mm, i was just looking at the alta mainly fro price reasons.
The H&R bars come with teflon coated bushings so they won’t ever squeek or need lubrication. I’ve heard reports of many other bars including Alta (and seen some first hand) squeaking after a few thousand miles.
Reply
Black on Black Jan 4th, 2006 Link
I am 10 months into my second MINI. This one is a JCW with probably every stock performance feature included. The first one was the base Cooper and I had a lot of fun modifying it. I’ve been unsure what modifications to make or even consider for the newest version, but I certainly want to tinker and don’t know which way to go. Any suggestions or footnotes to your comments with specific suggestions for JCW owners would be very appreciated. Thank you and Happy New Year, Paul
Reply
MrV Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Driving Classes
Ditch the runflats (the driving classes should take care of them).
Good radar detector (2 tickets since I bought the MINI, doubling my lifetime total)
– Mr.V
Reply
track-toy Jan 4th, 2006 Link
I now have in my garage, a freshly ported cylinder head by CHR Motorsports in Thornton, CO. Ferrea oversized valves, dual springs and titanium retainers. This head also has a Schrick cam and minor tweaks to the combustion chamber to improve flow. Waiting on MINI-Madness for my oil cooler and 375cc injectors.
Before track season I will also switch out the stock shocks/struts for Koni Golds, the H-Sport springs and Madness rear sway bar and control arms will remain.
Reply
Eelke Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Reply
Day Tripper Jan 4th, 2006 Link
I’m going to ditch the s-lite’s and runflats for a set of ASA AR1 black wheels and some sticky rubber. I’d also love to do a 15% pulley.
Reply
blalor Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Not a short list. First up will be wheels, tires and a Schroth harness for the driver’s side. Then track time, then the other items, as I get some spare cash. :-)
Reply
dickdavid Jan 4th, 2006 Link
• New tires • H&R Sway Bar, as well • Driving lights
Reply
Trick Jan 4th, 2006 Link
My Rota Slipstreams should be arriving today. I’ll order the V710s after the car gets here. (Yes, the car isn’t even off the boat yet.)
Dension Icelink should be shipping to me today.
Whalen en route as I type.
More than likely the Euro Parcel Shelf will get purchased on delivery.
I’m going to go to my club’s test and tune in February and decide if I want to get the Schroth rigs—I’m sure that will be a yes.
I’m tempted by driving lights: PIAA or the Maddness kit.
Reply
JP Money Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Replacing the 18×7 Centerline RPM’s with 18×7.5 Rota Subzero’s, new tires (something with a treadwear higher than 280), KW Springs, 22mm Sway Bar (most likely H&R), and an exhaust of some sort (I like Alta’s), complete with a header. Short and sweet list. Oh yea, and definately the auto up switch, that’ll be #1.
Reply
Marc Jan 4th, 2006 Link
mb
Reply
ScottinBend Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Why the 19mm instead of the 22mm? I understood it was better to get the 22 so you could go stiffer if you wanted to. Or did you not get the SS+ suspension?
Reply
ScottinBend Jan 4th, 2006 Link
One other thing I have heard about sway bars WITHOUT the tabs or detents to hold it in place at the bushings is that it can shift side to side on you during use. I have seen this happen on 2 different cars.
Reply
giacomo Jan 4th, 2006 Link
IF I could………………..
What I will do in ‘06………………
ReplyWhy the 19mm instead of the 22mm? I understood it was better to get the 22 so you could go stiffer if you wanted to. Or did you not get the SS+ suspension?
Well among other things I don’t want to freak out my wife with any unexpected oversteer so I’m going to keep it at 19mm. And yes I have the SS+ – the only suspension available from th factory for the hardtop MCS.
Reply
ScottinBend Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Oops……..I was thinking that the stock size was 19mm. Oh well, so much for thinking without coffee !
My list is short….
19mm Rear sway Lower springs
Reply
Edge Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Reply
Tim Jan 4th, 2006 Link
I just put on the 19mm sway bar in December. I have a non S cooper though if that matters. I plan on upgrading the Exhaust and Cold Air Intake. I’d like to get the car up to 135 to 145 hp which would be slick for a base cooper.
Tim
Reply
David Jan 4th, 2006 Link
I resolve to get the SES light to finally go off once and for all, or end up forcing a buyback. Sorry, but that’s how frustrated I am. After that, then I’ll think about other mods.
