PRODUCT NEWS: May 31

12:23
Lohen Track Day - 25th June, 2016
To celebrate 12 years of Lohen they're throwing a track day event at Bedford Autodrome on Saturday 25th June, 2016. If you fancy blasting your car around the track, the all day open pit lane will cost £209. Spectators are £10, however you can also sign on as a Passenger for £10 and enjoy some passenger rides too.


Click here to book your car place
http://www.msvtrackdays.com/car/calendar/2016/june/25-ba-gen.aspx

 

Peter Sharp Photography recently covered the London to Brighton Run, check out their site to see if you they captured your Mini. 
www.photography-uk.com





Scalextric MINI Cooper S - MINI Challenge 2015 
£39.99
Available for pre-order is the latest incarnation of the MINI Challenge race cars. Hastings based driver Neil Newstead began racing in 2011 following some track days he attended in 2010. Moving up from the MSVR track day to the Kumho BMW Championship, Neil soon made it to the Power Maxed MINI Challenge for the 2014 season. Neil had an unbelievable 2015 season and claimed first place overall in the JCW class. This model details 2015 JCW Champion Neil Newstead's eye-catching green and black MINI.
http://www.scalextric.com/uk-en/shop/themes/mini/bmw-mini-cooper-s-mini-challenge-2015.html


 


Scalextric MINI Cooper F56 - MINI Challenge 2015
£39.99
Also available for pre-order is another MINI Challenge model. Coming from the World Touring Car Championship, Harry Vaulkhard joined the MINI Challenge in the F56 class; the pinnacle of MINI racing. Harry was very successful at Silverstone, finishing 6th, 4th and 9th respectively in the three races. Overall, Harry claimed 9th in the standings for the 2015 season.
http://www.scalextric.com/uk-en/shop/themes/mini/bmw-mini-cooper-f56-mini-challenge-2015.html


 

MINI Challenge Set
£79.99
Finally, you can also pre-order (perhaps for Christmas?) this new racing set. Two super resistant MINIs go head-to-head, recreating a battle from the popular MINI Challenge championship. Adrian Norman looks to better his teammate Simon Walton around the track – who will win?!
Features Include: Lap Counter, 4 Multiple Track layouts, Speed Limiter Hand Controllers
http://www.scalextric.com/uk-en/shop/themes/mini/mini-challenge.html


 

ScanGauge II Mount
$59.99

Across the pond leading MINI specialist CravenSpeed have reduced the price of their popular ScanGauge Mounts giving you easy and professional access to your car's health and diagnostics. You may already know that the ScanGauge II, and Scangauge E are an invaluable tool. It easily hooks up to the ODBII port inside the car and provides you with tons of valuable information about the health of your MINI. Although it hooks up easily, the only option they give you to mount it is some sticky Velcro. CravenSpeed's mounting option provdes you with everything you need to affix your Scangauge into the all aluminum FlexPod.
The ScanGauge itself clears codes, and gives you a readout of almost any info you could want about the state of your MINI

http://www.cravenspeed.com/mini-scangauge-ii-mount/

 


MINI SmartPhone Fixie XXL
$49.00

If you're after something a little different when trying to find a good phone mount then take a look at the SmartPhone Fixie. Its ball and socket joint allows you to adjust the viewing angle to avoid glare, you can also rotate the device from landscape to portrait and it attaches directly to the back of your MINI tachometer. 

http://www.cravenspeed.com/mini-smartphone-fixie-xxl/

 


Lohen induction kit offer
15% off select AEM, Alta, CravenSpeed, Pipercross Intakes
Our partners at Lohen have got some more amazing deals going on in June, including 15% off selected Cold Air Intake products from leading brands such as Alta, AEM, CravenSpeed and Pipercross.

http://www.lohen.co.uk/search-results/?q=Induction+Kit+Special+Offer


 



Air Con Re-gas 
£39
Lohen aren't just parts suppliers, they do routine workshop maintenance on MINIs too, so when they offer to re-gas your MINI's air-con for just £39, you realise that's a bargain no matter where you look. http://www.lohen.co.uk/shop/gen-2-mini/servicing-repair/fitted-servicing-gen-2/general-service-fitted-gen-2/air-conditioning-service-detail

