I just want to ask a quick question on what you guys think about reliability, longevity etc. on modding my Cooper S.

I have a 2003 (R53) Cooper S JCW. I want to add the following parts to the car.

Larger throttle bodies (old = 57mm, new = 63mm)
Larger intercooler
New exhaust header
Smaller supercharger pulley 17%
Lightweight crank pulley
performance air filter
Shrick camshaft
reprogramming of ecu
new wiring for the spark plugs (not sure what thats called lol)

All these parts are replacing what ever was stock on the car before the JCW tuning kit was installed. Do you think it is a good idea and how will it affect my cars reliability and lifespan of the motor? The parts come from a good source so they will not be rubbish.

Thanks in advance.

 

Hello Mike,
If you have not yet done so, you should sign up at North American Motoring.

MINI COOPER :: North American Motoring

You will find answers to all of your questions there. Just use the "search" function.

Here's my take on your list:

Throttle Body: Don't bother with a larger one. Many cars are getting over 250 WHP on the stock one.

Larger Intercooler: Maybe later. Go for a GRS brand or the I/C from the MINI Cooper GP. (Look on ebay)

Air Filter: Do you already have the JCW Air Cleaner? If so,keep it and get a ITG foam filter for it.

Schrik Cam: Don't bother. Better cams are out there.

Spark Plug Wires (and coil): Don't bother unless yours are falling apart. Again, plenty of high HP cars are using the stock items.

As for the other items, search the forums at NAM.

Hope this helps!

Jim