2nd Gen R56 Cooper Most liked posts in thread: Arm rest alternatives and wind deflectors

Thanks for the information, folks! Unfortunately, the "Euro-flip" rest is what's already in my mini that I'm looking for an alternative to. It's in the way of my e-brake and makes it difficult for passengers to fasten their belts, so I was hoping for one that projected into the back seat (or a mod to the Euro-flip bracket that would allow me to reverse it). I don't want to eliminate the rest, though, because I actually use it while I'm driving and I like have the additional bit of enclosed storage. No other alternatives anyone's aware of? If not, I'll look into either modding the feet of the mounting bracket so I can turn the whole thing around or modding the stop tab that keeps the rest from flipping all the way to 90 degrees so I can turn just the rest around. I'd rather not have to take my seats out to do this, but I will if I have to.

Cheers!
Grafton

 

Thanks for that oh-so-helpful input, BruceK. In point of fact, I do sit up straight. However, I suffer from significant arthritis in my shoulders and lower back, which means I can't suspend my arms in the air for long periods of time without significant strain. Being able to rest my elbow while holding the steering wheel alleviates that to some extent. Care to revise your opinion of my driving habits?

Cheers!

 

Guess I'm going to have to DIY the armrest. I haven't been able to find any alternatives other than the ones mentioned here. Anyone have any thoughts on wind/rain deflectors? The only model-specific ones I can find seem to be for the Countryman. I did find a possibility for the sun roof, but I have to make sure the built-in screens will clear it when they pop up. Anyone found some made for another car that fit the Cooper decently (maybe with a little modification)?

Cheers!

 

Thanks for the thoughts, Dave. I don't have the sliding armrest, but the better-liked Euro version. Unfortunately, I don't like it - it's too long and blocks both my e-brake and passenger seat buckle. And so far Google has failed me. The R56's lack of an upper window frame prevents the standard wind/rain guards from being an option and so far no-one I can find makes a Cooper-specific variant, possibly because it's impossible. I was hoping for one just for the A-post with no upper coverage, but even that might be problematic if it interferes with the door opening. I might try to fake it with the rear-side deflectors for an extended cab pickup if I can find some close to the right length that won't interfere with the door.

Cheers!