 


1/2 Price Drivetrain Fitting
Save 50% on drivetrain fitting throughout June with Lohen. If you're looking to make a powertrain change this summer, now is the time to get it booked in at Lohen and save yourself a packet - upto £250... enough for some more goodies!
www.lohen.co.uk/search-results/?q=June+Half+Price+Drivetrain+Fitting
 




Lohen Supercharger Belt Tensioner Damper
£69.00

A replacement supercharger damper tensioner for the MINI Cooper S, JCW and GP supercharged generation 1 R52 and R53.
The tensioner damper is responsible for maintaining supercharger belt tension. This is an essential component as it not only drives the supercharger but also the water pump, so even short periods of engine running after belt failure can lead to serious engine damage through over heating. When the damper fails, belt tension is lost, the belt comes off and the tensioner arm can drop down into the crank pulley causing further damage. Traditionally failure of the damper has meant complete replacement of the tensioner assembly at a cost of close to £200. This damper replaces the failed item only saving over a £125 on the traditional fix. The damper is the same item as supplied on the MINI assembly.
www.lohen.co.uk/shop/gen-1-mini/engine-ecu/engine-bay-parts/lohen-supercharger-belt-tensioner-damper-detail

 




Mintex M1144 Brake Pad GP2 MINI R56
£154.00

Add real bite to the performance of the MINI R56 GP2 front brakes with the Mintex M1144 pad.
The Mintex M1144 pad material is ideally suited to fast road and track day use. Cold bite is good and as the brake system heats up the pad material remains stable and reduces fade and adds a power to the GP2 brakes. Costs over £100 less than equivalent OEM brake pads.
http://www.lohen.co.uk/shop/gen-2-mini/brakes/brake-pads-discs/mintex-m1144-brake-pad-mini-r56-gp2-detail


Lohen Foot Plate
£120.00

The Lohen foot plate adds the perfect finishing touch to a track going MINI. These plates are made from high quality laser cut aluminium and require minimal installation work.
The clever design makes the foot plate suitable for Generation 1 R50/R52/R53 and Generation 2 R56 MINI's. The Lohen foot plate provides a flat floor and foot rest for those stripped out MINI's. The foot plate is made from 3 mm aluminium making it sturdy yet light weight. As an optional extra the foot plate can be supplied with grip tape to aid safe entry to the car.
http://www.lohen.co.uk/shop/gen-1-mini/new-releases/lohen-foot-plate-detail

EVENT REPORT: Pendle Powerfest

20:00

East Lancashire's biggest gathering of machinery at the Pendle Powerfest this year was Mini themed - celebrating the Italian Job with a selection of replica vehicles from the film. At the centre of the display (after the three Mini Cooper Ss of course) was the getaway bus - lovingly transformed into a party bus from www.millenniumlimos.co.uk, surrounded by more iconic vehicles including a Lamborghini Muira, E-type Jags, the Ford Thames fan van and a Land Rover.

Reminder: MINI Challenge on Channel 4 Saturday (28th) morning

19:00
TV
Here's a quick reminder that the love:mini sponsored racing series - MINI Challenge - will be on TV tomorrow morning on Channel 4. 

It's an early time of 7.05am, so it's probably best you set your digibox to record it tonight. This first programme will take in the exciting racing action from Brands Hatch.

http://www.channel4.com/programmes/motor-sport

RACE REPORT: HRCR Mini Cup - Minis enjoy the rain on Epynt

08:00

Sunday the 1st May saw the South Wales Automobile Club Ltd, P.A.R.C Garage Dixies Historic Challenge take place on the Military Ranges in the Brecon Beacons just outside Sennybridge. 

Issue 4: Mini Se7en Racing Club Newsletter out now!

08:00
Issue 4 of the Mini Se7en Racing Club Newsletter is out now. This issue previews the rescheduled Castle Combe event from March that was rained off. 

As well as the latest race reports from Cadwell Park there is an interesting look back at a special race at Castle Combe some 35 years ago.... read all about it inside. 

WEEKEND PREVIEW: 28-29 May

09:59

www.pendlepowerfest.com

This weekend is a little more subdued than the last couple of weeks now that the IMM and London to Brighton Run have passed. You can now look at some of the less established events and go and show your support.

