@@marshallgoldberg8376 I don't think it is. I've also learned that the bumper doesn't have to come off for some repairs where people claim that it does....like replacing the AC clutch.
My son and I have just replaced the original DMF clutch with 137000 miles done for a Valeo solid kit on his 2002 R53. I watched your video a number of times picking up tips here and there. The most valuable one was using the ratchet strap to lift the gearbox. It made re-uniting the gearbox and engine an absolute breeze. They just slotted back together. The whole job took us two days as we replaced some parts on the subframe while it was off and replaced the oil filter housing gasket as well. I’d like to thank you for the time and effort showing us mortals how to tackle the job.
Like seriously? All that work to replace clutch? Oh goodness sake! You got mad skills man. You lost me at remove the bumper but I hang in there coz you are a pro!
Great video!!! I just bought this mini and the clutch bearing gave out. I have never changed a clutch before but this video have me everything I needed to accomplish it. Thank you so much, my confidence level is now soaring and now I can basically fix anything on my mini now. You saved me $500 and made my wife proud of me.
Glad to hear and good luck. You have not changed a clutch but you have done other auto work? A clutch job is about 3 or 4 out of 5 stars on the difficulty scale. 1=change lightbulb; 5=rebuild engine. You will not have fun putting the transmission back on the car. It is easier with two people. Everything needs to be lined up before the clutch disk will slide onto the input shaft. .
I had worked on a couple of things on a car before but mainly on engine accessories and a bit of rewiring but never a clutch job with so many other things to remove. In fact I had my wife's other car at the shop with a rack and pinion problem,(they had it for a week without touching it), after I finished the mini on Thursday I decided to pick it up and I changed it myself yesterday, so you have actually saved me another three hundred more dollars!!
I would have gladly paid $500 to save myself all that hassle :-). Good on you for tackling this Jose, and you can put me right there with your wife because I am proud of you also.
Never worked on a Cooper before, with the help of this video, it turned out to be not too terribly bad of a job. Except the top two bellhousing bolts! They hadnt seen the light of day in 18 years. They were pretty comfortable where they were and did not want to leave!
So awesome thanks for the amazing video tutorial. Took us 7 hours today to get the trans out! Tips for others...We tried to do it with the rad still on but loose but struggled for an extra hour due to 2 extra trans bolts that were really difficult to see behind the rad. Just remove it and save the headaches and access issues. We also ended up removing the throttle body to see another hidden bolt even though we had removed two others with great difficulty under the octopus wires. We also ended up removing the whole right trans mount tower as you did because just removing the single horizontal mount (like I can on my vw) caused interference with the fender frame horn even with the engine tilted all the way. Thanks for the great tip melting new teeth on the fender liner clips too. Finally to remove the steering shaft after you get the collar bolt out the shaft just swings back and up instead of pulling out on other cars...genius! Oh yeah lastly a more powerful impact would have saved a ton of time like on most of the subframe and trans bolts are on too tight for my 18v battery Makita impact and had to use the jack handle over my 3/8 drive ratchet wrench for leverage. An air ratchet or HF Thunder 24v or similar would be best. I wondered why you drained the trans oil before removal...now I know as it peed on me while hefting the trans down! Looking forward to part 2!
Hi Kurt, this has been a godsend. You're so methodical and organized both in your work and in your presentation. I'm a little past this point and starting day four. My ball joints are in the 20% you mentioned -- even the separador had such a tough time that I thought it was going to break. I don't know how I'll free them from the shock tower come replacement time. The big hose on the steering oil reservoir decided it would start leaking while I had the subframe aside. It emptied on the floor before I noticed, and I had it supported. I resqueezed the stock clamps with dikes and added backup worm clamps top and bottom. I got careless and the tranny rolled off the jack to the back as I jockeyed it out, breaking the plastic cable-holding tab on one side. I don't know how to find a replacement right off so I drilled holes under and ran a cable through to tie across the top hoping that will retain it from popping out. I believe you didn't mention the inspection plate below the starter. Naturally, I overlooked it until the tranny didn't want to separate. I re-flattened it with a soft hammer. It gave way much easier than the throttle body bracket did for you! Thanks again for the excellent guide! I'll post up on part 2 once done. Cheers! 🍻
I just did my Valeo clutch / flywheel & followed this video step-by-step for the whole thing! Absolutely vital to the process. The only thing I would add that I think a few people below got stuck on (I did as well) is how to separate the steering linkage. On most cars, there is a spline shaft with a small notch cut in it for the pinch bolt to pass through. Once the pinch bolt is pulled, you pull the linkage apart by pulling the spline out length-wise. NOT the case with the Mini. On these, once you get the pinch bolt out, the outer portion swings outward, away from the smaller portion that goes to the rack. There is no spline shaft, just a post with two flat sides.
I wish I'd read this comment before I did my clutch job. I got it off by random levering and rotation until it fell off. Once it was off I only then realised how it worked! Pretty elegant really, can get the whole subframe bolted in before connecting it up.
Mod Mini. I watched your video on replacing the control arm ball joints on your own mini cooper s. Answered all my questions on the subject. Mine were rusted on... so a big hammer, an old screw driver and some time got them both off. I ruined them in the process but I intended on replacing them anyway. I just finished replacing the oil pan and gasket as well as the crank sensor O ring. Tomorrow is the new Valeo Clutch, Flywheel, throw-out bearing kit and rear engine seal. This senior citizen needed the challenge and your videos and responses to our questions gave me the confidence to tear it down. Thank You! P.S. Just gotta remember how to put it back together!
Channels like this I won't even mind paying a fee for....the amount of information that you get....and the amount that you can save....is great. Thank you so much.
Just wanted to say thanks for posting this video. It helped a lot! My R53 just hit 100K on the odometer and the clutch was starting to slip in higher gears. You make the job look very easy but this job kicked my butt! I am glad that I didn't run into any issues after the install but if I had to do this job again, the R53 would be a distant memory!
+Dustin Driver I've been feeling a lot older this year... but should be able to keep doing it for years to come. My dad volunteers, building houses 3 days a week full time and out in the weather, and he's over 70...
This video should be required viewing for anyone intending to buy one of these nightmare cars. This is ridiculous, to say the least. You are a great tech and I admire your professionalism.
