Shawn's (Colin's) '04 OB/tan, 6MT Sedan (KM06730)

[ELCID86]

Thought I'd start a thread for Colin's car. Still haven't convinced him to join here.

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[ELCID86]

PO:
inspection 1, wiper inserts @23,176 - 4/12/06
brake fluid, oil and filter, wiper inserts, sunroof adjust @35,929 - 3/21/07
Rear pads and rotors, alternator/h2o pump belt, A/C belt, wiper inserts, inspection 2 @49,468 -5/8/08
Diff., transmission, brake flush, oil change @65,179 - 5/4/10
Hood roudel and wiper blade replace @66,942 - 2/9/11
Front pads, rotors, sensors, oil and filter @72,000 - 3/7/13

Current owner:
P/S o-ring - 5/4/13
DVD Nav disk updated
afe dry airfilter installed - 5/15/13
Windows tinted - 8/8/13
Front tires replaced w/ Kumho Ecsta - 4/20/13 @72,265mi
Rear tires replaced w/ Kumho Ecsta - 10/22/13
Euro tray installed
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First Aid box installed
Ultimate Cupholder added
Aux jack installed
Bav Auto Berber matts 4/16/13
alignment @76,948 - 11/21/13

To Do:
CDV delete
fuel filter

[ELCID86]

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[johnrando]

he's got to join. I'm not going to read this.. oops... dang! :biggrin

[ELCID86]

CDV deleted. Thanks for the help Bruce. And the recommendation on the twisty route back home. Colin enjoyed the drive and likes the shifting better.


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

[Pip]

CDV deleted. Thanks for the help Bruce. And the recommendation on the twisty route back home. Colin enjoyed the drive and likes the shifting better.


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

I need to do this. I'll see if I can do it this week since it shouldn't take too much time.

[BCS_ZHP]

CDV deleted. Thanks for the help Bruce. And the recommendation on the twisty route back home. Colin enjoyed the drive and likes the shifting better.


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

No prob, anytime. Got my stuff done (oops, wrong thread), just finished dinner and enjoying a Palmetto Amber (wrong thread again) it's great, thank you Colin.

[BCS_ZHP]

I need to do this. I'll see if I can do it this week since it shouldn't take too much time.

Sean, note to self, don't wear a long sleeve shirt when you do the CDV removal. It's going to run on your hand and down your arm, I had 2 layers of long sleeve on today and could feel the wetness until I finished my other job. You only need 2-17mm open ended wrenches and 1-11mm open ended wrench. If you're quick in doing this, you lose a little bit of fluid but no pressure bleeding required. A 2nd set of hands is very helpful to be quick.
Bruce

[QC_ZHP]

I'd love to know how many OB/tan ZHP's there are. Also, very cool that you're family has 2 OB sedans, I'm jealous of his christmas presents:thumbsup

[ELCID86]

No prob, anytime. Got my stuff done (oops, wrong thread), just finished dinner and enjoying a Palmetto Amber (wrong thread again) it's great, thank you Colin.

No worries. Glad you enjoyed it. Will check Preston's thread for your progress!


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[Pip]

Sean, note to self, don't wear a long sleeve shirt when you do the CDV removal. It's going to run on your hand and down your arm, I had 2 layers of long sleeve on today and could feel the wetness until I finished my other job. You only need 2-17mm open ended wrenches and 1-11mm open ended wrench. If you're quick in doing this, you lose a little bit of fluid but no pressure bleeding required. A 2nd set of hands is very helpful to be quick.
Bruce

Did you clamp the line when doing this or just have a second set of hands nearby?

[BCS_ZHP]

Did you clamp the line when doing this or just have a second set of hands nearby?

Sean, I was taught to never clamp any pressurized rubber lines as it might possibly damage the inside of the line and you'd never know until it fails, I still follow that guidance. Shawn, Colin & I collaborated on the CDV removal.

[ELCID86]

I'd love to know how many OB/tan ZHP's there are. Also, very cool that you're family has 2 OB sedans, I'm jealous of his christmas presents:thumbsup

ZHPRegistry has 11 OB/sand sedans and 1 coupe and 2 reg-tops. There are 15 total w/ Natty Brown which is what I have on my other car. http://www.zhpregistry.net/Query.aspx

Now wondering if I should have gone 6k on the AEs instead of 4300.

[QC_ZHP]

ZHPRegistry has 11 OB/sand sedans and 1 coupe and 2 reg-tops. There are 15 total w/ Natty Brown which is what I have on my other car. http://www.zhpregistry.net/Query.aspx

Now wondering if I should have gone 6k on the AEs instead of 4300.

Nice! Make that 12 OB/tan sedans, just added mine. Closing in on 80,000, I'd love to know mileage stats.

Loving the new sig btw.

[Avetiso]

My car was originally OB/Dove, total matches: 1 (mine) . OB/Alcantara: 3.

:)

[QC_ZHP]

Good stuff. I want Alcantara in mine, but sometimes I really enjoy the OB/sand look. Classy.

[Avetiso]

Good stuff. I want Alcantara in mine, but sometimes I really enjoy the OB/sand look. Classy.
Those are the two interiors I would like. Only thing about Alcantara is faster wear, which sucks. Gets dirty easy, too. But it's awesome for comfort.

[ELCID86]

Those are the two interiors I would like. Only thing about Alcantara is faster wear, which sucks. Gets dirty easy, too. But it's awesome for comfort.


