MF Review: Webb Motorsports 15% Pulley

Sections: R53 (Coupe) | Reviews Jun 28th, 2006 91 Comments

Since the introduction of the Cooper S in 2002 people have been finding new and improved ways to gain horsepower. New exhausts, upgraded air intake systems, modified ECUs and a host of other additions can help satisfy that lust for more power. Yet there’s one magic bullet in the MINI aftermarket that is head and shoulders above the rest in creating power: the super charger reduction pulley.

Warranty and Reliability

Before I get to the actual review, let me touch on what a reduction pulley does and how address a few concerns owners may have.

The principle isn’t new. Simply decrease the size of the stock supercharger pulley and you’ve got yourself a more powerful Cooper S. Dynos show gains on a 15% reduction pulley (the most popular size on the market) can over 15bhp. So with one modification your stock 170bhp Cooper S can go to 185bhp. And it gets better. The Webb Motorsports 15% Pulley tested retails for only $120 (other pulley’s msrp for about the same).

So you may be asking, where’s the rub? How is it possible that something so cheap, simple and small can add so much? The first obvious concern is warranty and reliability. The reliability question is easy when it comes to a 15%. With the JCW upgrade using a 14.6%, it’s obvious that the 15% falls well into the safe category of modifications. With MINI testing and re-testing the JCW pulley size the world-over, you can expect a pulley .4% smaller will perform the same. In fact to my knowledge (and I may be proved wrong in the comment section at some point) there hasn’t been one case of mechanical failure that was the direct result of a 15% pulley.

Now onto that pesky warranty question. MINI has left it up to each dealer and then it’s regional reps to determine if and how a pulley may have effected any mechanical failure. While I’ve never heard of this actually happening, it is technically possible for a particularly uninformed or ignorant MINI Service Advisor to use the appearance of a reduction pulley as a scape goat to deny warranty coverage on a few related internal components. It’s rare but it has happened in a few cases. To deny warranty coverage on the entire car due to a reduction pulley is just about unheard of.

It may be worth mentioning that Webb Motorsports warranties their Pulley for 2 years/24,000 miles or the remainder of your factory warranty. Some other vendors offer similar warranties.

But enough about who covers what, let’s talk performance!

Webb Motorsport Pulley Performance

Wow. That was all I could say after my first test drive. The car was eager, quick, and pulled hard all the way to redline. I could feel the difference immediately and it was impressive. In fact I was toying with simply having one word for this entire section of the review. For the longest time I couldn’t think of anything more to say than; wow.

Think about how much fun it is to row through the gears of a Cooper S from 0-60. Now add 15hp throughout the entire powerband. Or consider this; from a standing start with DSC off my Cooper S with a JCW intake, Supersprint exhaust and now the 15% Webb Motorsports reduction pulley, will put a healthy amount of rubber down in first gear, second gear, and (if I wasn’t there I wouldn’t believe it) third gear. The car feels more eager and pulls hard all the way to redline (which by the way you’ll want to watch out for a bit more with a 15%).

Or you could just say; wow.

Webb Motorsports Pulley Design

Randy Webb has been installing and designing pulleys for four years now. First it was in conjunction with Alta. However now Randy has his own design and it features a couple of unique design traits. Here’s how Randy explains his pulley design on webbmotorsports.com:

First, it is all steel. What that means is that the thermal expansion rates are the same between the pulley, the hub of the pulley, and the shaft of the supercharger. That becomes very important when the temperature deltas can vary by as much as 300F. The same thermal expansion rate means you won’t have to worry about the stability of the taper bore fitment on the shaft, or the tension between the hub and pulley.

Secondly, it is stainless steel, so the unit will not corrode over time like aluminum and mild steel do.

Third, it uses a positive stop on the inside of the pulley, so the hub is always in the right spot.

Fourth, the end of the pulley is capped, so as long as the hub is pushed all the way onto the shaft, the pulley will always align itself as it pulls the hub into itself. After having done over 800 pulley installs, I have never seen more than .02″ difference between these – the belt is always perfectly aligned.

We have several unique features on our pulley as well. We have machined a center hole to both reduce weight, and allow for easier tolerance checks. We have also worked hard at reducing the radius and therefore rotational mass.

Finally, this is a taper bore style pulley, rather than a heat and press interference type pulley. This pulley is installed at room (or shop) temperature.

As you can see in the picture at the top of the page, the Webb Pulley is almost jewel like compared too the stock piece. It’s truly a piece of art.

The Pulley Conspiracy Theory

As part of the design process for the pulley, Randy Webb did some research into this subject (w/the help of Eaton who manufacturers the MINI’s supercharger) and found that a 15% reduction is really the optimal size in regards to the powerband. So this begs the question; why didn’t BMW simply give the Cooper S a smaller pulley from the start? There are a couple of theories. The one I subscribe to goes like this: BMW didn’t want to increase an already large power gap between the Cooper and Cooper S. They also wanted to protect the low-end 3 series and the (at the time) soon to be released mid-range 1 series. By capping power on the MCS to 170bhp they are able to slot it in nicely the other cars’ offerings. They also give the JCW plenty of room at 210bhp. Helpful when you’re charging around $6,000 for the Works upgrade. Again this is all just a theory, but I know quite a few people in the industry that believe it.

