24 replies to this topic

[Ethel]

I can see a "debate" kicking off,

I wouldn't use engine flush routinely either; it won't get at any gunge in the oil galleries, which would be far more critical than anything washed off the inside of the block. Worse, thanks to the Mini's "combined transmission" it could displace oil from the gearbox's hard to reach places, like the layshaft bearings.

Another advantage of doing your own servicing is that you won't need to replace as many parts as often. Plugs, points etc only get changed because the can't be relied on to last until the next service. Since you can sort them in minutes, if needs be at the side of the road, why throw away perfectly function components?

Skipper's world,

Check out Youtube as well, I'd recommend University Motors channel, it may be aimed at MG owners but a lot of it applies just as well to the A Series in your Mini.

[skippersworld]

Just read through all that has been said!!
As you all say, i will be reading through the haynes manual before doing anything, grab myself some tools and go from there!!
Thanks a lot guys, much appreciated!!!

[skippersworld]

Also, would halfords do all the bits i will need for this? or am i better off getting things online?
Thanks.

[brad-the-bear]

yeah halfrauds do the bits. do you have a traders card?

[skippersworld]

Nope no traders card, whats this for?

[brad-the-bear]

oh and WATCH IT ALL don't just dismiss it (lol i know its a bit cheesy)

[minidaves]

engine flush your choice

[jakejakejake1]

Unipart are cheaper than halfords for some parts (if you don't have a trade card) also you could order the parts from a mini supplier online. All the jobs are easily done at home, and the money you save could get you a nice set of spanners etc, which in turn will allow you to save more money in the future by doing more jobs yourself.

[jimnali]

You should also check and consider replacing the air filter and plug leads.
Good luck!

[Cooperman]

If you want to use an engine flush and you have an oil cooler, you MUST take the cooler right off after flushing as the cooler will retain its old oil if not removed and turned upside down to drain. You don't want residual flushing oil in the engine for normal running.