Hampton Roads Club Mini

Kick down is a feature built into all automatic transmissions.  It can either be controlled through vacuum modulation (old school Turbo 350 and Turbo 400 GM transmissions), or it can be controlled through the TV/pressure cable (which may no longer exist and may be regulated by the computer in a fashion similar to the drive-by-wire throttlebody).  If the transmission detects a major throttle increase, and the lower gears won't over-rev the engine, it will gear-down for a faster acceleration.

All door and side panels are off, along with the dash.  Some of it I have hauled to the storage unit.  Erika brought her wet vac to get the water out (the plastic seal tape has slowly given in).  We're gonna see about getting another layer wrapped around the old '02 MCS in the next few days.  I picked up some wheel dollies to move the Mini around, as well as a low-level lightweight aluminum floor jack.

Only thing left is the seats and some of the dash.  After that, I need to work on getting the suspension off.  I'm going to keep the Hotchkis rear control arms, Alta front/rear end links, and the Alta solid casters.  However, I will be parting with the Dinan/Koni Stage 3 suspension kit (provided none of it is damaged from the accident).  This has adjustable struts, fixed camber plates in front with a 1.5 degree return, and the upgraded rear sway bar.  I'm going to take a different route whenever I get around to upgrading the suspension on my '06 MCS.  This kit is currently at $1,583.  I had about 81.7K miles on my '02 MCS when it was installed, so the suspension has about 33.5K miles on it.  I will sell it for $800.

Many thanks to Erika for helping me out.  And not forgetting Dale for storage.   

I have not participated in MTTS yet.  Will have to keep my eye on the route/dates.

Gonna remove primarily interior parts.  Next will be the suspension.  We're also slowly removing the engine/transmission.  This will most likely be last.

Tomorrow's forecast is for sunny weather with a temperature of 52 degrees.  I'm going to bring a full-size low-level jack and see about getting some dollies for moving the Mini around.

OK, I have a chance to get a lodge at Fontana.  It would really help to get a roomie to bunk with and split the cost.  Anyone interested?  Thanks.

I thought 16-10 was our backup channel awhile back.

Oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo.... I like it!   

I think I said before in person, but Happy Birthday Erika.   

Well, geez, you got me.  If I look like it, and I smell like it...   

Evening, gang.  Anyone want to help disassemble my old '02 MCS?  It's still at Dale's Maaco in Hampton.  The process is already ongoing; it's just been kinda slow.  I'm shooting for this Saturday again.  The forecast is calling for sunny weather with a temperature of 53 degrees.  We can see about going out for lunch afterward.  Thanks.

I'm up for this one again.  Always fun to do this event.   

Thanks.  Lots to do today.  Window tint, mirror caps, and new tires.   

I see the run is dedicated to a member who passed away.  Very cool.   

Unfortunately, this is the weekend of our next Open House at the train club.  Will have to pass this one up.   

That's cool!  Another MINI in the family.   

And did not waste any time with a name.  Penelope sounds cute.