Hi there! I've had a nightmare of a problem with my beloved Mini this past few months. I replaced the clutch as it started slipping. I have also replaced both front left and right CV axel as they were old (15 ish years). After I've been hearing a very loud grinding noise which got louder and louder as time went on. (about 4 days of minimal driving) i found a leak in the transmission, from the seal around the driver side CV axel. I ordered and installed a new seal and replaced the transmission fluid. I tried to take it on a test drive and my clutch is very soft all of the sudden. After only replacing a seal and the transmission fluid the clutch should not be soft. As I drove the car a block over to ask a friend for advice the car lost power. While in gear the car would not accelerate. The engine would rev but the car just won't budge! After having to tow my mini down the road we jacked the car up and put it in gear. The wheels turn but if you put your foot up to the tire the wheels just stop.

Any ideas on what this could be? I really need to fix this car. The grinding noise seamed to have been gone but honestly I didn't drive the car enough to tell. It was almost like the clutch was slipping. And then it wouldn't move.

Possible thoughts could be the Throw Out Bearing, the slave cylinder, or transmission. Thanks for any help!

 

The grinding noise isn't good the lack of fluid has probably ruined the transmission, the midlands box is weak even with oil in it lol

that being said visually inspect the slave cylinder its mounted on the top of the gearbox on the one/cooper r50 models, you will have to remove the battery box to get a good look check for leaks around the rubber seal and with a helper make sure the slave moves the clutch arm..