Totally agree I love the Alc. and considered swapping Botond for my NB. I am still torn but leaning towards keeping the NB leather. I would swap this car's tan if I had the opportunity. Though the dash would be a bear.



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

[az3579]

Totally agree I love the Alc. and considered swapping Botond for my NB. I am still torn but leaning towards keeping the NB leather. I would swap this car's tan if I had the opportunity. Though the dash would be a bear.



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Well the offer is still there. ;)

[Reckless]

Does your son go to school in Charleston? I have been keeping an eye out for the zhp, but have only seen one in the last two years...

[ELCID86]

Does your son go to school in Charleston? I have been keeping an eye out for the zhp, but have only seen one in the last two years...

Yes, at The Citadel so you'd only spot him one night a week or on the weekend.

[ELCID86]

This overspray happened back in Nov but we didn't realize it until Colin was home for Thanksgiving--though it was just dirty. I happened to see some guys painting a wall (on a very windy day) near the student parking lot when I dropped some things off at his carbon my way out of town in Homecoming weekend. The school is paying for removal and paint correction when he gets home next week.

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[Avetiso]

Ouch. I had that before. Such a pain in the ass.

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[ELCID86]

12/27/13 @78244 mi

afe CAI and (dry) filter

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Weighted shift knob

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Clutch stop

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Plus the little door on the stone guard under the engine.



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[ELCID86]

Oh yeah. And fuel filter

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Thanks for the virtual assists!


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[danewilson77]

Is it remedied?

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[ELCID86]

yes, really strange. I switched the two rear hose back to where they were originally and it started right up after leaving the key in pos.#2 for a few seconds (which i'd done previously). Only thing I did different was say a prayer. Amen!

[Vas]

Over spray got removed?

Love the look of a brand new shift knob.

[ELCID86]

Detailer comes on Monday. Pretty psyched.

[fredo]

A prayer ? That explains everything ! :biggrin

[ELCID86]

^yep.

[ELCID86]

Paint correction and detail today by dominionautodetailingva.com

Never seen the wheels that clean (and the rest of the car).
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[fredo]

Amazing results. Glad the school agreed to pay. How much did they charge ?

[ELCID86]

He told me the job runs $250-275. I think he a added a small "travel charge" for them. Great guy. I learned a lot too. I guess he and Phil from Detailer's Domain are pretty close. He's been to some classes up there and buys a lot of product there.

[Avetiso]

So that's what OB can look like?

[ELCID86]

So that's what OB can look like?

Yeah exactly. And I have another one to compare it to... I guess that's on my To Do list now. After VCG and VANOS seals.

[Vas]

Looks good.

[ELCID86]

Thanks. The paint corrections really made the chips and road rash evident. Need to try some touch up and Dr. CC.

[ELCID86]

Gave Colin's car a bath today in SC.

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[QC_ZHP]

Why the interior change?

[ELCID86]

NB is more better! I really don't like the sand and am working to get all the pieces together for the swap this summer.

[QC_ZHP]

No argument there! So the sand is going in yours though?

[ELCID86]

No, mine is already NB and I think it will sell better with that than sand. I'll sell the sand parts. I may end up dyeing some of the seats I can't source economically.

[PirateZHP]

No, mine is already NB and I think it will sell better with that than sand. I'll sell the sand parts. I may end up dyeing some of the seats I can't source economically.

When you are ready, I may be interested in the sand front seats... mine are pretty bad off. The structure is fine, but they may be beyond leatherique-ing.

[QC_ZHP]

No, mine is already NB and I think it will sell better with that than sand. I'll sell the sand parts. I may end up dyeing some of the seats I can't source economically.

Oh I gotcha. I thought you two were swapping. I need to look into an NB swap, I love the tan/black, but there's just too much tan in the sand interior for me. I wonder how it would look if I two toned my sand the same way NB is setup.

[ELCID86]

Oh I gotcha. I thought you two were swapping. I need to look into an NB swap, I love the tan/black, but there's just too much tan in the sand interior for me. I wonder how it would look if I two toned my sand the same way NB is setup.

Might be a good look. I saw a guy on e46f had done something like that. I'm hoping to have the dash soon. I really don't like the tan dash bits.


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[Tlandreth22]

Natural Brown is one of my all time favorites as is alcantara. The paint correction looked great as well.

[ELCID86]

Natural Brown is one of my all time favorites as is alcantara. The paint correction looked great as well.
Ditto. And thanks, it did come out nicely.

[ELCID86]

When you are ready, I may be interested in the sand front seats... mine are pretty bad off. The structure is fine, but they may be beyond leatherique-ing.

Will keep that (you) in mind. I think I'll most likely end up dyeing them. I have a guy here who will do the fronts for $100/ea and the back for $175.

[QC_ZHP]

Will keep that (you) in mind. I think I'll most likely end up dyeing them. I have a guy here who will do the fronts for $100/ea and the back for $175.

Any idea how long the process takes? May be something I'd be interested in.

[ELCID86]

I'm really not sure. Bill and Charlie have experience with this.

[ELCID86]

I was asked how bright the amber fogs lights are. Hard to compare since it is all that is installed, but here is a shot or two with only parking lights and the. With fogs on. (I should have probably turned off the light on the side of the house...)

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[ELCID86]

Failed VA safety inspection today for torn wiper blades (replaced), trunk bulb inoperable (replaced both with Ziza), and trifecta enabled... Ugh. Thanks to Justin, BP, Bruce and Tony for help and recommendations. I thought about just pulling the fuse and I don't have time to get it coded and reinspected before he leaves on Sun. I called the inspector and they said if the fogs are not installed then they don't have to work so it will pass. They have been removed and will be reinstalled tomorrow after the inspection!


