Dario's OB ZHP Revival

[Lanister]

Wear Italian. Kiss French. Drive German.

Sent from my GS3.

Yes, that sounds better than my version. This is going to be my slogan for the day :)

[Avetiso]

Sent a letter about 2 weeks ago to the PO's of my ZHP. Got this email today:

"Hi Dario, we received your letter. Yes, we did find a spare replacement key for the BMW. We do not know if it is functional and may need to be programmed at the dealership. Also, we have an additional emergency lock out key that we can send.
Tom is happy to hear someone some is driving the car. Send your address to us via email and you will have to pay shipping."

Woot!

[Lanister]

That's like $250 worth of keys man. What a WIN.

[Avetiso]

That's like $250 worth of keys man. What a WIN.
I hope it works! :)

[Avetiso]

By the way, SES came on again for 2237 and 2240, but also went away by itself later. Let's me know it's a false alarm on the O2 sesnors.

[alexandre]

Sent a letter about 2 weeks ago to the PO's of my ZHP. Got this email today:

"Hi Dario, we received your letter. Yes, we did find a spare replacement key for the BMW. We do not know if it is functional and may need to be programmed at the dealership. Also, we have an additional emergency lock out key that we can send.
Tom is happy to hear someone some is driving the car. Send your address to us via email and you will have to pay shipping."

Woot!

:happyspidey

[Avetiso]

Left bulb is having difficulty firing. Took me 5-6 tries to get it to fire today on the way to school. They iz on the way out. :(

[Lanister]

Bawlz

[derbo]

Left bulb is having difficulty firing. Took me 5-6 tries to get it to fire today on the way to school. They iz on the way out. :(

Ignitor? That was my culprit.

[echo46]

Nice job.

[Avetiso]

Ignitor? That was my culprit.

How would I troubleshoot?

[Hornung418]

swap bulbs.

then swap ballasts.

[Avetiso]

I'll do that over the weekend.

[derbo]

swap bulbs.

then swap ballasts.

Agreed. If it still does it, its the ignitor.

sent from a Moto X

[Avetiso]

Alrighty guys, VANOS time soon. Sick of my car stalling.

I have two rebuilt VANOS pistons (new seals and anti-rattle), new VANOS gasket, and two new washers. I will be buying new plugs, as well. My VCG was replaced at BMW at 63k miles, so I assume I don't need to replace it?

Anyway, is there anything else I need to complete this job (not considering tools)? Any advice or "while you are in there" type suggestions?

[Vas]

When I did mine ( used Dr.Vanos ) it came with the full vanos and the gasket.
Then I bought 6 Spark plugs, valve cover gasket, and valve cover seal washers.

Also used RTV on the edges where the valve cover goes and this document
http://drvanos.com/docs/dual.pdf

[E_Rak]

Exactly what car suggests, anything else is optional

Sent from my oversized iPhone | HTC One

[E_Rak]

Exactly what vas suggests, anything else is optional

Sent from my oversized iPhone | HTC One



Sent from my oversized iPhone | HTC One

[E_Rak]

Double post

Sent from my oversized iPhone | HTC One

[Avetiso]

When I did mine ( used Dr.Vanos ) it came with the full vanos and the gasket.
Then I bought 6 Spark plugs, valve cover gasket, and valve cover seal washers.

Also used RTV on the edges where the valve cover goes and this document
http://drvanos.com/docs/dual.pdf
Cool. Thanks for the info. My VCG should be good, so I guess I just need RTV and plugs and I'm good to go?

Exactly what car suggests, anything else is optional

Sent from my oversized iPhone | HTC One
What is "optional" exactly? Anything I might want to do while I'm there?

[Hornung418]

Oil filter hoising gasket. $6 part at the dealer. And plugs.

Sent from my GS3.

[Avetiso]

Oil filter hoising gasket. $6 part at the dealer. And plugs.

Sent from my GS3.

How much farther is it? In terms of work.

[danewilson77]

How much farther is it? In terms of work.

Might add 2 hours.

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Hornung418]

Remove your air box, fan, power steering reservoir and pull the alternator. Then remove the six bolts holding the housing to the block and swap gaskets.

You're gonna be removing the banjo bolt on the Vanos side, so it just takes a little more effort to replace a 6 dollar part. The shop will charge 5 hours of labor. Newjack and I did ours side by side (plus my VANOS) and got done in time for Sunday Night Football.

Sent from my GS3.

[Avetiso]

Definitely sounds like it's work worth doing. Thanks guys.

[Lanister]

Dario, I'm doing mine tomorrow. Here're the vid and dyi that I'm following:

DYI Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jy0EKjuxlpY&feature=share&list=PLg1mBoZ5qjM74ueEwxAwdBDWI-fsBFa9e&index=1)

DYI Write-up with pictures (http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?1070662-DIY-oil-filter-housing-seal)

[Avetiso]

So I have:

2 rebuilt VANOS pistons
1 VANOS gasket
6 NGK plugs on the way from Amazon (affiliate link!)
OFH gasket (BMWpartstore)
15 valve cover gasket washers (BMWpartstore)

Will buy some RTV locally.

Should be doing the work next week.

[danewilson77]

So I have:

2 rebuilt VANOS pistons
1 VANOS gasket
6 NGK plugs on the way from Amazon (affiliate link!)
OFH gasket (BMWpartstore)
15 valve cover gasket washers (BMWpartstore)

Will buy some RTV locally.

Should be doing the work next week.

And valve cover gasket.

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Avetiso]

And valve cover gasket.

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH
According to my CarFax, VCG was replaced at the dealer in Ohio at 63k miles. No idea if they replaced the 15 gasket washers, so I ordered them just in case. Or is the VCG something that needs to be replaced every time you touch it?

[danewilson77]

According to my CarFax, VCG was replaced at the dealer in Ohio at 63k miles. No idea if they replaced the 15 gasket washers, so I ordered them just in case. Or is the VCG something that needs to be replaced every time you touch it?

I would replace it. How many miles on car?

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Avetiso]

I would replace it. How many miles on car?

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH
About to hit 72k.

[danewilson77]

Should be fine. But.... If you pull the valve cover off and that shit breaks or tears.... I told ya so. :)

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Avetiso]

Should be fine. But.... If you pull the valve cover off and that shit breaks or tears.... I told ya so. :)

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH
Haha, noted. I'll see if I can still use it, because it should still be good. If by some chance it does break, I'll make a run to my local dealer and buy one with my discount. I'd still like the chance to save $35.

[danewilson77]

Haha, noted. I'll see if I can still use it, because it should still be good. If by some chance it does break, I'll make a run to my local dealer and buy one with my discount. I'd still like the chance to save $35.

Sounds good brutha.

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[johnrando]

You'll use it again eventually, might be good to have one on hand jic.

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[Lanister]

You'll use it again eventually, might be good to have one on hand jic.

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

+1 it's just a matter of time and you know it ;)

[Avetiso]

You'll use it again eventually, might be good to have one on hand jic.

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2


+1 it's just a matter of time and you know it ;)
I know, but being a student, I need to try to save money where I can. I'll buy it if it's necessary.

Thanks for all the helps, guys! Not looking forward to doing this.

[johnrando]

Tell you what. Buy it ahead of time. If you don't need it, I'll buy it from you. This way, you'll have it. (Get a good price) :)

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[Vas]

I would replace the valve cover gasket.