Reply
Nathaniel Salzman Jan 4th, 2006 Link
I think it’s interesting that there’s a rear sway bar on almost everybody’s list, but JCW doesn’t offer one (at least not that I can find).
ReplyOEM power folding mirrors (if I can track down the part numbers!)
Check out NewMINIstuff for the folding mirrors.
ReplyI think it’s interesting that there’s a rear sway bar on almost everybody’s list, but JCW doesn’t offer one (at least not that I can find).
MINI will never offer one because it dials out some of the understeer in the car and makes it a little less “idiot proof” for the average driver. With liability laws being what they are in the US and elsewhere we’re unfortunately left to turn to the aftermarket.
Reply
Ronald Jan 4th, 2006 Link
I don’t have any performance mods but I have a few interior electronics and a couple of exterior cosmetics mods that I like to do:
Interior
Exterior
Ronald ‘06 MCSC / Factory JCW
Reply
Da Boy Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Mostly modding the Driver this year. DE’s ad AX’s
A 15% pully. Euro parcel shelf and other convenience/cosmetic items.
wait – Cant forget: Vinyl numbers for AX (cowboys style).
Reply
Schmagagled Jan 4th, 2006 Link
In April after my stint in Kuwait is up;
JCW JCW suspension, brakes
That should do it..
Sparky’s Dad
Reply
Siddhartha Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Reply
Siddhartha Jan 4th, 2006 Link
“I think it’s interesting that there’s a rear sway bar on almost everybody’s list, but JCW doesn’t offer one (at least not that I can find).”
I’m here to tell you that my JCW suspension is neutral and doesn’t need a thicker rear sway bar, although it was on my list as well at first. After a little tinkering with tire pressures, however, I found I could 4 wheel drift it around corners in perfect balance (on warm tires) and induce understeer or oversteer at will with the throttle and a judicious dab at the brakes with the left foot.
Reply
JP Money Jan 4th, 2006 Link
First the auto up cicuit. Then I’m going to replace the crappy 18″ Centerline RPMs I have with some 18″ Rota Subzeros. Then it will be time for KW springs and a H&R 22mm sway bar. I’ll be happy at that point and probably won’t do anything else at the point for a while.
Reply
Minijunky Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Hmmmm, let’s see…. this is what I’m planing to add on the first quarter of 2006. to my 2005 MCS Convertible.
There are few things left but with the new mini webpage I’m putting together (minijunkies.com) don’t have too much freetime.
Happy New Year’s Everyone regards, Charles
Reply
Rollin Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Get ‘06 Cooper latter this month! At Dealer; Graphics, Front mud guards, SS foot rest, Grocery Bag Holders, Boot net, & White Side indicator covers.
Already at home; Second-hand 16″ Silver Monza wheels for cone dancing, Side Steeps for wife’s Honda Element [gotta get her baby something too ;-)], Canadian rubber mats, short antenna, and stealth bulbs.
Planning; 1. Aux-input 2. Coco floor mats from MyMini for non-snow months 3. Tires for those silver shoes 4. CG Lock 5. Novice autocross school day(s) 6. MyMini or Supersprint sport Cat-back exhaust 6. Red Shift knob 8. Shift & E-brake leather boots
Reply
Dave Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Gabe
Use adhesive teflon tape around contact area of sway bar on Alta – problem solved.
I think you meant to say that 19mm swaybar dials out the factory understeer (not oversteer).
Reply
indimini Jan 4th, 2006 Link
For 06, my MCSC will be getting:
Reply
Jomava Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Got an MCS’06 AstroBlack/CordobaBeige
Done: – Glovebox organizer – 2nd light break (in lieu of fog light) – MCAW auto-up windows – Mini antenna (Alta)
Doing: (Today as we speak) – JCW Intake Filter – JCW Strut brace – Sway Bar (from MyMiniParts.com) – 15% Pulley (from MyMiniParts.com)
Planning: (Feedback and help is appreciated) – Exhaust (Don’t know yet which one) – MTH ECU – Aerokit – Chromed Mirrors
Reply
Josh Jan 4th, 2006 Link
I’m hoping to buy a 2006 MCS, but I need to wait until MINIUSA re-releases the Cloth Seat “mod”. heh
Reply
TDBEForbes Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Had my 06 MCS for 1 month. For now I cant imagine needing more hp. So my mod list is
R99 anthracite rims to match in interior tinted windows Dash mount for my Ipaqrx3115, either a 35mm film canister over the dimmer switch or the Kuda mount with some kind of mount that powers it at the same time. Aux input Glove box orginizer Video system in the headrest’s hooked up to a slim PS2 in the glove box (you know…for kids) Auto up windows
Reply
minihaha Jan 4th, 2006 Link
For 06 I would like to install an i-pod adapter, not sure which one to go with Ice-Link, HK Drive & Play etc. (Suggestions please). New gear shift knob. I would also like to add Carbon Fibre mirrors and hood scoop.
