R56 N18 Cryo Race Timing Chain Kit — MINI Cooper S 2011–2013 / JCW 2013–2015
Cryogenically Hardened Race-Spec Timing System — Strength and Durability for Elevated Performance
The SneedSpeed R56 N18 Cryo Race Timing Chain Kit is engineered for the turbocharged Prince-series N18 engines in MINI Cooper S (2011–2013) and JCW (2013–2015) models. Every major timing component in this kit undergoes cryogenic hardening, a metallurgical process that increases internal strength and wear resistance — delivering a timing system capable of withstanding higher RPM, elevated loads, and the demands of tuned driving better than stock timing sets.
This kit is race-tested and is standard equipment in SneedSpeed Super Sport and Race engine builds.
Performance-Focused Engineering
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Cryogenic Hardened Timing Chain
Extreme cold treatment refines the chain’s internal structure for improved resistance to stretch, wear, and fatigue compared with untreated stock chains — supporting more consistent cam timing at high load and extended duty cycles. -
Heavy-Duty Guides
Performance-grade plastic guides engineered to maintain chain alignment and resist wear even under aggressive operation. -
Robust Tensioner
A stronger tensioner ensures proper chain tension under elevated RPM and thermal cycles, maintaining accurate valvetrain timing and reducing slack-related noise and wear. -
Complete Kit Contents
Includes cryo-treated timing chain, upgraded tensioner, and reinforced guides — ready for install during timing service or engine rebuild.
Engine Rebuild and Performance Use
This timing chain kit is ideal whenever you’re performing a timing service on an N18 engine, especially if the engine has high mileage, if you’re tuning for higher boost or advanced timing, or if you’re preparing the powertrain for sustained spirited or track driving. The cryogenic treatment reduces the susceptibility to chain stretch that can compromise timing accuracy and lead to inconsistent performance.
Why Timing Chain Upgrades Matter
The Prince-series engines (including N18) are known for timing chain stretch and tensioner wear, both of which can lead to timing rattle, uneven performance, and increased risk of valvetrain issues if left unaddressed. Replacing these components with cryo-treated, performance-engineered parts significantly increases durability and long-term reliability over stock kits — especially in tuned or high-RPM applications.
SneedSpeed Performance Insight
Timing integrity is the foundation of engine reliability and power consistency. When a timing chain begins to stretch or guides and tensioners wear, cam timing can drift, which impacts combustion efficiency and can lead to misfires, power loss, and noise. The R56 N18 Cryo Race Timing Chain Kit brings race-proven metallurgy and component strength to your N18 engine, ensuring that your timing system holds up under real-world performance demands.