[Avetiso]

Tell you what. Buy it ahead of time. If you don't need it, I'll buy it from you. This way, you'll have it. (Get a good price) :)

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2
Hm, that works. I'll order it from BMW Parts Store tonight, then. Thanks!

[Avetiso]

Ordered a new VCG. When some more money frees up, it'll be the G.A.S. DISA kit and coolant cap combo.

[johnrando]

Hm, that works. I'll order it from BMW Parts Store tonight, then. Thanks!

De nada

[Avetiso]

Also used the affiliate link to FINALLY buy AUX input for my ZHP. Sick of the freaking radio. Same shit every day.

Dane, see if you can get The BMW Part Store as an affiliate. I find their prices/service to meet or exceed that of ECS Tuning (mostly pricing is better), and am/will be using them a lot.

[Johal E32]

Also used the affiliate link to FINALLY buy AUX input for my ZHP. Sick of the freaking radio. Same shit every day.

Dane, see if you can get The BMW Part Store as an affiliate. I find their prices/service to meet or exceed that of ECS Tuning (mostly pricing is better), and am/will be using them a lot.

Same.

I love bmwpartstore. Prices are amazing for a dealer.

ECS rapes me on shipping.

[Lanister]

bmwpartstore doesn't really differ shipping wise, I found. Their prices are marginally lower compared to ECS. Certainly reason enough to shop there. One thing I didn't like about bmwpartstore is that their website is quite poor and it takes them ages to get an order out.

[Johal E32]

bmwpartstore doesn't really differ shipping wise, I found. Their prices are marginally lower compared to ECS. Certainly reason enough to shop there. One thing I didn't like about bmwpartstore is that their website is quite poor and it takes them ages to get an order out.

i choose 6.95 shipping. Got a order later that week. They are awesome. Sometimes they can be slow.


ECS tried to charge me $60 to ship a moulding for my new VW. No thank you. Moulding only costs $40.

[Avetiso]

ECS shipping is decent at best, but it gets out of hand with larger items. Cost me $40 to ship my center console delete. WTF.

Also, haven't found the bmwpartstore to be slow, but I have limited experience.

It's nice to have options. Certainly ECS has a better website with pictures, but part numbers are part numbers, and they are fixed for a reason.

[danewilson77]

I contacted them a while ago. I'll try again.

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[danewilson77]

Thay are in Cincinnati as well.

[PirateZHP]

Thay are in Cincinnati as well.

Drive over. Knock on door. Make them do it. Win.

[danewilson77]

I just contacted them. We'll see what they say.

[Avetiso]

AUX cable and plugs just came in. Thankful! :)

[Avetiso]

Done.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/28/tutagane.jpg

[Pip]

That's definitely a good spot for the aux. I had mine tucked in the sunglasses box and it was difficult to get to.

[Lanister]

Done.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/28/tutagane.jpg

Nice! I can't think of a better spot for it.

[Avetiso]

That's definitely a good spot for the aux. I had mine tucked in the sunglasses box and it was difficult to get to.


Nice! I can't think of a better spot for it.
It's a great spot to have it. Had it there on my last ZHP as well. It's a tighter fit when you have heated seat buttons, but still fairly easy.

[Vas]

I was going to put mine there as well since it is a good spot. Only thing was I thought the cable would be in the way and always be seen unless removed.

[Avetiso]

I was going to put mine there as well since it is a good spot. Only thing was I thought the cable would be in the way and always be seen unless removed.
That bothered me at first, but when I thought about it, I use it every time I'm in the car. Why should it bother me if it's always there? :dunno I got over it, lol. Although I might get a bluetooth dongle and wire the aux into my glovebox and use my flashlight power port to make it all hidden, in which case I'll just swap out the covers on the button panel.

[Vas]

My ocd just kicks in lol.

Stuck mine in the Eurotray

[az3579]

My ocd just kicks in lol.

Stuck mine in the Eurotray

This. That's why if I had to use an Aux jack, I'd stick the jack in a euro tray and cover it up. That way the cable's not in the way.
The cable for my phone that I plug in when using GPS is constantly in the way of the shifter so this setup just brings back bad thoughts of that situation... lol

Luckily I have an iPod integration kit that has cables that are tucked away in the sunglasses tray. :thumbsup

[iZHP]

It's a great spot to have it. Had it there on my last ZHP as well. It's a tighter fit when you have heated seat buttons, but still fairly easy.

Same. I got a right-angled cable, which put it out of the way. I wouldn't want my phone anywhere else (sunglasses compartment, glove box) because devices change...not everything will fit in the sunglasses compartment and be able to close it. I'm also a firm believer in aux having better sound quality than converters. You don't want digital compression converters...it will not have the same quality.

[Avetiso]

Just got my VCG, VCG seals, OFHG (not what I expected it to look like).

Got everything. Now I just need time.

[az3579]

Just got my VCG, VCG seals, OFHG (not what I expected it to look like).

Got everything. Now I just need time.

And a back that doesn't require 2 weeks of 'taking it easy'. :shifty

[Avetiso]

And a back that doesn't require 2 weeks of 'taking it easy'. :shifty
It'll be back in time. It doesn't have a choice.

Pumped up my tires. Went 40 all around, I was running 32 but I really didn't like the delayed response in steering. I probably have a leave in one of my rears, will be monitoring.

[E_Rak]

I'm sure there are many who will disagree with that and say to run the recommended pressure etc etc, but I also like to put mine up a little higher... Gets you that nice rolling resistance on the highway! Just be mindful of the tires and their wear pattern. Happy motoring

Sent from my oversized iPhone | HTC One

[derbo]

I like factory specs for the stock rollers. 35 all around on my 17s

sent from Moto X

[Avetiso]

Woot! Keys came in from PO. http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/06/udyryhuq.jpg

[Avetiso]

Oh, also got my first 37 degree warning. Scared the shit out of me.

[WolfBMW]

Oh, also got my first 37 degree warning. Scared the shit out of me.

Every year!

[johnrando]

Oh, also got my first 37 degree warning. Scared the shit out of me.

LOL, we had a whole thread on that. Welcome to the club. I got mine and it startled me too, but then I realized what it was due to that thread.

[ELCID86]

Oh, also got my first 37 degree warning. Scared the shit out of me.

Yep. I need to find that thread to answer "why 37" and can it be coded to @33?


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1).

[Avetiso]

So, my financial aid came in. I think I'll be ordering the DISA rebuild, an ///M dead pedal, and some various bit and pieces to finish off my interior.

[ELCID86]

So, my financial aid came in. I think I'll be ordering the DISA rebuild, an ///M dead pedal, and some various bit and pieces to finish off my interior.

Must have done ok then. Make sure you save some for books!


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1).

[Avetiso]

Must have done ok then. Make sure you save some for books!


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1).

Haha, my aid was delayed like crazy, this money is for the semester that I finish in two weeks.

[Lanister]

You're buyin'

[Avetiso]

CRRRRRRUUUUUNNNNNNNNNCH goes second gear. Holy batman, that was bad. Any ideas? Only happens when I shift at higher RPM, like when I'm getting on it. This one happened between 4-5 k rpm.

Also, would an oil change with thicker fluid help alleviate this?

