New Mini Owner - 2 questions re: upgrades

[freerangequark]

Hi,

I just bought my first MINI; it is a 2006 "S" model.

I have two questions regarding parts I am looking to upgrade.

1. I have read about preventing mushrooming on the shock towers. Does this apply to the 2006 model? Is the reinforcement plate kit that I've read about an OEM part or aftermarket? Who makes it?

2. I have also ready about a metal power steering fan cover rather than the plastic one. Does this apply to the 2006 model? Is this OEM or after market? Who makes it?

Thank you,
Glenn

[bad venge]

both can happen to the 06 ...
there are several makers of both parts ,
for the strut tower defenders there are two types top mount and bottom mount the tops bolt ontop of the tower while the undermount requies front suspension disassembly and an alignment ....
http://www.outmotoring.com/mini-coop...defenders.html top mount

http://www.outmotoring.com/mini-coop...nderators.html
under mount
some folks double up and do both


http://www.outmotoring.com/mini-coop...protector.html

[dabears]

Congrats! i have a mini 2006 S as well. Have fun with it.

[freerangequark]

Thanks for the replies.

I found the fan shield... http://new.minimania.com/web/Item/NMA3042/InvDetail.cfm

It says this is for the 2002-2004 models.

Does a similar part exist for a 2006 MINI or did they correct the problem by then.

Thanks again!

[bad venge]

if you read the link I posted the 06's have plastic protectors installed ...

[freerangequark]

Got it! Thanks