SilverBeam
06-16-2011, 03:02 PM
The power steering fan design on the R50/R53 is definitely a weak part of the car, but one that was improved slowly over time. Having an 04, my Cooper has the upgraded fan shroud to help prevent road debris from getting stuck in the fan, stopping its operation. In 2005, MINI introduces an air channel to bring improve cooling of the fan. For some reason, this was only installed on automatics, but from what I've read, it can be retrofitted on R53s with manuals.
I just ordered the parts today for the retrofit.
This is what you need: http://realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=RE33&mospid=48021&btnr=51_4366&hg=51&fg=75&hl=11
http://realoem.com/bmw/diagrams/q/n/211.png
Through my part supplier, BMA in Burbank Calif, the whole thing came out to around $100. Well worth it to protect the fan and in turn the power steering pump from overheating.
I'll update this thread with the install process when we get to that in a few weeks. Has anyone here upgraded the 2005+ air channel into their older Cooper? Was it as straightforward as it appears to be?
I just ordered the parts today for the retrofit.
This is what you need: http://realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=RE33&mospid=48021&btnr=51_4366&hg=51&fg=75&hl=11
http://realoem.com/bmw/diagrams/q/n/211.png
Through my part supplier, BMA in Burbank Calif, the whole thing came out to around $100. Well worth it to protect the fan and in turn the power steering pump from overheating.
I'll update this thread with the install process when we get to that in a few weeks. Has anyone here upgraded the 2005+ air channel into their older Cooper? Was it as straightforward as it appears to be?