Posted 17 May 2007 - 09:07 PM
Are you seated comfortabley?
Then i shall begin.
Firstly the stuff about minisport is untrue. Minisport (or MST from now on) are a very reputable company and yes they may be expensive but the generally have the parts and are generally helpful.
Right on to the important stuff.
What is your budget?
Judging by the fact you are after just the stage one i will assume that you have 350 to spend. But i will go in to the more expensive stuff.
Ok so first off i would suggest the following - Remember this is my opinion and experience not fact.
Air filter - You can replace the element and modify the box, but You'll see a bigger imporvement from using the KN57i or pipercross equivilent. Instantly noticable is the induction noise but there is a performance advantage too, although minor.
Exhaust - you say you have already sourced a stainless back box and the only other bit is to upgrade the manifold, use a maniflow as these are the best.
Head - A good quality head is important on the MPI, as with all minis, this is one on the restricting factors in the a series. Any good engine builder shoudl be able to supply this. Go for a "stage 3 or 4" as this will give good performance whilst remaining everyday useable. Personal reccommends would be MST, Bill Richards, MED, MSPD
Cam - MPI's must have the correct cam shaft in them so use an injection specific cam, such as SW5i from swifttune. Engine out job.
Rockers - !.5 rollers if you feel the need to use them.
Gubbins - Additional bits you may need are power boost valve, which regulates fuel pressure.
Internals - If you wish to upgrade these consider an over bore, the standard ecu can function fine up to 1330cc.
Gearbox - These were well know for being constructed of cake. If nesscessary replace if not just change the diff to unlock the real performance of the MPI. I personally think 3.44 is best but a 3.1 or 3.7 are good too.
BRakes - As with any modifcations to any car if you want more power you should also consider how to stop so upgrade these. I have found drilled and grooved discs to be good and mintex pads but i am presently trying black stuff with good results.
Hope this helps you.