 
 

www.pendlepowerfest.com
MAY 29
Pendle Powerfest

First up is the love:mini sponsored Pendle Powerfest. We've been pushing this show all year and finally it is here. It is a gathering of all types of machinery in one place to look at the diversity of interests - however this year there is a one-off Italian Job theme with a load of Minis, the Italian Job film coach and a whole heap of other Italian Job related displays. It really is going to be worth visiting - and it's a one-off event for Mini enthusiasts.

Italian Job themed event gathering all kinds of powerful machinery from all kinds of backgrounds. Expect the unexpected in beautiful Lancashire surroundings. £3 entry.
www.pendlepowerfest.com




MAY 29
Durham Mini and Classic Car Show

North East Restoration Club, 1 Wilden Terrace, Pattinson Ind. Est., Washington, NE38 8QB
Join Durham Mini Club for their show which will include a raffle, auction, trade stands, autoJumble, face painting, club games. Camping available. All money raised to a local charity. £2.
https://www.facebook.com/durhamminishow/
www.durhamminiclub.com
 


MAY 28-30
Minis on the Prom

MOTP is in its 11th year and this year, once again, the main event on Sunday 29th will be held in Aberaeron Harbourside.
The Run and Show is growing every year and this year is set to be bigger than ever. You can choose to make this an all weekend event as many do. Travel up in convoy from Cardiff Gate B and Q at 9:30am. Or just join us on the Sunday, on Aberaeron's fantastic Harbourside for the main events including show and shine, charity raffle, club events, and much more.
minisontheprom@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/events/1671333089782886/


 



MAY 29-30
Mini Se7en/Miglia Racing
Round 1 at Castle Combe was the first cancellation and washout in 50 years of Mini 7 Racing, but the rounds have been rescheduled for this weekend and the drivers will be chomping at the bit to get some extra points on the table. It's a popular circuit amongst the pilots too so expect to see close racing action.
http://www.mini7.co.uk/
 

MAY 29
Scottish MINI Cooper Cup

love:mini driver Hannah Chapman will be back out on the track this weekend up at Knockhill in Scotland where she continues in her quest to win the Scottish MINI Cooper Cup.

www.scottishmotorracingclub.co.uk

 

 
MAY 28-29
Masters Series

The Master Series takes its historic racing to Brands Hatch this weekend where you will be able to see some of the most highly polished Minis taking to the track against other historic machinery of the era.
www.themastersseries.com

MAY 29-30
Motorsport at the Palace

Historic motorsport returns to Crystal Palace if you like a bit of that.
www.motorsportatthepalace.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS: 24 May

09:42
CLASSIC MINI PRODUCT UPDATE: 


Mini Spares Pedal Return Spring
for late model R/H/D classic Minis
All classic car owners will know of problems caused by original parts no longer being available, but fortunately for classic Mini owners, Mini Spares has a policy of trying to reproduce parts or sourcing new stock whenever a part becomes difficult to obtain. The brake return spring, as fitted to later Minis, is a case in point.

Mini Spares has just released a new brake pedal spring which is suitable for RHD Minis made from 1989, the year from which the servo was fitted as standard.
Order as: NAM8544 Retail price £8.39 inc vat

For more details contact Mini Spares on+44 1707 607700 or visit their website: www.minispares.com



Mini Spares Inboard CV Joint
Failing CV joints are a common cause of MoT failure.

Mini Spares has just released a new in-board CV joint that extends from the differential (later model classic Minis have CVs on both ends of the axle.) and is an ideal and more affordable alternative to the genuine, original Mini CV joints.

As with all Mini Spares alternative parts the specification is always as good or better than the original part.

Mini Spares recommends using GSV1073 gaiter kit whenever a replacement CV joint is required. Order as GCV1102MS at £28.20 inc vat 

For more details contact Mini Spares on
+44 1707 607700 or visit their website: www.minispares.com


Mini Spares Original Shape Stainless Steel Bumper with Plastic Safety End Guards
Anyone who owns a classic Mini with original stainless steel bumpers will probably know that the edges of the front bumpers are sharp and you need to watch your hands when washing the car. This was the reason that Rover production had to crimp the ends in to make the cars legally homologated on the MPI range.