Conclusion

The Webb Motorsports Pulley is an addicting, neck snapping addition to the Cooper S that simply can’t be matched by any other modification I’ve experienced. With very little to be concerned about in regards to warranty, it’s an addition that shouldn’t be overlooked when modding a Cooper S. While it doesn’t turn your car into a JCW beater, it gives the Cooper S the power that it deserved out of the factory. It’s like flipping a extra special secret switch that MINI doesn’t want you to know about. It’s also just happens to be the first product to ever recieve a perfect score in a MotoringFile review.

MotoringFile Rating: 5 (out of five)

Where to Buy: The Webb Motorsport Pulley retails for $120 and can be purchased from Webb Motorsports. Several other MotoringFile sponsors carry a similar pulley as well. Promini, Helix, Outmotoring and MyMini all carry 15% pullies and M7 carries their own 16% design.

Written By: Gabe

91 Comments

tsukiji Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Dead solid perfect

lTZMTOR Jun 28th, 2006 Link

My dealer, an IGNORANT BUNCH, not my SA, he’s kool, Asseal here in SoCal has already warned me…Don’t Do It! Don’t track it! Don’t pulley it! Nothing…. that they don’t approve 1st.

I did ask them about a Dinan pulley, I think they make one, since they do authorize that companies parts… not a word yet.

So I don’t have the time or enough MONEY to fight BMW.

Thanks for another fine review… maybe some day when my 100,000 warranty expires I will do it.

bwanayak Jun 28th, 2006 Link

What effect does the pulley upgrade have on fuel economy?

Randy K. Jun 28th, 2006 Link

The first 5 out of 5 review! – Way to go Randy!

Gabe Jun 28th, 2006 Link

What effect does the pulley upgrade have on fuel economy?

None that I can tell other than I mash the go pedal a lot more since the power is addicting.

JD7 Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Are their any necessary prerequisites when considering a pulley? For example, should one already have a CAI or exhaust? I noticed that was the order of your mods and I have considered the same for myself.

Lee L Jun 28th, 2006 Link

It is definitely a huge improvement and you can’t beat the cost. It does make the car feel like it should have felt from teh factory.

As far as looks, when I installed my Alta plulley 2 years ago, I said the same thign, it looekd like a work of art. I almost felt bad putting it on the car and leaving my stock pulley on my desk, but only for a second. ;)

Gabe Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Are their any necessary prerequisites when considering a pulley? For example, should one already have a CAI or exhaust?.

Good question and one that is easily answered: no.

FH Jun 28th, 2006 Link

I just got the 15% pulley installed last weekend, and got the chance to test it out on a deserted back road. WOW! pretty much sums it up, and comparing my computerized fuel economy on the return trip, I didn’t see any difference yet; I am on my first tank of gas still so we’re talking about a very small sample size.

am0eba Jun 28th, 2006 Link

I have a 2005 MCS Cabrio, and based on info about lower, better gearing in the Getrag 6-spd vs. earlier models, I wasn’t expecting a huge change from a 15% reduction pulley. Based on that thinking, I was planning to wait and get other mods installed first. When I found out that Randy Webb’s last-ever LA area Pulley Party was taking place, I decided to get mine installed by the “experts” then.

I am AMAZED by the change in performance – Standing starts are much smoother now, and less clutch finesse is required, regardless of whether the start is “spirited” in nature or not. Third gear on the Getrag 6-spd is useful at almost any legal street speed, with gobs of torque available for passing. And the sound… I didn’t expect a big change, but the audible feedback, even without an intake or exhaust mod, is substantially different: not louder, but much more “eager” and “zoomy”. To address the gas mileage question, Gabe is right on: there’s probably very little difference at a particular engine speed/gear selection combo, since the reduction pulley is merely adding more air to the mix, but the improved torque, horsepower, and sound characteristics tend to alter one’s driving style to the point where fuel consumption per mile is affected.

I wasn’t in a hurry to get a SC reduction pulley, but I’m SO glad I did!

Dave

Aqualung Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Now onto that pesky warranty question. MINI has left it up to each dealer and then its (ed) regional reps to determine if and how a pulley may have effected any mechanical failure. While IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve never heard of this actually happening, it is technically possible for a particularly uninformed or ignorant MINI Service Advisor to use the appearance of a reduction pulley as a scape goat to deny warranty coverage on a few related internal components.

I understand that Randy is no longer in the pulley party business….will MINI dealers do this install despite the above, i.e. the ones that would do this are obviously favorably predisposed towards owner mods? Or where does one turn to for it? Do-it-yourselfers? Trusted mechanic? How long should an install take, in order to estimate a cost?

