The Clown is Back: Progress thread

[BADCLOWN]

2005 330i ZHP Jet Black
single owner (former BMW employee and enthusiast)
89k miles at purchase
sport cloth interior, 6MT


Maintenance history from PO:

- cooling system revamped/upgraded
- pagid pads/rotors/sensors/fluid (done 5 days before i picked the car up)
- poly CABs
- fuel filter, belts, plugs, tranny/diff fluid flushes with Redline fluids
- clutch delay valve removed
- host of documentation paperwork for various other things up to this point in its life

Maintenance history under my ownership completed:

- The "Octopus" CCV system and all related plumbing 11/21/14
- Vanos oil feed line 11/21/14
- 2 Intake boots 11/21/14
- oil dipstick seal 11/21/14
- Rear tail light recall performed 12/03/14
- (2) front o2 sensors replaced, vacuum system smoke tested 12/17/14
- oil change 5w40 Amsoil synthetic w/ filter 01/14/15
- Eonon GM5150 headunit install 01/14/15
- recall for front passenger airbag completed at BMW Store in Cincinnati
- GAS DISA upgrade 05/18/15
- Continental DWS06 tires 245/35/18F 255/35/18R and alignment 06/17/15
- massive 2016 spring parts install
- front driver side airbag recall completed at BMW store Cincinnati
- OE front passenger window regulator 10/03/17 at 102,350 miles
- ///M performance logo eBay floor mats installed 08/09/18
- reglued A and C pillar fabric 08/21/18
- dynamat 4 doors and trunk 08/21/18
- Xtrons 9 inch HU w/ CarPlay interface 08/18/18
- AC recharge 09/04/18
- hood, bumper, front fenders, mirror caps repainted 04/20/19
- 135i rear calipers/redbox pads/Stoptech rear M3 rotors/brake lines 06/01/19
- (2) Lemforder front diff bushings and (1) OEM BMW rear diff bushing 06/01/19
- Morimoto LED fog lights 06/01/19
- ///M euro door sills 06/01/19
- driver side airbag recall completed at BMW Store in Cincinnati 04/2020
- oil/filter change Mobil1 full synthetic 5w40 04/20/2021
- oCarbon CF interior trim/seat backs/new OEM ZHP shift knob 05/14/2021
- oCarbon CF steering wheel trim 06/03/2021
- new OEM hood insulation and new clips 06/04/2021
- OEM driver front window regulator 09/16/2021
- replacement brand new Eagle Eye smoked LED tail lights and LED reverse lights 10/08/21
- new Osram DS2 6k bulbs installed 05/02/2022
- new OEM 50th anniversary BMW roundels for hood/trunk installed 06/28/2022
- Zimmerman CSL front rotors, EBC red stuff pads, racegerman brake lines, reboot engineering carrier brackets and a brake fluid flush 02/28/23
- Eonon HU install 02/28/23
- 2x2 CF CSL style front lip 09/02/23

Overall, the car is in excellent shape, bought the car in NC and drove 6.5 hours back. she did 75-78mph @ 30mpg loaded down with an extra set of 17 inch e46 wheels/tires and extra parts (i was impressed). interior is damn near immaculate, exterior is ding/dent free and paint is overall in excellent shape. the plan is to have the hood/bumper/mirrors resprayed in the spring out of me being purely anal about things but its still in great shape (honestly haha, I'm just an idiot for aesthetics).


