The Random E46/ZHP Question Thread

[ZHPizza]

So my indy noticed one of the "body plugs" on the underside of the car was missing. Sure enough when he showed me, there is a clean punched out hole with fabric laying over i, which the indy states was the interior carpet. Naturally, it was wet and only a matter of time before mold becomes an issue. Is there a specific PN for the plug that is missing or do I have to try and figure something out?

Thanks

Uhh pick one?

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=EV53-USA-06-2004-E46-BMW-330i&diagId=51_3286

[Karl Lazlo]

So my indy noticed one of the "body plugs" on the underside of the car was missing.

For all your plug and cap needs:

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=EV53-USA-10-2002-E46-BMW-330i&diagId=51_3286

[704sw]

So my indy noticed one of the "body plugs" on the underside of the car was missing. Sure enough when he showed me, there is a clean punched out hole with fabric laying over i, which the indy states was the interior carpet. Naturally, it was wet and only a matter of time before mold becomes an issue. Is there a specific PN for the plug that is missing or do I have to try and figure something out?

Thanks

How large is the hole? You can buy rubber automotive plugs over an inch in diameter at Lowe’s/Home Depot. As for the moisture, I’d suggest putting a box fan in the car overnight facing the damp carpet if that’s an option.

[JPMo]

For all your plug and cap needs:

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=EV53-USA-10-2002-E46-BMW-330i&diagId=51_3286


Uhh pick one?

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=EV53-USA-06-2004-E46-BMW-330i&diagId=51_3286

Thanks, I'll have to figure out exactly where it is again.


How large is the hole? You can buy rubber automotive plugs over an inch in diameter at Lowe’s/Home Depot. As for the moisture, I’d suggest putting a box fan in the car overnight facing the damp carpet if that’s an option.
Its maybe just a few cm across. Large enough to fit a couple fingers and feel the carpet. Honestly I haven't noticed any moist carpet from the interior so I'll just have to investigate further.

Thanks everyone

[BMWCurves]

And/or use an ozone generator to kill any mold.


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[stephenkirsh]

How do you guys clean out your fluid extractors?

[danewilson77]

How do you guys clean out your fluid extractors?I have several of the green, 5 gallon water containers. As they get full, I take the oil to be recycled to Walmart.

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[stephenkirsh]

No, not disposing of the fluid, but cleaning the extractor itself.

Example, I extract PS fluid one day and the next I want to use it to put oil in the diff. I don't want any PS residue mixed in with the diff oil.

What's the best way to clean it?

[danewilson77]

No, not disposing of the fluid, but cleaning the extractor itself.

Example, I extract PS fluid one day and the next I want to use it to put oil in the diff. I don't want any PS residue mixed in with the diff oil.

What's the best way to clean it?Not sure, but I would think it would involve flushing a quart (some appreciable amount) of the new oil through the lines.

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[webster]

so i'm looking to replace both the main accessory and A/C tensioners as well as idler pulley. my question is what is the right part number for the A/C tensioner? do our ZHPs have 4 or 5 rib belts? any help would be appreciated!

edit: NVM, i think i found it. it's part 11287512758


next question: has anyone replaced the A/C tensioner and belt without lifting the car? i watched a YT DIY video and he has the car jacked up, but i am wanting to know if i can complete the job entirely from the top side. thanks!

[BMWCurves]

I did it on my sister's 330Xi without lifting it.

[SaltyNC]

I'm trying to identify a noise, and any help would be appreciated. 2005 330Ci coupe. I only hear it when the car is just beginning to accelerate, and it disappears after the car has warmed up a bit. It sounds to me like it is coming from behind the center of the dash. If any of you are old enough to remember what the old speedometer cables sounded like, that's the sound. It seems to be related to throttle or vacuum. I can give the car light throttle, and I hear a swishing noise like two metal disks lightly rubbing swish......swish......swish......swish......swish and then if I let off the accelerator, it can actually speed up swish..swish..swish..swish, and after a couple of seconds, it's gone and not heard from again. I also noticed that if I banked the car hard into a turn, I could sometimes induce a little swish..swish..swish, and then it would go away.

I had a few ideas -- CD in radio. Nope. Replaced the NAV unit, still there. Final stage resistor? Fan still seems to blow fine, but I do have one ready to go in.
Automatic climate control module fan? Bad passenger side front wheel bearing?

What do you guys think?

Salty

[Sockethead]

My first thought was the heater fan as they are notorious for making noise but that's more of a chirping noise at low fan speed and would not change with throttle input. Final stage resistor would either kill the fan or make it run erratic.

[tomnobes]

If anyone comes across a good deal on a battery that will fit our car, please let me know [emoji1]. I wanna try and purchase one on sale before I urgently need one (and therefore not having the time to wait for a deal) thanks!

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[BMWCurves]

For anyone that has removed their alternator to swap alternator pulleys, did you bother removing the power connection on the rear?

[ZHPizza]

For anyone that has removed their alternator to swap alternator pulleys, did you bother removing the power connection on the rear?

The positive connector? Yeah. I took the whole thing out of the car so I could shove a screwdriver in it to hold the vanes in place.

I'm kind of a redneck tho.

[danewilson77]

Can anyone point me to our Monroney sticker thread?

Asking for a friend.

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[Sreten]

This?

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?10087-Show-Us-Your-Monroney-Sticker(s)&highlight=Monroney

[Smolck]

so i'm looking to replace both the main accessory and A/C tensioners as well as idler pulley. my question is what is the right part number for the A/C tensioner? do our ZHPs have 4 or 5 rib belts? any help would be appreciated!

edit: NVM, i think i found it. it's part 11287512758


next question: has anyone replaced the A/C tensioner and belt without lifting the car? i watched a YT DIY video and he has the car jacked up, but i am wanting to know if i can complete the job entirely from the top side. thanks!

Top side is fine. The tensioner for the A/C is easier to get to underneath, but it isn't hard from the top.

[Smolck]

If anyone comes across a good deal on a battery that will fit our car, please let me know [emoji1]. I wanna try and purchase one on sale before I urgently need one (and therefore not having the time to wait for a deal) thanks!

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Some guys have reported success with this one https://www.walmart.com/ip/EverStart-Maxx-Lead-Acid-Automotive-Battery-Group-Size-H8/16782659.

[BMWCurves]

This?

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?10087-Show-Us-Your-Monroney-Sticker(s)&highlight=Monroney

There's also this one:

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?16178-Anybody-have-their-ZHP-s-window-sticker

[Oltorf]

Does anyone know the size or part number of the O-ring that goes in the upper radiator hose to the expansion tank? I lost mine and I don't want to buy an entire new hose just for a 10 cent part. It's a little O-ring, less than an inch in diameter.

[John in VA]

Does anyone know the size or part number of the O-ring that goes in the upper radiator hose to the expansion tank?

https://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=906997

[az3579]

Didn't even know it had an o-ring... :dunno

[Oltorf]

https://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=906997
got it, thanks. i also emailed a guy that sells sets on ebay and confirmed - 3x16 mm

[Oltorf]

what kind of leather are the seats made out of?

[nextelbuddy]

what kind of leather are the seats made out of?

e46 NON M seats are Montana leather

e46 M seats are Nappa leather

e90 and F series are Dakota leather I believe

[Oltorf]

e46 NON M seats are Montana leather

e46 M seats are Nappa leather

e90 and F series are Dakota leather I believe

awesome, thanks.

[L0veZHP]

So I’m finally investing in a daily driver this year. Tomorrow I’m checking out this super clean 2005 Honda CRV. I think it’s going to be the one. I’ll be keeping my ZHP for joy.

I currently have my car in the garage with a genuine BMW car cover. Unfortunately I’ll have to take the car out the garage and leave it parked in the outdoors.

I was thinking of getting an outdoor car cover. But wondering if you guys think it’s worth it? And if it is, than any recommendations?


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[John in VA]

Unfortunately I’ll have to take the car out the garage and leave it parked in the outdoors.
I was thinking of getting an outdoor car cover. But wondering if you guys think it’s worth it? And if it is, than any recommendations?
A cover outdoors is a double-edged sword. It can provide some protection, but can also kill the finish if it's not super-snug. The car needs to be clean before using the cover or the cover will scratch. And even if snug, if water gets through the cover & moisture builds up under the cover it can cause fogging of the paint over time. A tarp over the cover can help keep any water out. Then there are the jerks that see a car with a cover & will screw with the car. You'll have to wash the cover sometime - can require a large washer/dryer.

I've only used a cover inside, but have friends that have used the Stormproof, Autobody Armor, Weathershield HP & Superweave - all are decent choices, but have different price points & there are different prices from different vendors = shop around!

http://www.autoanything.com/car-covers/coverking-vs-covercraft-car-covers.aspx

https://www.coverking.com/best-indoor-outdoor-cover-stormproof-for-2005-bmw-330i-base.html

https://www.carcoversdirect.com/parts/covers/cars/76605_76971/materials

http://www.autoanything.com/car-covers/covercraft-evolution-custom-car-cover

https://www.covercraft.com/us/en/product/custom-weathershield-hp-car-cover.C-CCHP?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIyYq-u5jt2AIVxLXACh1gmQxAEAAYASAAEgLFBPD_BwE

https://www.calcarcover.com/product/superweave-premium-outdoor-car-cover/555

[L0veZHP]

A cover outdoors is a double-edges sword. It can provide some protection, but can also kill the finish if it's not super-snug. The car needs to be clean before using the cover or the cover will scratch. And even if snug, if water gets through the cover & moisture builds up under the cover it can cause fogging of the paint over time. A tarp over the cover can help keep any water out. Then there are the jerks that see a car with a cover & will screw with the car. You'll have to wash the cover sometime - can require a large washer/dryer.