The Mini Spares manufactured Stainless Steel Bumper has the original shape open ends but comes with a small protective black 1/4" beading added as a safety precaution. It can be removed for authenticity - but at your own risk!

The bumper itself has been made from Mini Spares' own tooling to their exacting quality and fitting standards and is made from automotive grade stainless steel material.

Automotive grade stainless steel can be formed easier than the original versions which were made from pure hard stainless steel and gave rise to problems in manufacture which caused their final demise. The Mini Spares Stainless Steel Bumpers are polished to a chrome like finish and can be washed and cleaned regular without risking injury from the sharp edges.

Mini Spares Stainless Steel Bumper: Order as DPB10165 - £51.30 inc vat (65,54 €)

For more details contact Mini Spares on
+44 1707 607700 or visit their website: www.minispares.com


Mini Spares Millers Racing Brake Fluid 300 Plus
Mini Spares is now stocking and recommending the use of Millers Racing Brake Fluid 300+ in classic ­racing and high performance braking systems where a non-mineral fluid is required and high braking temperatures are experienced.

300+ is a DOT 4 + formulation with an extra high dry boiling point - above 310°C in comparison to the 230C required for standard DOT 4 fluids.

It exceeds the requirements of SAE J1703, SAE J1704 and FMVSS 116 DOT 4 for use in competition braking systems. It is also perfect for use with all AP Lockheed genuine braking products (some other racing brake fluids are not!)

It is robust against water absorption, has improved resistance to vapour lock and is mutually compatible with all fluids meeting the same specifications.

Order as part number MILLER008 in 500ml container at £14.26 inc vat (15,20 €)

For more details contact Mini Spares on
+44 1707 607700 or visit their website: www.minispares.com




GAZ Universal Double Adjustable Coilover Dampers
Customers have been asking GAZ Shocks for even more control in the set up of its dampers and GAZ has duly responded with its new double adjustable dampers.
The racing fraternity has already taken these new dampers to its heart and they will be a mandatory fitment in the Mighty Mini race series this year.

GAZ fully adjustable dampers enable the damping bump and rebound rates to be separately adjusted to suit the individual track conditions and personal driving style. The rates can be altered by means of two dedicated knobs on the side of the units; both are easily accessible and clearly marked and colour coded for BUMP and REBOUND.

The dampers are available as dampers alone, or as coilover height adjustable units with springs.

All units are individually tested before leaving the factory and are covered by a 2 year manufacturing warranty.

The dampers can be made to order to the required length and with the appropriate top and bottom fixing points for particular applications. Appropriate springs can be supplied to suit the intended use.

Price according to specification.
For further details visit the GAZ website: www.gazshocks.com




Mini Spares Servo
for Cooper S Mk1 & Mk2
AP 5.5 Type
New Lockheed Mk1/Mk2 servos, which closely resemble the original Cooper S item, have not been available for decades; but now Mini Spares is offering its own faithful reproduction to allow Cooper S owners to have efficient braking with as-original style.

The servo uses the correct cast body and so is dimensionally the same as the 5.5 Lockheed type, although different to the alloy body used over the last decade.

Order as part number 21A1293 Retail price £216.00.

Mini Spares can also supply the following parts:-
Non return valve for above - 17H2646ORIGINAL.
Original shape MK1/2 servo brackets are available as 21A1294.
Original MK3 servo is available in a kit as SEN43

For more details contact Mini Spares on
+44 1707 607700 or visit their website: www.minispares.com






Mini Spares Ultralight EN24 Steel Race Flywheels
Mini Spares is now offering new competition lightweight flywheels in EN24 alloy for race motors.

The flywheels weigh in at just 3.6kg and are available as inertia starter
and pre-engaged starter versions.

EN24 has better wear and shock resistance than EN8 which can fret on the crankshaft of highly tuned race engines.

The EN8 alloy which is widely used on flywheels is only a medium strength carbon steel but is easier to machine and is suitable for most applications. EN24 is more stable as it is a high strength alloy steel (nickel, chromium and molybdenum) and provides the extra strength margin for extreme use situations.