AlvaroSpatchez Jun 28th, 2006 Link

I’m #726 for WMS 15% and I love it. The sound is undescribable. Makes the MINI sound more like and F1 car than an English 4cyl. No reliablity issues for me and fuel economy has been maintained. Plus if Randy does the pulley for you. the drive afterwards is worth it all! I can’t say enough about Randy Webb, he’s the best.

Jac Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Gabe

thank you for the great write up. Still deciding on a size – hard to pick the reliable favorite 15% when i know there is just a little more out there…. :)

quick question, what size belt did you use? Stock? JCW?

thanks!

Gabe Jun 28th, 2006 Link

quick question, what size belt did you use? Stock? JCW?

Stock.

Nathaniel Salzman Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Pulleys and intakes and pipes, oh my!

Awesome review Gabe! I’ve been waiting for this on for weeks. I was expecting a 5:5 rating and from your description it’s no surprise. Congrats man.

Any thoughts of a rear sway bar? JCW suspension?

And I sure hope everybody grasps just how much the aftermarket developers and especially Randy do for the MINI community. I only really know about WMS methods, but the scientific approach they’ve taken in doing their development gives me a lot of confidence in their equipment. And I think the mule on the track is proof plenty of their performance.

So “hazaa!” for all the fine folks bent on making our MINIs faster!

Chad in VA Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Sounds to me like I’ll be joining the pulley club soon, and with a WMS pulley at that. A question, though – has anyone put a pulley on an MCSa and noticed the same type of “wow” difference?

Beavers Jun 28th, 2006 Link

I asked my SA for an estimate on the pulley install. I had already picked up an Alta online ($107!) a while back, and was tired of waiting for my mechanic to find a free weekend for me.

The estimate came back at $400. I said no thanks, and put it on last weekend. Installation went smoothly, with the exception of not having the proper pulley removal tool (BIG mistake.) I did have a very experienced mechanic with me, though, and a wicked set of tools : ^ )

Beavers (Daddy Duper)

Jac Jun 28th, 2006 Link

thank you! enjoy!

mdsbrain Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Gabe what a write up! I will use your review as a good means to help show why the pulley is the upgrade to do.

Oh man…the first 5 OUT OF 5 review. WOW!

Garth Erdrich Jun 28th, 2006 Link

I did the pulley, exhaust and intake in one fell swoop when I had my ‘02 MCS. HUGE change in the car/charatristics. I too used the stock belt but as I had 20k on my car already, I did replace the belt just to be safe (and since it was already off the car;-). I am awaiting delivery of my ‘06 MCS and will be doing this very shortly after break-in.

Gabe, I could not agree more with your comments; an absolute hands down, safe, must do mod for any MCS that is driven as the car was designed to be driven.

mark Jun 28th, 2006 Link

anybody do the 15% install on a MCSa? be curious as to the differences

ezra360 Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Allright! I’m sold. I second Aqualung’s question- if Randy is no longer doing installs, who’s taking the reins? From other info I’ve read the install quality can vary from mechanic to mechanic. Any reccomendations?

david Jun 28th, 2006 Link

OK, dumb question: how complicated is this to do? There doesn’t appear to be much about how to actually do this scattered about on the web…

Dave Jun 28th, 2006 Link

how complicated is this to do? There doesnÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t appear to be much about how to actually do this scattered about on the webÃ¢â‚¬Â¦

Randy Webb’s Supercharger Pulley How-To

drew Jun 28th, 2006 Link

great write up gabe! of course you’re preaching to the choir on this one… ; )

chad – as for the 15% pulley on the mcsa – check out my motoringfile review at http://motoringfile.com/2006/04/03/mf-review-mcsa-w15-pulley/

the short answer is…wow.

tsukiji Jun 28th, 2006 Link

5 outa 5 is absolutely spot on.

Chad in VA Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Drew, thanks for the link. I remember reading that article when you first posted it, but my knowledge level and enthusiasm for modding have increased a whole lot since then. Now I just need to find a reputable place for the install.

Brian Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Dave – Just called Pete at MyMini. Im gonna get the pully installed up there in a few weeks.. looks like a lot of work though. -Brian

DanC Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Wow, indeed.

Jason K Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Hey Gabe,

Great review, but I think you made a minor technical error:

Think about how much fun it is to row through the gears of a Cooper S from 0-60. Now add 15hp throughout the entire powerband.

15 HP is roughly 9% of 170 HP, and since supercharger speed increases linearly with engine RPM, it’s likely that a 15% pulley does not increase power by 15 HP through out the rev range but rather by 9 percent. Obviously, a dyno curve is the ultimate arbiter here, but “15 HP throughout the powerband” is likely a bit inaccurate.

Like I said, this is minor and everything else in the review is fabulous. This is great information.

