Time for the annual occurrence of this checklist. It's a PDF, download and print if you like. Oil – Close to 5K mark on current Oil? Go for an early change. Under Bonnet Check –Look for leaks, broken/worn engine mounts, worn plug wires Gearbox Oil – If near 2 years or 50K miles - Change Brakes – Check Rotors and Pads – Have at least 50% left Brake Fluid – If near 1 year or 25K miles – Change Coolant – MINI recommends every 4 years from build date for a change, every 2 years would not hurt. Tires – Tread level should be at least ½, check for uneven wear Wheels – Check Torque on lugs 83ft/lb 1st gen, 102ft/lb 2nd gen – Check often on site. See Chad at Detroit Tuned tent to use his torque wrench. Wipers – Replace blades if older – It could be quite wet at MOTD Lights – Check all lights to verify operation Battery – good condition, make sure is securely fastened Suspension – Check all bushings for wear, replace as needed Steering – Check for wear – replace anything questionable Exhaust – Secure with no leaks, check mounts Wheel Bearings – Check for excessive play Running The Dragon even at the posted limit taxes all the systems on our MINIs. 311 Turns in rapid succession will find the weaknesses if not attended to ahead of time. Please be sure to check you braking system well. Check list compiled with the assistance of Chad from Detroit Tuned.
^^^this!! :cornut:^^^ just did all my pre-trip stuff with the added bonus of a clutch, flywheel, assorted bearings and bushings, and a Quaife LSD--looking forward to the trip!
My pre trip inspection has been exhausting.... my R53 is no longer a daily driver but I had to drive it all last week due to the other ride being down. During this week, my exhaust fell apart and I discovered both my wheel bearings had excessive play So now I have a new exhaust system (even found a leak at my test pipe while I was under there) and new wheel bearings. Flushed the brake fluid while I was at it too, I believe Broknsmurf is now ready. I might throw an oil change in there too although im at like 2.5k on the change, except I did it last June-Julyish...
I know.... It isn't car prep, but bring lots of layers (weather up there changes faster than Nathan's tires), some sun screen and bug repellant.