I lost my timing chain last week. So, now it's time to see what is out there that is better than stock for replacement parts. So, are there kits that have improved chains in them? Also, since I am going to be in the engine anyway, I thought I might ask what else I could do to get me down the road for a while. I bought this Mini used with just under 100k on it. So, I was thinking maybe new rings and bearings, since I have to drop the pan to make sure no bits of the guides are in the oil pan. Things I have done: New valve cover New turbo oil lines - Detroit Tuned Serpentine Belt Water Pump Oil Filter assembly gasket replaced. Solid flywheel and clutch Craven Short Shifter Any suggestions would be appreciated.
You didn't say what year and model MINI you have, but from my reading, there were some out of spec timing chains in 2009 and earlier cars, other than that I don't think the chain has changed since the 2010 model year on the Prince engine. The problem was with the timing chain tensioner. There have been a few different part numbers on tensioners, the latest tensioner, p/n 11317607551, seems to have finally fixed the problem. MINIs area niche car, I would be surprised if anyone other than the manufacturer has a timing chain for it. The Prince engine is a zero clearance engine, so if the timing chain failed you will have valve and piston damage too.
Sorry it is an '07 S. Yeah I am aware of the zero clearance issue, and know I'll have some damage. We'll see what I run into when I get the motor opened up.
Someone posted that Detroit Tuned was doing a post treatment to the chain to harden the links..... Not sure how valid that is so you might give Chad a call.... Edit: Found it... "cryogenically treating all chains and tensioners" http://www.detroittuned.com/mini-timing-chain-kit-gen-2-n14/
If you pull the head to do an inspection, you'll need the gasket kit for misc. head-attached parts. Then you decide which thickness head gasket to buy --- not included in this kit. Mini dealers also sell a timing chain replacement kit --- much less costly than individual parts. Then there's all the one-use bolts that need to be replaced. If you do the work yourself, you're gonna need a Bentley manual (tightening sequence and torque values) and ready access to the RealOEM illustrated parts list. Don't forget the "special tools" required, plus an extensive set of normal tools. For an '07S, repair costs might be more than the book value --- get it apart and diagnosed before buying more stuff. Let us know what you find?
Real OEM, http://www.realoem.com/bmw/select.do?kind=P&series=R55&body=HB&model=Cooper+S&zone=USA&prod=20100100&arch=0