I've only used a cover inside, but have friends that have used the Stormproof, Autobody Armor, Weathershield HP & Superweave - all are decent choices, but have different price points & there are different prices from different vendors = shop around!

http://www.autoanything.com/car-covers/coverking-vs-covercraft-car-covers.aspx

https://www.coverking.com/best-indoor-outdoor-cover-stormproof-for-2005-bmw-330i-base.html

https://www.carcoversdirect.com/parts/covers/cars/76605_76971/materials

http://www.autoanything.com/car-covers/covercraft-evolution-custom-car-cover

https://www.covercraft.com/us/en/product/custom-weathershield-hp-car-cover.C-CCHP?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIyYq-u5jt2AIVxLXACh1gmQxAEAAYASAAEgLFBPD_BwE

https://www.calcarcover.com/product/superweave-premium-outdoor-car-cover/555

Thanks so much! I’ll definitely be doing my research now. Especially about water getting into the cover and affecting the paint.


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[nextelbuddy]

So I’m finally investing in a daily driver this year. Tomorrow I’m checking out this super clean 2005 Honda CRV. I think it’s going to be the one. I’ll be keeping my ZHP for joy.

I currently have my car in the garage with a genuine BMW car cover. Unfortunately I’ll have to take the car out the garage and leave it parked in the outdoors.

I was thinking of getting an outdoor car cover. But wondering if you guys think it’s worth it? And if it is, than any recommendations?


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so you are taking out your toy car essentially and putting in your potential used daily driver in the garage instead? any reason why? usually the point of getting a daily is to drive the toy car less and keep it protected ie... in the garage unless you are saying the daily is in much better condition than your zhp?

[webster]

i used one of those "breathable weatherproof" BMW covers on my old ZHP until one day it froze to my car. tossed it after that happened.

[danewilson77]

i used one of those "breathable weatherproof" BMW covers on my old ZHP until one day it froze to my car. tossed it after that happened.Any permanent damage?

All I can think of....

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[ELCID86]

I've also heard tell that dust/dirt under the cover gets ground into the paint under the cover. Probably not an issue if garaged.

[BMWCurves]

Any permanent damage?

All I can think of....

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180126/a7ae59342a5ce547430af18638b016c9.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/2WirAvI.gif

[holyc0w]

I bought a set of yellow fog-lights. The laminx didn't look too good with the lights on, and the driver's side fogs up pretty often.

What are the instructions for changing the fog-lights out? I saw a video for another E46. The black surround has to be popped off and then the foglight is held in by a screw?

[az3579]

What are the instructions for changing the fog-lights out? I saw a video for another E46. The black surround has to be popped off and then the foglight is held in by a screw?

Yup, that's it.

[stephenkirsh]

It's so pathetic, it's a wonder that they stay mounted at all sometimes lol

[JPMo]

so drove my ZHP for the first time in a few weeks and noticed the wheel seemed abnormally heavy when backing out the driveway and turning at slow speeds. Im at 130xxx miles and I don't think the power steering fluid has ever been replaced. Should I get a new reservoir and do a flush or could it be the actual power steering pump?

[Sockethead]

How's your tire pressure?

[JPMo]

How's your tire pressure?

fair point considering the car has been sitting lol I'll have to check in the morning

[holyc0w]

I had a hell of a time getting the oil cap to unscrew in the cold. Common issue? Would a new cap help?

[az3579]

I had a hell of a time getting the oil cap to unscrew in the cold. Common issue? Would a new cap help?

I think the solution will be a new gap. Mine is very old, so the gasket is probably shot on it.
IIRC the gasket can be replaced separately, however. Personally I'll be buying a new cap.

[John in VA]

I remove the gasket, lube it, and flip it over to see if I can get a few more miles out of it.

[stephenkirsh]

I think the solution will be a new gap. Mine is very old, so the gasket is probably shot on it.
IIRC the gasket can be replaced separately, however. Personally I'll be buying a new cap.

Yea the gasket is like $7

[Yankeefan]

Who has done a shifter rebuild kit, and what do you think? ESC Tuning has a few on sale now.

[704sw]

Who has done a shifter rebuild kit, and what do you think? ESC Tuning has a few on sale now.

Paging @slater

I did mine, and honestly it’s mushy af going into 5th (I have to shift with a purpose). Every other gear is tight though. I paired it with a Garagistic DSSR.

[ZHPizza]

Who has done a shifter rebuild kit, and what do you think? ESC Tuning has a few on sale now.I have the rebuild/upgrade kit but haven't installed it yet. Actually didn't want the poly rear bushing, but they had just changed it over when I ordered mine in late November, for $2 less than their new 'sale' price.

[Vas]

There is a new rear bushing from Turner Motorsports available fyi.

I also have a rebuild kit that I will be using when I do the clutch job.

[Sockethead]

I'm interested to hear how you like that bushing.... not something that's easy to swap out if you don't like it

[Vas]

I'm interested to hear how you like that bushing.... not something that's easy to swap out if you don't like it

I was just going to fill the factory bushing with window weld but decided to try this out. It was around $30

[slater]

Paging @slater

in my ZHP sedan, i used the ECS kit with the delrin shift fork bushings - however they don't supply (or didn't when i bought it) enough delrin bushings, you need two sets. and, they were too long, so i had to file them down. i also replaced the plastic shift ball-cup thing (it wears out pretty quickly), the selector rod joint, the yellow plastic washers (i doubled these up on the selector rod that that removes a bit of slop on the linkage), as well as filling the rear shift fork bushing with a rubber o-ring (to remove slop) and then RTV (to further remove slop, and to hold the o-ring in place).

all of this made for a great shift feeling - even with the stock shift lever. throws were positive, fairly tight, and slop was reduced. i was also using UUC black trans mounts, which do help feel a bit as well. overall - for an OE setup, it was probably as good as it gets. i have to freshen up the shift linkage in our X3 this spring and i am going to go this route.

now, in my ZHP Touring, i'm using the RTD 300mm shifter and a DSSR. however, after examining the selector rod movement with both my OEM setup w/ doubled yellow washers vs DSSR, and i would say the difference is largely negligible... i would save the money on the DSSR and just double the washers.



I did mine, and honestly it’s mushy af going into 5th (I have to shift with a purpose). Every other gear is tight though. I paired it with a Garagistic DSSR.

weird... it shouldn't feel like that. do you have something misaligned in the trans/bracket/shift linkage?

[slater]

I was just going to fill the factory bushing with window weld but decided to try this out. It was around $30

using an o-ring in the factory bushing and then filling it will give the same effect, essentially.

[Sockethead]

I'm pretty satisfied with my UUC shifter and DSSR as it sits. Those are the only items I've replaced at 144k. Shifts are still tight and crisp but when I do my clutch, I want to freshen up the rest of it as future PM

[Hornung418]

I'm pretty satisfied with my UUC shifter and DSSR as it sits. Those are the only items I've replaced at 144k. Shifts are still tight and crisp but when I do my clutch, I want to freshen up the rest of it as future PMI just can't justify giving that fucker, Rob Levinson, any of my money. If I got back in a BMW, I would purchase Rogue products. Their short shifter is real crisp and direct.

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[Sockethead]

Yea that dude has a poor reputation doesn't he...

[Hornung418]

Yea that dude has a poor reputation doesn't he...If you talk shit about his products in the mirror three times, he'll magically appear behind you and shove his opinion down your throat until you suffocate.

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[YoitsTmac]

any context? ^^

For what it's worth I just purchased from UUC and had a mildly bad experience. That and the comments about their service throughout BMW forums isn't necessarily reassuring. I treaded quite carefully needless to say.

[slater]

any context? ^^

For what it's worth I just purchased from UUC and had a mildly bad experience. That and the comments about their service throughout BMW forums isn't necessarily reassuring. I treaded quite carefully needless to say.

i've never dealt with him personally, but in the course of research have read some...ahem... entertaining posts by him on E46F. the dude needs some love.

[holyc0w]

If you talk shit about his products in the mirror three times, he'll magically appear behind you and shove his opinion down your throat until you suffocate.

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:rofl

I take it he's not one of your dudes.

[sillieidiot]

I just can't justify giving that fucker, Rob Levinson, any of my money. If I got back in a BMW, I would purchase Rogue products. Their short shifter is real crisp and direct.

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Rogue isn't that much better either. I had plenty of problems with their shifter and it took forever for them to fix it. It's such a PIA to redo the install multiple times that I was like screw it, go with Autosolutions where I got way better service.

[Newjack]

Rogue isn't that much better either. I had plenty of problems with their shifter and it took forever for them to fix it. It's such a PIA to redo the install multiple times that I was like screw it, go with Autosolutions where I got way better service.

Let me clarify Rogue Engineering's short shifter kit. I bought mine back in February of 2017 after I realized how much slop was in my stock ZHP shifter at 135k.

Kit was $265 out the door and I was very excited to get it on the car. The difference between this kit and the others, is this kit uses a different shift lever AND replacement carrier. Most kits only have the lever which is fairly easy to install, and doesn't require you to get out unless you drop the bitch clip (fuck you bitch clip)

Went to Justin's to install, was below freezing and super windy. 5 minutes in we realized we would have to get under the car to install then new carrier. (Fuck this we'll do it next time - You see a pattern here with my car?)

Next time rolls around and we jack the car up, get everything out but can't get the old carrier out. It's the weekend so I cant call Rogue for tips. I have to button everything back up and try again.

Rogue was very helpful, they told me that it was possible to remove the old carrier without dropping the drive shaft, but dropping the shaft makes it much easier.