List of modifications:

- limo tint with windshield banner
- Bimmian matte black kidney grills
- Bimmian rear LED license plate kit
- eonon 9 inch HU with BSW stg1 speaker upgrade
- dynamat doors and rear trunk
- Euro R/C/R tails
- poly CABs
- reprogrammed LCM with triple blink, BFD, and other options
- Sprint booster w/ sport button mod
- BMW Performance carbon fiber front strut bar
- BMW Performance intake
- BMW Performance shifter w/ UUC DSSR
- BMW Performance 135i 6 pot front calipers
- Zimmerman CSL front rotors w/ EBC red stuff pads
- Racegerman front brake lines
- 135i rear brake upgrade/painted Phoenix Yellow w/ redbox pads
- Stoptech M3 drilled/slotted rear rotors
- 2x2 weave carbon fiber mtechII rear diffuser
- Khoalty smoked side markers and turn signals
- German Auto Solutions 1.2 bar coolant cap
- Khoalty headlight lenses
- 19x8.5F/19x9.5R BBS CH wheels in gloss black w/ Continental DWS tires
- BBS carbon fiber center caps and BBS metal valve stems with stamped BBS caps
- Ground Control coilovers (Eibach springs/Koni shocks w/ adj rear camber arms)
- Coby wrapped ZHP steering wheel, arm rest, and both boots with tricolor ///M stitching
- OEM shifter rebuild kit
- ///M oil cap
- 5% laminex film on headlight lenses and fog light lenses
- Eagle Eye smoked LED tail lights
- ///M performance logo eBay floor mats
- ///M dead pedal
- CF cabin filter cover
- Morimoto LED fog lights
- M3 cluster w/ programming
- Lemforder front diff bushings
- OEM BMW rear diff bushing
- BMW ///M euro door sills
- Umnitza Orion V4 LED angel eyes
- CF front seat backs
- oCarbon 8pc interior trim and steering wheel trim
- 2x2 CF CSL style front lip


awaiting install:

- BBS RS714 RS2 18x8.5 ET38 (in storage, awaiting custom rebuild)


wish list:

- VF supercharger kit
- F/R sway bars
- new center console refresh pieces
- euro side mirror glass
- Dinan coilpacks




From that point, I may start looking for a good wheel setup but thats the 3-4 month list up to this point of things id like to address. ill snap some pictures and post them either today or tomorrow of the car. feels good to be back in one thats for sure. i am planning to recreate the below picture in my signature too, its about time i get something more fitting for this site haha.

snapped a few QUICK photos below. note the road rash damage over the years on the front bumper (some is still bugs from the trip yesterday). just got the tint done this morning. theres some dirt and stuff on the interior f/r from the trip but overall, killer shape. and yes, the D/S floor mat has the notorious hole in it. need to source some nice replacements and a set of rubber mats for winter.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8113/15597507187_5047407115_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pLiitH)DSC_0619 (https://flic.kr/p/pLiitH) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8563/15784239682_dc522e0480_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/q3Nmxu)DSC_0620 (https://flic.kr/p/q3Nmxu) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5609/15162712274_e62f1f4bf5_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/p6SS6G)DSC_0621 (https://flic.kr/p/p6SS6G) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7576/15597248018_504f953f51_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pLgYrh)DSC_0622 (https://flic.kr/p/pLgYrh) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7491/15597245688_58bc2950e7_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pLgXK7)DSC_0623 (https://flic.kr/p/pLgXK7) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7520/15597850970_818f048f2c_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pLk4F1)DSC_0624 (https://flic.kr/p/pLk4F1) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[Vas]

Subscribed.

[danewilson77]

Congrats.

"No flamesuit required"

[ELCID86]

Congrats again. She sounds purdy.

[BADCLOWN]

even though the brakes were just done, i saw someones build thread on here last week (can't remember which one) where they did upgraded M performance calipers/rotors on their car. upgrading the braking system doesn't seem like a terrible idea. ill have to dig through the build threads and try to find that again. id like to pick that person's brain on their setup

[az3579]

You might want to get the recall on the taillights done. By the time you see a bulb out light, you could potentially have a hole burned through the ground hole on the harness connector. It seems to be hit or miss whether they replace that connector; my dealer did not replace it.

[derbo]

Awesome! Welcome back!

My dealer cut the ground wire and replaced it with an auxiliary wire. They did not replace anything.

[fredo]

Well done, sir. Congrats.

[BADCLOWN]

maybe ill get it looked at then, sound like the car may burn to the ground haha. i never had a light come on in my old ZHP but found out the recall was open and just went and had them do it anyways.

