klwells

As stated above, the install should be completely based on how comfortable you are with mechanical things. Its not the easiest thing to do, and it does require a special puller for the pulley and the tensioner tool. With the proper tools, start to finish, taking my time of corse, it was about 4 hours. That included repairing and modifying the belt tensioner. That brings up another thing to consider. You may need some additional parts, and it is strongly recommended to replace the tensioner or at least install a tensioner stop. Many times the tensioner damper is in need of replacement as well. I went with a 17% pulley. Its been on for about 2 years. It went on the car when it had about 130K miles and now it has over 150k miles. So far no problems that are related to the pulley install.

$150 to hot tank a cylinder head and 4 cyl block is pricey. Probably could have them both tanked and block honed for that price on our side of the river.

Any more information on the punkin chunkin? Is the mini portion of the event still on or has it been canceled due to Sandy? We are still planning on going on Sunday either way.

It is on our calendar!

I'm getting no where fast with the Bazinga plates. My better half keeps calling Sheldon, R53 and Lulu, R56. He is refusing to recognize their given names.

So, since we purchased Sheldon there has been a bit of progress in getting him ready for inspection and racing. He had not been very well maintained prior to joining our little MINI family. So far, my husband has replaced Sheldon's rear brake pads and rotors. All front brake components were replaced with R56 parts. The front lower control arm bushings were also replaced because they were beat. He also has spiffy new wheels and tires. Pictures are attached.

My husband and I are going to come check it out on Saturday. We aren't quite ready to run yet, but want to see how it all works. We missed the schools for this year, but we are totally looking forward to the next available one! Kelli