I would start with getting the SPI automatic running correctly in stock form before attempting any tuning, I have tuned a few SPI automatics automatics using a Specialist components ECU, but they all ran well before the conversion.

Welcome to the mini mania forum and congratulations on buying a mini. You've asked for help and opinions, so I will give you my 2 cents.

 

First, the SPI format . There is nothing wrong with it. My mini is a 1994 SPI manual. It is my only car with no backup, so I have to keep it up. I've owned it for over 30 years. Most Automatics are in pretty good shape because they were never abused. The only reason it is still on the road is because it starts every time I get in it. 

 

If you get the proper year Haynes manual, it will help you, as well as asking this board for help. Learn about your mini because mostly you will be on your own. No one will know how to repair them. The auto parts stores will not have anything in their computers. It's ok to dream, but many make their minis undriveable because of their modifications. Most faults on our minis are the rubber parts that disintegrate. There are many limitations to the mini such as ride quality, tire patches and space. 

 

Good luck with your mini, ask questions, above all get Remy on the road and have fun.

 

 

 

Happy New Year Miniacs, All the very best for 2025!

I'm Yellla, This is my post on the forum, so I am popping my cherry, so please be gentle, also please excuse my lack of knowledge or stupidity.

I wanted a classic mini as long as I can remember. I finally got one at the age of 47 in 2000. I have been working on it, on and off, start/stop since I got it, I called it Remy, after my late great hero Remy Juilenne.

In 2025 if I do one thing, I would love to get Remy on the road. My fear is it becomes an "unfinished project for sale" on an auction site. since the new(ish) Ebay advert. I have noticed Er in Doors aka the good lady wife giving it sideways glances.

I would really appreciate it if you all could help me achieve this goal please!

 

Remy is a Japanese import 1994 Rover mini Cooper SPI automatic. I have looked at other forums and seen a lot of posts when people ask about tuning automatics, people saying convert it to a manual. I am restricted to automatic /semi automatics, so this is not an option.

 

So I am hoping that people on the forum will be kind enough to help me achieve my goals!

So here goes, has anyone tuned an automatic classic mini or have the skills, knowledge and kindness to help?

I figure an engine is an engine so all the tuning knowledge on books and websites for tuning manuals is applicable to automatics?

 

So I think it is AP2 automatic gearbox restrictions or limitations I'm interested in learning about and understand.

Can you convert an automatic to a carb the same way as you can with a manual? Without any impact on the gearbox?

I have read that the Rover MEMS ECU rescricts the benefits of installing tuning parts.

Can anyone advise of a 3rd party ECU that can be used with an automatic and links or pdfs with details?

I spoke to David Brown Automotive, that were cool and they said that they use a Motech ECU in their automatic models, but we're not permitted to disclose any further information  regarding the setup, map or any details of any details of hardware updates to the AP2 box.

Any and all advice greatly appreciated. If you like classic minis but don't have one and you want to be a God parent to Remy. I"m happy to send photos or provide photos of the progress of Remy

I hope that ramble makes sense.

 

All the best

Yellla