[johnrando]

Great news. Love that pic so it will be interesting to see it with your zhp. As for brakes, you thinking the BBK kit that ECS sells (or I think there is one with StopTec IIRC) or something else?

[az3579]

Great news. Love that pic so it will be interesting to see it with your zhp. As for brakes, you thinking the BBK kit that ECS sells (or I think there is one with StopTec IIRC) or something else?

Personally for the price they're selling at, I wouldn't waste my time with the BMW BBK. I've had way more issues than I care to admit, but I track my car. Regardless, there are other kits for a somewhat similar price that don't have the problems the BMW kit has. It was a deal when they first had the fire sale on them, but at the price they're at now, it's not worth it IMO.

[3ZHP]

Congrats on the ZHP and welcome back.

[derbo]

even though the brakes were just done, i saw someones build thread on here last week (can't remember which one) where they did upgraded M performance calipers/rotors on their car. upgrading the braking system doesn't seem like a terrible idea. ill have to dig through the build threads and try to find that again. id like to pick that person's brain on their setup

BP, Charlie and I have done the upgrade for the 135i brakes. BP and I track the cars and we both agree they were never intended to be for the track. BP had issues and ultimately had to pay extra to cure a design heat retention problem.

I myself ditched it and went to Stoptechs 332mm BBK which fits over 17s (with spacers of course).

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/10/07/a8e6uqun.jpg

:)

[cakM3]

BP, Charlie and I have done the upgrade for the 135i brakes. BP and I track the cars and we both agree they were never intended to be for the track. BP had issues and ultimately had to pay extra to cure a design heat retention problem.

I myself ditched it and went to Stoptechs 332mm BBK which fits over 17s (with spacers of course).

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/10/07/a8e6uqun.jpg

:)

Since I got brought into this discussion I will post my thoughts on the Performance BBK... I want to point out that the Performance BBKs weren't set up for dedicated track use. Botond ran into issues as I'm sure Derek also had issues when using these while on the track. I have never tracked my car and as a result, haven't had any issues using my Performance BBKs. What Botond mentioned regarding current pricing I would have to fully agree. When he and I purchased our Performance BBKs they were running just around $1k so it was a good choice at that time to have a true BBK so to speak. Currently the Performance BBKs are going for $1,699.95.

Here's the link: http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Braking/Performance/ES2215444/ (http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Braking/Performance/ES2215444/)

There is a fix to the Performance BBKs by replacing the pistons but that would cost more and you end up rebuilding your calipers in the process....defeats the purpose of buying this BBK kit. I feel if you plan to track your ZHP then looking at other options such as Stoptech (what Derek has on his ZHP) would be a much better choice. :thumbsup

This is the pic of my Performance BBKs installed...
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/DSC_0020_zps4607e6e6.jpg
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/DSC_0062-2.jpg

[slater]

I myself ditched it and went to Stoptechs 332mm BBK which fits over 17s (with spacers of course).


you mean under 17's. ;)

peter

[az3579]

you mean under 17's. ;)

peter

You mean "in" 17's. :)

[derbo]

you mean under 17's. ;)

peter

:faceplate My bad. Maybe it's Inside? :) hahah GRAMMAR POLICE

[BADCLOWN]

pictures uploaded in OP.


cakM3: yours is the vehicle/thread i was referring to, thanks to whomever posted that up. i knew it was an OE BBK but couldn't remember where/whos car. i won't be tracking this car but having some extra bite would be nice. how does it compare to the OE ZHP setup?

[fredo]

Your ZHP looks VERY sharp. Congrats again.

[cakM3]

pictures uploaded in OP.


cakM3: yours is the vehicle/thread i was referring to, thanks to whomever posted that up. i knew it was an OE BBK but couldn't remember where/whos car. i won't be tracking this car but having some extra bite would be nice.