[danewilson77]

CRRRRRRUUUUUNNNNNNNNNCH goes second gear. Holy batman, that was bad. Any ideas? Only happens when I shift at higher RPM, like when I'm getting on it. This one happened between 4-5 k rpm.

Also, would an oil change with thicker fluid help alleviate this?

That don't sound good Willis.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Avetiso]

That don't sound good Willis.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH
:( Betting my synchro is almost dead. Looks like it's slow shifts into second until I rip my transmission apart and install new synchros.

Damn. Only 72k miles. Plenty of people have over 200k w/ no issues.

[Lanister]

:( Betting my synchro is almost dead. Looks like it's slow shifts into second until I rip my transmission apart and install new synchros.

Damn. Only 72k miles. Plenty of people have over 200k w/ no issues.

Much depends on how the previous owner(s) have been treating the gearbox.

[danewilson77]

:( Betting my synchro is almost dead. Looks like it's slow shifts into second until I rip my transmission apart and install new synchros.

Damn. Only 72k miles. Plenty of people have over 200k w/ no issues.

Right.... But you don't know the previous history.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Avetiso]

Much depends on how the previous owner(s) have been treating the gearbox.


Right.... But you don't know the previous history.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH
For sure. Still, seems difficult to believe that much damage could occur over a short span. I did buy it from OG owner, and it was dealer serviced it's whole life... but that doesn't tell me how it was treated. :(

[danewilson77]

Agree.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[kayger12]

For sure. Still, seems difficult to believe that much damage could occur over a short span. I did buy it from OG owner, and it was dealer serviced it's whole life... but that doesn't tell me how it was treated. :(

Edited: don't mind me...

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4

[Johal E32]

:( Betting my synchro is almost dead. Looks like it's slow shifts into second until I rip my transmission apart and install new synchros.

Damn. Only 72k miles. Plenty of people have over 200k w/ no issues.

Change the fluid and put some fresh OEM BMW fluid in. Its like $20/liter from Autohausaz.

If the issue still persists then you need a new trans. I wouldn't bother rebuilding, seems like a major PITA on these cars.

[QC_ZHP]

+1, too many special tools needed.

[Avetiso]

Edited: don't mind me...

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4
I saw what you wrote, and I totally agree. I've seen so many people drive manual that never revmatch. As far as I know, I don't know a single person personally that revmatches when then downshift (discounting my brother/parents, who are truckers, but again, they don't have synchros). I'm the only one. And people look at me like I'm crazy!

[kayger12]

I saw what you wrote, and I totally agree. I've seen so many people drive manual that never revmatch. As far as I know, I don't know a single person personally that revmatches when then downshift (discounting my brother/parents, who are truckers, but again, they don't have synchros). I'm the only one. And people look at me like I'm crazy!

Well, you know me, so now you know one!

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4

[Avetiso]

Change the fluid and put some fresh OEM BMW fluid in. Its like $20/liter from Autohausaz.

If the issue still persists then you need a new trans. I wouldn't bother rebuilding, seems like a major PITA on these cars.
I'll try new fluid, but not OEM. Something thicker/beefier. Leaning towards gear-oil type mixtures. If it does come to a new transmission, it's going to be M3. They are easier to find. Or maybe an SMG conversion with a custom pump. :)

On a side note, are 330i and ZHP 6 speed the same or are they different? Pretty sure they are different.

+1, too many special tools needed.
Not trying to sound like I don't believe you, but that sounds like "We can't align your BMW without a special tool, and we're gonna have to charge you $200 for that." I'm sure it is more complicated than most, but a manual tranny is a manual tranny. They don't vary much in structure, and I've seen multiple on the inside, including the E46 M3 transmission.

Either way, I'd enlist the help of my dad when/if I do this. He's rebuilt multiple transmissions, from pickup trucks to big rigs (he rebuilt the 5 speed in our old RAM 3500, and the 18 speed on his T2000. Dealer wanted to sell him a "special tool" to put it back together. My dad said he'd do with out, and they laughed at him, but one ziptie and a hell of a brain later, he took that grin off their face. :))

What'll probably happen: new fluid, live with it. But maybe, just maybe, I'll rebuild it...

[Johal E32]

OEM fluid is pretty thick.

If you want really thick just throw some redline ATF in there..

And the 6 speed tranny is the same as any other 330 6 speed. For the M3 tranny, they handle more power but your 330 6 speed is a million times smoother. I would stick with the 330 trans IMO.

[Avetiso]

OEM fluid is pretty thick.

If you want really thick just throw some redline ATF in there..

And the 6 speed tranny is the same as any other 330 6 speed. For the M3 tranny, they handle more power but your 330 6 speed is a million times smoother. I would stick with the 330 trans IMO.
I would rather stick with that one as well, but when I tried to find a 6 speed 330i for my wiring, I realized that 6 speed, non-ZHP 330i are rare AF! It could take ages to find a transmission that way. An M3 transmission would be much easier to find, and it might come to that, unfortunately.

I'll have to do a tranny flush when I'm out of school. Just two more weeks... :(

[alexandre]

I'll try new fluid, but not OEM. Something thicker/beefier. Leaning towards gear-oil type mixtures. If it does come to a new transmission, it's going to be M3. They are easier to find. Or maybe an SMG conversion with a custom pump. :)

On a side note, are 330i and ZHP 6 speed the same or are they different? Pretty sure they are different.

Not trying to sound like I don't believe you, but that sounds like "We can't align your BMW without a special tool, and we're gonna have to charge you $200 for that." I'm sure it is more complicated than most, but a manual tranny is a manual tranny. They don't vary much in structure, and I've seen multiple on the inside, including the E46 M3 transmission.

Either way, I'd enlist the help of my dad when/if I do this. He's rebuilt multiple transmissions, from pickup trucks to big rigs (he rebuilt the 5 speed in our old RAM 3500, and the 18 speed on his T2000. Dealer wanted to sell him a "special tool" to put it back together. My dad said he'd do with out, and they laughed at him, but one ziptie and a hell of a brain later, he took that grin off their face. :))

What'll probably happen: new fluid, live with it. But maybe, just maybe, I'll rebuild it...

Same transmission 330 vs ZHP. Only thing different is the flywheel and clutch setup. The problem is I think the tranny that shipped on 330s is partially sealed (or something) and neither the manufacturer nor BMW sell individual parts for them.

[Avetiso]

Same transmission 330 vs ZHP. Only thing different is the flywheel and clutch setup. The problem is I think the tranny that shipped on 330s is partially sealed (or something) and neither the manufacturer nor BMW sell individual parts for them.
I'll look around and see if there are any companies that do so.

[alexandre]

M3 tranny: Getrag 420G
330i 6sp tranny: ZF 37BZ

I think those are internal BMW names though.

[Smolck]

If you want a rebuilt trans I have a guy local to me that rebuilds them for my best friends BMW salvage yard. He is one of the only people I have ever heard of that does it. He just recently rebuilt two Getrag 5 speeds for a couple friends of mine. One friend lives local, the other one had me ship it to him in Boston.

Cost to redo the 5 speeds was around $750-800 I think. 6 speed should be roughly the same. If you want to go that route, let me know.

M3 trans would be awesome, but you would need the different flywheel and clutch as mentioned. And a custom driveshaft, I don't know if the M3 one fits on the non-M diff.

