Same on my '13 R55. Had to file off a bit of plastic above the MAF to keep them apart. NM indicated that this is a common issue with '12+ models because of greater manufacturing tolerances. --Matt
'07 MCS with K & N Typhoon air filter. Which strut brace bars should I be considering, that require NO "tweaking" to make it fit?
Answering my own question --- Tried the BMW strut brace PN 51 71 0 442 352. This could be the one previously mentioned as the "M7" strut brace, but I don't know for sure. Marketed as a "JCW Front Strut Brace", and the box has the BMW info. Anyhow, it fits with about half an inch clearance from the air box. Watching engine movement on a dyno, the air box rotates back and down --- away from the brace. Should be good to go --- haven't driven it yet, just finished the install.
None of them "strut braces" have been proved to anything anyhow in a Mini 1st or 2nd gen. It's all a bling placebo effect.
:cornut: Au Contrare! Mine helps a lot but only with BOTH front strut brace and rear frame brace Monseur DaveO. Jason