I ended up taking the kit to my mechanic (Sarven at Eurowerks) and he installed the new shifter, and replaced my driveshaft guibos since they were old and the driveshaft was already off.

So the Rogue SSK - Expensive and a huge headache to install. Not fun at all.

So how does the SSK feel? It's amazing. almost all of my slop was completely gone (I think its natural to have a tiny bit, I've never been in an e46 without some slop) - Shifts are super juicy. The throws are shorter than stock but this kit doesn't overdo it. I liked the UUC kit, but the shifts felt really tight and the throws felt tiny. Rogue gives really great feel, and what I imagine the car should have been from the factory. I remember sitting in Dane's car at the Ohio meet and playing with the shifter (his is stock) - It felt like I was shifting a yard stick compared to mine.

Besides the rip your dick off install of the Rogue kit, I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants a clean OEM feel.

[Sockethead]

Any shifter that requires the removal of the carrier sucks. It was about the same experience installing my UUC shifter without removing the exhaust or drive shaft. One of the front clips that holds the carrier was seized. It took many hours and a lot of swearing to get damn thing out but the end result was well worth it.

[slater]

Any shifter that requires the removal of the carrier sucks.

Agreed. Easiest to do with the driveshaft and exhaust off. ;)

My RTD shifter eliminates the shift carrier completely. ;)


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[stephenkirsh]

I’m working on my coolant temp sensor replace, which requires removal of the intake manifold.

While I’m in there, I’m doing a bunch of other stuff.

The crank position sensor is in there, but I’ve seen a few people reference that they can change it from under the car. If that’s the case, I’ll skip it for now as there’s no problem with mine.

Has anybody changed that sensor from under the car? It’s near the starter.

[704sw]

For those of you with summer tires (PSS specifically), do your tires bring a shitload of debris into your garage? The ZHP’s side of the garage looks like I spilled a bunch of cat litter, meanwhile the other car’s side is basically spotless.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180220/152e23127b947006790d5a37cd6266c8.jpg

[ZHPizza]

For those of you with summer tires (PSS specifically), do your tires bring a shitload of debris into your garage? The ZHP’s side of the garage looks like I spilled a bunch of cat litter, meanwhile the other car’s side is basically spotless.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180220/152e23127b947006790d5a37cd6266c8.jpgLooks like that every time I drop the belly pan

[danewilson77]

Looks like that every time I drop the belly pan+1

Seems like any time I do maintenance.

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[Sockethead]

My Dunlops made a mess in the garage

[holyc0w]

Haven't really noticed much of that.

[az3579]

For those of you with summer tires (PSS specifically), do your tires bring a shitload of debris into your garage? The ZHP’s side of the garage looks like I spilled a bunch of cat litter, meanwhile the other car’s side is basically spotless.



Yep. The grippier the tire, the worse the problem seems.
You should see the amount of crap stuck to the RE71R's compared to the PSS!

[704sw]

Figured as such, thanks. The closest thing I’ve had to grippy tires before this was 205 width Sport Comp 2 which didn’t bring in much grit.

[Newjack]

Does anyone know if these turner motorsport FCAB bushings are any good? (https://www.turnermotorsport.com/Search?SearchTerm=T%23394626+T%23398495&ResultPage=0&SortBy=0&ResultCount=50&trk_msg=UHDI6347AO74H3PVKPGBS29OPO&trk_contact=O9K025SNPNBL3KIMUP9S1OGPS0&trk_sid=8JF9HU8R111S42D549R1KB8AK0&utm_source=emailcampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_term=NEW+E46+Non+M+Monoballs&utm_campaign=TMS_E46_NM_Monoballs_02192018_20321)

I'm being hit with a lot of science and I don't know enough to dispute their claims.

[Vas]

Does anyone know if these turner motorsport FCAB bushings are any good? (https://www.turnermotorsport.com/Search?SearchTerm=T%23394626+T%23398495&ResultPage=0&SortBy=0&ResultCount=50&trk_msg=UHDI6347AO74H3PVKPGBS29OPO&trk_contact=O9K025SNPNBL3KIMUP9S1OGPS0&trk_sid=8JF9HU8R111S42D549R1KB8AK0&utm_source=emailcampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_term=NEW+E46+Non+M+Monoballs&utm_campaign=TMS_E46_NM_Monoballs_02192018_20321)

I'm being hit with a lot of science and I don't know enough to dispute their claims.

Nice. They finally made some for the Non-M vehicles.

[Newjack]

Nice. They finally made some for the Non-M vehicles.

So are these reputable? Pros? Cons?

[Vas]

So are these reputable? Pros? Cons?

It is a fairly new product so not alot of reviews yet.

A monoball bushing is a good upgrade though from a performance stand-point.

My only gripe with some of these bushings is the required maintenance. Even though a rubber bushing might not provide the best result, it is maintenance free. I personally like the solid rubber upgrade with the Z4M fcab. Cost effective upgrade and longer lifespan then fluid filled.

[Newjack]

It is a fairly new product so not alot of reviews yet.

A monoball bushing is a good upgrade though from a performance stand-point.

My only gripe with some of these bushings is the required maintenance. Even though a rubber bushing might not provide the best result, it is maintenance free. I personally like the solid rubber upgrade with the Z4M fcab. Cost effective upgrade and longer lifespan then fluid filled.

I'm running the Z4M FCABs and I like them very much. I also realized those monoball bushings are $300 with the lolipops on them. Thaaats a bit too much for me

[Vas]

I'm running the Z4M FCABs and I like them very much. I also realized those monoball bushings are $300 with the lolipops on them. Thaaats a bit too much for me

The cost is up there for them.

Think I paid $50 for both z4m bushings and installed them into existing brackets.

[az3579]

So are these reputable? Pros? Cons?

The first thing I think of when I read the description is "harshness". Do you care about this at all? If so, I'd stick with rubber bushings.

[ZHPizza]

The first thing I think of when I read the description is "harshness". Do you care about this at all? If so, I'd stick with rubber bushings.

Yeah, but they say in the video that they put them on all of their street cars too:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liJ3t2xDwjY

That and @slater sings the praises of their spherical RTABs and his car rides great.

[slater]

Nice. They finally made some for the Non-M vehicles.

yeah - and that video they made is pretty nice, they actually did a good job explaining the different types of bushings.



It is a fairly new product so not alot of reviews yet.

A monoball bushing is a good upgrade though from a performance stand-point.

My only gripe with some of these bushings is the required maintenance. Even though a rubber bushing might not provide the best result, it is maintenance free. I personally like the solid rubber upgrade with the Z4M fcab. Cost effective upgrade and longer lifespan then fluid filled.

i have to disagree on the rubber bit in regard to the stock bushing; they need to replaced often because they die so quickly.

the Z4M bushing, on the other hand, should last much longer.

my only gripe with the Z4M is that is moves the wheel further forward in the wheel well - performance-wise, this is all good stuff. but it just looks a bit funny to me.



The cost is up there for them.

Think I paid $50 for both z4m bushings and installed them into existing brackets.

that's a great cost/performance upgrade.



The first thing I think of when I read the description is "harshness". Do you care about this at all? If so, I'd stick with rubber bushings.

i disagree as not all aftermarket options are the same. a poly bushing with poor tolerances - or no lube - will be awful. but i don't find my AKG poly units harsh by any means; if you have harshness with those, you have issues elsewhere in the suspension.



Yeah, but they say in the video that they put them on all of their street cars too:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liJ3t2xDwjY

That and @slater sings the praises of their spherical RTABs and his car rides great.

thanks man!

i don't use their RTABs, i run bimmerworld units. the TMS spherical RTABs are non-sealed, race-only bearings.

[nextelbuddy]

so im just now seeing/discovering that my ECU Ebox fan hasnt been working. i didnt even know we had one of those things until now. My S54 DME has always shown a shadow code for EBOX fan.

i popped open my DME box and found my ebox fan plug. the plug that goes down to the actual fan is 3 wire but all my searching has found that the 3 wire ebox fans were from automatic cars.

im curious if there is anyone in here that has the ability to see what connector their ebox fan looks like? if they have a 2 wire connector or 3 wire?

the reason im confused is that my S54 engine harness has its own ebox fan plug connector with a 3 prong connector but only 2 wires in the outer pins. then my stock M54 ebox connector is stil present albeit tucked down away since it was unused and it too has a 3 wire connector but only 2 pins but those pins are in the middle and outer slots.


i need to find the pinout for the ebox fan so i can see which wire is ground, signal and power so i can test it myself.

[Newjack]

so im just now seeing/discovering that my ECU Ebox fan hasnt been working. i didnt even know we had one of those things until now. My S54 DME has always shown a shadow code for EBOX fan.

i popped open my DME box and found my ebox fan plug. the plug that goes down to the actual fan is 3 wire but all my searching has found that the 3 wire ebox fans were from automatic cars.

im curious if there is anyone in here that has the ability to see what connector their ebox fan looks like? if they have a 2 wire connector or 3 wire?

the reason im confused is that my S54 engine harness has its own ebox fan plug connector with a 3 prong connector but only 2 wires in the outer pins. then my stock M54 ebox connector is stil present albeit tucked down away since it was unused and it too has a 3 wire connector but only 2 pins but those pins are in the middle and outer slots.


i need to find the pinout for the ebox fan so i can see which wire is ground, signal and power so i can test it myself.