[Lanister]

If you want a rebuilt trans I have a guy local to me that rebuilds them for my best friends BMW salvage yard. He is one of the only people I have ever heard of that does it. He just recently rebuilt two Getrag 5 speeds for a couple friends of mine. One friend lives local, the other one had me ship it to him in Boston.

Cost to redo the 5 speeds was around $750-800 I think. 6 speed should be roughly the same. If you want to go that route, let me know.

M3 trans would be awesome, but you would need the different flywheel and clutch as mentioned. And a custom driveshaft, I don't know if the M3 one fits on the non-M diff.

Get the ///M drive shaft and a matching rear end. What's what derbo did and he luvs it :) I know, probably not in the student budget but it's still fun to throw ideas around ;)

[Imola.ZHP]

Wow!

Instead of studying for a final (on Wednesday, I'll start studying tomorrow!) I decided to check out a few build threads. Very impressive work here, major props to you for the work on this car; glad you were able to bring it back to life.

[QC_ZHP]

Not trying to sound like I don't believe you, but that sounds like "We can't align your BMW without a special tool, and we're gonna have to charge you $200 for that." I'm sure it is more complicated than most, but a manual tranny is a manual tranny. They don't vary much in structure, and I've seen multiple on the inside, including the E46 M3 transmission.


No worries, I have no hands on experience with the inside of them at all. I'm going off the research I did when I was checking an M3 with a bad synchro, the consensus seemed to be that swapping in another 6spd was the easiest route. There was a thread on e46f where HPF decided to rebuild one and they mentioned they had to build "heavy duty tools" to get the job done, but I remember them saying thats all they could say.

I was actually thinking of how cool it would be to swap an SMG into a sedan the other day. I'd be too hesitant to give up my clutch pedal though, but slapping through the gears in some twisties sounds like it'd be a blast.

[Vas]

Try some Redline 75W140NS Gear Oil and Redline Synthetic D4 ATF is my suggestion.

[E_Rak]

I saw what you wrote, and I totally agree. I've seen so many people drive manual that never revmatch. As far as I know, I don't know a single person personally that revmatches when then downshift (discounting my brother/parents, who are truckers, but again, they don't have synchros). I'm the only one. And people look at me like I'm crazy!

Are you talking about people who clutch drag downshift? Ugh that is just gross.... not even on the shittiest of shitboxes will I forgo revmatching!

[Avetiso]

Wow!

Instead of studying for a final (on Wednesday, I'll start studying tomorrow!) I decided to check out a few build threads. Very impressive work here, major props to you for the work on this car; glad you were able to bring it back to life.
Wow, thanks. I'm surprised you missed an 80 page thread, but I'm glad you like the work. :)

[Avetiso]

Try some Redline 75W140NS Gear Oil and Redline Synthetic D4 ATF is my suggestion.
Is that what you are running? How does it feel?

Are you talking about people who clutch drag downshift? Ugh that is just gross.... not even on the shittiest of shitboxes will I forgo revmatching!
It's horrible. :(

[Avetiso]

If you want a rebuilt trans I have a guy local to me that rebuilds them for my best friends BMW salvage yard. He is one of the only people I have ever heard of that does it. He just recently rebuilt two Getrag 5 speeds for a couple friends of mine. One friend lives local, the other one had me ship it to him in Boston.

Cost to redo the 5 speeds was around $750-800 I think. 6 speed should be roughly the same. If you want to go that route, let me know.

M3 trans would be awesome, but you would need the different flywheel and clutch as mentioned. And a custom driveshaft, I don't know if the M3 one fits on the non-M diff.
Thanks for the info! You'll hear from me if anything.

Get the ///M drive shaft and a matching rear end. What's what derbo did and he luvs it :) I know, probably not in the student budget but it's still fun to throw ideas around ;)
That'd be nice, but that still doesn't fix my issues. :(

No worries, I have no hands on experience with the inside of them at all. I'm going off the research I did when I was checking an M3 with a bad synchro, the consensus seemed to be that swapping in another 6spd was the easiest route. There was a thread on e46f where HPF decided to rebuild one and they mentioned they had to build "heavy duty tools" to get the job done, but I remember them saying thats all they could say.

I was actually thinking of how cool it would be to swap an SMG into a sedan the other day. I'd be too hesitant to give up my clutch pedal though, but slapping through the gears in some twisties sounds like it'd be a blast.
If I could somehow customize the pump to be durable, I would love to do it. The ZHP with 30 more hp and an SMG would be perfect.

[Vas]

Is that what you are running? How does it feel?



That is what I am using. Great improvement over the ATF that I had in there.

[Lanister]

You should email this guy and ask him how he did his SMG retrofit:

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/cto/4230607926.html

[Johal E32]

^Thats OEM, and its not a real ZHP. Its a ZSP with ZHP front bumper. Very few non-m E46's came with SMG

[Avetiso]

You should email this guy and ask him how he did his SMG retrofit:

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/cto/4230607926.html


^Thats OEM, and its not a real ZHP. Its a ZSP with ZHP front bumper. Very few non-m E46's came with SMG
Yeah, that's not a ZHP (chrome trim, different steering wheel). However, when I said SMG, I meant the M3 SMGII.

[az3579]

:( Betting my synchro is almost dead. Looks like it's slow shifts into second until I rip my transmission apart and install new synchros.

Damn. Only 72k miles. Plenty of people have over 200k w/ no issues.


Change the fluid and put some fresh OEM BMW fluid in. Its like $20/liter from Autohausaz.

If the issue still persists then you need a new trans. I wouldn't bother rebuilding, seems like a major PITA on these cars.

Most definitely, Redline MTL all the way. You'll notice an immediate improvement in shifting with it.
Don't beat yourself up about the crunk; unless it's crunching every since time, I doubt it's a synchro. I crunch gears from time to time, and realize it's just my foot that's just being a little bit too lazy and not pushed down on the pedal all the way. Make sure you check yourself before spending hundreds on a rebuild!


I saw what you wrote, and I totally agree. I've seen so many people drive manual that never revmatch. As far as I know, I don't know a single person personally that revmatches when then downshift (discounting my brother/parents, who are truckers, but again, they don't have synchros). I'm the only one. And people look at me like I'm crazy!

Being a passenger with a driver who doesn't rev match can play a game with my CDO. It's not comfortable, nor is it good for the car.
I was taught that being so smooth that the passenger can't even feel the shifts is the only way to shift a manual car, and that is the premise I follow to the best of my ability. Granted, I struggle a lot in the ZHP because it's damn near impossible to get perfect rev matches consistently with this blasted POS drive-by-wire system. I drove way smoother in my E30.


M3 tranny: Getrag 420G
330i 6sp tranny: ZF 37BZ

I think those are internal BMW names though.

Nope, not internal names; those are the actual manufacturers of the transmissions. BMW doesn't manufacture their own transmissions; they contract that work out to ZF and Getrag, historically.

(For some weird reason I still remember that the M3 transmission I put in my E30 was a ZF S5D320Z. I have no idea why I remember this model number...)



You should email this guy and ask him how he did his SMG retrofit:

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/cto/4230607926.html

That is most definitely not a retrofit; that's the real deal from the factory. So rare...

[Avetiso]

I stopped trying to drive smooth. I just don't give a shit anymore. Blasted CDV and drive-by-wire make it damn near impossible.