When he said "And that's all of the easy stuff" was about the point in my clutch replacement where I debated whether or not doing this myself was the right choice... lmao. But all in all great video, i couldn't have done it without you man!
Just did this job along with a few others at the same time (overdrive pulley, power steering replace, supercharger oils, water pump, and a bunch of preventative items). Can't thank you enough. Funny too.. I found you other video on the power steering pump and it was very handy also as I didn't spot the rear two 13mm bolts. Thanks again for that one too!! Cheers. Aaron From BC Canada
Hey there, I work at a shop in Austin, and found your video to be extremely helpful. I've never worked on a Mini and this video made the job quite simple. Thank you very much for your time. You've got a subscriber in me.
We were 5 hours in with multiple problems stopping us early on... That's when you pointed out you had taken 1.5 hours and we cried a little. Finished off where you did, with bell housing bolts cracked off, ready for us to finish it off in a few days once free again
My daughter just found a Mini Cooper S that she's looking at and will be needing a clutch repair and I looked this up and am absolutely amazed at how much has to come off to get to the clutch on this LOL I am shocked. Excellent video and good smooth study work.
Seems it's time for my mini to get new clutch. Found your videos and decided to buy all the tools and parts needed to get the job done myself. I spent 1,200 for compressor, air wretches, metric wretches, 4 jack stands for 4 tons, new clutch, new breaks for front and back with pads and sensors, lubricants, fluids, and lots of other stuff. I ran a bit short on money with all the spending but I'll be tipping you out once I get the job done. Thanks again.
Mod MINI I'm sorry! I meant to say 1,200 not 12,000! Haha. Here's a list of all the stuff I got, all new and all for the purpose of maintaining my mini. Maybe you can mention to others how much I spent and what I got so they can decide what to do with their money and mini. •150psi 6 gallons compressor •set of 3 air tools •4 jack stands of 4 tons •set of flexible wretches •motor support bar •transmission support jack •full clutch kit •drilled breaks for all wheels •coolant reservoir •all greases for parts •1 pressure wrench I still need to get some antifreeze and break fuel. I also decided service my super charger so I need to get the things needed for it. Also one of my front tires makes a noise when the car is cold and I turn the tires. I'm thinking it could be a joint ball or something like that, so I'll be checking for that also.
Awesome video. Very professional, lots of subtle hints that display experience. I've watched many repair videos and do a lot of hand work on my family's cars. This is one of the top five videos of many years I've been looking at repair videos. A very Big thank you! Excellent reference.
Thank you very much for your informative and knowledgeable videos. I am subscribing to and watching your videos because I have a 2005 Minicooper S that I upgraded to Cooperworks after 5-6 years. I recently replaced the brake pads and tires. Your videos are suggesting that I should anticipate several big maintenance jobs, including replacing the clutch and supercharger, and a head and gasket replacement, as I am approaching 100K miles. Your videos suggest that a mechanic can do most of the jobs in one day but I suspect that is only by somebody as good and experienced as you.
Thank you for subscribing. That would be a lot of work to do in one day even for someone experienced and prepared. Best to break the work into smaller jobs.
I just got done with the clutch job on my 2003 R53 and this video and it's follow up was immensely helpful. I don't think that I would have tackled the job by myself without it, this being my first subframe drop. I especially like how you announced the sizes of all of the bolts to be removed. And that overhead brace bar is a lifesaver, I see myself using that often in the future. Thanks so much Mod MINI.
I just wanted to say that your knowledge on these cars seems infinite it’s almost like you can do it in your sleep and without your detailed information on how to get the job done there would probably be a lot of frustrated DIY mechanics out there including us (my friend and I) We recycle and repair broken Minis to give them a new lease of life and your videos have helped tremendously thank you 🙏 England
This has to be the most helpful step by step video to replace a clutch. sir your time and effort put into this video or these videos is really a time and money saver I own two of these little cars and they're just so much fun to drive
Dear God! Your video convinced me that I definitely will not be attempting to do this. Thank you for the highly detailed video. Your video work is great and very easy to follow. But again this is way beyond my meager skills. I have changed a transmission once on a '72 Dodge Dart and it was by far less involved. As I remember I did not have to remove anything except the transmission to get it done.
Hello! Clutch and flywheel replacement update... you made it look so easy. This job took me four days. The last thing was my A/C. Just got it working. Found out along the way that I need left gear shifting cable bushing (but comes as a whole unit) wheel bearings, and valve cover gasket.
Really great video. I appreciate the time you put into recording all of this for us DIY Mini owners. Will definitely be using your videos in the future.
SPIKEmIlLeNnIuM 32 people who don’t know how to follow good directions lol. How did your repair go? This video has me pumped to do it! I am a little nervous but it’s a lot easier then I thought it would have been
Just replaced the clutch on my wifes Mini R52 convertible. Thanks to this movie, great work!!! Keep uploading, I don’t need the dealer with those tutorials:) Greetings from Belgium.
Thaaanks! And Greetings from Finland. This was really helpful, and made me dare to try change the clutch and clutch slave cylinder to my MCS 2004. By studying this and lot of help from these videos, I learned a lot how my Mini and generally cars are working. It took me little longer, than couple days, but I did it really carefully. Centering the clutch was only part, that made me some gray hair. My thick fingers didn't fit behind the pressure plate (I did the normal Valeo kit). So I centered the clutch with help of centering tool and measure distances from springs with vernier caliper. I don't think, that that is by the book, but it went well and close enough, because Mini is running fine, and no problems with the new clutch. :D Another thing that was little problem, and like to mention was the pressureplates M9 size torx bolts. In my Valeo kit, didn't came with new ones, and those are something, that is suggested to renew. So that is something, that is good to know before get started at the job. Now I have a problem with cooling fan, which running all the time, when car is running. I think the fault might be found from cooling fan resistor, but I'm not sure about that. The electrical side of cars would be also interesting, and how to spot them. Anyway love your videos and they have helped me a lot. Thank you.
+lee j I recently picked up an ezcarlift (www.ezcarlift.com) that gives me an extra 8 inches of room and takes up practically zero space when not in use. 8 inches doesn't sound like a lot and I still have to use the creeper, but makes things a lot easier. Standing up under a car is a dream at this point; my garage ceiling is too low.
