I just got my Mini JCW S back from the shop that put in the Koni Yellow shocks and the feel is great. This coming weekend I have an autocross to look forward to. I had the rear shocks set at just off full soft and the 19mm sway bar is on the stiffest setting. I am excited to try out the way it handles. I also have the NM lowering springs and a set of Hankook RS3's. I asked the mechanic what he thought the next best improvement should be and he said stainless brake lines. Who makes good quality lines and are teflon coated lines something needed out here in AZ? Do all lines designed for the Cooper S fit exactly or are there "adjustments" that need to be made? Thanks
Most of the Motoring Alliance sponsors carry stainless steel braided lines. As to which brand is best, there really is not much difference between them in quality, at least from what I've seen the sponsors carry. There is a difference between the caliper ends for the 1st and 2nd generation MINIs. Thats about it.
I have the ones from Outmotoring (I can't remember what brand they are). The rubber bushing (O-ring) that slides into the slot on the shock doesn't fit Konis very well. It does stay in place once you get it in though. No issues other than that.
Here is an argument against the SS lines as the next mod. They honestly will not improve your times for AutoX, they may help on a longer track tho. The next mod should be determined by the class you intend to run in.
The stainless lines can improve the pedal feel. They make a bigger difference if the current lines are a bit old and starting to expand a bit under pressure. Along with the lines another item that helps slightly is the caliper bushings. They tend to move easier than than the stock ones.
If you are planning on running DS you cannot use SS brake lines. If you are running DSP or STX you can use them. I'll echo the sentiment that SS brake lines give you a bit firmer pedal feel over OEM lines but there isn't any advantage in the actual application of the brakes though.
I have a set in my garage, ready to install. However, i'm still looking for a How-To so i don't accidentally do more harm than good. If you know of one out there (mini-specific, preferably) that would be really helpful.
brake lines Thanks for the input. I'm just looking for better pedal feel. I know for a fact the only thing right now that will improve my course times is seat time. I am in STX and having a blast. Way Motor works sounds like a good choice.
Oh yea.....the solid bushings are great. Forgot about those. IMHO a much better mod than the SS lines.
Check out our WMW stainless brake lines. They fit perfect with no grinding like some of the others. These are the required spec lines for the new B Spec race series.
One trick when installing brake lines... Wedge a long stick (I use a crutch) between the pedal and the seat back. You just have to depress the brake pedal an inch or more, and it will isolate the fluid reservoir from the system. That means all your fluid won't leak out when you disconnect the brake lines. You'll still have to bleed the brakes afterwards, but it won't require nearly as much fluid.