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[az3579]

Failed VA safety inspection today for torn wiper blades (replaced), trunk bulb inoperable (replaced both with Ziza), and trifecta enabled... Ugh. Thanks to Justin, BP, Bruce and Tony for help and recommendations. I thought about just pulling the fuse and I don't have time to get it coded and reinspected before he leaves on Sun. I called the inspector and they said if the fogs are not installed then they don't have to work so it will pass. They have been removed and will be reinstalled tomorrow after the inspection!


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There have been numerous reports of people failing VA inspection for having removed fog lights but leaving the switch and wiring intact. According to the law, if it's installed then it has to work, so them seeing the switch most likely will result in a failure if you don't swap the LCM with one that doesn't have a fog button.

Please let me know if you need an emergency coding and I'll head down on Saturday if need be.


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[PirateZHP]

Why would trifecta get you a fail? Doesn't that mean the fogs are on?

[Vas]

Some Virginia state inspectors are super picky.

[ELCID86]

Why would trifecta get you a fail? Doesn't that mean the fogs are on?

Fog lights can't be on when brights are. Trifecta allows all 6 lights to be on at once.

Some Virginia state inspectors are super picky.

I guess. My car passed in Nov though...

[Tnhl1989]

Haha you should've told them that they pass it before and that you could report them since they messed up. Messing though. Good luck! I always try to go to my regular inspector that let's somethings slide.

[ELCID86]

Car passed this morning with fogs removed! Thanks for the assist guys and Botund's willingness to drive my way and re-code the car--what a guy.


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[ELCID86]

Oil changed at ~80,386.

[TigerTater]

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Where does one find the window sticker? Or is that one of the things you have to get from original purchase?

[ELCID86]

Where does one find the window sticker? Or is that one of the things you have to get from original purchase?

Monroney sticker is passed down from original owner.

[ELCID86]

Planned for this weekend. Start time still TBD.

Plugs, VCG, Vanos swap, OFHG, cooling system (- radiator).




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[Avetiso]

Sounds like fun.

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[johnrando]

Yup, good stuff.

[ELCID86]

Finally got the car back together about 11PM last night.

Miles: 82,335

-OFHG
-VCG
-Spark plugs
-VANOS (Dr. VANOS)
-MAF cleaned
-PS fluid swap and new reservoir/filter
-Thermostat, water pump, both sensors, expansion tank, all three pulleys and both belts

Colin also inherited my BWM PAI and CF Strut bar. He was very happy about that!

[TigerTater]

That's a lot! Prolly everything I've done since I had the car and you did it all at once.


Sent from my iPhone 13

[ELCID86]

That's a lot! Prolly everything I've done since I had the car and you did it all at once.


Sent from my iPhone 13
I was just glad when the car started up at 11pm last night!
And now Tony tell's me I didn't do enough--that I should have done the CCV while I was in there.... He's probably right and I meant to pull the DISA and check it bu forgot.

[ELCID86]

The final product.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/12/ehe4a5uz.jpg


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[fredo]

Me like it !

[alexandre]

The psychology of "while I'm in there". LOL.

[Tnhl1989]

More like since you have enough space to reach for everything.

[ELCID86]

Shoulda, woulda , coulda...


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[ELCID86]

Done: 6/15/14 @82,445mi

Diff fluid
Tranny fluid
Bleed brakes
Replace broken wheel well part on right side--done

To Do:
Interior swap and dye
repair/replace c-pillars
Ziza interior lighting
angel eyes?

[ELCID86]

Put 12mm spacers on the front while I was doing work on the front wheel well. Thoughts?

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/sebu2e4u.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/ate2yru4.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/15/heveta7e.jpg




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[Avetiso]

:thumbsup

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[ELCID86]

:thumbsup

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Of course you'd say that! ;-)


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[Avetiso]

Of course you'd say that! ;-)


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Haha. I actually kind of forgot you had them. What took you so long?

[ELCID86]

Needed an excuse to put them on and I had to pull the wheel to replace the wheel well part. Still need to out on the rears. I hope to do that today when I have it lifted to do the tranny and diff. Might take on a brake flush also.


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[ELCID86]

Colin and I Finished the tranny and diff fluid today. Boy was it brown after 20k and 4 years.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/gyde7u4y.jpg

Also did brake fluid. The BavAuto bleeder was a real help.

Added 12mm spacers to the rear (comments welcome on the stance).
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/vedy9yza.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/4are4u5u.jpg

I do think his rears will need replacing before too long.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/qubavune.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/y5e4uve5.jpg

Also put on new hubcaps!

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/ysa7uryj.jpg


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[fredo]

Sounds like a busy day. How long it takes to complete the maintenance you mentioned ?

[ELCID86]

Sounds like a busy day. How long it takes to complete the maintenance you mentioned ?

It was. I did this after working the church parking lot, going to church, attending a high school graduation party and watching some World Cup!.
Not sure, I'd say @ 2.3-3 hours at a leisurely pace. I lost track of time and couldn't believe it was 7pm when I got out of the shower.

[ELCID86]

Just installed SW 4.0 LCM with triple-blink and rear fog lights.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/e3yhytu3.jpg

Lights on:

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/yhujyju4.jpg

Rear fogs on:

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/6egynesa.jpg


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[Hermes]

Rear fogs are dope

[danewilson77]

Looks good Shawn.