If it wasn't for you I would have never attempted to do this. After all said and done took me the weekend to put the valeo setup in. Thank you very much you just saved me over a grand!!!!! One thing I think you could have added to this video was removing the steering linkage. That's the only part I had to figure out myself but super great and detailed video non the less.
No sorry necessary bro I was just saying! Are you still working on mini's I haven't seen a video from you in a while about your car or any other mini's?
great video. i was considering buying a mini needing a throw out bearing replacement. this video solidified that i did not want to deal with the bullshit. thank you for saving me the headache and stress
Thank you Mod Mini. I bought a 2005 Mini S needing clutch replaced. been a LOT of years since i tackled a job this large. your video convinced me to try it. All good!
This quite possibly one of the best videos ever made. Thank you for the clear audio, excellent explanations, and awesome camera angles! 👍 Two questions: is this video secretly making fun of Mini about how ridiculous it is to do a clutch job? Wow! ... or is it a testament about how tightly and meticulously it is all packaged? 😲
Love watching your videos, you have inspired me to do more of the work on my R53. I am sure I have a thrust bearing issue, I also have stiff gear changes, this gets worse in the cold. The clutch does not slip, but the vehicle has 75k miles on it. Watching your video, getting to the transmission certainly involves a lot of dismantling of the car!! Almost looks like it would be easier to just pull the whole front off! That aside I do need to do something soon, I do not use the car much, but would hate to have a clutch issue! Will be jumping straight into watching part two!!
I want to thank you for your time on these videos. I also make how-to videos on my channel, and I greatly appreciate your help as I have been helping a friend in need with his mini.
Respect dude for doing all that work on the ground!! After waching this video my 2 collum koni is like a blessing of god to me today i am going to do the same cooper s but a never model without the intercooler on the top of the engine that intercooler intake and all those wirres must be a pain in the ass!!
That is just crazy. Most of the cars I've worked on have been front engine, rear wheel drive. My GF is into Minis, so we have two now. She was ready to buy another off Craigslist for dirt cheap, because it has a starting problem, and the clutch is shot. I wanted to see what kind of labor I would be in for. That's just crazy. Obviously doable. More doable with a lift and tall jacks. I don't think I'll be doing it until we move into a bigger house with lift(s) in the garage.
Thank you for this video and part two. I am trying to get the top bellhousing bolt off and cannot access as easily as you did. Can you let me know whats involved in removing or moving the wiring harness? I couldn't move it enough by tugging to really get access. Thank you again.
Mod MINI, So glad you have made these videos, It will make it easier when I do the clutches in my sons 03 S and my 04 S. I think I will pull the motor and go that route since it seems quicker and then I can do some other maintenance as well. Nice to see people like you wanting to help people with videos like this, and not charge them an arm and a leg ;)
Your videos you have Made for us are priceless.. you NEED to have a donation thing setup for us so we can reimburse you fir all you've done for us miniacs
Had to take my subframe out yesterday and luckily being in the uk my steering is on the right so super easy to get the linkage from the top of the engine without having to mess with anything
An excellent video! I successfully changed out the 'bad' engine (spun bearing with a bad rod knock) from my sons 03 cooper with a used 'good' engine using the how-to from this video! I opted to unbolt the exhaust header from the engine in the car and left the sub-frame in place. It wasn't a fast job, but it was straight forward! Thank You!
Robert Neild Good to hear. This is a clutch video though. Do you mean that you watched my engine swap video? It is definitely possible to remove engine while leaving subframe in the car.
Opps! commented on the wrong video! Watched them all though. We swapped out the clutch before installing the replacement drivetrain so maybe that's why I was thinking clutch!
Thanks for posting this video Mod MINI. I wouldn't have attempted this job without your great video. I have completed video 1 and am now looking forward to have my car back together again. (video 2)
Great video ..... Man you know your stuff. I just bought a 04 s.the clutch is tight but is close to floor to shift.i am one handed and this job is def 2 hand job. Thank you sir
Hi. Thanks for your time with all of these videos. We have used them for reference so much. I see in a previous post that you say the clutch slave cylinder should move 2" to 3" in one direction. My one only moves 1" there is no sign of fluid leak. I'm having difficulty changing gear. Its all ok when car is not running so the cables are ok and well greased up. I'm hoping that its not the clutch. There is no noise or smell just the stiff gear change.
Penny Anderson I didn't measure it. It should move by the same amount in the video. If there is no fluid leak, it's probably a throwout bearing/pressure plate issue or transmission issue - very common in the 2002-2006 Cooper Non-S. You could replace and bleed the slave cylinder first to rule that out.
Penny Anderson Your slave cylinder may be leaking internally ie the plunger is allowing fluid to pass back and forth when you depress the clutch. Best solution is to either rebuild or replace the slave cylinder.
great video. I had to take the engine out of mine as one of the bell housing bolts had become cross threaded by previous owner! It would not come out without risking stripping or snapping it! once out I managed to re-tap it and was good as new. I managed to leave the sub frame in place, but i see it helps a lot if you remove it.
Very helpful videos. I wish people would warn more about things that could go terribly wrong on a mini. I have seen you do this on other videos. My advice on this one is, DO NOT REMOVE SLAVE CYLINDER UNLESS YOU PLAN ON REPLACING. The weight-saving design on the mounting bracket is nothing but trouble, like broken bolts and even a broken bracket. I was lucky, just the ugly job of drilling out the bolts so far, the bracket is still in play.
Sorry, we don't have corrosion issues here and the slave cylinder always comes out. Years after making this video and as the cars get older, I have heard about corrosion issues.
There is a tab that you’ll have to use a small electronics type flare head like a pen sized one. Pry that plastic tab towards the engine, and lift up the octopus harness about 3 inches to remove it off. It will open up a lot of wiggle room for everything else to come out.
Thanks for the great videos. Following your videos was fairly simple and the tips were very much appreciated. With your help, my MCS has a new clutch assembly.
@@JodBronson This video is about manual transmission. For CVT automatic, you should use CVT transmission fluid. For automatic, you should use JWS3309 type fluid. I don't know if 'multi-vehicle' meets the requirements.