I was the one who posted the pics of my ZHP with Performance BBKs on it ;) You're welcome. For strictly street use I can say that the Performance BBKs have been awesome and I'm happy BP talked me into getting these before I sourced my Performance carbon fiber strut brace. These will be perfectly fine for street use or highway cruising :thumbsup



how does it compare to the OE ZHP setup?

Honestly, it's been awhile since I have compared my BBKs to my OE setup but I will say I love these compared to my OE ZHP calipers. Anyone can chime in here but I would say that the OE ZHP calipers are the same as any 330 caliper. They are good but if you're looking for something extra with that authentic BBK look and you're not going to take your car on the track then these Performance BBKs are perfectly fine. I love the look and so do others here who occasionally drive by and then slow down just to take another look at my BBKs...;)

[BADCLOWN]

is there a rotor size that upgrades with the caliper size as well or strictly a caliper upgrade?

[cakM3]

is there a rotor size that upgrades with the caliper size as well or strictly a caliper upgrade?


The BBKs come with BMW Performance front rotors which are (325x25). They are the same size as the OE 330 rotors.

[BADCLOWN]

guess ill have to look into the BMW BBK a bit more and do some readin'

[cakM3]

:thumbsup

[Vas]

If looks are not a big deal, then the 2 piece BMW performance rotors, good pads and lines is a great upgrade over stock. Still uses the factory 1 piston sliding caliper.

[derbo]

is there a rotor size that upgrades with the caliper size as well or strictly a caliper upgrade?


The rotor size is not changed. The "kit" that ECS put together is a custom bracket to mount the BMW Performance Calipers (135i Calipers in Phoenix Yellow Paint) to a BMW performance semi-floating Rotor.


The factory 330i performance setup is wonderful. With a set of track-orientated brake pads and fluid, it can go very advanced without much fuss.

The ECS BBK comes with our factory sized rotors as Charlie mentioned. No increase in rotor size means no real increase in thermal efficiency. It also comes with a fixed brembo caliper with 6 pistons from the 135i. The combined piston surface area is slightly larger that of the 330i caliper and alters the F/R brake bias to move towards the rear a little bit more. With the slightly stronger brake torque, the brakes feel stronger but the pedal is still very similar feel. It can get a little squirrelly during heavy track use without the right set of pads to shift the bias back to the front. There is a heat retention design flaw that also leaves us track guys hating the piston setup. :mad


For a car that isn't for track use, its a fairly simple setup to get the look of a BBK without the replacement parts of a BBK. Your brake pads are OE 135i fitment, and your rotors are OE E46 330i. Can't get any easier for factory replacement parts than that. Like Charlie and BP mentioned, it was around $1195 when it first came out in 2011. The price has jumped significantly now and at $1695, I personally would want to spend a little more and find the Stoptech BBK for a much better setup that isn't as mix+match OE parts.

But if you want to hash out any conversation about anything, feel free to PM me or whatever. I'm always up for talking parts :)

[az3579]

Pedal feel is just a touch better than the factory setup. It bites sooner, but not necessarily harder. From a performance standpoint you don't get much. From a looks perspective, however, it's worth it in spades, and would look really sharp on your black ZHP. :thumbsup

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5563/15034571171_0b575c82de_c.jpg
(https://flic.kr/p/oUy7dk)20140825-010 (https://flic.kr/p/oUy7dk) by botond.pal (https://www.flickr.com/people/65070296@N06/), on Flickr

[johnrando]

I have this kit but have yet to install it as my current pads are relatively new still. Definitely better brake blind over 330 brakes. Great feedback and detail Derek, BP Charlie.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

Well: idk if it was the cold weather blast that we got or a batch of bad gas since the winter mixes are being implemented now but i developed a CEL 2 days ago for bank 1/bank 2 lean (o2 sensors which i figured since everything else was operating accordingly). taking the car in the morning after shift tonight to my buddy who does most of my work and look things over. its either:

A. bad gas that triggered it
B. tears in the intake boot
C. i lucked out and both o2s shit themselves at the same time


i also received my package from bimmian today so the matte kidneys and LED license plate kit can go in tomorrow as well while I'm there. will give us a chance to check out the underside of the car as well and see how things are.

