2nd Gen R56 Cooper S Most liked posts in thread: Specialty tools needed for engine re-build

When a Mini dealer checked my compression, the report indicated the results and "--- All cylinders are within 5% of each other and between 160-180 PSI. Checked OK." I put a lot of faith in this particular dealer.

No clue what a leak-down test result should be.

 

The only special set of tools you need to take on this job yourself is patience, brain, tools and a set of these.

 

Compression test equipment can vary quite a bit. My hose ID is very large, so the readings I get are very low, i.e., the tuners readings were 160 - 165 while mine came in at 110 - 115. I watched them do the test! It's conceivable that your 205 - 210 readings are from a hose with an abnormally small ID.

If you trust the source of these numbers, put your faith in the variation. If the numbers are from the seller, try to duplicate BEFORE you commit. I'm from the QA / QC world and don't trust anybody!

Swapping engines isn't a lot of fun either, but it should be a whole lot easier than repairing the original. Best of luck.

 

I can't imagine doing a compression or leak-down test without having the engine installed. You must have access to some pretty good equipment.

Getting the engine out requires removing the entire front end of the chassis --- described in the Bentley manual and probably elsewhere in this forum. I strongly suggest --- don't start until you read applicable sections of the manual.

By disconnecting the disc ass'y from the tie bar and linkage, the whole thing including axles can be swung away from the transmission, suspended by the shocks. This however, leads to another special tool --- axel seals are extremely tuff to replace without both a removal and installation tool --- separate tools. You might be able to get away without replacing these seals, but I don't recommend it. And, if you have a manual xmission, replacement fluid is difficult to find, other than a Mini dealer. Maybe browse the forum for substitute fluid others have used.

This would be a good time to upgrade the front suspension, shocks, springs, etc., if that's in the ultimate plan. Altho replacing shocks is also another "special tool". Some tool stores carry it, but not all. I'll explain if asked.

Some of these special tools are available from a couple of our forum vendors. Don't forget to check with them if you can't find them locally.

 

@celticfc,

This video is for the R53 but it might help. They remove the passenger side axle and the mechanic mentions the drivers side particulars toward the end.

Cheers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShWfNl35xDQ&feature=youtu.be

 

I can't offer any help with the axle, just wondering how the project is going. Any progress?