My understanding is that there are 3 major components:

1. A downpipe with a catalytic converter;

2. A middle section with a resonator; and

3. A rear section with a muffler.

Please let me know if my understanding is correct or, if it isn't, what the actual major componets are.

Thanks!!

 

There's also another cat. in addition to the one in the downpipe; it's before the resonator.

 

This might be helpful:
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/partgrp.d...31&hg=18&fg=10

 

To th3118:

The link you gave me is quite helpful. But, the diagram for the middle section, i.e., the one called "catalytic converter/front silencer" shows two diagrams: the top one has only a long muffler, while the bottom one has a short muffler and small catalytic converter.

Based on the post above yours, my guess is that the lower diagram relates to the R56 Cooper S; is that your understanding, as well?

Thanks for the link, which will be very handy, since I'm 25 miles from my Mini dealer's parts dept.

Bob

 

I believe both are R56 S, top one is european, ours has the 2nd cat.