Check realoem and see if there is a separate diagram for that motor for manual vs auto trans? :dunno

I had no idea there was a fan in there until this post

[ZHPizza]

Check realoem and see if there is a separate diagram for that motor for manual vs auto trans? :dunno

I had no idea there was a fan in there until this post

Same here. Looks like there are several versions too:

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=BD53-USA-01-2005-E46-BMW-330Ci&diagId=12_0899

[nextelbuddy]

Check realoem and see if there is a separate diagram for that motor for manual vs auto trans? :dunno

I had no idea there was a fan in there until this post

yes i know there is 2 different motors on the m3/S54 cars.. SMG cars got 3 wire and manual cars got 2 wire

but on my ZHP i have a 3 wire DME fan as well and i did not change the fan in my car when we did the swap which means my car came with a 3 wire DME fan.

i was curious if other ZHP owners also had a 3 wire DME fan. Realoem will show both types for the cars and in some cases its wrong as well

[Sockethead]

Can you post a pic of where the connector is?

[SaltyNC]

yes i know there is 2 different motors on the m3/S54 cars.. SMG cars got 3 wire and manual cars got 2 wire

but on my ZHP i have a 3 wire DME fan as well and i did not change the fan in my car when we did the swap which means my car came with a 3 wire DME fan.

i was curious if other ZHP owners also had a 3 wire DME fan. Realoem will show both types for the cars and in some cases its wrong as well

It's a two wire connector on my 2005 330Ci auto. Hope that helps.

32033

And in this first photo, that's the other side of the connector that clips to the side of the DME enclosure.
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-blower-motor-with-cover-e46-12907571019

Salty

[stephenkirsh]

I’m working on my coolant temp sensor replace, which requires removal of the intake manifold.

While I’m in there, I’m doing a bunch of other stuff.

The crank position sensor is in there, but I’ve seen a few people reference that they can change it from under the car. If that’s the case, I’ll skip it for now as there’s no problem with mine.

Has anybody changed that sensor from under the car? It’s near the starter.

Bump

[nextelbuddy]

It's a two wire connector on my 2005 330Ci auto. Hope that helps.

32033

And in this first photo, that's the other side of the connector that clips to the side of the DME enclosure.
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-blower-motor-with-cover-e46-12907571019

Salty

thanks for taking the time to do that. it just gives me more mysteries now lol. your car is an automatic and has a 2 wire plug grr lol.

[SaltyNC]

thanks for taking the time to do that. it just gives me more mysteries now lol. your car is an automatic and has a 2 wire plug grr lol.

Glad to do it for ya. I should mention the fan does have three wires going to the connector, but the plug on the fan only has two connectors.

Look at the first picture here, and then look at the third picture. Three wires in, two plugs out.

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-blower-motor-with-cover-e46-12907571019

Salty

[ZHPizza]

Glad to do it for ya. I should mention the fan does have three wires going to the connector, but the plug on the fan only has two connectors.

Look at the first picture here, and then look at the third picture. Three wires in, two plugs out.

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-blower-motor-with-cover-e46-12907571019

Salty

Wow good spot

[Sockethead]

On computers, the third wire is for RPM monitoring. I wonder if it's same on that fan... Maybe it has to do more with year than model of car... the MS45 has much more monitoring capabilities than its predecessors...

[Yankeefan]

Can I drive the car with a broken Driver's side front sway bar link?

[anandoc]

Can I drive the car with a broken Driver's side front sway bar link?

You can take off the sway bar completely and still drive around safely. Your handling will be shitty...but you can drive around no problems.

[Yankeefan]

So here's what happened. 2 weekends ago I replaced the front shocks with Koni FSDs and BMW reinforcement plates. Since then the front of the car has been riding higher than it used to. I though it would settle out after a few days but it hasn't, so my fear was that maybe the strut wasn't seated all the way down into the sleeve thing at the bottom. So today I lifted the passenger side of the car, took the wheel off, and everything looked fine. Then I lowered it and raised the driver's side, and everything looked fine except I realized that I had forgotten to reinstall the small bracket that holds the ABS line onto the lower strut bolt. Stupid. So I decided I was going to take the lower strut bolt off, put the bracket on and tighten her back up. As I was about half-way done loosening the bolt, the sway bar link snapped. I noticed after a minute of 2 that the strut had spun abut 90 degrees, so that the tab where the sway bar link attaches was facing out. I'm guessing this is the problem? However I know I didn't install the strut that way, so it must have somehow rotated in the last 2 weeks, or perhaps as I was loosening the lower strut bolt.

So the car is now back on the ground with no driver's side sway bar link. My questions are: Any idea how I did this, or how I can avoid doing this in the future? Did I do something incredibly stupid? Also, can I drive the car right now, and how much of a pain will it be to replace this link?

Thanks!

32049320503205132052

[danewilson77]

Seems to me that maybe the strut wasn't inserted into the king pin all of the way and tightened, then somehow "jumped" out of its seat, and rotated :confused. My KW's have a pin on the coilover body the must be inserted into the slot in the kingpin seat.

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[Sockethead]

Konis don't have that pin... at least the yellows don't. You have guess the orientation to the king pin

[slater]

Konis don't have that pin... at least the yellows don't. You have guess the orientation to the king pin

Hmmm, I coulda swore mine did...

The bilstein have two.


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[ZHPizza]

@Yankeefan there is definitely a locator pin on the FSD's that is supposed to seat down into the carrier. Not getting that down in there would explain both your increased ride height and the sway bar connection being off. I'll snag a pic of mine in the morning.

[joeybananaz18]

I feel like I've seen this asked somewhere else before but can't recall what the answer was.

Are front control arms considered a wear and tear part?

I need to invest in new front shocks so I'm looking into what else needs to be done. I don't think my PO replaced the FCAB so i was going to add them to the list but didn't know where ZHP gurus stood on the control arms themselves.

[san]

I feel like I've seen this asked somewhere else before but can't recall what the answer was.

Are front control arms considered a wear and tear part?

I need to invest in new front shocks so I'm looking into what else needs to be done. I don't think my PO replaced the FCAB so i was going to add them to the list but didn't know where ZHP gurus stood on the control arms themselves.

They do go bad. I think it was BP who said he had to replace his control arms cause the ball joint came undone (It could’ve been someone else). On the other hand Rob (sockethead) said his looked fine when he replaced them at 150k ish miles...


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[joeybananaz18]

thanks for that. always wondered if i should just got a refresh kit from ecs or fcp or get everything piece by piece.

[az3579]

thanks for that. always wondered if i should just got a refresh kit from ecs or fcp or get everything piece by piece.

Refresh kit is the way to go. Lemförder is the OEM for factory replacements.

Here's a basic kit:
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-4-piece-control-arm-kit-e46-zhp4piecekit-l

Here's the baller kit:
(https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-8-piece-control-arm-kit-e46-zhp8piecekit-l)https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-8-piece-control-arm-kit-e46-zhp8piecekit-l
(https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-8-piece-control-arm-kit-e46-zhp8piecekit-l)

I highly advise staying away from Meyle control arms and bushings. I've replaced my control arms AND FCABs with Meyle and every single one of those had to be replaced within 30k miles (the next year).

[ZHPizza]

@Yankeefan there is definitely a locator pin on the FSD's that is supposed to seat down into the carrier. Not getting that down in there would explain both your increased ride height and the sway bar connection being off. I'll snag a pic of mine in the morning.Didn't get a shot of the pin but it slides down in between the two halves of the lower mount there where the bolt goes throughhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180225/6b051b657ce6fa21f720e951b1c3ad4a.jpg

[Yankeefan]

Didn't get a shot of the pin but it slides down in between the two halves of the lower mount there where the bolt goes through

Good call; I missed that. I'll fix that problem. I also ordered 2 new Lemforder sway bar links last night. The car is driving fine right now around town. Thanks a lot for the help!

[holyc0w]

I've been getting a knocking noise usually somewhere in the middle of turning left, but it's not exactly consistent. It's more of single occurrence rather than a continuing noise. I thought it was the swaybar end-link loosening up, but I checked and it seems solid. Unless I checked the wrong side. The noise was somewhat similar. Any ideas?

[joeybananaz18]

Refresh kit is the way to go. Lemförder is the OEM for factory replacements.

Here's a basic kit:
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-4-piece-control-arm-kit-e46-zhp4piecekit-l

Here's the baller kit:
(https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-8-piece-control-arm-kit-e46-zhp8piecekit-l)https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-8-piece-control-arm-kit-e46-zhp8piecekit-l
(https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-8-piece-control-arm-kit-e46-zhp8piecekit-l)

I highly advise staying away from Meyle control arms and bushings. I've replaced my control arms AND FCABs with Meyle and every single one of those had to be replaced within 30k miles (the next year).

As always BP, you’re a wealth of knowledge. Might go baller. Not because I know I definitely need to, but simply because I don’t recall my P.O. doing much on the front end. I’m taking a “while I’m at it” position in an attempt to recreate that brand new zhp feel.
Just need to check what kind of struts I have up front, koni or bilstein, as those need replacing too.


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[san]

I've been getting a knocking noise usually somewhere in the middle of turning left, but it's not exactly consistent. It's more of single occurrence rather than a continuing noise. I thought it was the swaybar end-link loosening up, but I checked and it seems solid. Unless I checked the wrong side. The noise was somewhat similar. Any ideas?

I had a similar issue when I got the car but went away after I replaced the sway bar end links. Are the tie rods old?


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[holyc0w]

I had a similar issue when I got the car but went away after I replaced the sway bar end links. Are the tie rods old?


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Tie rods are new. I drove a few miles today and it didn't happen again. I'm sure it will be back tomorrow.

[slater]

They do go bad. I think it was BP who said he had to replace his control arms cause the ball joint came undone (It could’ve been someone else). On the other hand Rob (sockethead) said his looked fine when he replaced them at 150k ish miles...