Jason

Edge Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Great review Gabe, well written… my only gripe is one of my pet peeves… your use of the word “addicting” instead of the more proper (and much better sounding, IMO) word “addictive”. :P

Thus concludes your wannabe-English-teacher lesson for the day. (grin)

lawrence Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Nice writeup, Gabe.

I finally got on down to Helix myself (a mere five blocks away!) last month and cashed my Christmas gift certificate in for a 17% pulley.

Neck snap is exactly the right term to describe the difference. It’s not a total transformation, but rather an upgrade just where the car seems to need it. When the power comes on, it just keeps coming, pulling and pulling in every gear until redline. A nice solid kick in the boot. No need to downshift to pass. Like am0eba said, launching is much smoother, and the sound is great – a higher pitched and slightly sharper whine from the charger. It really puts a smile on the face!

JD7 Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Edge Jun 28th, 2006 Link Great review Gabe, well writtenÃ¢â‚¬Â¦ my only gripe is one of my pet peevesÃ¢â‚¬Â¦ your use of the word Ã¢â‚¬Å“addictingÃ¢â‚¬Â instead of the more proper (and much better sounding, IMO) word Ã¢â‚¬Å“addictiveÃ¢â‚¬Â. :P Thus concludes your wannabe-English-teacher lesson for the day. (grin)

Along those same lines (sort of), Gabe, this seems to be your first review not using one of the following phrases;

“that being said,…” “having said that,…”

I guess I have an eye for detail. “Having said that”, I am constantly reminded what a poor reviewer I would make each time I read one on MotoringFile. As usual, this is a very informative and well written piece of MINI information.

05DSMCS Jun 28th, 2006 Link

I ain’t worried about your grammar, Gabe. Thanks for the write up, now I have to figure out how to scoot out to Denver for the weekend and get me some of this.

Dave Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Thanks for the write up, now I have to figure out how to scoot out to Denver for the weekend and get me some of this.

Here’s one way to do it

Nick Jun 28th, 2006 Link

The DOWN side of a 15% reduction Pulley–if you have a mechanic screw it up. Sad story. Had an experienced (30+ yr mechanic due the install) Worked on British cars for yrs. Owns 2 MINIs. He broke 2 pulley pullers and had to torch off/chip off the oem pulley. Car in his shop several days. Several months go by, I notice the belt is getting frayed. Had my 10,000 mile servce. Paid $124 to replace the belt at my dealers. Several days later I am hearing not good sounds emmitting from the SC pulley area. Called MINI–car trucked to dealer (Jax,FL) The verdict: bearings/and whatever shot on SC. New SC–$1400/labor $700. 1 way car rental $100. Aggravation. YES. SOOOO, I am back to stock SC. Now I wish I had opted for the JCW. Next one for sure. Thanks for letting me share. As the old Sergeant on Hill Sreet Blues use to say “Be careful out there”.

fdavid Jun 28th, 2006 Link

I have an appointment with Eric at Helix13 wohoo!! Thanks for the write up Gabe, good job!

badburro Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Would someone please discuss the disadvantages to going with a smaller (17%, 19%, etc.) pulley? Thanks.

Brian Jun 28th, 2006 Link

badburro Jun 28th, 2006 Link Would someone please discuss the disadvantages to going with a smaller (17%, 19%, etc.) pulley? Thanks.

Those pulley sizes start making everything move too fast (in relation to stock or 15% pulley) and although they provide more boost, most people don’t recommend them for street use since you can mess up engine/supercharger parts sooner.

jdmarino Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Is there a reason to get the WebbMS pulley over the JCW one? They are about the same size. Is one better engineered than another?

I’m not handy under the hood, still under warranty, and thinking, if the price is right, of having the dealer install a JCW pulley to get that WOW. Most likely they will want to rob me, so I won’t do it. And I don’t have another mechanic I trust to do it.

Dave Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Is there a reason to get the WebbMS pulley over the JCW one? They are about the same size. Is one better engineered than another?

The WMS pulley costs $120 + install. The JCW one is only available with the full JCW kit.

Nathaniel Salzman Jun 28th, 2006 Link

It’s curious that in describing the JCW engine kit, they show a completely new supercharger – not simply a smaller pulley on the existing compressor. I’m assuming that if you got the kit installed at the dealer that they’d swap the whole unit, but I may be wrong. My question is whether or not it is actually a different supercharger than stock. Is it just the same ol’ Eaton with a reduction pulley pre-installed and they just swap the whole unit, or has it got beefier bearings or something? I wonder.

MINIAC Jun 28th, 2006 Link

There used to be a different coating on the supercharger rotors. Now the only difference between the supercharger in the JCW Kit and the stock unit is the size of the pulley.

Russell Jun 28th, 2006 Link

So what are us poor bastards with Coopers meant to do then eh? :(

Gabe Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Would someone please discuss the disadvantages to going with a smaller (17%, 19%, etc.) pulley? Thanks.

Big disadvantage is wear on components. I’ve seen first hand water pumps fail or track cars with 19% pullies. Not a pretty site.