The friendliest forum on the planet.

[johnrando]

+ 1. Looks good. Nice werk.

sent from a galaxy

[ELCID86]

Thanks guys. I appreciate all the advice. I really see the need for periodic maintenance driven on a calendar (vs. miles) basis. The transmission and differential especially.

[NoVAphotog]

Nice work Shawn! Looks great. Thanks again for your help on my car that day as well! :fistpump

[Vas]

I blame this thread for reminding me I should do maintenance to my wife's car. Half an hour later and I got an order from Turner Motorsports for filters,fluids, and a clutch line.

[ELCID86]

I blame this thread for reminding me I should do maintenance to my wife's car. Half an hour later and I got an order from Turner Motorsports for filters,fluids, and a clutch line.
My wife asked me "so are you finally done or is this perpetual...?"

WHy the clutch line?

[Vas]

I have not told my wife yet lol.

Clutch line because I will be removing the Cdv and bleeding the system so I thought while I am in there lol.

[ELCID86]

It's sunny out so I decided to clean the black carpet I sourced from Sambucci Bros in NYC and Colin picked up last week on his trip to Cape Cod. I think it looks pretty good. I still need to source the NB fronts. Working a lead.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/27/yry2abat.jpg


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[QC_ZHP]

Very nice. I'm jealous he's ditching the tan

[Vas]

Hmm natural brown...

[ELCID86]

Replaced rear right window regulator with OEM.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/29/u9y2ypy3.jpg

[BCS_ZHP]

Bet Kim is loving "regular maintenance"...

[ELCID86]

Also noticed a leak near bottom of new ET. Need to investigate. Perhaps the sensor.

[ELCID86]

Bet Kim is loving "regular maintenance"...

She didn't say anything about two trips to the dealer today :-) of course we did have to drive all the way back to Tyson's Corner to fetch her cell phone from a restaurant. ;-)

[BCS_ZHP]

Are you sure ET is fully seated, I gently pounded mine into seating? Also underneath, is the retaining clip there? And doesn't one hose connect underneath too?

[danewilson77]

Also noticed a leak near bottom of new ET. Need to investigate. Perhaps the sensor.
Figured you would have just untangled the wire and rewrapped it.

The friendliest forum on the planet!

[ELCID86]

Figured you would have just untangled the wire and rewrapped it.

The friendliest forum on the planet!

Why didn't I think of that? :-)

[ELCID86]

Colin was informed today that he has to be back at school tomorrow (though he was able to delay it until Tue) since he has a leadership position. He thought he didn't have to be be back until 8/23. This motivated me to do the two front window regulators. While I was at it I put sound dampening (RAAMat) in all four doors. I also now have the four NB door cards installed. His NB front seats are supposed to ship tomorrow, but I guess the rest of the interior swap will be a Christmas furlough project.

Installed OEM L&R fog light covers.

[QC_ZHP]

Where'd you wind up finding the front seats?

[ELCID86]

Where'd you wind up finding the front seats?
I'm going with coupe seats to start with then may dye the current tan seats if I'm not happy with that. I was real close to getting a complete NB interior, but someone beat me to it :ducking:jealous

[ELCID86]

So the interior swap is on hold until Christmas brake when Colin is home on break. I'm taking the time to Leatherique and repair the NB front seats I recently found.

Here is a preview of Colin's birthday present (not until Oct). Some Coby custom goodness.

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[az3579]

Could you please post before/after pics of the leatherique job? :)

[ELCID86]

Could you please post before/after pics of the leatherique job? :)

Already started on one seat, but will do on the 2nd one.

[az3579]

Already started on one seat, but will do on the 2nd one.

Thanks Shawn.


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[NoVAphotog]

Is that...what I think it is? The leather-alcantara combo wheel we MUSED about...it's beautiful...

:drool

[TheFinanceGuy]

So the interior swap is on hold until Christmas brake when Colin is home on break. I'm taking the time to Leatherique and repair the NB front seats I recently found.

Here is a preview of Colin's birthday present (not until Oct). Some Coby custom goodness.

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Ugh.... Want to adopt me? I'd like a new colby wheel.

Leatherique is good stuff! I'm probably due for another cleaning.

[ELCID86]

A few before pics of NB seats.

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And after Leatherique

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There is some cracking, a tear and seam separating and I dropped them to be repaired and redyed for $100/ea.

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[az3579]

Wow, those Leatherique results are impressive. Thanks Shawn!
Doing research so I'm armed for when I get a set of NB seats in my possession! One day...

[ELCID86]

Understood. It does help. Even more so if it's done regularly.


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[WOLFN8TR]

Looks good Shawn! My seat has a tear in the same exact area. Sucks...

[OtterEffect]

Here is a preview of Colin's birthday present (not until Oct). Some Coby custom goodness.



Oh my gosh :drool I had no idea he could do leather/alcantara mix.


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[ELCID86]

^ I saw Mike had done one for his car and asked...

I'm in SC for my sis's cancer surgery today. Had the boys over for dinner last night.

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Colin's car needs a bath!

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[ELCID86]

87,700 yesterday.

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[ELCID86]

Colin installing his "birthday" wheel.

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[WOLFN8TR]

Sweet! Nice Birthday present. :thumbup

[az3579]

Love it.


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[danewilson77]

DOTY

No flame suit required!

