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General MINI TalkShared experiences, motoring minutes, and other general MINI-related discussion that applies to all MINIs, regardless of model, year or trim.
Would like to see different angles. Because of the reflector part of the halogen headlight, I always thought the Joey mod was more for Xenons. Not that I paid real close attention or anything....
Made my first attempt at an engine bay detail. Diluted some Simple Green into a spray bottle, sprayed onto cloth, and wiped down what I could reach, along with the underside of my bonnet.
Next time you don't have to wipe. Just warm the engine up for about 5 minutes, spray simple green on engine, close hood for 5 minutes, up hood and rinse off with water, and repeat as necessary till engine is clean to your liking.
My r56 had its second oil service Monday (late post). With 6K+ on the clock, I was anticipating paying for the service (as I had 6 months ago), but since this was the 12 month delivery anniversary, the job was covered under the maintenance program. Did the happy dance in my mind when they told me it was free, or at least I paid for it in the purchase price!
As I went through the check-in I was told that there was a coolant temperature sensor recall (open campaign), and that the technician would do this while I waited. After the multipoint inspection the technician found an oil leak on the oil volume control solenoid harness, and that the repair would be covered under warrantee. With "Merlin" on the lift I got a good look at the leak. Due to my own time limitations, I had to postpone this repair.
The take home story here as there was no obvious oil leak at any time. Not on the garage floor or even on the newspaper that I placed on the floor, and checked next morning. Nothing, zip, zilch, nada...
I did a little research on NAM and see that I am not the first to have this leak, and that it is a known issue for my model. Just thought that casting a little light on the issue would be of help.
Today I flushed all the fluids (brakes, power steering, transmission, coolant, oil) just before 50K. I also gave it a seafoam treatment, rotated the tires, and hopefully fixed a rattling issue with the rear sway bar.
Last weekend I installed a set of Bilstein Touring shocks and struts with JCW springs. I replaced the Eibach springs they seemed a little too low and harsh.
Mine's home in a cold garage. I'm here in Orlando for most of the week. Passed some nice MINIS on I-95. One near Jacksonville looked familiar, like maybe I've seen it here. R53 MY/B with checkered bonnet stripes. Passing by MINI of Orlando was nice, too.
Last edited by Albiecrazy; 02-17-2013 at 02:46 PM.