Replacing struts on 2004 Cooper S

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#26

08-13-2018 | 10:06 AM

AoxoMoxoA

5th Gear

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Quote:

Originally Posted by gumbedamit

Yep, I was quoted $1100. When you get them done, make sure you get polyurethane bushings so you only need to do it one time. If you have the right tools and patience it's very doable. I never worked on Mini's and I was able to replace my LCA bushings and ball-joints without completely lowering the subframe. Took about 4-5 hours.

Agreed, very doable. It's a little work, but the massive savings make it a no-brainer if you have the tools and a place to do it. I did mine a'la the ModMINI cutoff method without removal or lowering of the subframe. I'd also echo to go the Powerflex route.

Since you're removing the control arms, a "while your in there" opportunity presents itself, as you could swing the axles out of the way and get the inner ball joints replaced as well.

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#27

08-13-2018 | 10:11 AM

JAB 67

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From: Fairfax, VA

In my experience once you go from OE LCA bushings to Powerflex you must get an alignment.

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#28

08-13-2018 | 10:15 AM

gumbedamit

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From: Atlanta Georgia

Quote:

Originally Posted by JAB 67

In my experience once you go from OE LCA bushings to Powerflex you must get an alignment.

I would think that after getting your LCA bushings replaced, Rubber or Poly you would need to get an alignment, heck, I get an alignment when I get new tires......maybe it's just me.

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#29

08-20-2018 | 07:52 PM

ijourneaux

Thread Starter

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Joined: Oct 2010

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I just didn't ahve the time to do the control arm bushing myself. I was able to get stock bushings installed for about $600. THe bushings were shot but the noise, which I assumed was related to the work I did on the struts was due to the straight pipe back from the cat towards the muffler.
I get my Mini back tomorrow

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