[alexandre]

S5D would be 5-speed though, from what I understand. I just meant that these numbers were for BMW applications - Getrag and ZF use the same gears, synchros, etc in various different gearboxes, so with some hunting around on that side you should have a clearer idea of what you need to rebuild your tranny.


iP4S + TT2

[Avetiso]

Been driving it around today. 2nd gear is tougher to engage, for sure, as is the case for most people here. But no grinding. I'm pretty damn sure I didn't make a mistake when I ground it the first time, but I think with a fluid change and going easy on second, I should be fine. Hopefully no problems arise.

[Lanister]

When you drain the old fluid, make sure you run it through some sort of a mesh to see if any substantial metal debris would come out. That might show how much damage has been done.

[Avetiso]

Just bought the G.A.S. DISA rebuild kit.

[danewilson77]

Just bought the G.A.S. DISA rebuild kit.

Smart choice.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Avetiso]

Does anyone know where I can find this? I need a lower trim like this. NOT brushed aluminum, I am looking for the same finish found on the Performance Knob and E-Brake, it's more of a painted silver. The picture is linked to Coby Wheel, but their site only has brushed aluminum, which looks a bit different than what is in this picture.

http://gfddev.com/images/e46_images/e46_lower_wheel_trim%20.jpg

[az3579]

^ That's painted. You'll have to get it done after the fact.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

[Avetiso]

^ That's painted. You'll have to get it done after the fact.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk
Shoot. Any way to a paint code that BMW uses for their interior things? I'd love to get it to match.

[Vas]

Shoot. Any way to a paint code that BMW uses for their interior things? I'd love to get it to match.

My body shop was able to use a paint scanner before and find a match to an oem color. However this only works if there is a color out there that a car is painted in.

Then I took that paint code and had a paint store create a spray can with that color.

[Avetiso]

My body shop was able to use a paint scanner before and find a match to an oem color. However this only works if there is a color out there that a car is painted in.

Then I took that paint code and had a paint store create a spray can with that color.
I'm not sure if these interior pieces are used in a car color. :( Maybe TiAg, but I doubt it.

[Vas]

I also have used SEM paint in a spray bottle. Either trim black or silver. Matte finish that lays nice and flat.

[az3579]

Shoot. Any way to a paint code that BMW uses for their interior things? I'd love to get it to match.

I meant that particular color is painted. The stock black finish is some kind of rubberized material, not paint. I thought you were referring to the white.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

[Avetiso]

I meant that particular color is painted. The stock black finish is some kind of rubberized material, not paint. I thought you were referring to the white.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

I want that light silver color. The same color used on the performance knob.

[az3579]

I want that light silver color. The same color used on the performance knob.

Paint. Try to get a standard silver that's not metallic.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

[Avetiso]

Paint. Try to get a standard silver that's not metallic.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk
Shoot, I was hoping it was an OEM piece. It'll probably be tough to find a great match to the the color... I wonder if what Vas suggested could be applied here. I wonder if a paint shop could make me a can.

[Avetiso]

http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww305/m3pilot16/P1060584.jpg

What do you guys think of the all painted steering wheel?

[Pip]

I think it looks good. Different but not obnoxious.

[Avetiso]

I think it looks good. Different but not obnoxious.
Cool. I was worried about it being over the top. I know more extreme mods like this are usually left for the ///M, so I was worried about it looking like I was trying too hard with my ZHP.

Another picture: http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww305/m3pilot16/P1060582.jpg

[Vas]

I personally don't like it for some reason.

[Avetiso]

I personally don't like it for some reason.
What do you think of just the lower portion being painted?

[derbo]

I dont like it at all. :)

[Vas]

Lower might be better and less eye grabbing.

Is yours peeling or chipped ?

Edit:

On that car the rest of the trim is silver. It would bug me since silver cube won't match just silver paint.

[Avetiso]

I don't like it at all. :)
:ninja Any specific feelings?

Lower might be better and less eye grabbing.

Is yours peeling or chipped ?

Edit:

On that car the rest of the trim is silver. It would bug me since silver cube won't match just silver paint.
Mine is peeling, not chipped. Once I find out what paint it is, I'll try to see if I'm doing just lower or both.

It is not my intention to make silver cube match it. It is supposed to match the shift knob and the E-brake, which have the same finish as the picture wheel (the performance variants). As far as the cube trim, not sure what I'm gonna do with it. It's turned purple, so it's ugly. Maybe I'll repaint it to match this color, expect the textures won't match. Or, I might paint it, sell it, and find wood trim that I can paint to finish off the look.

I really just don't know. I love/hate it.

[Avetiso]

Replaced passenger xenon bulb with the one from my parts car. One is Osram, other is Philips, but color match seems fine. Adding new bulbs to the list.

By the way, what a pain in the ass? There is like no room to get that damn cover off on the passenger side. Took me like 20 minutes, and I had to remove lower trim and unbolt two top bolts to get some slack in there. Ugh.

Still looking for some opinions on the steering wheel trims.

[kayger12]

http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww305/m3pilot16/P1060584.jpg

What do you guys think of the all painted steering wheel?

Not digging it. Makes the interior look a little too busy and pulls the interior out of visual balance, imo (if that makes any sense).

[alexandre]

+1 on the visual balance comment. Too much silver on the left vs the right. I'm a big fan of darker silvers, kinda like titanium. But of course to each their own!

Also: the lower trim is covered with a rubber coating which could be sketchy to paint. Tried with mine and ended up scrapping the part and having to source another.


iP4S + TT2

[ELCID86]

I think I'd prefer black or maybe CF.

[Avetiso]

I'm thinking I might be sticking with black. I've been looking at the picture a lot, and while I think it looks nice, I don't like it enough to do it? Not sure if that makes any sense. Just doesn't feel right. I think I'll pick up some vinyl wrap and wrap it with something, either flat black or something else. I'll look into some things.

Thanks for you opinions, fellas.

[Avetiso]

Also, I just ordered Coby Wheel. Been wanting to do it for a long time, and finally bit. Black with silver stitching (to match Performance E-Brake) and an Orient Blue time stripe.

[danewilson77]

Also, I just ordered Coby Wheel. Been wanting to do it for a long time, and finally bit. Black with silver stitching (to match Performance E-Brake) and an Orient Blue time stripe.

You will not be disappoint.

Because racecar.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Avetiso]

You will not be disappoint.

Because racecar.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH
I have no worries. :thumbsup

Also order 5'x1' 3M Matte Black for the steering wheel. Might to both up and lower so it matches. We'll see.

[Vas]

Also, I just ordered Coby Wheel. Been wanting to do it for a long time, and finally bit. Black with silver stitching (to match Performance E-Brake) and an Orient Blue time stripe.

Sounds like a great combo

[Avetiso]

Sounds like a great combo
Thanks. I can't wait.

[kayger12]

Also, I just ordered Coby Wheel. Been wanting to do it for a long time, and finally bit. Black with silver stitching (to match Performance E-Brake) and an Orient Blue time stripe.

Gonna look awesome. Great choice.

[Avetiso]

Gonna look awesome. Great choice.
:biggrin

[ELCID86]

Gonna look awesome. Great choice.

+1

[QC_ZHP]

Nice, can't wait to see the OB stripe.

[Avetiso]

G.A.S. DISA kit arrived today. Might install tomorrow after finals.