@@ModMINI - They NEVER changed that fluid. I bought the Car used and it's the " Life-Time " Trans Fluid. I open the peep home and it was dark !!! I took a chance and change it, it seems great so far. All I can say is.... The fluid is better than the one before... What else can it go wrong, right? LOL
Thanks to this I've got s new ACT clutch and flywheel. The pedal pressure is nice with solid feedback but may be heavier than stock (think 997 non-S). It's grabby but I love the throttle response; would certainly recommend for anyone that doesn't traffic their modded mini. Not sure if I would recommend to anyone that isn't VERY confident in their driving as its touchey and tough to get moving if you don't drive high performance cars. Grab wise I would say right around corvette Z06 with a Porsche feedback. Put in a BSH lower motor mount that I love as well.
+xcreekarchery1 Sounds like a great update for someone looking for an aggressive performance-based setup. For something between this and stock, I've heard good things about South Bend clutch. The only problem is picking which setup to go with, they have several depending on expected torque and application.
Thanks again, Mod MINI for your videos. I just used your video on how to change the fuel filter. Would never have dared to try it without seeing your video first. Looking at this video, I got three questions:1) How often should one check the level of powersteering fluid (which is some sort of hydraulic oil)? Does it need to be changed after some time?2) How often should one change the transmission oil on an R53 manual transmission?3) Brake fluid should be changed every 2-3 years (as it is hydroscopic)? But since the clutch slave sylinder uses brake fluid, this should also be bled from time to time (since the pipe from the reservoir to the cylinder is metal and will rust)?
1) Check when you check other fluids. 2) most people never change, it should be lifetime fluid unless you contaminate it somehow. It's very messy to change; the only way would be to pull a lower hose, fill, run the system, drain again/repeat a couple times to get most of the old fluid out. 3) Clutch hydraulics are almost all plastic and don't have the same heat exposure as brakes. I don't think it's really necessary to bleed clutch system as it would work fine and last fine even with a bit of water...
+Geo Von Lingerie I flog mine pretty hard at the track and it has held up quite well, only breaking when I obviously have abused it. Preventative maintenance is essential.
I don't think I have cursed at bolts as much as I did when trying to remove the 15mm bolt behind that octopus harness (took me an hour to get enough access to free it). However... great video that makes this a pretty straight forward job to complete.
About to get underway, but will he utilizing a friends lift, so I want to have all my P’s and Q’s in order before I start. I’ve watched most of the first part, and plan on watching a few times before I start. Other than ball joints, and rear main/input shaft seals, anything else I should order and have ready to replace? So far I’m ordering ball joints, bushings, steering rack bushing, and sway bar bushings. Car has 130k on it, and it seems these things are already past their useful lifespan in the Mini world. Anything else you suggest? Motor mounts? Trans mount? Excellent video too. I’m scratching my head wondering what the 40 something thumbs downs are about... 🤨
You are awesome man! I wish you were my neighbor or better yet part of my family! Great work sir! If I have any questions during my repair may I ask you? Thank you
Thank you very much for these great videos. I have so much respect for your fast and good work. That you share your knowledge and expierience. Awesome! I got a Mini Cooper S R50. All the best. Keep the videos up :)
Thanks for watching! Do you have an R53 or R50? (You said Cooper S but the R50 is a Cooper non-S). I have another video for the same clutch job on a non-S R50: 2002-06 MINI Cooper Non-S Clutch Replacement Part 1 of 2
Mod MINI is there any way to contact you for advice? I have the chewbacca/metal chair dragging across the floor sound as I let out the clutch from a stop. Especially when facing uphill. I would love some help troubleshooting it.
When a clutch job starts with bumper removal you know you're in for a good time.
If you think removing the bumper is the hard part, you probably shouldn’t take this on.
@@marshallgoldberg8376 I don't think it is. I've also learned that the bumper doesn't have to come off for some repairs where people claim that it does....like replacing the AC clutch.
@@marshallgoldberg8376 removing the bumper was the hard part on my car all the bolts were rounded off and rusted so badly😂
new jcw you remove the bumper and the clutch is right there. Takes 30 mins.
Everything with a mini starts with removing the bumper. Mini calls it “Front end service mode”
This is an EXCELLENT DYI video. Thank you for making it available, being concise, relevant and NOT adding annoying music. Well done!
My son and I have just replaced the original DMF clutch with 137000 miles done for a Valeo solid kit on his 2002 R53. I watched your video a number of times picking up tips here and there. The most valuable one was using the ratchet strap to lift the gearbox. It made re-uniting the gearbox and engine an absolute breeze. They just slotted back together. The whole job took us two days as we replaced some parts on the subframe while it was off and replaced the oil filter housing gasket as well. I’d like to thank you for the time and effort showing us mortals how to tackle the job.
Just finished the clutch on my son's 2005 S JCW. Would have been lost without your videos thank you so much!
I don't even own a Mini Cooper, but the mechanical work in this video is really terrific and I am enjoying watching the progress.
5 Years later, did you get a Mini or did this scare you off?
@@hinghampool1064lol
Like seriously? All that work to replace clutch? Oh goodness sake! You got mad skills man. You lost me at remove the bumper but I hang in there coz you are a pro!
Yeah this is nuts.. amazing job
Aha I got stuck at the one of the gear linkage so had to watch this video
Great video!!! I just bought this mini and the clutch bearing gave out. I have never changed a clutch before but this video have me everything I needed to accomplish it. Thank you so much, my confidence level is now soaring and now I can basically fix anything on my mini now. You saved me $500 and made my wife proud of me.
Glad to hear and good luck. You have not changed a clutch but you have done other auto work? A clutch job is about 3 or 4 out of 5 stars on the difficulty scale. 1=change lightbulb; 5=rebuild engine. You will not have fun putting the transmission back on the car. It is easier with two people. Everything needs to be lined up before the clutch disk will slide onto the input shaft. .
I had worked on a couple of things on a car before but mainly on engine accessories and a bit of rewiring but never a clutch job with so many other things to remove. In fact I had my wife's other car at the shop with a rack and pinion problem,(they had it for a week without touching it), after I finished the mini on Thursday I decided to pick it up and I changed it myself yesterday, so you have actually saved me another three hundred more dollars!!
jose Guillen Wow, it sounds like you already knew how to/were ready to do this stuff but just needed the confidence to go forward! Great job!
$500? I can’t find anyone to do this job for less than $1000
I would have gladly paid $500 to save myself all that hassle :-). Good on you for tackling this Jose, and you can put me right there with your wife because I am proud of you also.
after watching your video 100 times, I finally did my clutch!! thank you!!