Joel Jun 28th, 2006 Link

Excuse my stupidity, what size pulley is on the JCW Kit?

j Jun 28th, 2006 Link

a couple of things. 1st- thanks for the review. i never really understood how it works and what it does for the supercharger. and i never had the balls to ask cuz i thought i wwould get ripped apart.

2nd. To gabe or anyone else, what are some of the other available sizes and what other increases in power can u see from them

and 3rd- gabe, i agree with ur theory. thats exactly how porsche KINDA shot themselves in the foot with the caymen. they wanted to make a car to slot right in between the boxter and 911 but they got the equation so right that people now have to ask ” why should i spend an extra 25-30k just to go a hair faster?”

but now with mini surpassing original expectations can we see a smaller pulley in the next JCW (if plans for it have not already been released)?

MINIAC Jun 28th, 2006 Link

IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ve seen first hand water pumps fail on track cars with 19% pullies.

19% reduction is NOT recommended for track use.

what size pulley is on the JCW Kit?

Somewhere between 14% and 15% reduction.

badburro Jun 28th, 2006 Link

MINIAC -

Are you saying that the thousands of dollar I would be paying for a JCW supercharger is just for a reduced pulley size and not a new and improved supercharger? What about the cylinder head???

JD7 Jun 29th, 2006 Link

j Jun 28th, 2006 Link a couple of things. 1st- thanks for the review. i never really understood how it works and what it does for the supercharger. and i never had the balls to ask cuz i thought i wwould get ripped apart. 2nd. To gabe or anyone else, what are some of the other available sizes and what other increases in power can u see from them

15% Webb, Alta, and others 16% M7 17% Alta, others 19% Alta, others

I can’t give you the #s on power increase, but I am sure someone on NAM or MINI2 already has.

Jac Jun 29th, 2006 Link

it’s all been coverd many places, but the JCW kit gets you

Ã¢â‚¬Â¢Ã‚Â new SC (same as a 05/06 SC, only with the smaller JCW pulley) Ã¢â‚¬Â¢Ã‚Â new head (port & polish?) Ã¢â‚¬Â¢Ã‚Â new intake Ã¢â‚¬Â¢Ã‚Â new injectors Ã¢â‚¬Â¢Ã‚Â new JCW ecu flash/programming to make it all work together Ã¢â‚¬Â¢Ã‚Â JCW catback exhaust Ã¢â‚¬Â¢Ã‚Â complete warrantee Ã¢â‚¬Â¢Ã‚Â (anything else?) – i think brakes & Susp. if you order it from the factory, but i guess most people here already have thier MINIs….

it’s perfect for some folk, not for others. (don’t want to debate that one!) Neither is right or wrong…no flames please.

Anyway, for many people, the reduction pulley gets a good amount of these gains with “minimal” risk at only a small porion of the cost of a JCW kit. in all my reading the 15% & 16% (M7) pulleys have had little problems, and they have been installed on many, many MCSs. I think randy did well over 6-700 himself. (not to mention all the other tuners, people who have done them at home, etc.)

For me, the JCW kit is out of my price range. I have an alta CAI, a R-speed MCS exhaust, and I will be adding a 15 OR 16% pulley in the near future. For me, this will get me where I want my daily driver 06 MCS for under $1000.

YMMV.

Lex Jun 29th, 2006 Link

I own a 05CS with a 15% pulley. Just 2 weeks ago the Service Manager for Braman MINI here in Miami FL refused to check a DSC error because of my pulley. “I CANT touch your MINI for any problems until you remove the pulley. I CAN provide you with scheduled service only”… YEAH RIGHT!

He also told me that my Magnecor plugwires could render my electrical system out of warranty…riiiight!.

Am no longer a client. I drive an additional 20 miles for honest service.

So if you are thinking about getting a pulley installed, check with your local dealership and see how they feel about it first. IMHO the pulley has been my favorite pwr mod so far, and worth the extra drive.

And for all you potential MINI buyers in the Miami area who are planing to MOD, beware of Braman MINI.

Dave S. Jun 29th, 2006 Link

Gabe, your review is spot on. The 15% pulley is 5 out of 5 and makes the MINI-S the way it should have been from the factory. We got our Alta 15% pulley installed in March by Chad at Detroit Tuned and it is by far the biggest bang for the buck mod for the MINI-S.

David Jun 29th, 2006 Link

Does anyone out there know if California MINI drivers will have smog check issues if they install the 15% pulley? I’ve noticed that most of Dinan’s MINI performance mods are approved in 49 states, excluding California.

Brian Jun 29th, 2006 Link

LEX – Who is your service manager at Braman? I always go there and im thinking about getting a pulley soon. Which dealership r u going to now? Brian.

Frank Jun 29th, 2006 Link

It seems to me that Lex is taking his MINI to Lauderdale MINI in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

If you are up that way, see Lamont Thomas for the best service experience in South Florida.

