Classic Mini Cooper - Classic Mini Coopers

Untitled Document

Suspension - The Basics

Stock shocks are more than adequate for stock applications. The first upgrade is simply one that will last longer! The second level is one that is “gas” filled in place of the stock “Oil” filled. The “Gas” will not overheat under extended hard use and thus will work better. The next step up is “adjustables”! These shocks will allow more control of shock characteristics over an extended period of time.

So what is all the hype about shocks? Yet again shocks are designed to control the suspension springs NOT replace them! A “Stiff” Mini is not necessarily a quick one! Shocks are designed to control the rebound of springs NOT the initial spring pressure.

Shocks are designed to keep the wheel in contact with the road under all conditions not hold the car off the bump stops, that is the job of the springs. The result of all this- shocks should be set (if adjustable) as soft as possible to only keep the tires in contact with the ground! Stiff shocks are not a substitute for the correct spring rate! The real dynamics of shocks should be a discussion all of it own; bounce verses rebound, gas verses oil, etc.

Mini handling is like a bottle of wine? It all depends on who is driving (or drinking the wine)! Experience, technique, expectations all result in a different formula for success. ...

Street Comfort Suspension Upgrade Kit For Mini & Mini Cooper.

The Mini Cooper has earned much of its reputation from its superb handling and performance. But many of us would like to have both great handling AND a comfortable ride as an everyday street car. The stock Mini Cooper suspension is most often politely called "stiff". With the very short wheel base and rubber cone suspension, it is hardly a comfortable car to use daily. Using new technology coil springs makes a noticeable improvement in ride comfort without compromising handling. This kit includes coil springs, Hi/Lo adjustable cones, KYB shocks, and most importantly, a rear sway bar. Find out more...

"At least 90% of all Mini & Mini Coopers were produced with 'rubber cone' suspension. While these 'rubbers' work well in place of the more conventional coil springs, they do have a tendency to age poorly. Not only do they get hard but they will also collapse. The result is not only a Mini that is not confortable to drive but also one that handles poorly. This special kit not only provides for new cones but also includes new stock shock absorbers for the front and rear of the Mini or Mini Cooper."
Find out more...

Coil Spring Suspension Upgrade Kit With Kyb Shocks.

It has been said that one of the biggest improvements that can be made to a Mini is to replace the rubber cone springs. When that statement was made it referred to new rubber cones… there is now a new standard in Mini springing: coil springs! This direct-replacement kit includes everything to replace the harsh riding rubber cones with proper springs. Anodized aluminum perches allow the springs to be fitted to either the stock trumpets or Hi-Los. The highest quality progressive winding is used to insure that the springs will not sag after many years of use, unlike the rubber cones. Our MMKT0118 also comes complete with a new set of KYB shock absorbers for the front and rear of the car. Oversized rebound buffers for the front are available as part number 2A4267C. Oversized rear bump stop are available as C-SRP015. Find out more...

"This special front suspension rebuild kit includes all the most common items needed: wheel bearing (Roller type), ball joints, steering rod ends and CV joint boots. One kit required per car."
Find out more...

Poly Bush Kit For Post '76 Mini & Cooper Suspension.

Even though the Mini earned it's reputation on the race track, it has to be said that it was built very much for the street. One of the major compromises made to the handling of the car was the use of soft rubber bushing for the suspenion pivot points. Our special "Poly Bush Kit" not only replaces all the rubber pivots (front and rear) with a much firmer poly but also includes poly bushes for the engine stabilizer. Includes rear subframe mount bushings, lower arm bushings, tie rod bushings, upper stabilizer bar bushings, and all four bushings for the front subframe tower bolts. Does not include front and rear lower mounts for the front subframe. We recommend leaving the rear ones standard and replacing the front ones with alloy, C-STR641 If your car has a factory, lower stabilzer bar you will need to order 2 x part nuber WB4. Find out more...

"Even though the Mini earned its reputation on the race track, it has to be said that it was built very much for the street. One of the major compromises made to the handling of the car was the use of soft rubber bushings for the suspension pivot points. Our special Poly Bush Kit replaces all the rubber pivots (front and rear) with a much firmer poly, and also includes poly bushes for the engine stabilizer."
Find out more...

Mini & Cooper Front Suspension Maintenance Kit.

The front suspension of the Mini has lots of pivots and joints that constantly take the abuse of both our road conditions and our driving styles. Keeping your suspension renewed will not only increase your safety but will make driving a whole lot more fun. Our special maintenance kit will work on all Minis from roughly 1965 on. Kit includes upper and lower ball joints, knuckle joints, steering tie rod ends and both sets of rubber bushings for tie rod and lower arm. DO IT RIGHT -- DO IT ALL! Note, the kit uses the tapered lower arm bushings fitted from about 1965. Check your car to see if the bushings will work in your arms. Find out more...

Experience a Mini To It's Max!

Arrive & Drive

Imagine winning a Mini Cooper High Performance Driving Experience program where you will ARRIVE & DRIVE a Mini Mania Cooper S!

As you arrive at the Thunderhill Raceway at Hooked on Driving you'll receive a warm welcome from Don Racine, Owner of MINI MANIA. Throughout your action packed day, Don will personally guide you through the program where you'll learn how to EXPERIENCE a MINI to it's MAX!
Mini Cooper enthusiasts say, "It's the DRIVE of Their LIVES"!
Enter here