[fredo]

Nice present. But, I thought the install was included ! :biggrin

[ELCID86]

I took Colin's car by the USAA approved paint shop today to get the bumper repair started from where the lady in the BAT backed into him. The repair estimate is $711.90 with no out of pocket expense. I asked about having the rest of the bumper sprayed while they have it off the car. There are also a few spots on the hood and so I added that to the "how much" (prep, spray hood and blend fenders). The guys comes back with a printout and the estimate is another $712.37. He says I can save one hour of labor @$45/hr if I remove the grilles, side markers and roundel. That still sounds very high to me. Thoughts? He alrady has 5.5 hours for the initial bumper cover repair then and additional 4 hours for the rest of it?

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Big Ass Truck

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[az3579]

For what is essentially a front end respray, ~$1400 sounds about right to me...
One thing doesn't add up though. $45/hr @ 5.5 hrs is far less than the over $700 figure for just the front bumper; what gives? The paint isn't THAT expensive...

[ELCID86]

For what is essentially a front end respray, ~$1400 sounds about right to me...

I hadn't looked at it that way, I was just focused on the fact they already had the R&I of the bumper "covered" :-]

Thanks for the other view Botond. I do think I'll have it done, just wish I could get them down a few hundred.

[Vas]

Shawn, that actually sounds a bit high to me based on the pictures.

[alexandre]

As a data point, I was quoted $1400 for bumper, fenders and hood. Seems about right.

[ELCID86]

Thanks.
Oil changed at 88,808 today.


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[BCS_ZHP]

Shawn,
I can help you remove bumper, grilles, hood emblem, etc., it might save a little more labor. But let them reinstall so you can't get blamed for any scratches.
Bruce

[ELCID86]

Shawn,
I can help you remove bumper, grilles, hood emblem, etc., it might save a little more labor. But let them reinstall so you can't get blamed for any scratches.
Bruce

Thanks Bruce. The actual bumper cover remove and install is covered by the insurance portion (which Colin was not at fault and we don't have a deductible). That's part of the reason the second $700+ quote threw me off. I can pop the hood emblem and side light off. I think when I drop it off I'll see if there is a manager around that will work with me a bit. At least I'll see if they'll throw in painting the lower grill while they have it all apart.

[fredo]

It sounds like u are paying. The other driver changed her story ?
Edit : I understand now after reading post 123.

[Hornung418]

It sounds like u are paying. The other driver changed her story ?
Bumper is covered, the hood and fenders are not. That's what the second quote is for.

"You don't have to blow out my candle just to make yours shine brighter."

[ELCID86]

Bumper is covered, the hood and fenders are not. That's what the second quote is for.

"You don't have to blow out my candle just to make yours shine brighter."

Second quote includes that (just fading the fenders) plus prep and respray of the rest of the cover. The insurance quite only covers repair of the one area and they plan to clear-coat the whole thing (which I'm not relishing b/c it will just bring out all the other flaws--road rash, etc.).

[fredo]

I got a similar dent on my bumper 3 years ago. The body shop (recommended by Geico) wanted to replace and paint the bumper cover. At the end, I just kept the money. I'm surprised your body shop is planning to fix just the affected area and apply clear coat to all the cover.

More info : looking at your pic again, most of your damage is on the trim. In my case, there's no trim on the e90 and so my bumper ended with a small hole.

[Vas]

Wait, the first quote only covers only fixing the damaged part on the bumper cover?

[ELCID86]

I got a similar dent on my bumper 3 years ago. The body shop (recommended by Geico) wanted to replace and paint the bumper cover. At the end, I just kept the money. I'm surprised your body shop is planning to fix just the affected area and apply clear coat to all the cover.

More info : looking at your pic again, most of your damage is on the trim. In my case, there's no trim on the e90 and so my bumper ended with a small hole.
Me too. I tried to convince him it needed to re replaced. No luck.

Wait, the first quote only covers only fixing the damaged part on the bumper cover?
Yes. and the trim.

[Vas]

I would go get another quote at a different body shop IMO. Spot fixing and painting is a cheap way of fixing body panels.

Your original quote should be include removing the bumper, fixing the damage, paint and installation. Then replacing the broken trim with a new one ($18 part iirc)

For $711 that bumper better be spotless and not painted in pieces.

[fredo]

+1 on a 2nd quote.

[az3579]

I would go get another quote at a different body shop IMO. Spot fixing and painting is a cheap way of fixing body panels.

Your original quote should be include removing the bumper, fixing the damage, paint and installation. Then replacing the broken trim with a new one ($18 part iirc)

For $711 that bumper better be spotless and not painted in pieces.

This.
Sounds like a lazy body shop taking advantage of insurance.

[ELCID86]

Dropped it today for repairs and paint.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[Vas]

This should be good. In for pictures of fresh paint.

[ELCID86]

We just got the car back from paint. It looks really good. The right bumper has a bit of a gap I'd like to have them adjust, but it will have to wait until after Colin's graduation in May as he leave this weekend. They also forgot to paint the lower grille and will do that then as well. I didn't know they were going to reinstall the grilles and side markers as I plan to replace them (and didn't pay for the r/r of them). Oh well, we hope to do that, new headlight lenses and bleed the brakes tomorrow. I also need to hit the old trim with some Super VRT!

He cut me some slack on the price. $644 OOP.

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[Vas]

Looks great.

[fredo]

+1. Are u going to replace both headlamp lenses ? The driver's side look good.

[ELCID86]

I need to relook at it. I think it's hazy but it does look clear in the pic.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[ELCID86]

Alright. Got the brakes bled (x2 as I had a soft pedal after #1), new gloss black grilles installed. Right headlight lens replaced (Fred was right, the other one looked good). Replaced wiper inserts.