Never worked on a Cooper before, with the help of this video, it turned out to be not too terribly bad of a job. Except the top two bellhousing bolts! They hadnt seen the light of day in 18 years. They were pretty comfortable where they were and did not want to leave!
So awesome thanks for the amazing video tutorial. Took us 7 hours today to get the trans out! Tips for others...We tried to do it with the rad still on but loose but struggled for an extra hour due to 2 extra trans bolts that were really difficult to see behind the rad. Just remove it and save the headaches and access issues. We also ended up removing the throttle body to see another hidden bolt even though we had removed two others with great difficulty under the octopus wires. We also ended up removing the whole right trans mount tower as you did because just removing the single horizontal mount (like I can on my vw) caused interference with the fender frame horn even with the engine tilted all the way. Thanks for the great tip melting new teeth on the fender liner clips too. Finally to remove the steering shaft after you get the collar bolt out the shaft just swings back and up instead of pulling out on other cars...genius! Oh yeah lastly a more powerful impact would have saved a ton of time like on most of the subframe and trans bolts are on too tight for my 18v battery Makita impact and had to use the jack handle over my 3/8 drive ratchet wrench for leverage. An air ratchet or HF Thunder 24v or similar would be best. I wondered why you drained the trans oil before removal...now I know as it peed on me while hefting the trans down! Looking forward to part 2!
Hi Kurt, this has been a godsend. You're so methodical and organized both in your work and in your presentation. I'm a little past this point and starting day four.
My ball joints are in the 20% you mentioned -- even the separador had such a tough time that I thought it was going to break. I don't know how I'll free them from the shock tower come replacement time.
The big hose on the steering oil reservoir decided it would start leaking while I had the subframe aside. It emptied on the floor before I noticed, and I had it supported. I resqueezed the stock clamps with dikes and added backup worm clamps top and bottom.
I got careless and the tranny rolled off the jack to the back as I jockeyed it out, breaking the plastic cable-holding tab on one side. I don't know how to find a replacement right off so I drilled holes under and ran a cable through to tie across the top hoping that will retain it from popping out.
I believe you didn't mention the inspection plate below the starter. Naturally, I overlooked it until the tranny didn't want to separate. I re-flattened it with a soft hammer. It gave way much easier than the throttle body bracket did for you!
Thanks again for the excellent guide! I'll post up on part 2 once done. Cheers! 🍻
This has got to be one of the best recorded, audio AND video, most detailed and well informed video on the interwebs! Well done my friend!
I just did my Valeo clutch / flywheel & followed this video step-by-step for the whole thing! Absolutely vital to the process. The only thing I would add that I think a few people below got stuck on (I did as well) is how to separate the steering linkage. On most cars, there is a spline shaft with a small notch cut in it for the pinch bolt to pass through. Once the pinch bolt is pulled, you pull the linkage apart by pulling the spline out length-wise. NOT the case with the Mini. On these, once you get the pinch bolt out, the outer portion swings outward, away from the smaller portion that goes to the rack. There is no spline shaft, just a post with two flat sides.
I wish I'd read this comment before I did my clutch job. I got it off by random levering and rotation until it fell off. Once it was off I only then realised how it worked! Pretty elegant really, can get the whole subframe bolted in before connecting it up.
Yea I just did this yesterday, would have saved me 1/2 hour of monkeying with it.
Mod Mini. I watched your video on replacing the control arm ball joints on your own mini cooper s. Answered all my questions on the subject. Mine were rusted on... so a big hammer, an old screw driver and some time got them both off. I ruined them in the process but I intended on replacing them anyway. I just finished replacing the oil pan and gasket as well as the crank sensor O ring. Tomorrow is the new Valeo Clutch, Flywheel, throw-out bearing kit and rear engine seal. This senior citizen needed the challenge and your videos and responses to our questions gave me the confidence to tear it down. Thank You! P.S. Just gotta remember how to put it back together!
Channels like this I won't even mind paying a fee for....the amount of information that you get....and the amount that you can save....is great. Thank you so much.
Just wanted to say thanks for posting this video. It helped a lot! My R53 just hit 100K on the odometer and the clutch was starting to slip in higher gears. You make the job look very easy but this job kicked my butt! I am glad that I didn't run into any issues after the install but if I had to do this job again, the R53 would be a distant memory!
Also, I physically don't have the stamina to take on a job like this anymore. And I'm only 38. You, sir, are a superhero.
+Dustin Driver I've been feeling a lot older this year... but should be able to keep doing it for years to come. My dad volunteers, building houses 3 days a week full time and out in the weather, and he's over 70...
This video should be required viewing for anyone intending to buy one of these nightmare cars. This is ridiculous, to say the least. You are a great tech and I admire your professionalism.
When he said "And that's all of the easy stuff" was about the point in my clutch replacement where I debated whether or not doing this myself was the right choice... lmao. But all in all great video, i couldn't have done it without you man!
Just did this job along with a few others at the same time (overdrive pulley, power steering replace, supercharger oils, water pump, and a bunch of preventative items). Can't thank you enough.
Funny too.. I found you other video on the power steering pump and it was very handy also as I didn't spot the rear two 13mm bolts. Thanks again for that one too!!
Cheers.
Aaron
From BC Canada
Hey there,
I work at a shop in Austin, and found your video to be extremely helpful. I've never worked on a Mini and this video made the job quite simple. Thank you very much for your time. You've got a subscriber in me.
We were 5 hours in with multiple problems stopping us early on... That's when you pointed out you had taken 1.5 hours and we cried a little. Finished off where you did, with bell housing bolts cracked off, ready for us to finish it off in a few days once free again
My daughter just found a Mini Cooper S that she's looking at and will be needing a clutch repair and I looked this up and am absolutely amazed at how much has to come off to get to the clutch on this LOL I am shocked. Excellent video and good smooth study work.
It's a little bit worse for the 2007 and up.
Seems it's time for my mini to get new clutch. Found your videos and decided to buy all the tools and parts needed to get the job done myself. I spent 1,200 for compressor, air wretches, metric wretches, 4 jack stands for 4 tons, new clutch, new breaks for front and back with pads and sensors, lubricants, fluids, and lots of other stuff. I ran a bit short on money with all the spending but I'll be tipping you out once I get the job done. Thanks again.