[mbeckel]

Well: idk if it was the cold weather blast that we got or a batch of bad gas since the winter mixes are being implemented now but i developed a CEL 2 days ago for bank 1/bank 2 lean (o2 sensors which i figured since everything else was operating accordingly). taking the car in the morning after shift tonight to my buddy who does most of my work and look things over. its either:

A. bad gas that triggered it
B. tears in the intake boot
C. i lucked out and both o2s shit themselves at the same time


i also received my package from bimmian today so the matte kidneys and LED license plate kit can go in tomorrow as well while I'm there. will give us a chance to check out the underside of the car as well and see how things are.
First off, nice find, and I'd check the lower intake boot first. Mine had the exact same issue, and the lower intake boot was torn. After I changed it out, been issue free (knock on wood)

[BADCLOWN]

Well, good and bad news to report........mostly bad haha.

CEL was showing bank 1 and bank 2 lean. Turns out that the "octopus" as it has come to be known is leaking. ever so slight oil burning smoke coming up from the motor when you take the engine cover off. So, friday morning I'm taking it back to my buddy to have the following done:


- the octopus and all related plumbing
- vanos line
- 2 intake boots
- oil column seal


the OTHER slightly bad news is that one of the rear tires has a very small nail in it that isn't pluggable. barely leaking air at this point. at a crossroads here: idk if i should just buy one tire or a whole new set. the reason I'm contemplating new set is because the front tires have some slight inner wear due to a bad alignment from PO. the two options are buy a whole new set or just buy one tire and ride on the current tires until spring or so........who knows.

other than that, the underside of the car looks great, everything is clean/in order, nothing needs replacing and is 100% otherwise.

got the bimmian LED license plate lights in, kind of a pain in the ass to install as the connections didn't line up well with the OE equipment, took about 10-15 minutes to get it all working properly but now are working for the time being. also threw on the bimmian matte kidneys, looks SOOOOOO much better than the OE chrome surround ones.



OP will continually be updated with maintenance and modification fixes/upgrades as well.

[ELCID86]

Octopus = CCV?


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[BADCLOWN]

yes, located under the intake manifold. I've always heard it referred to as the octopus...........parts weren't too bad in cost, should be 5 hours of labor or so. won't be driving her much the next few days until the maintenance is performed on friday.

[Vas]

Cold weather version or just regular?

Oil column seal meaning the dipstick tube o-ring?

[BADCLOWN]

regular OE equipment, and yes the dipstick o-ring

[ELCID86]

yes, located under the intake manifold. I've always heard it referred to as the octopus...........parts weren't too bad in cost, should be 5 hours of labor or so. won't be driving her much the next few days until the maintenance is performed on friday.

Never heard that. Makes sense I guess.

Why not Cold weather CCV? Not sure where you live.



Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[Whammy]

Well done!!! :clap:

[BADCLOWN]

Why not Cold weather CCV? Not sure where you live.




about 5 miles south of cincinnati. we NORMALLY don't get temperatures in the 10deg or lower range..........i never had an issue with my 04 ZHP in the 3 years i owned it. i guess its just a fluke thing that happened.

[BADCLOWN]

got the car back today, my buddy said the valve was basically shot/froze open. the plumbing didn't look too hot either so it was good to get that whole thing knocked out and finished. next thing to address is tires and then hopefully i can start buying some fun things for it.

[Johnmadd]

Nice progress. I'm still drooling at your e30... :drool

[cakM3]

Nice progress. I'm still drooling at your e30... :drool

+1

Yes that sig pic of the e30 does look sick :drool

[BADCLOWN]

the ZHP rendition is coming in spring ;)


time to talk tires:


currently the car has 245/35/18F and 255/35/18R on it.

the pass. rear has a very small nail in an area that isn't pluggable, the leak is slow and so this tire situation is not a pressing issue. the two front tires have slight camber wear due to a not 100% alignment



option A: replace the one tire for the time being and roll on them until next year to maybe replace

option B: go ahead and replace all of them.


now from my best understanding whats currently on the car is not the OE equipment specs. Whats your guys opinion on this and secondly, what tires would you recommend as far as a good all season tire? I've heard nothing but good regarding continental. Im also not trying to drop a grand on tires either.