Also reconnected a fog light that the shop had not or that had come loose.
:facepalm
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[ryankokesh]

Nice!!


Sent from my iPhone

[ELCID86]

Pictures of the grilles. Colin heads back to The Citadel for his final semester today.

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[fredo]

Looks like his ZHP is ready for the road.

[NoVAphotog]

Nice werk! These cars look so much better with the gloss black grills. The chrome just doesn't fit in with the Shadowline trim...

[danewilson77]

Nice werk! These cars look so much better with the gloss black grills. The chrome just doesn't fit in with the Shadowline trim...
I think it actually works with certain colors and themes.

"No flamesuit required"

[ELCID86]

I agree. I had them for my red car, but not sure when I'll get around to having the front clip painted so figured I'd put them to use. Colin likes the look.

BTW, if you don't have studs and don't have a "wheel hanger", get one or the other. Makes the job so much easier.

I borrowed a friends air wrench too. I need one bad!


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[englishtom1596]

Awesome maintenance history write up! Sounds like your sons very lucky to have you around taking care of the car!

[ELCID86]

Awesome maintenance history write up! Sounds like your sons very lucky to have you around taking care of the car!

He is appreciative and did help with the brake bleed/tire removal/install.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[NoVAphotog]

I think it actually works with certain colors and themes.

"No flamesuit required"

Yeah, Alpine White and Silbergrau look good with them, but any of the "darker" colors I prefer with them, but personal preference of course.

[englishtom1596]

He is appreciative and did help with the brake bleed/tire removal/install.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.


That's awesome. My dad used to build rally cars back in the UK during his childhood but has no real interest in wrenching on cars anymore. It try and get him interested with my M3 but nothing. Keep that bond going!

[johnrando]

Good stuff

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[illirep]

Gloss black grills look great against Orient Blue.

[ELCID86]

Thanks guys. And I do think it looks a bit more aggressive than the chrome.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[az3579]

I believe Chrome has no place on a performance-oriented BMW.
Nice work, Shawn.

[NoVAphotog]

I believe Chrome has no place on a performance-oriented BMW.


:roundel

[NoVAphotog]

Added 12mm spacers to the rear (comments welcome on the stance).
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/vedy9yza.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/4are4u5u.jpg

Any more pictures of Colin's car after these were installed? When I saw it in person it looked perfect.

[ELCID86]

Sorry, I don't think I do and it's in SC as you know.

[cakM3]

If Colin doesn't drop the ride height then he should be okay with 12mm spacers. I had 12mm spacers on my rears and with the drop and Michelin PSS mounted, the tires rubbed just a little bit. I ended up putting 10mm spacers back there and the rubbing went away...the look was still perfect.

[ELCID86]

Torn upper and lower boot and broken DISA flap. Not sure what to do about the flap as he needs to go back to school next Tue or Wed. May have to loan him mine.
Still wrestling with the lower boot--tuff spot.

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[ELCID86]

Also cleaned the ICV at 90,700mi.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[Just_George]

I have a spare DISA valve...if you want, I could over-night it to you as a temporary solution, assuming you want to do the GAS rebuild kit or something like that as a more permanent solution. Say the word and I'll take it tomorrow for shipment Monday.

[ELCID86]

I have a spare DISA valve...if you want, I could over-night it to you as a temporary solution, assuming you want to do the GAS rebuild kit or something like that as a more permanent solution. Say the word and I'll take it tomorrow for shipment Monday.

Thanks George. Weighing my options now. I like the idea of GAS (kit or just buying their DISA). I can take one out of my other car as well. Is it bad to run the car w/out a DISA flap? He has to go to SC and back (in May). About 500 mi each way.

[ELCID86]

I borrowed the DISA from my car. All back together with Stett boots. Had to trim the top and bottom of the top boot but looks good.

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[Vas]

Those boots were thrashed. As far as the disa, I would get the kit. That's what I will be doing this week.

[ELCID86]

Those boots were thrashed. As far as the disa, I would get the kit. That's what I will be doing this week.

I agree. Only 90k on the car. I guess it's the 10+ years...

I'm feeling lazy and may order the new GAS DISA. I'm going to call them on Monday and see if they'll give me a discount on two and a couple of 1.2 BAR caps.

[az3579]

I agree. Only 90k on the car. I guess it's the 10+ years...

I'm feeling lazy and may order the new GAS DISA. I'm going to call them on Monday and see if they'll give me a discount on two and a couple of 1.2 BAR caps.

I did the rebuild on mine; their kit is very easy to put together! Trust me, it's worth it for that price difference; their DISA valve costs over 4x as much as the rebuild!

DISA Gold Valve - $399-414
Rebuild kit - $79-85
Rebuild kit with the expansion tank cap (they're running a special): $105

It's a no brainer Shawn. :)

[danewilson77]

I did the rebuild on mine; their kit is very easy to put together! Trust me, it's worth it for that price difference; their DISA valve costs over 4x as much as the rebuild!

DISA Gold Valve - $399-414
Rebuild kit - $79-85
Rebuild kit with the expansion tank cap (they're running a special): $105

It's a no brainer Shawn. :)
Unless his DISA fails the vacuum test in step one.

"No flamesuit required"

[ELCID86]

Thanks BP, I think I'll try that route (and get the cap special). Dane, I can't even test it as the base of the flap ist kaput. I'll leave mine in his car, try to rebuild his and see if it works in my car, then rebuild the one in car when he graduates in May.