These ultra-light Mini flywheels incorporate the latest refinement by being made symmetrically they reduce the harmonic vibrations that were common on earlier versions (those with just three large lightening slots)- but the new version still weighs in at only about 8lbs in weight

Order as:
C-AEG515 inertia starter version flywheel
C-AEG616 pre-engaged starter version flywheel
Both retail at £198.11 inc VAT.
For more details contact Mini Spares on
+44 1707 607700 or visit their website: www.minispares.com





Mini Spares Baulk Ring To original Rover spec - Pre 2000
Mini Spares has just released a new baulk ring.
These special baulk rings are CNC grooved and precision machined for concentricity. They use the original type fixings to ensure that the correct areas receive heat treatment. They are similar to the pre 2000 Genuine Rover product in performance and reliability and are better and cheaper than the later Rover product which proved to be unreliable in service.

This type of baulk (synchro) ring has essentially been the same since 1962 with the only change being a move from steel to sintered. The rings slow down the gears to ensure that they mesh without crashing and have a friction surface that is the first thing to engage with the next gear when shifting. The height that the ring sits proud of the cone surface indicates the degree of wear; however, the common sense approach is to replace them at the first sign of wear. The rings are sold individually. Order as 22G2033EVO. Retail price £13.98 (17,78 €) inc vat each. Four are required per car.

NB: These are the Mini Spares version of the genuine Rover sintered type but for a metal upgrade based on the original type used on 1960's Coopers, Mini Spares can supply part number C-22A1741.

For more details contact Mini Spares on
+44 1707 607700 or visit their website: www.minispares.com

Working in partnership with...

08:00
Here at love:mini we strive to offer you the best recommendations and suggestions for improvements to your beloved Minis, and this year is no different. Which is why we have teamed up with a handful of Mini specialists who are the prime movers and shakers in the scene.

Throughout the year we will be showing you what these top class vendors have to offer and why you should visit them first before other less reputable outlets.

"Watch out for product discounts and special offers"

Many of the partners you will already know the name of, but do you know the full range of services they offer alongside the expert knowledge and helpful advice? Didn't think so, and so this is where you will find out more.

Working with us this year is:


Mini Spares
You must know these people. The first and most popular place in the world for all types of classic Mini parts. These chaps simply can't be beaten on quality, price and customer service. Their knowledge of the classic is unsurpassed and they have their fingers in every corner of the classic Mini scene. Simply put, Mini Spares is the place to go for your classic Mini parts - and with three outlets around the UK you can even pop in for a cuppa and chat.

http://www.lohen.co.uk/

http://www.lohen.co.uk/ Lohen
MINI Specialists Lohen are well-known within the MINI scene, but they're not just all about performance parts - although they do stock high quality bits to add serious bhp - they are so much more offing a full and comprehensive package to MINI owners. From standard servicing and engine tuning, all the way through to Engine builds, Race Prep and Performance Packages for all generations of MINI. If it's got anything to do with MINI, these people know about it! And with their central location in Staffordshire, it's easy to get to no matter where you are in the country.
http://www.minispeed.co.uk/

http://www.minispeed.co.uk/
Minispeed
The chaps down at Minispeed have their roots based in the classic Mini, but have expanded their knowledge and fascination for eeking out the last bit of power from an engine to the New MINI too. So whether you're a classic or new Mini owner, Minispeed will be able to help you. Services range from parts supply to engine rebuilds and advice. 


http://www.mybeautifulmini.com/

http://www.mybeautifulmini.com/
MyBeautifulMini
One of the key characteristics of the Mini that made it so popular was the ability to customise it and personalise it, making it unique and your own special car - different to all the others, and the MINI is no different. MyBeautifulMini offers one of the largest selections of aftermarket goodies for serious MINI customisation. From wing mirror caps, to side scuttle badges, decals and a whole host of gadgets and gizmos there's something for everyone... so get customising!


http://www.footmanjames.co.uk/?utm_source=lovemini&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=lovemini

http://www.footmanjames.co.uk/?utm_source=lovemini&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=loveminiFootman James
When it comes to car insurance there is a plethora of choice, but the cheapest insurer might not give you the cover you need - especially if your Mini is modified in any way. Fortunately Footman James is a specialist classic vehicle insurer, and they understand Mini owners and the way we love personalise and modify our Minis, and still give you the cover you really need for a great price. 