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yep, i replaced my stock ones that had roughly the same mileage and they were still good.

for reference, i bought new TRW ZHP control arms (from FCP), they were the about $110/each - quality is all there (as it would be with a TRW product - they do some OEM stuff for BMW).

[johnrando]

My SA (bad when I had one) said OEM FCABs tend to go around 60K miles.

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[704sw]

Those of you who track: how the hell do you fit in the car? I’m 5’9” and with my seat in the lowest position possible the helmet still grazes the headliner.

[joeybananaz18]

Those of you who track: how the hell do you fit in the car? I’m 5’9” and with my seat in the lowest position possible the helmet still grazes the headliner.

Gurney bubble mod?

[Sockethead]

You must have a long torso, I fit fine with a helmet and I"m 5'9"

[slater]

Those of you who track: how the hell do you fit in the car? I’m 5’9” and with my seat in the lowest position possible the helmet still grazes the headliner.


You must have a long torso, I fit fine with a helmet and I"m 5'9"

coupe vs sedan... coupes have a steeper rake to the windshield, and i bet the roof is actually a bit lower too (dang, i never measured when i had both here!).

i'm 6'1", with a long torso, and i like a proper driving position, which makes coupes basically a no-go for me - my head will hit the roof during normal driving. with the seat in the same position in the sedan/Touring, i've got at least 1.5" of clearance between my head and the headliner.

now, coupes with a race seat, i could probably do. ;)

[az3579]

Those of you who track: how the hell do you fit in the car? I’m 5’9” and with my seat in the lowest position possible the helmet still grazes the headliner.

Yeah, it's very tough, especially being 6'1". Hell, I'm extremely uncomfortable just in a daily driving position. The steering column doesn't come out enough, so I have to sit upright to get closer to the wheel, making my head hit the roof even without a helmet and making the lower back hurt.

The only way I can make it work is if I tilt the seat back, which makes me reach for the steering wheel. It sucks!

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[johnrando]

Get a convertible. :biggrin



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https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180227/4b82e310a12a915ed8b6f57ff3333f95.jpg

[az3579]

Get a convertible. :biggrin


Not allowed on track without roll bars...

[cornercarver]

Those of you who track: how the hell do you fit in the car? I’m 5’9” and with my seat in the lowest position possible the helmet still grazes the headliner.
You need a racing seat.

I don't have one in the ZHP but in my Mustang the race seat was at least an inch lower than OEM. I'm 6'2" so I needed all the headroom I could get.

[slater]

Yeah, it's very tough, especially being 6'1". Hell, I'm extremely uncomfortable just in a daily driving position. The steering column doesn't come out enough, so I have to sit upright to get closer to the wheel, making my head hit the roof even without a helmet and making the lower back hurt.

The only way I can make it work is if I tilt the seat back, which makes me reach for the steering wheel. It sucks!

didn't you try out that steering wheel extender? how was that?

also, what about moving the seat closer, then tilting the entire seat back? (well, essentially tilting the front of the seat bottom up, then reclining a bit.) this is how i found my ideal driving position in the E46. also, thigh extender out about halfway. my right knee is about 10mm from the lower corner of the dash (by the bottom left corner of the HVAC controls), steering wheel extended out all the way. i can rest my palm on top of the steering wheel (meaning i'm the correct distance from the wheel), and the seating position in relation to legs and arm reach feels natural and balanced (i.e., i don't feel like i'm "reaching out" for the steering wheel, or conversely, pushing away from it). also, lumbar out a bit, this helps with the arm reach too.

of course, i've just realized this is all moot because i have M3 seats, which appear to sit a bit lower than the stock sport seats. i guess you need to drive my car and see what you think. :)

[az3579]

The steering wheel extender isn't ideal for daily use. The stalks are way too far away. The buttons don't work because the harness isn't long enough. That can be fixed with an extended harness, but there is no OE type of fix for the stalk problem, or the fact that it looks like an afterthought. The revised version looks pretty good though. I think the one I tried was a pre-production model.

I've tried everything to get a comfortable seating position. I can't do what you suggested because the wheel is too far from me that way. The only way I can reach the wheel is to sit straight up and hit my head against the headliner.

A racing seat is out of the question. Way too uncomfortable for daily use.

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[slater]

The steering wheel extender isn't ideal for daily use. The stalks are way too far away. The buttons don't work because the harness isn't long enough. That can be fixed with an extended harness, but there is no OE type of fix for the stalk problem, or the fact that it looks like an afterthought. The revised version looks pretty good though. I think the one I tried was a pre-production model.

I've tried everything to get a comfortable seating position. I can't do what you suggested because the wheel is too far from me that way. The only way I can reach the wheel is to sit straight up and hit my head against the headliner.

A racing seat is out of the question. Way too uncomfortable for daily use.

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you need to try an M3 seat, then. :)

[az3579]

you need to try an M3 seat, then. :)

They don't make 'em in Natural Brown!

[ZHPizza]

They don't make 'em in Natural Brown!Shredded M3 seat + Natty brown Lseat cover

[az3579]

Shredded M3 seat + Natty brown Lseat cover

It's not an exact match.

[slater]

No such thing exists though... it's not an exact match.

but if it's more comfortable...?

[johnrando]

Not allowed on track without roll bars...Yeah, I know. :)

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[az3579]

but if it's more comfortable...?

I do not like mismatching interiors.

[slater]

I do not like mismatching interiors.

fashion over function...

http://i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/538/460/90d.jpg

[Vas]

A racing seat is out of the question. Way too uncomfortable for daily use.

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Not entirely true.

I had a set of the Bride gias low max seats and hands down they were more comfortable then any factory seat. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180227/6bf264b22f5974cdd5e9cde21d412b98.jpg

[az3579]

fashion over function...

http://i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/538/460/90d.jpg

No, Peter - I prefer function AND form. I won't want to compromise. At least it's intact as it is now and looks the way it should.

One solution for me is to buy another car. The root cause of all of my problems is really the telescoping wheel not coming out enough. I don't want to sit straight up just to properly reach the wheel, even if my head doesn't hit the headliner as with an M3 seat, because my lower back hurts when sitting upright like that. An M3 seat isn't going to solve that problem.

A real solution to the problem without buying another car would be if someone figured out a way to mount the turn and wiper stalks on the extender, bringing them closer to the wheel, as well as figuring out how to make it not make the steering wheel wobble when installed. I'm not clever enough to figure that out, though.



Not entirely true.

I had a set of the Bride gias low max seats and hands down they were more comfortable then any factory seat. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180227/6bf264b22f5974cdd5e9cde21d412b98.jpg

There are exceptions to the comfort thing, sure. But, we're looking at a minimum of 2 grand for this setup.
Those seats (for replicas, not sure if those can be trusted) are about 800 a pair , then another 200+ for each seat rail, plus the cost of someone even being able to source NB leather and then to reupholster them. I lose power adjustment and memory, which is not a huge deal, but the cost is still really high.

So, I'm stuck. Another car is not in the cards right now, so that means neither are reupholstered Bridge reps (including reupholstering the rest of the interior to match). I need to start saving up for a clutch and flywheel job...

[slater]

No, Peter - I prefer function AND form. I won't want to compromise. At least it's intact as it is now and looks the way it should.

but at what cost? of course we all want function AND form....but if you're not comfy, what's the point?

out of curiosity, have you driven anything that was comfy for you?



One solution for me is to buy another car. The root cause of all of my problems is really the telescoping wheel not coming out enough. I don't want to sit straight up just to properly reach the wheel, even if my head doesn't hit the headliner as with an M3 seat, because my lower back hurts when sitting upright like that. An M3 seat isn't going to solve that problem.

what about lumbar? does that not help?

and, i don't blame you for thinking that buying another car is the solution - i've bought 'new' cars because i just couldn't get comfy in the one i had. getting rear-ended 10 years ago was responsible for all of that. now, i'm finally comfy, so i'm staying put. but it's been a long road getting here.



A real solution to the problem without buying another car would be if someone figured out a way to mount the turn and wiper stalks on the extender, bringing them closer to the wheel, as well as figuring out how to make it not make the steering wheel wobble when installed. I'm not clever enough to figure that out, though.

what about trying that second iteration of the steering wheel extender - the one that's shallower? way cheaper than buying a new car.

[az3579]

out of curiosity, have you driven anything that was comfy for you?


Yes... All of the new BMWs I've driven allow me to have the perfect seating position.



what about lumbar? does that not help?

Doesn't do anything for me, unfortunately.




what about trying that second iteration of the steering wheel extender - the one that's shallower? way cheaper than buying a new car.

How much shallower is it? Just an extra inch or so would be enough to allow me some comfort. If it's north of 2 inches, I may run into the issue with the stalks. I think the original one is 2.5", right?

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[holyc0w]

I was about to say the knocking noise is gone, then I heard it again. It was during a u-turn at about 3/4ths completion, so I went around again. I didn't hear it at the other end of the street, but it repeated around the same spot. :|

Maybe it's coming from the passenger side.

[slater]

0
Yes... All of the new BMWs I've driven allow me to have the perfect seating position.

ahhh.... well, i guess it's time to go into mega-debt and get that F80 M3 CS. ;)




How much shallower is it? Just an extra inch or so would be enough to allow me some comfort. If it's north of 2 inches, I may run into the issue with the stalks. I think the original one is 2.5", right?

i believe so. i thought that the new one was 1.5" or 1.75"...

[san]

Yes... All of the new BMWs I've driven allow me to have the perfect seating position.


I thought the zhp was good but once I got in an f30/80, i was surprised how much more adjustable they are...


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[slater]

I thought the zhp was good but once I got in an f30/80, i was surprised how much more adjustable they are...


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the seats definitely go a lot lower.

[san]

the seats definitely go a lot lower.