I hope you will be doing more work in future or it would have been cheaper to pay a shop, haha.
Mod MINI
I'm sorry! I meant to say 1,200 not 12,000! Haha. Here's a list of all the stuff I got, all new and all for the purpose of maintaining my mini. Maybe you can mention to others how much I spent and what I got so they can decide what to do with their money and mini.
•150psi 6 gallons compressor
•set of 3 air tools
•4 jack stands of 4 tons
•set of flexible wretches
•motor support bar
•transmission support jack
•full clutch kit
•drilled breaks for all wheels
•coolant reservoir
•all greases for parts
•1 pressure wrench
I still need to get some antifreeze and break fuel. I also decided service my super charger so I need to get the things needed for it. Also one of my front tires makes a noise when the car is cold and I turn the tires. I'm thinking it could be a joint ball or something like that, so I'll be checking for that also.
Awesome video. Very professional, lots of subtle hints that display experience. I've watched many repair videos and do a lot of hand work on my family's cars. This is one of the top five videos of many years I've been looking at repair videos. A very Big thank you! Excellent reference.
Thank you very much for your informative and knowledgeable videos. I am subscribing to and watching your videos because I have a 2005 Minicooper S that I upgraded to Cooperworks after 5-6 years. I recently replaced the brake pads and tires. Your videos are suggesting that I should anticipate several big maintenance jobs, including replacing the clutch and supercharger, and a head and gasket replacement, as I am approaching 100K miles. Your videos suggest that a mechanic can do most of the jobs in one day but I suspect that is only by somebody as good and experienced as you.
Thank you for subscribing. That would be a lot of work to do in one day even for someone experienced and prepared. Best to break the work into smaller jobs.
I just got done with the clutch job on my 2003 R53 and this video and it's follow up was immensely helpful. I don't think that I would have tackled the job by myself without it, this being my first subframe drop. I especially like how you announced the sizes of all of the bolts to be removed. And that overhead brace bar is a lifesaver, I see myself using that often in the future. Thanks so much Mod MINI.
no words to describe how thankful I am for this video. you my friend, you're a life saver.
thank you so much for the video.
I just wanted to say that your knowledge on these cars seems infinite it’s almost like you can do it in your sleep and without your detailed information on how to get the job done there would probably be a lot of frustrated DIY mechanics out there including us (my friend and I) We recycle and repair broken Minis to give them a new lease of life and your videos have helped tremendously thank you 🙏 England
This has to be the most helpful step by step video to replace a clutch. sir your time and effort put into this video or these videos is really a time and money saver I own two of these little cars and they're just so much fun to drive
Dear God! Your video convinced me that I definitely will not be attempting to do this. Thank you for the highly detailed video. Your video work is great and very easy to follow. But again this is way beyond my meager skills.
I have changed a transmission once on a '72 Dodge Dart and it was by far less involved. As I remember I did not have to remove anything except the transmission to get it done.
Hello! Clutch and flywheel replacement update... you made it look so easy. This job took me four days. The last thing was my A/C. Just got it working. Found out along the way that I need left gear shifting cable bushing (but comes as a whole unit) wheel bearings, and valve cover gasket.
Excellent video. I do a lot of my own MINI work and the clutch is my next big job after 150000 miles. The detail is great. Thank you
+csuich Big job is an understatement. As an amateur I am looking at this taking me 6 days to a week to complete, working about 5 hours a day.
Really great video. I appreciate the time you put into recording all of this for us DIY Mini owners. Will definitely be using your videos in the future.
Your videos are SUPER helpful, thanks for saving me so much money!
Seriously detailed and precise video with lots of good hints. Good stuff. Apparently 32 people were too stupid to pull this off.
SPIKEmIlLeNnIuM 32 people who don’t know how to follow good directions lol. How did your repair go? This video has me pumped to do it! I am a little nervous but it’s a lot easier then I thought it would have been
Like all things in life, once you start wrenching away at it you'll find it's not so bad.
Just replaced the clutch on my wifes Mini R52 convertible. Thanks to this movie, great work!!!
Keep uploading, I don’t need the dealer with those tutorials:)
Greetings from Belgium.
Thaaanks! And Greetings from Finland. This was really helpful, and made me dare to try change the clutch and clutch slave cylinder to my MCS 2004. By studying this and lot of help from these videos, I learned a lot how my Mini and generally cars are working. It took me little longer, than couple days, but I did it really carefully. Centering the clutch was only part, that made me some gray hair. My thick fingers didn't fit behind the pressure plate (I did the normal Valeo kit). So I centered the clutch with help of centering tool and measure distances from springs with vernier caliper. I don't think, that that is by the book, but it went well and close enough, because Mini is running fine, and no problems with the new clutch. :D Another thing that was little problem, and like to mention was the pressureplates M9 size torx bolts. In my Valeo kit, didn't came with new ones, and those are something, that is suggested to renew. So that is something, that is good to know before get started at the job. Now I have a problem with cooling fan, which running all the time, when car is running. I think the fault might be found from cooling fan resistor, but I'm not sure about that. The electrical side of cars would be also interesting, and how to spot them. Anyway love your videos and they have helped me a lot. Thank you.
Yet another video proving he's the best.
The article on the mini cooper was very descriptive and answered all of my questions.
you are a brave man doing a job like this on the floor . 100% respect to you as i wouldnt even attempt it without a 2 post ramp
+lee j I recently picked up an ezcarlift (www.ezcarlift.com) that gives me an extra 8 inches of room and takes up practically zero space when not in use. 8 inches doesn't sound like a lot and I still have to use the creeper, but makes things a lot easier. Standing up under a car is a dream at this point; my garage ceiling is too low.
If it wasn't for you I would have never attempted to do this. After all said and done took me the weekend to put the valeo setup in. Thank you very much you just saved me over a grand!!!!! One thing I think you could have added to this video was removing the steering linkage. That's the only part I had to figure out myself but super great and detailed video non the less.
Did I forget to show that? Sorry
No sorry necessary bro I was just saying! Are you still working on mini's I haven't seen a video from you in a while about your car or any other mini's?
I have had no time lately. Still fixing them sometimes but no time to record or edit video
great video. i was considering buying a mini needing a throw out bearing replacement. this video solidified that i did not want to deal with the bullshit. thank you for saving me the headache and stress
Thank you Mod Mini. I bought a 2005 Mini S needing clutch replaced. been a LOT of years since i tackled a job this large. your video convinced me to try it. All good!