[danewilson77]

Continental DWS. Or Michelin PS AS3. Non OEM tire specs don't bother me at all.

I'm currently running 245's square in the Continental DWS's. Allows for rotating.

"No flamesuit required"

[Vas]

The front has a 245 on it ?

I would do conti dws or Michelin as3.

[danewilson77]

It looks like that's what he said.

"No flamesuit required"

[BADCLOWN]

yeah, thats not a typo. 245/35 and 255/35

[Vas]

The front rims are 8.5 width then ? Previous owner did a square set-up?

I would go 245 width all around.

[ELCID86]

The front rims are 8.5 width then ? Previous owner did a square set-up?

I would go 245 width all around.

+1 if square.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[BADCLOWN]

ill have to read up on the multiple recommendations on the two sets mentioned above after my work week is over.

[johnrando]

I went 245/35 8.5 square (not pictured in my sig). That is a very common square setup for our cars.

[WOLFN8TR]

I'm running 235/40/18's Squared, see Sig. I originally had Style 135's with 245's and 255's with 18.5" ET50 rims. I did some Offset calculations changing from the 18.5" Style 135's. This might help you decide.

•ZHP RIMS

Style 135- 18x8.5's
Overall Diameter-19.56"(497mm)
Overall Width-9.38" (238mm)
Backspacing-6.69" (170mm)
Offset-2.01" (51mm)
Weight-28.20 lbs. (12.79kg)
---------------------------------
Spacers:
5mm .20 inch
10mm .40 inch
12.5mm .50 inch
15mm .60 inch
17.5mm .69 inch
20mm .79 inch
----------------------------------
18x8-ET 35= +8.7-21.4 In
18x8-ET 40= +3.7-16.4 In
18x8-ET 42= +1.7-14.4 In
18x8-ET 45= -1.3-11.4 In
18x8-ET 47= -3.3 - 9.3 In
-----------------------------------
18x8.5 ET 30= +20-20 In
18x8.5 ET 33= +17-17 In
18x8.5 ET 35= +15-15 In
18x8.5 ET 38= +12-12 In
18x8.5 ET 40= +10-10 In
18x8.5 ET 45= +5-5 In
------------------------------------
Style 135's 18x8 ET47= -3.3-9.3
10mm Spacer= +7.3-19.3
12mm Spacer= +9.3-21.3
15mm Spacer= +12.3-24.3
-------------------------------------
Tire Cost:
235/40-$165
245/40-$185
255/40-$200

[BADCLOWN]

anyone have experience with Kohalty products?

looking to do a CF rear diffusor, bumper fins (or possibly lip), and apparently they carry CF fog light/bumper ducts. curious as to build quality/personal experience with their product.

[ELCID86]

Don't do their CF splitter covers. Poor fitment. Just sent mine back.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[johnrando]

Very hit and miss bad clown. I'd source from somewhere else if you can.

[BADCLOWN]

thats all i needed to know, thanks. on a totally unrelated note:


sprung a CEL tonight after letting the car warm up before leaving the girlfriends place over in Indiana. this is the 2nd time this has happened (getting a CEL leaving her place). last time it was the CCV system that needed an overhaul. I'm thinking its an o2 sensor issue on this one but ill get the codes pulled in the morning.


idk if she's good luck because I'm finding out what needs to be replaced as a result, or if she's bad luck because I'm finding out stuff that is broken or needs to be replaced.

I'm going with a cup half full view, she's too good of a girl to think otherwise haha.

heres a painting/self portrait i had commissioned of us not too long ago:

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m6ddcd6rqy1rv9yego1_1280.jpg



:p

[alexandre]

^ love it!!