Brian Jun 29th, 2006 Link

Frank – I sure will, Thanks

Homer J Jun 29th, 2006 Link

For those of you asking about the 15% pulley on an MCSa, you WILL feel the extra power. A little more involved to install though. Randy did mine back in February and it’s by far my best mod.

GOODRICH Jun 29th, 2006 Link

Gabe did you install it yourself? If so how difficult was it really. Me and a couple of buddies were going to do it within the next couple weeks to my car, and I’m kind of scared that I might mess it up. Should I be? I think I’m better off with going with the Webb Pulley because it seems like it would be a no brainer to seat it right.

Thanks

G-Rich

Rossii Jun 29th, 2006 Link

“Anyway, for many people, the reduction pulley gets a good amount of these gains with Ã¢â‚¬Å“minimalÃ¢â‚¬Â risk at only a small porion of the cost of a JCW kit. in all my reading the 15% & 16% (M7) pulleys have had little problems, and they have been installed on many, many MCSs. I think randy did well over 6-700 himself.”

I agree to be on the safe side either the 15% or 16% is fine w/o any warranty issues. I had the Alta 15% on my 05 and M7 16% on my 06 which Randy installed at his last pulley party in the SF Bay Area. His total is 795 pulleys mine being 794. :)

MarkS Jun 29th, 2006 Link

Excellent writeup. I’ve got the 15% Alta (expertly installed by Detroit Tuned) and couldn’t be happier. And, forgive the geekiness but a 15% pully is actually about 3% smaller than a 14.6%; it’s 0.4 percentage points smaller, not 0.4%. I obviously agree that if 14.6% is safe, 15% should be, too.

Mark

jac cottrell Jun 29th, 2006 Link

Rossil – any noticible difference between the 15 & 16? I am really not expeting any…..but i like the shoulders on the M7 pulley.

Had some bad belt throwing exp’s once…. :)

thanks!

-jac

Gabe Jun 29th, 2006 Link

jac – either are fine products and will work great but there is a specific reason why the Webb is designed the way it is.

Brad Jun 29th, 2006 Link

I just picked up my 05 MCSa from service after my 15% Alta pulley “spun on the shaft” and gouged and scarred the shaft and the SC housing. The pulley was installed by me and my nieghbor, who happens to be a Mech at the local Jaguar dealer. Everything seemed to go great, and I had 1000 miles on the new pulley. While it worked, it was amazing.. felt like the car just wanted to go and go and go. But then a buzz developed at high revs. I really thought it was electrical noise coming through my stereo. Visually nothing under the hood seemed wrong. But then last Friday a Horrible noise and off to the dealer. So new SC along with the stock pulley and a few thousand dollars later I’m back to stock. Not sure what I’ll do now.

David L. Jun 29th, 2006 Link

Not trying to give you any ideas about how to get around warranty issues with your dealer, but if removed, are the stock pulleys able to be replaced if issues with the SC develop? Say you experience problems like those mentioned, bearings go, pulley slips off, belt frays, etc. Can you just reverse the pulley swap and slide your MINI into service without too many questions being raised? How could the service figure out you had an aftermarket pulley if they don’t see it?

I and a few other Vancouver area MCS owners are figuring to have a local installer (Bishop’s in North Vancouver) do some Alta 15% pulleys installs for us. I drove a JCW at Zandvoort in Amsterdam and ever since I got back I’ve been itching for more juice from my MCS.

Regards, David, MINI Yaletown 05 MCS BEP

Timmee Jun 30th, 2006 Link

What pulleys are available outside the US? Any local installers in South Africa?

Jac Jun 30th, 2006 Link

Gabe – what specific design points are you referencing here?

i have poured over the pics, old threads, etc of all the major pulleys. Curious what makes webb all that different.

I know the Webb pulley:

Ã¢â‚¬Â¢Ã‚Â is stainless steel, two piece with a positive stop on the inside for correct installation (as are alta, helix, m7)

Ã¢â‚¬Â¢Ã‚Â hole in center to check tolerances (helix too)

Ã¢â‚¬Â¢Ã‚Â 4 bolt (alta, m7)

what else?

I am sure that each one of the brand name 15(16)% pullies are fine….

I am split between the helix, webb, & m7. Helix is local, webb is webb, i like that m7 is 16%. (and i like thier logo too….the designer takes over again….) I already have an alta intake, so i need to support someone else! :) My MINI is equal oppurtunity! :)

Thank you for your input – and feel free to go offline if it is not something that needs to be discussed here.

Gabe Jun 30th, 2006 Link

I am split between the helix, webb, & m7. Helix is local, webb is webb, i like that m7 is 16%. (and i like thier logo tooÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.the designer takes over againÃ¢â‚¬Â¦.) I already have an alta intake, so i need to support someone else! :) My MINI is equal oppurtunity! :)

Jac – I would say you’ve done more research than 99% of the people out there. So with that said you are in a great position to chose which one makes the most sense. With Helix being local, my first thought would be to let the guys there take care of you. They’ve got a great reputation and their products are top-noch. But then again I always try to keep it local if I can :-)

Everything seemed to go great, and I had 1000 miles on the new pulley. While it worked, it was amazing.. felt like the car just wanted to go and go and go. But then a buzz developed at high revs. I really thought it was electrical noise coming through my stereo. Visually nothing under the hood seemed wrong. But then last Friday a Horrible noise and off to the dealer. So new SC along with the stock pulley and a few thousand dollars later IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m back to stock.