You can see more about our affiliates and the companies we work with HERE

MINI CHALLENGE REPORT: Brands Hatch

19:30
MINI Challenge 2016 Brands Hatch GP Circuit
7th-8th May 2016

Words & photos David Young

After the snow at Donington Park last weekend, with very cold tyres, the MINI Challenge JCW class moved onto the Sun Drenched Brands Hatch GP circuit with very warm tyres. Being the support races for the Blancpain GT series sprint cup the Coopers and “S” were not running.  Lots of very expensive cars ranging from Ferraris, Bentleys, Audi A8, BMWs, Lamborghini’s etc.  The JCWs were in fine company.  

Wheel treat in store for 2016 festival

08:00
With just a few weeks to go until the UK’s biggest wheels-themed family festival, organisers have announced a host of brand new attractions for 2016, including a daredevil motorcycle stunt team, international championship racing on the beach and an Italian Job-style car chase with a British seaside twist!

Lohen blog: How to improve your MINI's handling characteristics

20:00

 Blog: How to improve your MINI's handling characteristics


Our friends over at Lohen, the UK's leading MINI specialist, have written up a great piece about the MINI's suspension and handling, and how you can get the most out of your car.

Find out how just some simple modifications can transform the feel of your ride, and what is most desirable and best suited to your circumstances.

From simple adjustments such as swapping a set of tyres to the full handling and suspension conversion and setup...   this article covers it all.
 .

WEEKEND PREVIEW: May 21-22

10:00
The events are rolling in thick and fast during May. With the IMM finished in Belgium, a lot of the same people will be heading to London this weekend for the world famous London to Brighton Run.
 

London to Brighton
21-22 May

Crystal Palace, London
One of the biggest events of the year sees thousands of Minis descend upon the Capital to camp over at Crystal Palace before a sleepless night and early start at ridiculous-o'clock to get stuck in a traffic jam heading into Brighton! Why do we do it? For the love. But once parked up there is no better sight than a stream of Minis lined up along Madiera Drive with the sun bouncing off the shining paintwork and the noise of the sea lapping at the beach while strange Mini folk tell tales and show off their soapboxes.
http://www.london-to-brighton.co.uk/
 


Super Cooper Cup Rd 5&6
21 May

Croft Circuit
West Lane, DL22PL Darlington, Co Durham

The love:mini sponsored Super Cooper Cup returns with another double header of action from Croft. Petrolheads looking for a fix should head on up to the circuit and check out what it's all about and how cheap it is to get involved.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1787421048145554/


East Coast Mini Run
22 May 

Skegness
A Sunday run out to the East Coast, we'll head out on the country roads to Skegness, and visit The Village, Church Farm. There's a WW1 exhibit, as well as a traction engine and a chance to have a go at archery. Afterwards, we'll head to the seafront (weather permitting!) before making our way to The Red Lion in Revesby for a delicious tea at around 6pm.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1065937843473598/
 


Glossop Car Show
21 May

Glossop Road, High Peak, SK22 2, United Kingdom
http://www.glossopcarshow.moonfruit.com/


 




The Really Retro & Classic Car Show 2016
22 May 

Seighford Driving Centre
ST18 9QL Stafford, England

Following an epic and enjoyable show we are pleased to announce The Really Retro & Classic Car Show 2016 will take place on SUNDAY 22nd MAY! We welcome back Cars from the 40's through to the 90s! with competitions including 'show'n'shine' , 'most retro vehicle' and 'best car club stand'. There will be a large trade and craft area for those wanting to splash their cash! Please get in touch if you would like a club stand at the event.
https://www.facebook.com/events/925291107552612/


 

NEXT WEEKEND

PENDLE POWERFEST
MAY 29
Pendle & Colne College, Lancashire
Join us for an Italian Job themed event with a selection of special Minis and hand-picked vehicles to represent the iconic Mini film. This is a one-off show so it won't be Mini-themed next year... so make sure you come and visit this very special event.
http://www.pendlepowerfest.com/
 
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