I usually set my seat relatively higher so that’s not an issue for me in the zhp but the steering reaches out so much more on the f30/80.


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[704sw]

Well I found a seating position which allows enough clearance for a helmet and I don’t completely hate it. Just going to take some getting used to.

[BMWCurves]

I usually set my seat relatively higher so that’s not an issue for me in the zhp but the steering reaches out so much more on the f30/80.


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Weird. I have my seat all the way down and I still feel like I'm sitting up rather than in my car.

[san]

Weird. I have my seat all the way down and I still feel like I'm sitting up rather than in my car.

When I went to m track days last year, the instructor there recommended the seat eight to be such that there is space for 4 fingers width wise between the top of the head and the roof. I tried it there and on my zhp and I do that with every car now...


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[slater]

Weird. I have my seat all the way down and I still feel like I'm sitting up rather than in my car.

yep. i felt that a lot more in the coupe than in the sedan/Touring (with M3 seats in both) - in the Touring i'm just on that line of 'in/on' feeling. it's acceptable.

in the X3... the seating position is weird. BMW designed the ergonomics to be more 'command' seating, so optimally you sit more upright. i actually don't have my seat preset all the way down in that thing... when it's all the way down you just kinda feel weird.



When I went to m track days last year, the instructor there recommended the seat eight to be such that there is space for 4 fingers width wise between the top of the head and the roof. I tried it there and on my zhp and I do that with every car now...

well... you must be a lot shorter than william and i. :)

with my M3 seat on the lowest setting (which it always is), and in 'proper' seat position, i can get two fingers in there. barely.

[san]

yep. i felt that a lot more in the coupe than in the sedan/Touring (with M3 seats in both) - in the Touring i'm just on that line of 'in/on' feeling. it's acceptable.

in the X3... the seating position is weird. BMW designed the ergonomics to be more 'command' seating, so optimally you sit more upright. i actually don't have my seat preset all the way down in that thing... when it's all the way down you just kinda feel weird.




well... you must be a lot shorter than william and i. :)

with my M3 seat on the lowest setting (which it always is), and in 'proper' seat position, i can get two fingers in there. barely.

I’m 5’11.5”


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[slater]

I’m 5’11.5”


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OK, so not that much shorter. but, 1.5", and i have a stupidly long torso. ape man.

[san]

OK, so not that much shorter. but, 1.5", and i have a stupidly long torso. ape man.

And I think I have relatively long legs, so that explains it [emoji4]


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[BMWCurves]

And I think I have relatively long legs, so that explains it [emoji4]


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Yup, I have a tall torso. All the way down in the M3 seats and I'll check today but I think I'm maybe 2 finger widths from the roof.

[704sw]

I love how every time seating gets brought up it turns into an anatomical breakdown of everyone’s body type. I’ve only met a few of you, but I have a good idea of who does and doesn’t need extra bolstering, who has a babytown torso, who has long legs, and who has apelike long arms similar to Billy Corgan lol

[Sockethead]

We're just one big happy family :)

[danewilson77]

Why do I feel like the clown nose should seat better into my mirror? Random E46 thought while contemplating life, while waiting for my boy to get done lifting. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180302/f3798047a80ea3ea2a928f900febbc8c.jpg


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180302/477b4028343295946b8189faf2c2308d.jpg

[az3579]

Why do I feel like the clown nose should seat better into my mirror? Random E46 thought while contemplating life, while waiting for my boy to get done lifting. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180302/f3798047a80ea3ea2a928f900febbc8c.jpg


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180302/477b4028343295946b8189faf2c2308d.jpgIt's supposed to sit flush, no gap.

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[Newjack]

Sexy gap imo


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[BMWCurves]

I love how every time seating gets brought up it turns into an anatomical breakdown of everyone’s body type. I’ve only met a few of you, but I have a good idea of who does and doesn’t need extra bolstering, who has a babytown torso, who has long legs, and who has apelike long arms similar to Billy Corgan lol

You're not wrong. If you haven't figure it out yet, I am...the HOMUNCULUS MAN!

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f1/Rear_of_Sensory_Homunculus.jpg/1920px-Rear_of_Sensory_Homunculus.jpg

[danewilson77]

It's supposed to sit flush, no gap.

Sent from my Pixel using TapatalkSo.... Just snap it into place?

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[John in VA]

Why do I feel like the clown nose should seat better into my mirror? Random E46 thought while contemplating life, while waiting for my boy to get done lifting.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180302/477b4028343295946b8189faf2c2308d.jpg

Is this an auto-dim mirror? If not, the clown nose is meant to turn to switch mirror angle to reduce glare. I've only been in one car where the nose rotated, but don't recall it sitting that low.

[danewilson77]

Is this an auto-dim mirror? If not, the clown nose is meant to turn to switch mirror angle to reduce glare. I've only been in one car where the nose rotated, but don't recall it sitting that low.Not auto dimming. I always use it, and it works fine. I just never noticed the small gap until today.

I was contemplating!

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[SaltyNC]

Dane,

I have the same non-autodimming manual knob, and mine appears to sit pretty much flush.

It looks like a rhinoplasty is in order.

32213

Salty

[danewilson77]

Lol. I gave it a half ass push up and it didn't move. I'll mess with it tomorrow. Thanks for the help boys.

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[Newjack]

I want to apologize for the photo I linked earlier when referencing the gap in Dane's clown nose. I linked a photo of a pair of female legs (https://i.pinimg.com/originals/9e/dd/ba/9eddba5a6003f452632d9bea43ddd02a.jpg), legs that were petite in nature and possessed a small gap. I realize now this post was insensitive and could easily be offensive to anyone browsing the forum who do not agree with this beauty standard. Offending the reader was not my intent. I was simply poking fun at the gap in Dane Wilson's clown nose that he seemed to dislike, with the gap in a petite women's legs that is often found attractive. It was both an attempt at humor and to make Dane feel better about his ever so slight imperfection on his beautiful car. We are all on this earth together, big, small, short, tall - it makes no difference as we are all beautiful human beings. I hope you all can move past my mistake and continue building on this wonderful family bond that we all share and love.

Regards,

-Rob

[danewilson77]

:waldo



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[ELCID86]

I want to apologize for the photo I linked earlier when referencing the gap in Dane's clown nose. I linked a photo of a pair of female legs (https://i.pinimg.com/originals/9e/dd/ba/9eddba5a6003f452632d9bea43ddd02a.jpg), legs that were petite in nature and possessed a small gap. I realize now this post was insensitive and could easily be offensive to anyone browsing the forum who do not agree with this beauty standard. Offending the reader was not my intent. I was simply poking fun at the gap in Dane Wilson's clown nose that he seemed to dislike, with the gap in a petite women's legs that is often found attractive. It was both an attempt at humor and to make Dane feel better about his ever so slight imperfection on his beautiful car. We are all on this earth together, big, small, short, tall - it makes no difference as we are all beautiful human beings. I hope you all can move past my mistake and continue building on this wonderful family bond that we all share and love.

Regards,

-Rob

Apology accepted, you beautiful human you. ;-)

[BMWCurves]

I want to apologize for the photo I linked earlier when referencing the gap in Dane's clown nose. I linked a photo of a pair of female legs (https://i.pinimg.com/originals/9e/dd/ba/9eddba5a6003f452632d9bea43ddd02a.jpg), legs that were petite in nature and possessed a small gap. I realize now this post was insensitive and could easily be offensive to anyone browsing the forum who do not agree with this beauty standard. Offending the reader was not my intent. I was simply poking fun at the gap in Dane Wilson's clown nose that he seemed to dislike, with the gap in a petite women's legs that is often found attractive. It was both an attempt at humor and to make Dane feel better about his ever so slight imperfection on his beautiful car. We are all on this earth together, big, small, short, tall - it makes no difference as we are all beautiful human beings. I hope you all can move past my mistake and continue building on this wonderful family bond that we all share and love.

Regards,

-Rob

https://i.imgur.com/vOkclos.gif

[johnrando]

Lol to that meme. No apologies necessary but nice that you did. All good.

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[Prestovie]

I bought a new key for my ZHP about a year ago and the batteries in this one seem to already be going. Had to do the ol’ climb-through-the-trunk stunt to unlock my car.
I’m not about to dish out another $130 for a new key, do you think it has something to do with my car? Lately the clock has been resetting itself every time I get it, or when I switch my lights on my radio will go off for a few seconds. Bad battery? Or bad connection somewhere?


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[Prestovie]

Also the car battery is only a year old as well, bought from BMW


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[az3579]

I bought a new key for my ZHP about a year ago and the batteries in this one seem to already be going. Had to do the ol’ climb-through-the-trunk stunt to unlock my car.

You know, there's a lock cylinder in the driver's door you can use with your key to open it. :)

[Prestovie]

You know, there's a lock cylinder in the driver's door you can use with your key to open it. :)

Lol I have the keyhole delete, probably going to remove it tomorrow. I’ve probably climbed through the trunk over a dozen times in just the past year


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[az3579]

Lol I have the keyhole delete, probably going to remove it tomorrow. I’ve probably climbed through the trunk over a dozen times in just the past year

Probably a good idea. It's an old BMW, it's bound to happen again. lol

[Prestovie]

Any idea on the whole clock resetting issue? As I’m getting closer to 111,000mi it’s worrying me that I won’t be able to reset the trip to get all those 1’s lined up


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[ZHPizza]

Have you checked the alternator or noticed a trend with when the battery dies?

[nextelbuddy]

is there an ECS BMW Performance brake Front and Rear kit for the M3 application? the only thing I could find is the front kit for NON M

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-assembled-by-ecs-parts/ecs-6-piston-front-big-brake-kit-325x25/341136462akt/

would love if there was a front and rear kit available for M3 application.

