[matt21]

A friend of mine has a 52 plate Cooper (obviously pre facelift) and having some gearbox issues.

The gearbox is making a very loud noise. This increases with speed does and when under load, to the point where it is unbearable. When it is out of gear it does not make the noise at all.

The changes itself dont seem too bad its just making this horrible noise!

Any idea what it may be? Anyone had anything similar? Is it likely to be repairable? How soon may it pack up?

Questions, questions, questions....

Thanks

[mab01uk]

Sounds like another Midland gearbox on its way out, a fairly common problem on early MINI Ones and Coopers if it is.............best get it checked out soon as some of the boxes get damaged beyond being suitable for exchanging for a reconditioned one (new Midland boxes are no longer available).

[matt21]

thanks

anyone else had any issues?

[johnfromaus]

this is the exact problem i had. ive just finished rebuilding my box. replaced all bearings and seals and the problem is solved. is the sound hardly audible in first gear, but as you move through the gears, it gets worse. only heard when accelerating/decelerating (in gear), but dissapears when you depress the clutch, or for that split second when you let your foot off the accel and start slowing??? yes?
its a worn bearing on the output shaft. i have the little turd sitting on my desk and i swear at it every night before i go to bed and each morning when i get up. i can give you part numbers and help if you want to tackle the job.