[brettbimmer]

FWIW, I had to rebuild my DISA as it was rattling at about 70K miles. Rebuild is very straightforward and saves a bunch of $$. Here is a photo of it in pieces on the bench. Sorry that is the only one that I have of it during the process!

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[ELCID86]

Thanks Brett, I think I will go that route. I hope I don't need any parts from the old unit besides the DISA itself. I think all the bits from the flap got thrown out.

[danewilson77]

Thanks BP, I think I'll try that route (and get the cap special). Dane, I can't even test it as the base of the flap ist kaput. I'll leave mine in his car, try to rebuild his and see if it works in my car, then rebuild the one in car when he graduates in May.

Yep. Sounds good.

The friendliest forum on the planet.

[ELCID86]

On the watch/to do list.

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[ELCID86]

Took it in for wheel balance as we noticed a bit of an unevenness and got a call the FCABs are shot. Quote=$750!

Luckily I have a set of z4m ones I was going to put on my car. And I ordered another set from Husker today.

I know what I'm doing after work tonight.

I assume I need an alignment after that. ??


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[Vas]

Z4m bushings so yes. They add caster.

[johnrando]

GL on the project. Why did you pick Z4 ones?

[brettbimmer]

GL on the project. Why did you pick Z4 ones?

Z4M FCAB bushings are slightly offset and seem to tighten up the steering feel ever so slightly over the stock replacements which are centered in the lollypop bracket.

[ELCID86]

Thanks guys. Got them installed tonight with one phone-a-friend to Vas! And thanks to Advance Auto for "lending " us a puller.

Alignment scheduled for tomorrow.

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[Vas]

Glad to hear you got them on. Let us know how it feels with them.

[ELCID86]

Colin just got the alignment done (ballasted). Said the car feels great! There was some toe that's now gone. Tech did not the caster from the z4m FCABs but said they were even so now worries. I won't get to drive it until he gets back from camping in NC on Fri.

The mechanic did note a torn tie rod boot but didn't have one in stock. I hope we can pass VA inspection.

Any thoughts on "patching " a torn boot? Maybe that spray stuff on TV?! :-)


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[Johnmadd]

Maybe gorilla tape :dunno

[Vas]

Any chance you got a pic of the allignment sheet ?

[johnrando]

Glad that's set. You talking Flex Seal? No idea if that works. Maybe it would as a temp solution. Interesting that that wouldn't pass inspection.

[ELCID86]

Any chance you got a pic of the allignment sheet ?

sure. Print camber concerning?

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[ELCID86]

Glad that's set. You talking Flex Seal? No idea if that works. Maybe it would as a temp solution. Interesting that that wouldn't pass inspection.

yeah. He didn't actually inspect it but said it would fail. I didnt think the place in usually take it even puts it on a lift. I guess tape might work for a temp fix.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[NoVAphotog]

yeah. He didn't actually inspectnit but said bit would fail. I dint thinkbthe place in usually take it even puts it on a lift. I guess tale might work for a temp fix.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.
Better check those thumbs... [emoji14]



Sent from an HTC One

[Vas]

sure. Print camber concerning?

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Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.
Just was curious how much caster the bushings add. Thanks for posting it. Looks really good.

[ELCID86]

Better check those thumbs... [emoji14]



Sent from an HTC One

wow. And my eyes! fixed.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[ELCID86]

Rebuilt Colin's DISA. He heads back to SC tomorrow until he graduates in May.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[ELCID86]

Oh and new 1.2 BAR G.A.S. ET cap.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[Vas]

Car will probably drive soo much better now. And no pesky check engine light.

[ELCID86]

Car will probably drive soo much better now. And no pesky check engine light.

Yes. and he has 500 miles to find out tomorrow!

[ELCID86]

Colin finally got his car to the shop and had them spray the lower grille.

19835


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[danewilson77]

Almost looks like there's no grill there :)

[ELCID86]

Maybe I can do that mod to mine!


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[johnrando]

The 'no grill' grill. Looks good (I guess, since I can't see it. lol)

[ELCID86]

Oil and filter changed at 95,346.

And strut bar reinstalled.

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[brettbimmer]

Oil and filter changed at 95,346.

And strut bar reinstalled.

20367



Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.
Ah she looks good!!

[johnrando]

+1

sent from mobile device

[ELCID86]

Colin called on his way home today and said he had a yellow oil light. We checked it tonight and it looks fine. Oil level sensor on the "watch list" (and on hand).


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[BCS_ZHP]

You know, I never had a watch list or just-in-case parts in the garage until I owned BMWs, isn't that part of the fun!

[NoVAphotog]

Colin called on his way home today and said he had a yellow oil light. We checked it tonight and it looks fine. Oil level sensor on the "watch list" (and on hand).


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

Haven't seen that in awhile... *knocks on wood*

[ELCID86]

You know, I never had a watch list or just-in-case parts in the garage until I owned BMWs, isn't that part of the fun!

So that's what you call it. Thanks for the reminder ;-)!


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Was it when he was driving or parked the car and turned it off?

[ELCID86]

Was it when he was driving or parked the car and turned it off?

Driving in traffic on 95.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[az3579]

My sensor failed as well, and comes on every time I start the car. It stays for about 5 seconds after the car is on then goes away for good. Even if the oil level dips below thresholds it won't illuminate until I turn the car off and turn it on again. Fully topped up makes no difference.