O2 sensors can be fouled by car running rich (letting the car warm up...). BMW's interval for O2 sensors is 100k either way, so it could simply be that they're actually starting to fail.

[az3579]

You really can't say anything about finding things to fix... the newest E46's are over 8 years old now...
This is all expected of an 8+ year old car. Glass half full is the only way to go about it. You have an E30; you know all about that... I sure do. :biggrin

[johnrando]

lol, love the "portrait"

[BADCLOWN]

if it is o2 related.........its expected. i think at my service II on the old car i believe i replaced o2s as well. i guess i should just replace them anyways.


as far as the e30 goes: i no longer have that and glad i don't for the most part. THE WORST OWNERSHIP EVER, primarily due to A. the guy who sold me the car and B. the shop that did the m52 swap. your head would explode if i enlightened you all on the full details of that shit show.

[BADCLOWN]

one of the front o2s threw the code. going to go ahead and replace both fronts next wednesday. also planning to smoke test the vacuum system and see how thats doing as well.

[Vas]

Just saw the pictures on the first page of this post. Man your car looks nice.

As far as weather mats, I got my OEM BMW rubber mats from tischer bmw.

[BADCLOWN]

Thanks on all fronts Vas.


definitely need to scoop some winter mats here soon and then find some nice carpet mats come spring time.

[az3579]

if it is o2 related.........its expected. i think at my service II on the old car i believe i replaced o2s as well. i guess i should just replace them anyways.


as far as the e30 goes: i no longer have that and glad i don't for the most part. THE WORST OWNERSHIP EVER, primarily due to A. the guy who sold me the car and B. the shop that did the m52 swap. your head would explode if i enlightened you all on the full details of that shit show.

Oh damn.
I guess I could say something about the guy who did my S50 swap as well, but it was cheap and I wasn't expecting a factory-quality swap, so I'm not complaining. The car was fun as hell though once it was sorted out... but I decided to make my friend get the BMW bug and sold the car to him. Now he's my track buddy. :biggrin


Winter mats - I am totally satisfied with the BMW rubber mats. Mine are from a E90; my friend gave them to me for free before he returned his car on lease. They fit just fine. I just had to poke some holes so the mats could be held in by the E46 mat hooks. They are still great to this day, after 4 years of use. The bottom of my foot is wearing the mat a bit, but I think it'll be a long time before it penetrates since this rubber is some durable stuff.

WeatherTech makes the best floor mats for winter use IMO, but personally think they're pretty ugly. If you want the best mats, those are probably the ones to get since they have excellent coverage of the carpet, with walls that extend upwards as well. If you don't mind OEM, then the BMW ones are excellent as well.

[BADCLOWN]

smoke test went well, nothing bad to report. heres the old fronts:


http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a121/blkvr6pwr/298B7D77-0BB3-47D0-988F-84D822678BEF_zpso0krq4zo.jpg (http://s10.photobucket.com/user/blkvr6pwr/media/298B7D77-0BB3-47D0-988F-84D822678BEF_zpso0krq4zo.jpg.html)

[danewilson77]

smoke test went well, nothing bad to report. heres the old fronts:


http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a121/blkvr6pwr/298B7D77-0BB3-47D0-988F-84D822678BEF_zpso0krq4zo.jpg (http://s10.photobucket.com/user/blkvr6pwr/media/298B7D77-0BB3-47D0-988F-84D822678BEF_zpso0krq4zo.jpg.html)
How did you perform the smoke test?

"No flamesuit required"

[BADCLOWN]

he pulled the intake system off up to the maf, threw a little smoke in there to check for any vacuum leaks.

[slater]

he pulled the intake system off up to the maf, threw a little smoke in there to check for any vacuum leaks.

yep. there's a good euro repair place that i use for alignments that does this now. was thinking of having them smoke test my car after i replace the fuel filter and check the vacuum lines down there, just to make sure the system is leak-free now.

peter

[BADCLOWN]

its not a bad idea to do to these cars and it really doesnt take much time at all. just have to find a place thats got the equipment

[ELCID86]

What's cost BC? And any difference with new sensors?


