Non Turbo Timing Chain Replacement

[Gemini.Hawk]

I have read the forum, I have searched, I have read the turbo timing chain install instructions.

I am pretty sure its time to replace the timing chain in my Mini Cooper Hardtop, which I believe is an N12 engine. It has over 170k and it hasn't been done before to my knowledge.

Is the tools for the non turbo different from the tools for the turbo? The guide notes that the procedures may be different for the non turbo, but I can't find a non turbo write up.

Are the part numbers for the parts different? Are the tools different? Is the procedure different?

Why can't I find anything specific for the non turbo engine?

Any help would be appreciated.

[Luccia at Pelican Parts]

What year is your N12? Please give us a call 1.888.280.7799 and talk to one of our MINI specialists. They will be able to get you all the correct parts and tools required for the job. Also, you can leave a comment at the bottom of our turbo engine DIY article and our tech should get back to you with advice. It should be somewhat similar.

You can also buy the Bentley Manual, which should help as well: https://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/SuperCat/MN02/MIN_MN02_TOLBKS_pg1.htm#item0

[Gemini.Hawk]

Originally Posted by Luccia at Pelican Parts

What year is your N12? Please give us a call 1.888.280.7799 and talk to one of our MINI specialists. They will be able to get you all the correct parts and tools required for the job. Also, you can leave a comment at the bottom of our turbo engine DIY article and our tech should get back to you with advice. It should be somewhat similar.

You can also buy the Bentley Manual, which should help as well: https://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/SuperCat/MN02/MIN_MN02_TOLBKS_pg1.htm#item0

Thanks for the reply.

2009 Mini Cooper Hardtop non-turbo.

[Luccia at Pelican Parts]

Originally Posted by Gemini.Hawk

Thanks for the reply.

2009 Mini Cooper Hardtop non-turbo.

Nick should get back to you about your comment on our article, but in the mean time I highly recommend the Bentley Manual that I posted above. It will be extremely useful to you and your MINI.

[3D914]

I too am having several issues with this timing procedure or the one in the Bently manual - for my '08 R56 N12B16A base mini.

1. I have monitored the flywheel from 180 to 90 deg BTDC and there is no pin hole centered on the viewing hole. Is there a tool to lock the crank at the teeth - exposed at the bottom of the housing?
2. The orientation of the cam lobes, for Cyl #1, when the cam labels are visible on top, are not like those described in the Bently manual for the N12 motor.
3. Is there an alternate method to more precisely locate 90 deg BTDC to check proper cam positioning?

TIA

[Gemini.Hawk]

Originally Posted by 3D914

I too am having several issues with this timing procedure or the one in the Bently manual - for my '08 R56 N12B16A base mini.

1. I have monitored the flywheel from 180 to 90 deg BTDC and there is no pin hole centered on the viewing hole. Is there a tool to lock the crank at the teeth - exposed at the bottom of the housing?
2. The orientation of the cam lobes, for Cyl #1, when the cam labels are visible on top, are not like those described in the Bently manual for the N12 motor.
3. Is there an alternate method to more precisely locate 90 deg BTDC to check proper cam positioning?

TIA

The N12 is not much different. Look at the rear of the cam shafts, where the lock tool sits, 3 sides on each are flat, one side is rounded, the rounded portion on both shafts points down.

You will note that the writing on both cams in the center will be face up. I have photos but they are too large, I will see if I can resize and post later.

If you have a fair amount of mechanical skills it's not difficult, just time consuming. It should be noted that the intake needs to be removed.

[Gemini.Hawk]

Cams

Timing locks installed

If someone at Pelican Parts want to do a write up, feel free to use my photos, I have more if you need.