This quite possibly one of the best videos ever made. Thank you for the clear audio, excellent explanations, and awesome camera angles! 👍
Two questions: is this video secretly making fun of Mini about how ridiculous it is to do a clutch job? Wow! ... or is it a testament about how tightly and meticulously it is all packaged? 😲
Love watching your videos, you have inspired me to do more of the work on my R53. I am sure I have a thrust bearing issue, I also have stiff gear changes, this gets worse in the cold. The clutch does not slip, but the vehicle has 75k miles on it. Watching your video, getting to the transmission certainly involves a lot of dismantling of the car!! Almost looks like it would be easier to just pull the whole front off!
That aside I do need to do something soon, I do not use the car much, but would hate to have a clutch issue!
Will be jumping straight into watching part two!!
I've watched this video several time since I purchased my '06 R52. I'm still amazed. Thanks man!
I want to thank you for your time on these videos. I also make how-to videos on my channel, and I greatly appreciate your help as I have been helping a friend in need with his mini.
dam brotha followed the video step by step and everything is smothly now part 2 and the the cooper is back on the road thank you
Respect dude for doing all that work on the ground!!
After waching this video my 2 collum koni is like a blessing of god to me today i am going to do the same cooper s but a never model without the intercooler on the top of the engine that intercooler intake and all those wirres must be a pain in the ass!!
What a prick of a job, thanks for sharing this. I'll run a mile if one of these ever comes my way.
That is just crazy. Most of the cars I've worked on have been front engine, rear wheel drive. My GF is into Minis, so we have two now. She was ready to buy another off Craigslist for dirt cheap, because it has a starting problem, and the clutch is shot. I wanted to see what kind of labor I would be in for. That's just crazy. Obviously doable. More doable with a lift and tall jacks. I don't think I'll be doing it until we move into a bigger house with lift(s) in the garage.
There’s a top tip - leave the radiator cap on to stop the water flowing out too fast at the beginning.
Thank you for this video and part two. I am trying to get the top bellhousing bolt off and cannot access as easily as you did. Can you let me know whats involved in removing or moving the wiring harness? I couldn't move it enough by tugging to really get access. Thank you again.
Thank you for this video so far everything has gone exactly like you have shown, at the shift linkage now, 🤞🏼 so close!!!
Mod MINI, So glad you have made these videos, It will make it easier when I do the clutches in my sons 03 S and my 04 S. I think I will pull the motor and go that route since it seems quicker and then I can do some other maintenance as well. Nice to see people like you wanting to help people with videos like this, and not charge them an arm and a leg ;)
I frequently pull the entire engine for clutch jobs if I don't feel like getting as dirty.
Your videos you have Made for us are priceless.. you NEED to have a donation thing setup for us so we can reimburse you fir all you've done for us miniacs
Respect for this guy.
I’m so intimidated just thinking of my car’s clutch going out someday.
What great video I was thinking of buying a Mini Cooper but man they are too hard to work on too much involved on replacing a clutch.
Great tip in heating the screwdriver for those nasty wheel well clips to create a new head for purchase on!
Matthew - MrMini Thanks - it works (almost) every time.
Had to take my subframe out yesterday and luckily being in the uk my steering is on the right so super easy to get the linkage from the top of the engine without having to mess with anything
This video is amazing Thankyou, it looks so complicated compared to the Peugeot’s and fords im used to working with
An excellent video!
I successfully changed out the 'bad' engine (spun bearing with a bad rod knock) from my sons 03 cooper with a used 'good' engine using the how-to from this video!
I opted to unbolt the exhaust header from the engine in the car and left the sub-frame in place.
It wasn't a fast job, but it was straight forward!
Thank You!
Robert Neild Good to hear. This is a clutch video though. Do you mean that you watched my engine swap video? It is definitely possible to remove engine while leaving subframe in the car.
Opps! commented on the wrong video! Watched them all though. We swapped out the clutch before installing the replacement drivetrain so maybe that's why I was thinking clutch!
Thanks for posting this video Mod MINI. I wouldn't have attempted this job without your great video. I have completed video 1 and am now looking forward to have my car back together again. (video 2)
You did a great job on explaining most of the problems that I will have doing this. thanks
Great video ..... Man you know your stuff. I just bought a 04 s.the clutch is tight but is close to floor to shift.i am one handed and this job is def 2 hand job. Thank you sir
Thanks God I sold my mini Cooper after one year of ownership!
Hi.
Thanks for your time with all of these videos. We have used them for reference so much. I see in a previous post that you say the clutch slave cylinder should move 2" to 3" in one direction. My one only moves 1" there is no sign of fluid leak. I'm having difficulty changing gear. Its all ok when car is not running so the cables are ok and well greased up. I'm hoping that its not the clutch. There is no noise or smell just the stiff gear change.
Penny Anderson I didn't measure it. It should move by the same amount in the video. If there is no fluid leak, it's probably a throwout bearing/pressure plate issue or transmission issue - very common in the 2002-2006 Cooper Non-S. You could replace and bleed the slave cylinder first to rule that out.
Penny Anderson Your slave cylinder may be leaking internally ie the plunger is allowing fluid to pass back and forth when you depress the clutch. Best solution is to either rebuild or replace the slave cylinder.
great video. I had to take the engine out of mine as one of the bell housing bolts had become cross threaded by previous owner! It would not come out without risking stripping or snapping it! once out I managed to re-tap it and was good as new. I managed to leave the sub frame in place, but i see it helps a lot if you remove it.
Very helpful videos. I wish people would warn more about things that could go terribly wrong on a mini. I have seen you do this on other videos. My advice on this one is, DO NOT REMOVE SLAVE CYLINDER UNLESS YOU PLAN ON REPLACING. The weight-saving design on the mounting bracket is nothing but trouble, like broken bolts and even a broken bracket. I was lucky, just the ugly job of drilling out the bolts so far, the bracket is still in play.
Sorry, we don't have corrosion issues here and the slave cylinder always comes out. Years after making this video and as the cars get older, I have heard about corrosion issues.