[Lanister]

G.A.S. DISA kit arrived today. Might install tomorrow after finals.

Moar powah, rawr

[Avetiso]

Moar powah, rawr
I'm not keen... does fixing the DISA provide any return in lost power?

[Lanister]

I'm not keen... does fixing the DISA provide any return in lost power?

No idea, LOL. I look forward to your feedback.

Hmm I'm at 92k and I've inspected my DISA, seems ok so I just put it back in.

[johnrando]

Yes, it certainly could...ymmv

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[az3579]

I'm not keen... does fixing the DISA provide any return in lost power?

It has pretty much eliminated my 4k power dip, at the very least from a butt dyno perspective.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

[Avetiso]

Cool. I'll be rebuilding it today.

Omg. Coby sent me pictures. :drool

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[Pip]

Where are our Coby photos? Huh? :)

[Avetiso]

Where are our Coby photos? Huh? :)
I was going to make you wait, but...

http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/unnamed1_zpsfd406c95.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/unnamed1_zpsfd406c95.jpg.html)http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/unnamed_zps76f22a83.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/unnamed_zps76f22a83.jpg.html)

[Avetiso]

You might have trouble viewing from mobile. Let me transfer to PB.

Edit: Done.

[Vas]

Sweet.

[Avetiso]

Thanks. Vinyl should be here tomorrow. When I have everything ready, I'll do the swap and wrap.

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[Lanister]

Bawlaaa

Sent from outer space...

[Pip]

Awesome!!

[Avetiso]

Thanks, guys.

Just pulled my DISA. She's a goner, no doubt. Flap has a mind of it's own.

[Avetiso]

All done. ICV cleaned, DISA rebuilt. Idle is noticeably smoother, as well as lower end power delivery. I believe DISA was a vacuum leak, because my stuttering has subsided substantially. Car runs much better now.

Drove to Target and bought a little booklet for maintenance records. Since I do all my work myself, there will not be any shop receipts for history.

[danewilson77]

All done. ICV cleaned, DISA rebuilt. Idle is noticeably smoother, as well as lower end power delivery. I believe DISA was a vacuum leak, because my stuttering has subsided substantially. Car runs much better now.

Drove to Target and bought a little booklet for maintenance records. Since I do all my work myself, there will not be any shop receipts for history.

Good news.

Could have done this too!

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1769

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Avetiso]

Good news.

Could have done this too!

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1769

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

I like pen and paper. :)

When I was cleaning my ICV, discovered my OFHG has already failed. Good thing I already bought it.

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Yup, good news.

[Avetiso]

Alrighty guys, digging into VANOS and OFHG on Saturday. Any recommendations?

I have:

New VCG set
15 new seals
OFHG
6 new plugs
Beisan systems repaired VANOS pistons (already rebuilt by alexandre, just need install)
New VANOS gasket
New vanois oil line gaskets x2

Is there anything else I'm missing? Please tell me so I have time to run to my dealer and buy it.

[Lanister]

Alrighty guys, digging into VANOS and OFHG on Saturday. Any recommendations?

I have:

New VCG set
15 new seals
OFHG
6 new plugs
Beisan systems repaired VANOS pistons (already rebuilt by alexandre, just need install)
New VANOS gasket
New vanois oil line gaskets x2

Is there anything else I'm missing? Please tell me so I have time to run to my dealer and buy it.

Did you get the banjo bolt sealing washers? you need 4 of those. One for each end. Or is that what you meant by "New vanos oil line gaskets"?

[Avetiso]

Did you get the banjo bolt sealing washers? you need 4 of those. One for each end. Or is that what you meant by "New vanos oil line gaskets"?
Not sure. I have the two washers in the first picture here: http://www.beisansystems.com/procedures/vanos_procedure.htm

[Lanister]

I'm pretty sure you need two on each end of the vanos feed line.

http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330Ci-M54_3.0L/Search/SiteSearch/32411093596/ES54259/

I think they're very reusable but you know, rule of thumb and shit :)

[Avetiso]

I'm pretty sure you need two on each end of the vanos feed line.

http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330Ci-M54_3.0L/Search/SiteSearch/32411093596/ES54259/

I think they're very reusable but you know, rule of thumb and shit :)
For sure. Anyone else can confirm that I need to replace the line? If anything, I'll take a drive to my dealer tomorrow.

[Lanister]

You should definitely replace the line as you will have it out completely because it attaches to VANOS and OFHG, both of which you're doing. Perfect time.

[Avetiso]

You should definitely replace the line as you will have it out completely because it attaches to VANOS and OFHG, both of which you're doing. Perfect time.

Looks like it's a trip to shell-out bmw tomorrow.

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[Avetiso]

Anyone got part numbers for this poor old soul?

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[Lanister]

http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330Ci-M54_3.0L/Search/SiteSearch/11361705532/ES23138/

[Lanister]

Actually, looking at RealOEM, it shows only one banjo bolt (hollow bolt) washer gasket. So it looks like you may not need to get two more.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=BD53&mospid=47713&btnr=11_2170&hg=11&fg=15

Items 15 and 17

[Avetiso]

Actually, looking at RealOEM, it shows only one banjo bolt (hollow bolt) washer gasket. So it looks like you may not need to get two more.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=BD53&mospid=47713&btnr=11_2170&hg=11&fg=15

Items 15 and 17
Cool. Thanks for your help, Giya. Much appreciated. I'll give em a call tomorrow and see what they want. If it's too much, I'll delay it. Parents come home on Saturday, and we have been getting some MEAN wind. Wouldn't want to work in those conditions.

[alexandre]

I replaced mine last March - there are 4 crush washers in total, which are single use.


iP4S + TT2

[Avetiso]

:facepalm dealer wants $63 for the line. I guess it's only $15 more after you factor in shipping, so I'll pick one up today.

[Lanister]

:facepalm dealer wants $63 for the line. I guess it's only $15 more after you factor in shipping, so I'll pick one up today.

Local dealer in Monterey wanted $75, if that makes you feel any better.

[Avetiso]

Took out OFH. Gasket has completely failed. Oil everywhere.

Grabbing some food now.

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[Avetiso]

Well, I'm done. Happy it's over, but I was disappointing to see how much buildup there was under my valve cover around the VANOS area. Pretty bad. I'll have pictures up later.

As I said, gasket was a goner. Replaced it and cleaned the area up with brake cleaner.

Also, my hydraulic tensioner failed. Couldn't release, ended up stripping the bolt inside and had to figure out how to remove it. I went mechanical with the one from my parts car. Much better.

Overall, this job is extremely exaggerated in difficulty, but time consumption was spot-on. It takes a while. I started at 12:00pm and finished around 10:30pm, took some breaks and whatnot, so I'd overall... 7-8 hours of solid work time.

Alternator wasn't that hard, either. I just mounted on bolt as a pivot point and aligned the rest with a rubber mallet. Easy as cake.

I did, however, break one of my VCG bolts. Couldn't even get 6lb of torque on it, just broke. It is one of the 4 inner bolts. Since most of the bolt and nut were still in there, and oil hardly had anywhere to come out of via that hole, I simply used some RTV to hold down the bolt and rubber gasket. I'll let it dry until tomorrow morning, when I will top off oil, bleed coolant, and test drive the car.

[Lanister]

Bleed coolant?