Brad – I’m very sorry to hear about your issues. A pulley install, while seemingly simply, is a very tricky thing for someone who’s never done one before. Even for someone who is very experienced in other matters automotive. I’ve seen Randy do enough of them to know that there is an art to doing it and that there are some very specific things to avoid doing. Best of luck with everything.

Jac Jun 30th, 2006 Link

yeah – i spend a bit of time doing research…. I can never figure out if i enjoy that part more than the parts themselves! :0

thanks for the input!

Brian Jun 30th, 2006 Link

Hi People, Im considering getting the My Mini 15% pulley since they’re located here in South FL. You know of anyone that has that pulley installed? Anyone have any comments on it? Thanks.

Gabe Jun 30th, 2006 Link

MyMini has some great products and I’d highly recommend them. If they’re local to you, all the better!

fernando apaez Jun 30th, 2006 Link

I live in Mexico and I got a 29% smaller pulley and ecu tunnig, the car runs brutally.

I used to have a 2004 manual transmission Mini and it was able to spin (a bit) the tires from 2 to 3rd gear. I smashed that car and now I got an automatic one, cause the ultra hyper intense traffic in the City, and the car (also with the pulley and ecu mods) runs amazingly. At this altitude 2250 meters over sea level, a Golf R32 canÃ‚Â´t beat me 1st 2nd 3rd gear, even though the auto transmission

The dealer is del Rio Power, he rocks!!!

David L. Jun 30th, 2006 Link

Err, 29% or 19% reduction? Or are you just running the belt on the supercharger shaft? ;-)

Regards, David, MINI Yaletown 05 MCS BEP

somake Jul 1st, 2006 Link

Iaorana guys !

What about a 19% on a jcw210? a real piece of art ! anyone tried that ? is the jcw pulley easy to remove ? is it worth it ? i guess the engine could stand it better than the standard mcs ? what should be also upgraded ? And the jcw upgrade to 225? any experience ? Two friends of mine are mcs with 15% and it ’s really great . still behind , but much closer … Great sound (with bmc intake) a real motorcycle this car !! I have to improve my english to write it up ! Well thanks again gabe . your black mini is “magnifique” . See u.

Kurt Jul 2nd, 2006 Link

Hey guys!

I just purchased the M7 pulley after way too much research. I too was taken with the design (and that cool 16% engraved on the side) The M7 guys recommend using the JCW belt with the pulley which makes sense. My dealer is going to do the install for a reasonable amount of $$$$, and I’m looking forward to experienceing the flip of the “secret switch”!!

Jim Jul 2nd, 2006 Link

With the 15% Webb pulley do you need to do a software download?

Diam Jul 3rd, 2006 Link

I am thinking of installing a 15% pulley on my MCS, but still don’t whether I can do that without installing a new ECU (or a remapped one). Is it necessary to have both? because if it is you need a considerably larger amount of money spent.

Ken Jul 3rd, 2006 Link

Gabe did you install it yourself? If so how difficult was it really. Me and a couple of buddies were going to do it within the next couple weeks to my car, and IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m kind of scared that I might mess it up. Should I be? I think IÃ¢â‚¬â„¢m better off with going with the Webb Pulley because it seems like it would be a no brainer to seat it right.

Your write about the no brainier part for seating the Web Pulley, I did the install with Randy looking over my shoulder or well sometimes I was looking over his. I have some mechanical experience so it helps to know what is too far when working on things. You’ll need a few special sockets to fit in tight places but it was worth the effort and satisfaction of a clean self install. It pays to use a puller that will gently remove the original pulley and it has to be dead center so that youÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re not bending the shaft. And no pry bar should be needed; you’ll mess with the SC bearings.

Ken Jul 3rd, 2006 Link

Opps, that should read You’re right about the web pulley.

Mark M Jul 4th, 2006 Link

I just ordered the 15% pulley from the WebbMS site but now realize that the pulley is for 02 – 05 Cooper S. I have a 06 Cooper S. Will this Pulley work with my 06? (I didnt see any pulleys listed on the WMS for an 06 Cooper S)

Thanks in advance.

Gabe Jul 4th, 2006 Link

Mark – yes it will work on an ‘06 as well.

holdenontoit Jul 6th, 2006 Link

I have made RANDY 10 removal tools and it is my understanding that he loans them out if you buy the pulley from him. For all who are interested, I rent and sell these tools ($30/$60) drop me a PM on NAM or MINI2 if interested . Jock

Dane Helix Jul 11th, 2006 Link

The JCW is 13.8% reduction.