Following this guide. I am stuck on “the toughest” bell housing bolt. Underneath the octopus wiring. Will keep going though
There is a tab that you’ll have to use a small electronics type flare head like a pen sized one. Pry that plastic tab towards the engine, and lift up the octopus harness about 3 inches to remove it off. It will open up a lot of wiggle room for everything else to come out.
Where can I get the brackets used to hold the motor up top and the the flywheel?
Bump.
Thanks for the great videos. Following your videos was fairly simple and the tips were very much appreciated. With your help, my MCS has a new clutch assembly.
I just did mine and I used Valvoline MaxLife Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid. Seems to be great so far and smooth as hell.
Automatic transmission fluid in a manual transmission?
@@ModMINI - No, mine is auto.
@@JodBronson This video is about manual transmission. For CVT automatic, you should use CVT transmission fluid. For automatic, you should use JWS3309 type fluid. I don't know if 'multi-vehicle' meets the requirements.
@@ModMINI - You want me to go broke? I got no money !!! It said for BMW + Imports +++ Valvoline MaxLife Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid.
@@ModMINI - They NEVER changed that fluid. I bought the Car used and it's the " Life-Time " Trans Fluid. I open the peep home and it was dark !!! I took a chance and change it, it seems great so far. All I can say is.... The fluid is better than the one before... What else can it go wrong, right? LOL
Thanks to this I've got s new ACT clutch and flywheel. The pedal pressure is nice with solid feedback but may be heavier than stock (think 997 non-S). It's grabby but I love the throttle response; would certainly recommend for anyone that doesn't traffic their modded mini. Not sure if I would recommend to anyone that isn't VERY confident in their driving as its touchey and tough to get moving if you don't drive high performance cars. Grab wise I would say right around corvette Z06 with a Porsche feedback. Put in a BSH lower motor mount that I love as well.
+xcreekarchery1 Sounds like a great update for someone looking for an aggressive performance-based setup. For something between this and stock, I've heard good things about South Bend clutch. The only problem is picking which setup to go with, they have several depending on expected torque and application.
Thank goodness I have three automatic Mini Cooper, I really thought about a manual but now I’m glad I went with the automatics.....
Keep an eye on the valve bodies, they go bad especially in the R53 and early R56
Great video! Very clear and detailed. Couldn't have done this repair without great video. THANK YOU !
Absolutely fantastic video dude. Well done 👌👌👌
Thanks again, Mod MINI for your videos. I just used your video on how to change the fuel filter. Would never have dared to try it without seeing your video first. Looking at this video, I got three questions:1) How often should one check the level of powersteering fluid (which is some sort of hydraulic oil)? Does it need to be changed after some time?2) How often should one change the transmission oil on an R53 manual transmission?3) Brake fluid should be changed every 2-3 years (as it is hydroscopic)? But since the clutch slave sylinder uses brake fluid, this should also be bled from time to time (since the pipe from the reservoir to the cylinder is metal and will rust)?
1) Check when you check other fluids. 2) most people never change, it should be lifetime fluid unless you contaminate it somehow. It's very messy to change; the only way would be to pull a lower hose, fill, run the system, drain again/repeat a couple times to get most of the old fluid out. 3) Clutch hydraulics are almost all plastic and don't have the same heat exposure as brakes. I don't think it's really necessary to bleed clutch system as it would work fine and last fine even with a bit of water...
you're brilliant doing this job, it can tell how disposable low quality those minis are, damn
+Geo Von Lingerie I flog mine pretty hard at the track and it has held up quite well, only breaking when I obviously have abused it. Preventative maintenance is essential.
+Geo Von Lengerke I've had my 02 S 13 years. Still runs fine.
My good friend ended up getting rid of his mini, every time he had issues
Brother, you took the whole car apart...oh my!
I don't think I have cursed at bolts as much as I did when trying to remove the 15mm bolt behind that octopus harness (took me an hour to get enough access to free it). However... great video that makes this a pretty straight forward job to complete.
One clever guy! I wish l lived local to you to repair my r53
About to get underway, but will he utilizing a friends lift, so I want to have all my P’s and Q’s in order before I start. I’ve watched most of the first part, and plan on watching a few times before I start. Other than ball joints, and rear main/input shaft seals, anything else I should order and have ready to replace? So far I’m ordering ball joints, bushings, steering rack bushing, and sway bar bushings. Car has 130k on it, and it seems these things are already past their useful lifespan in the Mini world. Anything else you suggest? Motor mounts? Trans mount?
Excellent video too. I’m scratching my head wondering what the 40 something thumbs downs are about... 🤨
This man said alright, that’s all the easy bits around the 21:10 mark while looking at a car without a subframe😂😂
Sorry, it's all relative
Excellent videos, I use them all the time when working on my mini.
I am curious what kind of sprayer you use to spray solvents? Thanks.
OMG! Talk about frog in the boiling water analogy. My clutch feels a 1000x better. Thanks!
Hello I have a 2006 s automatic could you Tell what tools I need to take the TCM out
That was inspirational!! Awesome video
you're a great mechanic Cooper, congratulations
You are awesome man! I wish you were my neighbor or better yet part of my family! Great work sir! If I have any questions during my repair may I ask you? Thank you
Great work, I’m watching this and don’t even own a Mini 😊
Is the process the same for an automatic transmission removal on an r53?
Thank you very much for these great videos. I have so much respect for your fast and good work. That you share your knowledge and expierience. Awesome! I got a Mini Cooper S R50. All the best. Keep the videos up :)
Thanks for watching! Do you have an R53 or R50? (You said Cooper S but the R50 is a Cooper non-S). I have another video for the same clutch job on a non-S R50: 2002-06 MINI Cooper Non-S Clutch Replacement Part 1 of 2
You are so right. Its an R53 MINI Cooper S from 2006, sorry my fault. Now I got it right, thanks to wikipedia xD
I live in Portland Oregon and I have a Mini Cooper 2005 I would like to know if you can do the clutch work and how much will you charge
how many bell housing bolts are there... i feel like im missing one bc it wont come free
Does the valeo clutch kit come with the throwout bearing?
Wow that's a big job... excellent video!
Mod MINI is there any way to contact you for advice? I have the chewbacca/metal chair dragging across the floor sound as I let out the clutch from a stop. Especially when facing uphill. I would love some help troubleshooting it.
to change the fuel pump of a 2005 Cooper S, the computer program or one that is changing as samples in the video ?.