[ELCID86]

My sensor failed as well, and comes on every time I start the car. It stays for about 5 seconds after the car is on then goes away for good. Even if the oil level dips below thresholds it won't illuminate until I turn the car off and turn it on again. Fully topped up makes no difference.

Plan to swap the sensor?


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[az3579]

Plan to swap the sensor?


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.


Nope. Not until I need an oil pan gasket. Not worth the labor for just a sensor that I don't technically need.
The only time I could see the need for it is if something catastrophic happens and all my oil comes out somewhere. But, with 226k on the motor, it's a crapshoot anyway.

If the oil pan does come off, the sensor, the gasket, and the oil pump nut are getting addressed at the same time, as well as the installation of an oil pan baffle. .

[BMWCurves]

Seems fair, BP.

Shawn, my yellow oil light has been coming on intermittently for the past few months, both while driving and and right after I turn off the car. I've checked the oil level and it's right near the full indicator on the dipstick. It hasn't leaked a drop over the last ~1,000 miles either. I am planning to replace it on my next oil change since it doesn't appear to be difficult. It just involves the additional step of removing the skid plate. Vas mentioned in my project thread that he had the same issue and he replaced it with an OEM part, which now runs about $130. Non-BMW equivalent is cheaper, closer to $50.

[NoVAphotog]

Seems fair, BP.

Shawn, my yellow oil light has been coming on intermittently for the past few months, both while driving and and right after I turn off the car. I've checked the oil level and it's right near the full indicator on the dipstick. It hasn't leaked a drop over the last ~1,000 miles either. I am planning to replace it on my next oil change since it doesn't appear to be difficult. It just involves the additional step of removing the skid plate. Vas mentioned in my project thread that he had the same issue and he replaced it with an OEM part, which now runs about $130. Non-BMW equivalent is cheaper, closer to $50.

Mine did that for awhile as well as Shawn knows...went away after I switched to Mobil 1 OW-40 from the BMW 5W-30 oil...car for some reason just did not like the OEM oil and was eating it up so I figured my sensor was actually doing it's job as I would top it up every so often. No issues at all with the 0W-40.

[BMWCurves]

Hmmm...I hadn't considered that! That's definitely a possibility. For my own situation, the previous owners maintained the car at a dealership so I assume the car has had BMW 5W-30 its entire life. No mention in the service records of the oil light coming on. That is in no way conclusive evidence, but for me at least (with the lack of any oil consumption), suggests a faulty sensor.

[Vas]

I actually bought an OE sensor from the bmw dealer and replaced it when I did my oil change. No issues since then.

It used to only come on though when i turned off the car.

[ELCID86]

Colin installed new OEM center caps today. No more ghetto look.

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Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[ELCID86]

New gas OEM cap installed as PM.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[ELCID86]

Milestone. 100k

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[Whammy]

Soo young.....lol

[anandoc]

Congrats on the 100,000 miles! My car is sitting at 158,900 Kms so it will soon turn to 160,000 Kms and I get to celebrate the 100K miles :)

[ELCID86]

Congrats on the 100,000 miles! My car is sitting at 158,900 Kms so it will soon turn to 160,000 Kms and I get to celebrate the 100K miles :)

:thumbsup I'm about to roll 200k mi in mine.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[ELCID86]

Installed BavSound speakers in front doors and reapplied butyl tape along lower vapor barriers after finding wet carpet.
Colin called and said the SES light came on so need to pull the code... :-/


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[johnrando]

Good stuff

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Vas]

Pull the code ?

[ELCID86]

Pull the code ?

Not yet. Hopefully this week.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Check engine came up as well on sketchi.

[ELCID86]

Colin said his SES light went off. I still plan to see if there are any stored codes.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Pull the code. Could be something similar to mine for the maf.

I reset it and it has not come back on.

[ELCID86]

Pull the code. Could be something similar to mine for the maf.

I reset it and it has not come back on.

Will do.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[danewilson77]

Colin said his SES light went off. I still plan to see if there are any stored codes.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.
It'll be there.

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[ELCID86]

Yep. Misfire on 6. Cleared it.

22046


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[Vas]

Maybe it won't come back.

[ELCID86]

Maybe it won't come back.

Hoping not. Think it could be a plug or coil pack?


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[ELCID86]

Interior and BSW speaker swap continues.

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[ELCID86]

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[ELCID86]

Also replaced fuel pump at 102k mi.


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[Vas]

Hoping not. Think it could be a plug or coil pack?


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.
Have you done the spark plugs yet ? If not I would since you went over 100k

Nice job on the interior swap. I need to paint the rear deck

[ELCID86]

Plugs were done at 82k.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[BMWCurves]

Dat OB on NB :drool

[Vas]

Pull that spark plug out and see what it looks like. Could be a coil going bad.

[az3579]

You found fronts, Shawn??

sent from my Droid Turbo

[ELCID86]

You found fronts, Shawn??

sent from my Droid Turbo

The coupe seats I bought. While back. Not installed yet. Need to do the dash (which scars the heck out of me) and the carpet.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[johnrando]

Nice werk. How do you like the BSW's?

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[ELCID86]

Nice werk. How do you like the BSW's?

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

Colin says it's a definite improvement, but not very drastic--Just a bit better than old stock speakers. He still has a bit of a rattle at high volume that we need to isolate.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[ELCID86]

Oil/filter change at 105.7k.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Vas]

Any miss fire codes?

[ELCID86]

Any miss fire codes?

None on his car.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[ELCID86]

Colin ended the year with 107,535 mi (+18,580 in 2015)



---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46f member