What do you mean you couldn't get 6lb of torque on it? Did you overtorque it?

totally true about it being time consuming, a lot of time goes to clean-up :(

[Avetiso]

Bleed coolant?

What do you mean you couldn't get 6lb of torque on it? Did you overtorque it?

totally true about it being time consuming, a lot of time goes to clean-up :(

Yes, I removed the upper hose, so I need to bleed to remove the air.

I did not over torque the bolt. Couldn't even get regular torque on it before it broke. Must have been damaged before.

I just flooded the area with brake cleaner. I'm not going to look at the part of the engine, so I didn't care how clean it was, so long as oil wasn't leaking.

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[danewilson77]

As long as it didn't look like Toms BMW!

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Vas]

Does the hydraulic tensioner usually fail ? Just wondering if I should replace that as well.

Curious to see pictures if you have any.

[Avetiso]

Does the hydraulic tensioner usually fail ? Just wondering if I should replace that as well.

Curious to see pictures if you have any.
I'm not sure, but I'd buy a new one to replace it with.

[Avetiso]

Pictures:

http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/PICT0020_zpsf281e8e8.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/PICT0020_zpsf281e8e8.jpg.html)http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/PICT0019_zps22716f6e.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/PICT0019_zps22716f6e.jpg.html)http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/PICT0022_zpsdfedb1e4.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/PICT0022_zpsdfedb1e4.jpg.html)http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/PICT0023_zps1a64a1d1.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/PICT0023_zps1a64a1d1.jpg.html)http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/PICT0024_zps8be621ce.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/PICT0024_zps8be621ce.jpg.html)http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/PICT0029_zps2fc8fd1c.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/PICT0029_zps2fc8fd1c.jpg.html)

[Lanister]

That ofhg mess is mighty familiar.

So what do you guys is the cause of the buildup under the valve cover?

[Vas]

I'm not sure, but I'd buy a new one to replace it with.

Jut the hydraulic tensioner or the complete assembly?
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Engine/Drive_Belts/Tensioner/ES21655/

Just don't want to run into any problems since I don't have any spare part.

[Avetiso]

Jut the hydraulic tensioner or the complete assembly?
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Engine/Drive_Belts/Tensioner/ES21655/

Just don't want to run into any problems since I don't have any spare part.

Well, I changed to mechanical. If you are staying hydraulic, I'd get a new piston (like in your link) and a new pulley.

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[kayger12]

So what do you guys is the cause of the buildup under the valve cover?

BMW recommended 15,000 mile oil change intervals...

[danewilson77]

Lack of/frequency of oil changes.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[iZHP]

BMW recommended 15,000 mile oil change intervals...

This....

[kayger12]

<7,500 mile changes over 75K

http://i1234.photobucket.com/albums/ff401/Kayger12/20130406_121228_zps1a029619.jpg

[Avetiso]

Awww, I'm jealous. :rofl

Oh well, no big deal. I'll research some additives to add and I'll obviously increase the frequency of the oil changes.

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[kayger12]

Now that I'm thinking about it, it's not 75K miles. I had my vanos replaced under CPO at around 47K, so that's only about 30K miles on it. :facepalm

[Avetiso]

Now that I'm thinking about it, it's not 75K miles. I had my vanos replaced under CPO at around 47K, so that's only about 30K miles on it. :facepalm
Haha, it's spotless! I got the mats by the way. Thank you.

[Avetiso]

So, I thought the VANOS was the culprit to my rough idle and stalling issue. Although the idle IS smoother, I still stall sometimes when I open my clutch rolling up to a stop. Also, when I rev to around 1000-1500rpm, then drop the accelerator, my idles sometimes fall to 500 rpm, pretty rough, then return to roughly 700rpm.

I can't figure this issue out. Going to take a look at my fuel filter tomorrow. Any other suggestions, fellas?

[Lanister]

failing camshaft position sensor could cause that.

[Avetiso]

failing camshaft position sensor could cause that.

No codes... soft fail?

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[kayger12]

Haha, it's spotless! I got the mats by the way. Thank you.

Very welcome. Glad they have a home.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4

[Vas]

No codes... soft fail?

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

According to my service records, the previous owner of my vehicle had the crankshaft sensor replaced at around 80k

[Avetiso]

According to my service records, the previous owner of my vehicle had the crankshaft sensor replaced at around 80k
Perhaps I should change it. I hate playing the guessing game. Throwing parts at the car without knowing what the exact problem is. :(

EDIT: Researching CPS symptoms... that's not what I am experiencing. I think I'll dig into the fuel filter tomorrow.

EDIT #2: Looks like the fuel filter is a bit more of a job than I thought it was. I'll dig into it later, lol.

[Vas]

Perhaps I should change it. I hate playing the guessing game. Throwing parts at the car without knowing what the exact problem is. :(

Very true but look at it in the way that it is getting removed from your bucket list lol.

I looked through my records just for fun and around that mileage, the crank sensor was replaced, the maf, and the cooling system. Not saying that it is the case with your car but my previous owner had dumped some good amount of money on OEM parts.

[Avetiso]

Very true but look at it in the way that it is getting removed from your bucket list lol.

I looked through my records just for fun and around that mileage, the crank sensor was replaced, the maf, and the cooling system. Not saying that it is the case with your car but my previous owner had dumped some good amount of money on OEM parts.
Haha, yeah. Stalling issue finally made me do my VANOS, which got me to do my OFHG. :rofl Maybe the very last thing on this car that needs maintenance is what is giving me issues, and I'll have a perfectly maintained E46.

[kayger12]

EDIT #2: Looks like the fuel filter is a bit more of a job than I thought it was. I'll dig into it later, lol.

Fuel filter isn't that bad, just a little messy. Where goggles.

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[Avetiso]

Fuel filter isn't that bad, just a little messy. Where goggles.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4
I'll make sure to. I just thought it was something that could be cleaned, kinda like a mesh, lol. I figured I'd get it out and clean it, but turns out, it's a bit more sophisticated.

[Vas]

Cooling system is next probably for you. :)

As far as fuel filter, its not bad. However I did notice that the vacuum hose that goes to the fpr does get old and cracked.

[kayger12]

I'll make sure to. I just thought it was something that could be cleaned, kinda like a mesh, lol. I figured I'd get it out and clean it, but turns out, it's a bit more sophisticated.

Ah. Gotcha.

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[cakM3]

Does anyone know where I can find this? I need a lower trim like this. NOT brushed aluminum, I am looking for the same finish found on the Performance Knob and E-Brake, it's more of a painted silver. The picture is linked to Coby Wheel, but their site only has brushed aluminum, which looks a bit different than what is in this picture.

http://gfddev.com/images/e46_images/e46_lower_wheel_trim%20.jpg

Dario, from what I've seen.....the lower trim comes in either black or shadow trim. I have both, one in each car.


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[Avetiso]

Cooling system is next probably for you. :)

As far as fuel filter, its not bad. However I did notice that the vacuum hose that goes to the fpr does get old and cracked.
I honestly think I'll just replace my ET. Everything else looked like it was in great shape, and my T-stat is less than 10k old. And an EMP Stewart WP.

Would you recommend new hoses?

Dario, from what I've seen.....the lower trim comes in either black or shadow trim. I have both, one in each car.


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Okay, so now I know there are only two types. I have 3M flat black wrap coming in which I will use on it instead. Since I have 5 square feet of it, I might wrap my AFE cover as well. Clear is peeling.