[Karl Lazlo]

Here: http://site.revolutionbrake.com/

And his ebay store: https://www.ebay.com/usr/perfect-brake-performance?ul_noapp=true

Speak to Kevin there. He has kits, mounting brackets, etc that make the ECS and UUC (UUC can eat a fat dick) kits look like third world trash.

[sillieidiot]

i think he was referring to the BMW Performance one specifically. But I mean the M3 wouldn't have any BMW Performance ones. You would just stick a better BBK on it like PFC, Brembo, or something. The stock M3 rotors are like already the size of that kit I believe.

[704sw]

I really like the 996 brakes on the E46. I think it keeps a pretty good brake bias, and it’s clearly a very proven solution at this point. I think there’s also a pretty extensive thread on M3f about running M4 brakes on the E46 M3 (if your objective is keeping that somewhat OEMish look).

[nextelbuddy]

I'm confused..... The link I just posted up there is a link for the green 6 piston BMW performance calipers for E46 non-m.

I thought those brakes also fit on M3s with slightly different modifications or brackets. I'm really not looking for any other brakes besides the green 6-piston ones those are the ones I want. I've seen other and threes with them as well.

[Hornung418]

I'm confused..... The link I just posted up there is a link for the green 6 piston BMW performance calipers for E46 non-m.

I thought those brakes also fit on M3s with slightly different modifications or brackets. I'm really not looking for any other brakes besides the green 6-piston ones those are the ones I want. I've seen other and threes with them as well.Green?? They are metallic yellow...

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[nextelbuddy]

Green?? They are metallic yellow...

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My apologies...... Metallic yellow.

I know that Spencer has a pair on his car car I love them. I was hoping for a bolt on solution for my car that currently has m3 brakes front and rear.

[az3579]

Speak to Kevin there. He has kits, mounting brackets, etc that make the ECS and UUC (UUC can eat a fat dick) kits look like third world trash.

I'm very happy with my UUC third world trash Wilwood kit, thank-you-very-much. :p


My apologies...... Metallic yellow.

I know that Spencer has a pair on his car car I love them. I was hoping for a bolt on solution for my car that currently has m3 brakes front and rear.

I don't think there is a bolt-on solution for the rear. The rear requires modifications to the dust shield in order to accommodate the M3 rear rotors it needs. If you don't mind modifying the dust shield then I guess you can call it bolt on. lol

Charlie knows more about this mod than I do.

[nextelbuddy]

I'm very happy with my UUC third world trash Wilwood kit, thank-you-very-much. :p



I don't think there is a bolt-on solution for the rear. The rear requires modifications to the dust shield in order to accommodate the M3 rear rotors it needs. If you don't mind modifying the dust shield then I guess you can call it bolt on. lol

Charlie knows more about this mod than I do.

i found the ECS E46 M3 FRONT 135i performance brake kit on their website eventually. it comes with CSL 2 piece rotors, SS brake lines, pads and fluid

now since im running complete M3 front and rear suspension and brake setup.. im curious on how to run the Rear 135i calipers.... it sounds like since i already have the M3 rear brakes in place , that the 135i performance caliper should just bolt on with no modification to the dust shield? I will go dig through Charlies project thread since I remember seeing some chatter in there about his setup.

i had planned on getting that setup then sourcing a set of rear 135i calipers, purchasing CSL rear rotors which are the same size as US M3 rear rotors just 2 piece and cross drilled and then some SS lines as well for the rear.

[az3579]

Didn't realize you had the M3 suspension and brakes as well. I don't know how the fitment would work for you then. I know that brake components are not compatible between M3 and non-M, despite their similarities. So, with that in mind, you have to buy the kit that is designed for what you have, in this case the M3. Looks like you're on the right track though.

BTW, CSL rotors aren't 2-piece. They are semi-floating, in that they are still solidly attached but have thin veins holding the rotor to the hat. True 2-piece rotors have screws/bolts holding the braking surface to the hat.

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[Sockethead]

Don't know if you know this ...Be aware that when sourcing the 135 calipers, all of them that came on 135's are silver/grey not yellow

[az3579]

Don't know if you know this ...Be aware that when sourcing the 135 calipers, all of them that came on 135's are silver/grey not yellow

Correct. The yellow ones are the BMW Performance upgrade ones for 128's and I think E9x's...

[FungShui]

I'm working on install the G.A.S. DISA Gold repair for preventative maintenance. I noticed the gasket that seals around the DISA flap (in closed position) is worn. Is the wear beyond reusing?

I see FCP euro has replacement unit for $160...

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-disa-valve-rein-11617544805#reviews

32331

[Oltorf]

Do I really need to take my car to a dealership for an alignment? Firestone says they can't do it and I don't understand why not.

[san]

Do I really need to take my car to a dealership for an alignment? Firestone says they can't do it and I don't understand why not.

I take it to the dealership because Firestone near my place doesn’t work on BMWs. I’m not sure why but I know that there are a few Firestone franchises that work on them. Seems to be hit or miss...


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[Oltorf]

I take it to the dealership because Firestone near my place doesn’t work on BMWs. I’m not sure why but I know that there are a few Firestone franchises that work on them. Seems to be hit or miss...


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that's weird. i wonder why. I'm doing a suspension overhaul and it's just macpherson struts and tie rods. Nothing weird or complicated.

[danewilson77]

Do I really need to take my car to a dealership for an alignment? Firestone says they can't do it and I don't understand why not.Why did they say they couldn't?

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[ZHPizza]

I'm working on install the G.A.S. DISA Gold repair for preventative maintenance. I noticed the gasket that seals around the DISA flap (in closed position) is worn. Is the wear beyond reusing?

I see FCP euro has replacement unit for $160...

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-disa-valve-rein-11617544805#reviews

32331

nah u good


Do I really need to take my car to a dealership for an alignment? Firestone says they can't do it and I don't understand why not.

If you want it done right, then yeah, dealership w/ sandbags and proper specs or a quality BMW shop.

[az3579]

Firestone is hit or miss. The one the next town over did my alignment, no questions asked. The one down the street did my alignment as well, but they gave me the "we don't usually align BMWs" and gave me some BS reason, but they caved in eventually.



If you want it done right, then yeah, dealership w/ sandbags and proper specs or a quality BMW shop.

Interesting. I've never heard of a shop that uses sandbags. Every place I've been to, including the dealer, just uses the rack by itself.

[ZHPizza]

Interesting. I've never heard of a shop that uses sandbags. Every place I've been to, including the dealer, just uses the rack by itself.

Find you a good service advisor with a tech that knows his stuff:

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180314/311853b851de32e0ef935e3702110438.jpg

[Oltorf]

Why did they say they couldn't?

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he didn't say.

[John in VA]

Interesting. I've never heard of a shop that uses sandbags. Every place I've been to, including the dealer, just uses the rack by itself.
Some used dumbbells, but be careful they don't dent/damage the seat surfaces.

[johnrando]

You can go to a good 'indy' tire shop, you don't have to pay dealer prices for an alignment.

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[Prestovie]

Debating on which vehicle I should drive down to florida this spring break. It’s a little over 1000miles, and I want to take my Tundra to get used to driving long distance in it for when I go to school in Montana and drive out there, but the ZHP is just calling my name from the garage. Shouldn’t really have to worry about weather(snow) going down south. The ZHP would get about 9mpg better fuel economy, but would also be more susceptible to being pulled over(with my luck anyway). Thoughts?


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[ZHPizza]

Debating on which vehicle I should drive down to florida this spring break. It’s a little over 1000miles, and I want to take my Tundra to get used to driving long distance in it for when I go to school in Montana and drive out there, but the ZHP is just calling my name from the garage. Shouldn’t really have to worry about weather(snow) going down south. The ZHP would get about 9mpg better fuel economy, but would also be more susceptible to being pulled over(with my luck anyway). Thoughts?


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How is this even a question?

Are you taking multiple passengers? Hauling gravel?

That drive is going to suck either way, so might as well do it in the car you prefer driving.

[ELCID86]

The only Firestone I’ve heard of that does them is the one BP used. I had one Indy shop here that used weights but they charged north or $250 for an alignment. I haven’t gone back. Some places say they car won’t clear to get on the rack...? Some just don’t understand how to do it correctly (I think).

I recommend bimmershops.com or your local network to find a good Indy shop.

[holyc0w]

The Firestone I was at proposed an alignment after they mounted the tires. I wonder if they would've stopped when they got to the car.

[Yankeefan]

Any advice on picking out wheel spacers that won't rub on a ZHP sedan with stock springs? I was thinking 10 or 15mm?

[John in VA]

Any advice on picking out wheel spacers that won't rub on a ZHP sedan with stock springs? I was thinking 10 or 15mm?

What wheels/tires are you planning to run? Diameter, width, offset?

[danewilson77]

What wheels/tires are you planning to run? Diameter, width, offset?Yes. This needs to be answered.

I run 245/40/18 square with 10 mm spacers in the rear. Offset is ET40.

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[704sw]

Any advice on picking out wheel spacers that won't rub on a ZHP sedan with stock springs? I was thinking 10 or 15mm?

I think 10 or 12.5 on all four corners is a really nice fit. 15s can rub on large compression. This is assuming you’re on factory sized rubber.

[John in VA]

I think 10 or 12.5 on all four corners is a really nice fit. 15s can rub on large compression. This is assuming you’re on factory sized rubber.

Will he require longer lug bolts with the spacers?

[704sw]

Will he require longer lug bolts with the spacers?

Indeed, he will. I’ve heard you can run up to a 5mm with regular lug bolts, but I wouldn’t try it. Heck, wven my 3mm Macht spacers came with longer bolts.