Liam Jul 25th, 2006 Link

Nice review. I’ll be fitting a 15% ALTA pulley within the month and am really looking forward to it.

I was interested to note there was no mention of an ECU upgrade to deal with the new pulley, and other mods the car has. Are you planning an ECU upgrade at all? If so I can’t wait for your review. :)

Nav Aug 6th, 2006 Link

If istalling a 15% pulley (considering MiniMania or Webb) do you need to change to cooler spark plugs and 8 mm wires?

SwagHappy » Blog Archive » Webb Motorsports 15% Pulley Oct 19th, 2006 Link

[...] Following the advice of those who have gone before, I’ve ordered a Webb 15% Reduction Supercharger pulley. This particular pulley has a 2 year/24,000 mile warranty – a big part of why I chose it. How does it affect horsepower? It’s said to add 16 horsepower to a stock MCS. I’ll let you know how it does with my Dinan Stage I software upgrade. [...]

MotoringFile » 2006 » December » 31 Dec 30th, 2006 Link

[...] MotoringFile Reviews Auto Reviews: ‘06 JCW GP Longterm Reader Review: JCW GP ‘06 JCW Cooper S Long Term Comparison: ‘06 Lotus Elise Comparison: ‘06 Mazda MX5 Comparison: ‘06 UK Focus ST Comparison: ‘06 Civic Si Comparison: ‘04 TVR T350 Comparison: ‘06 Nissan 350z Comparison: ‘06 VW GTI w/DSG Podcast: Cooper S Auto Podcast: BMW 325i Podcast: JCW MC Soundkit ‘04 JCW MINI Cooper Tuning Kit ‘05 MCS: One Month Review ‘05 MCS Auto ‘05 JCW S 1st Drive ‘05 MINI Cooper ‘05 MCS Conv. Long Term ‘05 MINI Cooper S ‘05 MCS Cabrio 1st Drive ‘04 JCW MCS First Drive ‘04 MC w/JCW Tuning Kit BMW M3 SMG Vs. MCS ‘04 MINI Cooper CVT ‘02 MCS 3 year Review Autocrossing the MINI Range Performance Accessories: Craven Speed Short Shifter M7 Understrut System Kumho Ecsta SPT Tires M7 Strut Tower Reinforcement JCW Alcantara Steering Wheel JCW Brake Kit Webb 15% Pulley Helix MCSa 15% Pulley H-Sport 19mm Sway Bar MCS Supersprint Exhaust Podcast: MCS SS Exhaust JCW Cold Air Intake Reader Reivew: JCW Brakes Supersprint Cooper Exhaust Remus Cooper Exhaust Promini Cooper Intake MC Remus Dual Exhaust Schroth Harness System CVT Steering Wheel Paddles Exterior Accessories: Miniature’s Receiver Hitch OEM White Tail Lights Lifestyle Accessories: MINI_Motion Watch MINI_Motion Driving Shoe Audio: MINI Digital SoundModul ICE-Link Plus iPod Adapter Official BMW/iPod adapter ICE-Link iPod Adapter Kenwood iPod Interface Alpine iPod Interface Harman Kardon Stereo Interior Accessories: JCW Alcantara Steering Wheel JCW Leather Dash MCAW Auto Up Circuit MINI Rear Camera MINI Rear Saddle (official) MINI Rear Cargo Storage Case Official MINI Rear Saddle Bag 2004 MINI Armrest Reviewed Mymini Knee Pad MINI Bluetooth Kit MINI Video Input Aftermarket Bluetooth Integration Ian Cull Auto-up Circuit Universal Mobile Phone Holder Offers from the Tirerack > Special Offers: Save on quality tires with these manufacturer’s promotions available from The Tire Rack. > Gift ideas for $50 or more in The Tire Rack’s Automotive Gift Guide. > Shop for KUMHO tires at The Tire Rack. [...]

GUILLERMO Jan 16th, 2009 Link

IS IT VERY HARD TO CHANGE THE PULLEY? CAN I DO IT MY SELF? DO I HAVE TO LOWER THE ENGINE TO REMOVE IT.

TAHNKS

15% Reduction Pulley for 06' MCS - MINI2 - MINI Forum Jan 23rd, 2009 Link

[...] Reduction Pulley for 06′ MCS Hi Folks, I was reading this review of the Webb Motorsports 15% Pulley and was pretty impressed. Does anyone know where in [...]

Nathan Jul 10th, 2009 Link

Thanks for the review! I just wondering if there are any other modifications I would need to do to get the utmost reliability form the pulley? Is there anything that needs to be done to the fueling to go with the pulley?

15 vs 17 - Motoring Alliance :: MINI Cooper Forums Jul 30th, 2009 Link

[...] a quick google search finds this: MotoringFile Archive MF Review: Webb Motorsports 15% Pulley which claims JCW is a 14.6 reduction. [...]

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