Happy New Year everyone.
Reply
robsreef Jan 4th, 2006 Link
I plan on installing Brembo drilled rotors with EBC pads to cut down on the brake dust. I also plan on doing a 19mm sway bar from MyMINI.
Reply
Lawrence Jan 4th, 2006 Link
over to Helix to use the gift certificate Santa brought for a pulley (hooray!)
DOT-approved harness
remaining chrome goes bye-bye
Reply
Edge Jan 4th, 2006 Link
Check out NewMINIstuff for the folding mirrors.
Come on Gabe… we’ve gone over this before… surely you remember? I don’t want the aftermarket solutions available at Newministuff… I knew about them, of course… but I want the OEM parts, which is why specifically said “OEM” in my comment. :)
ReplyHave you talked with Mike from NewMINIstuff about getting the OEM parts? Typically he’s the best source for UK OEM parts.
Reply
Paul Jan 4th, 2006 Link
My top mods for 2006:
I don’t have time for real mods – the car is broken too often to spend time doing fun things! Like my Dad says, the Brits sure know how to build low quality cars.
Before anyone gets too unhappy… 1, I’m British so can insult my people if I want; 2, this is my second MINI and its proving as poorly constructed as the last one; finally, 3, despite these things I still love the MINI and think its a great car. I just wish I could get my hands on one that was built well.
Reply
Rawhyde Jan 4th, 2006 Link
I’m going to:
Hardwire my Valentine 1, and install the remote display. I’ve had the parts for a while, just been too busy.
Try to get a toggle switch panel with chrome finger guards like Ian’s. (anyone have the proper part number for the full panel w/dsc?)
Swap out the chrome mirror caps for the Union Jack ones.
I’m considering adding the JCW brake kit. Anyone have one? Any feedback on it?
Rawhyde
Reply
blalor Jan 5th, 2006 Link
Hardwire my Valentine 1, and install the remote display. I’ve had the parts for a while, just been too busy.
I did that last week. It was pretty easy; the hardest part was finding a suitable ground point. I’ve got the remote display stuck to the dash next to the tach, but I want to do something more integrated and have approached Ian about building me a circuit that will allow me to trigger the mute with one of the “extra” MFSW buttons. I’m thinking about either building a bracket to hang the remote display off the tach (easy), sticking it in a gauge pod (harder, expensive) or embedding it in the dash (even harder).
If I had an in-car computer (a la the Mac Mini), I’d get one of these and tie it in with my GPS. But there’s already too much stuff going on in the car and I need to work on minimizing the distractions, not adding more.
Reply
CeridianMN Jan 5th, 2006 Link
Hmm, not sure what will actually happen – but:
Auto-Up circuit (probably MCAW). Performance driving school, BMW or SCCA probably. Auto-X? Bluetooth integrated to the MFSW/car speakers/mic would be nice – for less than $1200. GPS/NAV using my PocketPC would be neat. HW/SW interface with the cars computer would be neat (BIM-COM?).
‘06 MCS ~ JCW + JCW suspension
Reply
Beecher Jan 5th, 2006 Link
Well, Today is 4 weeks to the day since i picked it up (and 1500 km). And i have big plans for it, and i already started. But next on the list, and hopefully by summer will be
Braided stainless brake lines exhaust manifold paint the calipers (when my summer tires go back on) white side bulbs cold air intake (want a piper but too much money) rear sway bar (h and r 22 mill, i hate understeer, and plan on beefing up the front end next year)
-Beecher
Reply
Beecher Jan 5th, 2006 Link
opps, i ment an alta rear bar, and i might as well add a front stress bar into the mix as well.