[Yankeefan]

Thanks guys, I've got factory wheels and tire size right now, no plans to change at the moment.

[ZHPizza]

Thanks guys, I've got factory wheels and tire size right now, no plans to change at the moment.I'd go 10mm all around. You can go up to 15mm in the front but I like the balance of 10 square and you don't have to worry about rubbing. Some people have had rubbing with 12.5mm in the rear.

[joeybananaz18]

Looking into FCAB and leaning towards going with the Z4M's. Looking to order off of ecs and was just wondering should i order just the bushing and reuse my lollipops or buy them already pressed in? Going to have my indy take care of them when i put in my FSDs so its not like ill be the one pressing them in. FYI part numbers are:
31107836862 , 31107836863 for pressed in
https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-bmw-parts/front-control-arm-bushing-set/31107838575/ just loose

[Dual]

Last night my passenger door stopped operating from either inside or outside. The lock actuator is up. I'm going to into PA Soft looking for things to clear, but I'm wondering if there are other things I should be looking at or aware of...?

[3ZHP]

That happened on my 323i. It need a new module.


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[Sockethead]

Looking into FCAB and leaning towards going with the Z4M's. Looking to order off of ecs and was just wondering should i order just the bushing and reuse my lollipops or buy them already pressed in? Going to have my indy take care of them when i put in my FSDs so its not like ill be the one pressing them in. FYI part numbers are:
31107836862 , 31107836863 for pressed in
https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-bmw-parts/front-control-arm-bushing-set/31107838575/ just loose
I always just get the whole thing for ease of installation... you'd probably want to check with you mechanic to make sure there is no additional labor charge for pressing them in...

[joeybananaz18]

I always just get the whole thing for ease of installation... you'd probably want to check with you mechanic to make sure there is no additional labor charge for pressing them in...

That was one of the reasons I was considering them. Just checking. I’ll be ordering some more things so I’m sure I’ll have another question or two today. Thanks!


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[ZHPizza]

That was one of the reasons I was considering them. Just checking. I’ll be ordering some more things so I’m sure I’ll have another question or two today. Thanks!


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkThere is a guy on e46f that sells the Z4 bushings pressed into the e46 lollipops. Something like $90 and you just send him your old ones in exchange.

[Dual]

That happened on my 323i. It need a new module.
Thanks! It cleared this AM on its own. Which module am I looking for please?

[John in VA]

Thanks! It cleared this AM on its own. Which module am I looking for please?

https://www.bmwgm5.com/

[John in VA]

There is a guy on e46f that sells the Z4 bushings pressed into the e46 lollipops. Something like $90 and you just send him your old ones in exchange.

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=1119519

[Dual]

https://www.bmwgm5.com/Oh yeah: that guy! Thank you!

[YoitsTmac]

In regards to the Z4 bushings, is it $109 pressed in with the bushings or you also pay for those separately?

They are available pre pressed for ~$180

If he charges $110 to press them in and they are $50, it may be worth the extra $20 of them being pre-pressed to ensure perfect alignment of the bushings and for the warranty

Link: https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-suspension-control-arm-bushing-z4-31107836863
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-suspension-control-arm-bushing-z4-31107836862

[Newjack]

In regards to the Z4 bushings, is it $109 pressed in with the bushings or you also pay for those separately?

They are available pre pressed for ~$180

If he charges $110 to press them in and they are $50, it may be worth the extra $20 of them being pre-pressed to ensure perfect alignment of the bushings and for the warranty

Link: https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-suspension-control-arm-bushing-z4-31107836863
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-suspension-control-arm-bushing-z4-31107836862

I would just get the bushings that are already pressed into the lollipops. Much easier and worth the $ imo

[Prestovie]

Alright so I’m seriously debating painting my trim back to black, but I’m considering painting them gloss instead of the original matte, thoughts? The gloss would match my kidneys


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[YoitsTmac]

definitely gloss, 100%

[BMWCurves]

Matte.

[Prestovie]

Well this is a divide, lol


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[YoitsTmac]

shh, no. Don't misguide people like that! :P

[Sreten]

Always stick with OEM.

[joeybananaz18]

Alright so I’m seriously debating painting my trim back to black, but I’m considering painting them gloss instead of the original matte, thoughts? The gloss would match my kidneys


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I'm with you on the gloss. I want to eliminate the silver cube trim and chrome badging and replace with solid gloss black to make the color palette a bit simpler. I considered doing the OEM high gloss set but its got a metallic flake in it. I has to be solid for me. Going to try to spray paint a spare set i have and see how it comes out.

[704sw]

I’m with William and Sreten on preferring OEM, but I also hate the upkeep of matte trim, and the inevitable fading. This is actually a debate I was having with myself when I was looking at sedans.

[san]

Matte


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[Prestovie]

The matte maintenance is definitely something I worry about, and I’m also going to be painting my mirrors to gloss(bc for some reason they weren’t even painted TiAg). I just feel like the gloss would match the shine of the paint, and would look gorgeous when it’s all cleaned up


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[cornercarver]

Semi-gloss. :biggrin

[az3579]

I've always wanted to paint mine gloss black but have been too cheap and lazy to bother.

My vote is gloss though.

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[holyc0w]

I got the brake pad sensor light (yellow with no exclamation). I think they're fine, but what is the warning for? Does it trigger at a certain thickness?

[az3579]

I got the brake pad sensor light (yellow with no exclamation). I think they're fine, but what is the warning for? Does it trigger at a certain thickness?

It triggers when the front, rear, or both sets of brake pads reach a certain thickness. A sensor is slotted into the brake pad, and when the pad wears down enough to expose the sensor to the rotor, that contact trips the sensor and turns the light on.

There is one sensor in the front and one in the rear, at opposing corners.

[Sockethead]

The pads are pretty much paper thin when it triggers

[holyc0w]

These are the 2 thinnest pads. Should these be replaced soon?

32404

32405

edit: Looked it up and it looks like it's time. Not sure if I should just replace these two or look for new brakes all around.

[John in VA]

These are the 2 thinnest pads. Should these be replaced soon?
Just wait until you literally grind to a halt (it won't be long!), and throw new rotors, pads & sensors at it!

[Sockethead]

Front brakes wear faster than rear ... You should check before replacing all

[holyc0w]

These were the fronts.

32406

32407

[danewilson77]

These were the fronts.

32406

32407Also.... Be advised you're not looking at the inner pads.

Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk

[holyc0w]

Also.... Be advised you're not looking at the inner pads.


Thanks

Wish I knew all this when that kit was still on sale.

edit: Thanks to all

[Sockethead]

Those pads look like they're at 50% or so... depending on your driving habits, they could last for quite a while

[holyc0w]

I'm thinking of going ceramic, so I would probably need to be consistent on all 4 corners. FCP has a Meyle/Akebono kit. Has anyone heard anything about Meyle rotors?

[John in VA]

FCP has a Meyle/Akebono kit. Has anyone heard anything about Meyle rotors?
With all of the rotor choices available & the continued decrease in Meyle parts quality I would choose something else.

[704sw]

The Centric made by StopTech are a good rotor for the money, imo.

[holyc0w]

The Centric made by StopTech are a good rotor for the money, imo.

Link?

I'm seeing not so positive experiences with the akebono ceramic pads, so that might be off the table too.

[fredo]

I had akebono ceramic pads on my e90 and was very happy with them. My main goal was to reduce or eliminate the brake dust, which they do. I don't track the car and my driving style is non-aggressive, BTW.

[az3579]

While I can't speak to Akebono, I can say that I do not recommend Hawk "Performance" Ceramic brake pads. I've had two sets in the time I've owned my car (once voluntary, the second time involuntarily) and for both of those time periods, I've had the same issue. The pads don't have very good bite/feel to them, and occasionally when it's raining out and you've been driving on the highway for a while without touching the brakes, there can be a very unnerving vague feeling after pushing the pedal down, giving you that "oh shit, I have no brakes" feeling until they dry off. It only takes one application of the brakes to dry them, but it also only takes one application of the brakes to realize you don't have the braking you expected and rear-end someone.

Otherwise, they're fine when it's dry, but the lack of overall feel is a bit disappointing.

[holyc0w]

That seems to be similar to some of the comments on the Akebono ceramics.

[YoitsTmac]

The matte maintenance is definitely something I worry about, and I’m also going to be painting my mirrors to gloss(bc for some reason they weren’t even painted TiAg). I just feel like the gloss would match the shine of the paint, and would look gorgeous when it’s all cleaned up

Do you have a DIY for this? To avoid intense orange peel?

[ZHPizza]

While I can't speak to Akebono, I can say that I do not recommend Hawk "Performance" Ceramic brake pads. I've had two sets in the time I've owned my car (once voluntary, the second time involuntarily) and for both of those time periods, I've had the same issue. The pads don't have very good bite/feel to them, and occasionally when it's raining out and you've been driving on the highway for a while without touching the brakes, there can be a very unnerving vague feeling after pushing the pedal down, giving you that "oh shit, I have no brakes" feeling until they dry off. It only takes one application of the brakes to dry them, but it also only takes one application of the brakes to realize you don't have the braking you expected and rear-end someone.

Otherwise, they're fine when it's dry, but the lack of overall feel is a bit disappointing.My exact experience with my current brake pads, which I believe are Akebono.

[YoitsTmac]

I had no experience in the rain, but I had akebonos and they had fade really easy. My driving habit is aggressive but it was low speed canyon driving. I was disappointed, it wasn't worth it for the lack of brake dust.

[papa_g]

if akebonos fade easily, would running drilled rotors help to reduce the fade?