[Vas]

I thought your cooling system was still original?

[Avetiso]

I thought your cooling system was still original?
My car was dealer serviced up until the fire, so some things were replaced selectively. Most of it is original, except for the T-stat and coolant cap (G.A.S. now). I just either need to pull my engine and sell it from my parts car, OR wait for financial aid to continue catching up with maintenance. Funds running low. Life of a college student with a German hobby. Not a good mixture, lol.

[Avetiso]

Cleaned up my bay. I'll try to get better pictures tomorrow.

http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/20131222_163210_zpszzgnipvv.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/20131222_163210_zpszzgnipvv.jpg.html)

[Vas]

Previous owner installed the Stewart water pump ? Just curious since that's a pricey unit

Curious to see the aluminium cap on the expansion tank. I thought they were backordered.

[Avetiso]

Previous owner installed the Stewart water pump ? Just curious since that's a pricey unit

Curious to see the aluminium cap on the expansion tank. I thought they were backordered.

Oh, no. I meant that I would buy one. Water pump on the car is OG BMW.

I got the cap as part of the DISA package.

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[Vas]

Gotcha. Well post some pictures of that cap. I might buy it if it has enough bling.

[Lanister]

No codes... soft fail?

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Potentially yea. Especially when it's not completely failed but starting to. Do some research on it to see if the symptoms match yours

[alexandre]

So, I thought the VANOS was the culprit to my rough idle and stalling issue. Although the idle IS smoother, I still stall sometimes when I open my clutch rolling up to a stop. Also, when I rev to around 1000-1500rpm, then drop the accelerator, my idles sometimes fall to 500 rpm, pretty rough, then return to roughly 700rpm.

I can't figure this issue out. Going to take a look at my fuel filter tomorrow. Any other suggestions, fellas?

Clean your ICV if you haven't done it yet. CPS usually works or doesn't, and does throw codes when it starts acting up.


iP4S + TT2

[kayger12]

^ I think he got the ICV and DISA done already.

[alexandre]

^ I think he got the ICV and DISA done already.

Yeah I just saw that. Missed that part.

[Vas]

Clean the maf?

[Avetiso]

Clean the maf?

I could try that, but I highly doubt it's that. Could I use CRC electronic cleaner for it?

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[Lanister]

CRC has a specific MAF cleaner product.

[Avetiso]

CRC has a specific MAF cleaner product.
I'll look into it, but I don't think that's what is causing it. When it stalls, it's perfectly soft. The car just dies, smooth as butter. No stutter or bucking, it's almost as if fuel just runs out. Then it starts right back up when I turn the key.

[Avetiso]

Some pictures for your viewing pleasure. I know Vas wanted to see the G.A.S. ET cap, as well.

http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/PICT0038_zps7aeafaab.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/PICT0038_zps7aeafaab.jpg.html)http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/PICT0030_zps9256f650.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/PICT0030_zps9256f650.jpg.html)http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/PICT0037_zps52d2d64a.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/PICT0037_zps52d2d64a.jpg.html)http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/PICT0033_zps2e722531.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/PICT0033_zps2e722531.jpg.html)http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/PICT0036_zps7aa8c493.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/PICT0036_zps7aa8c493.jpg.html)http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/PICT0031_zpsd15d1472.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/PICT0031_zpsd15d1472.jpg.html)http://i1319.photobucket.com/albums/t662/Avetiso/OB%20ZHP/IMG_20131222_155529_zps6gahel6t.jpg (http://s1319.photobucket.com/user/Avetiso/media/OB%20ZHP/IMG_20131222_155529_zps6gahel6t.jpg.html)

[fredo]

That engine looks clean !

[Avetiso]

That engine looks clean !
Thanks! WD-40 works wonders for cleaning it.

[alexandre]

:like

[Avetiso]

:like
Thanks. I swear I'm gonna pull that stupid wiring harness out today. :facepalm I feel so bad now. :rofl

[cakM3]

Thanks! WD-40 works wonders for cleaning it.

I never realized you could use WD-40 to clean the engine bay......you learn something every day! :thumbsup

[iZHP]

Looks good!


-Sent via iPhone 5S

[Avetiso]

Looks good!


-Sent via iPhone 5S
Thanks!

[Avetiso]

:applauseJust got my Coby wrapped wheel.... :drool Oh, dear. This thing is a work of art.

[Avetiso]

:biggrin and my 3M matte black is out for delivery today, as well! Looks like I might have both of these things installed by tonight.

[Vas]

Engine bay looks clean. And the coolant cap looks pretty good.

Only thing that would bug me is the wiring you have loose next to the passenger side headlight.

[Avetiso]

Engine bay looks clean. And the coolant cap looks pretty good.

Only thing that would bug me is the wiring you have loose next to the passenger side headlight.

Haha, angel eyes. :)

Thanks!

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[QC_ZHP]

So did you just wipe down the bay with water (soap/water?) then give a coat of WD-40? It looks great, I'd love to get mine looking that fresh.

Lets see that Coby!

[Avetiso]

So did you just wipe down the bay with water (soap/water?) then give a coat of WD-40? It looks great, I'd love to get mine looking that fresh.

Lets see that Coby!
Nope, just WD-40, even where it was dirty. I just sprayed the dirty part, used my dirty rag to get the dirt up, then sprayed again and used a clean rag to buff it up. I love it.

[Avetiso]

Well, just got my wheel installed. It took a while because I had to wrap my lower trim, but the part that was peeling was visible through the wrap, so I had to sand it. Eventually, I got it wrapped. There are some slight imperfections, but for the $20 I paid for the wrap, it certainly is better than buying a new trim! I'll take some pictures tomorrow, it's too dark now.

[Avetiso]

I never realized you could use WD-40 to clean the engine bay......you learn something every day! :thumbsup
I didn't believe it when I heard it, but this stuff is awesome. Works great and you don't pay the "car cleaner" premium.

[Avetiso]

Anyone have a part number for the little ///M logo on the steering wheel? I destroyed mine upon removal when I was wrapping, so I need a new one.

Much appreciated.

[Vas]

Not sold separately

But here

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?7893-Steering-Wheel-M-Emblem

[Avetiso]

Not sold separately

But here

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?7893-Steering-Wheel-M-Emblem
Damn, should have been more careful. Oh well. Thanks for the link, I might order one.

[Lanister]

Anyone have a part number for the little ///M logo on the steering wheel? I destroyed mine upon removal when I was wrapping, so I need a new one.

Much appreciated.

How do you destroy it during removal? It's nowhere near any mounting points. :scratchinghead

[Pip]

Prob a screw driver scratch.

[Avetiso]

How do you destroy it during removal? It's nowhere near any mounting points. :scratchinghead
To wrap the trim, you have to remove it out of the depression it sits in. It's hard, brittle plastic at 11 years old. Kinda hard lol.

[Avetiso]

Prob a screw driver scratch.
More like a gouge, :rofl.

[Lanister]

Oh you vinyl wrapped it silver?

[Avetiso]

Oh you vinyl wrapped it silver?

No, flat black. Decided against silver.

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[Tlandreth22]

Dario, I'd be happy to send you a new ///M emblem I have left over from my wheels. I'm pretty sure it'll fit. Shoot me a PM if you still need one!