Reply
minirolls Jan 5th, 2006 Link
Here is what I have done to my 05 CB MCSC – all packages, rear foglight, Hk sound system
Performance; 17% Alta Pulley NGK – Irdium Spark Plugs Crane 8.5mm Spark Plug Wires Vivid Racing Oil Catch Can ITG Air Filter Brembo Rotors – cross drilled and slotted all wheels Steel Braided Brake Lines Blue Hi-Temp Brake Fluid Red painted Brake calipers Mintex Red Front Brake Pads Front Strut Brace
Appearance; Blue Aluminum Engine oil cap Blue Aluminum Oil Cap Blue Aluminum Radiator Cap Blue Aluminum Washer Fuild Cap Body Color painted Full Skid Plate Body Color painted Intercooler Cover Body Color painted Strut Caps
Electrical; Passport 8500 hardwired Escort ZR3 Laser Switcher Garmin GPS V Navigation – hardwired SkyFI2 XM Radio Aux port EuroShelf Power port in EuroShelf Passport GT2 Performance Computer Give Me A Brake Light Modification Blinker third brake
Nice to have; Drivers side 2005 Cup Holder “Lights in Sight” prizm Cruise Cam Mount Wind Deflector Arm Rest Hot Pocket Glove Box Organizer Shorty Antenna X-Pel Light Protection 15% Window tint all windows Saddlebag Euro FirstAid Kit
Installing this weekend; ALTA Gauge POD with Autometer Boost and OIL Pressure gauges
Future Mods;
Rear Sport Arm Links Aluminum Coolant Expansion Tank
Reply
Dr Bo Jan 6th, 2006 Link
I second the day tripper:
“I’m going to ditch the s-lite’s and runflats for a set of ASA AR1 black wheels and some sticky rubber.”
The ASA AR1 black wheels are so choice – I highly recomend them if you have the means…
My tire pick will be Goodyear Eagle 1 GS-D3 215/40 YR17
I’ve had this on my list for several months. The run flats should be plenty used up in another month or two-around 12,000 miles.
Cheers!
TURNDICULOUS
Reply
Craig Jan 7th, 2006 Link
New for 2006? How ’bout a new 2006 MCS ordered and now waiting finishing once the plant starts again. Won’t go into particulars, but the first upgrade at the Dealers…JCW FILTER..35% TINTED Windows, GLOVE BOX Impr. Trading my trusty and first born 2003 MC today. MINI of STERLING has agreed to a very nice trade-in BEFORE mine MCS arrives. So I leave this morning to the 110 mile R/T. I have a 1994 JEEP I drive in the winter, so this is a good deal for all involved. Will Announce the “coming” out party of my new MCS PS/BL with all the bells when she arrives at her “home” port.
Reply
Dennis MINIero Jan 8th, 2006 Link
My new 06 MCS…. Built 12/2005….. burning gas…. 12/2005 !!! Delivered it to myself (I am a MINI M.A.) on Christmas Eve :) DS w/ PR roof/ mirror .. & PS V stripe. PP/SP/CW/gray/blk leatherette)
Completed as of 1/8/06 Helix 19% reduction pulley Helix cold air intake Helix short shifter H Sport lowering springs H Sport rear sway bar Refitted Whalen Shift Machine (from my 02 MCS) Borla Street Exhaust Pioneer DEH-P7700MP Sirius Radio w/Ipod adaptor Garmin 2620 GPS Shorty antenna
To be completed… JCW injectors MTH or GIAC chip remap Kosei K1 TS Rims 17 x 7 w/ Goodyear Eagle F1 GS-D3 Tinted Windows /decals
Should be done by 01/31/06
Peace, D. MINIero
Reply
whokilledkaji Jan 18th, 2006 Link
Is there a supersprint exhaust that works with a 2005 MCSa? I wonder if Gabe’s exhaust does? He seems to really like his…
Reply[...] Mods for the New Year [...]
HTML Formatting Tips
MotoringFile also allows use of Markdown formatting in the comment section. This accomplishes the same formatting as HTML but is typically easy to use.
| _your text_ | → | your text |
| **your text** | → | your text |
| `my code` | → | my code |
| * Bulleted list * Second item | → | • Bulleted list • Second item |
| 1. Numbered list 1. Second item | → | 1. Numbered list 2. Second item |
| [link name](URL) | → | link name |
| *** | → | Horizontal ruler |
| <http://url> <email@add.com> | → | Auto-linked |
|  | → | Image |
Copyright © 2002-2010 Gabriel Bridger