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[BADCLOWN]

My buddy takes care of me so he just up and did it for free, its the first time I've ever had a car smoked but I can't imagine it costing THAT much to be done.



On another note: ECSTuning shipped out my smokers package HVAC relocation piece yesterday, i ordered the suggested blue wired radio antenna via WOLFs write up, and will be ordering the GM5150 tomorrow. can't wait to get that bitch installed and play around. no more listening to the radio!

[johnrando]

Nice

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

well: I've got an Eonon GM5150 on its way.

I also ordered 4 filters from AutohausAZ and Amsoil 5w40 syn. for the cars first oil change under my ownership.


All this is taking place next Wednesday. the next stuff ill be looking at is F/R sway bars (FINALLY start dabbling in some performance upgrades). probably going to go with Turner or H&R. aside from the bushings and endlinks, is there anything else you all would recommend as a "might as well" replacement while these are being installed?

[johnrando]

I don't think so, but Derek (derbo) or others can hopefully chime in.

[derbo]

well: I've got an Eonon GM5150 on its way.

I also ordered 4 filters from AutohausAZ and Amsoil 5w40 syn. for the cars first oil change under my ownership.


All this is taking place next Wednesday. the next stuff ill be looking at is F/R sway bars (FINALLY start dabbling in some performance upgrades). probably going to go with Turner or H&R. aside from the bushings and endlinks, is there anything else you all would recommend as a "might as well" replacement while these are being installed?




I don't think so, but Derek (derbo) or others can hopefully chime in.



There isn't much outside the end links. Perhaps the nuts and the D brackets if you do not go H&R.

[BADCLOWN]

Showed up at my door today, i didn't know if i would get it on time with the icy weather thats rolled through the region. heres an unboxing for anyone interested in how these are packaged/shipped out:


https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7552/16264545581_d138859493_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qMf3KF)DSC_0625 (https://flic.kr/p/qMf3KF) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8677/16264542841_e7770d5beb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qMf2Wr)DSC_0626 (https://flic.kr/p/qMf2Wr) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7521/16078826698_f6bda69a36_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/quQbZY)DSC_0627 (https://flic.kr/p/quQbZY) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8641/16078977970_26ff69fd1e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/quQXY7)DSC_0628 (https://flic.kr/p/quQXY7) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7571/16265525312_6c8103e4cf_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qMk4ZA)DSC_0629 (https://flic.kr/p/qMk4ZA) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7525/16078981200_7886f7ea1e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/quQYVN)DSC_0632 (https://flic.kr/p/quQYVN) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7507/16240418546_31be74639c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qK7oCj)DSC_0633 (https://flic.kr/p/qK7oCj) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[BADCLOWN]

now i just need to go buy a SD usb docking station at a local electronics store and a good SD card, then make an attempt to download the software for the GPS

[1 M Mike]

Good thread. :like

If you haven't done so already I highly recommend picking up a pair of these as they really make heel-instep-toeing of all 3 pedals a breeze. :ronald

http://bambootheme.com/showcase/may10/images/com_tienda/products/mens003/clownshoes.jpg

:)

[fredo]

:applause2

[johnrando]

Hope the install goes well

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

after having this in the car for a week, ill have a full write up on it later tonight with a few pictures (to show a few things, i know you all have seen the unit installed before so thats not anything new haha)

[BADCLOWN]

EONON GM5150 review:

Ive had this installed in my car for about a week now. Heres my evaluation of it up to this point broken down into a few different sections:


Aesthetics: totally on point. LED color matches near perfect and the fit and finish (pictured below) is great. The unit itself fits flush with the trim and dash so I have zero gripes other than the following: if you look at the pictures below, the NAV button is flawed. I didn't actually notice it until today but the lettering is not centered up. While not the biggest problem in the world, still slightly annoying.

Functionality: The touch screen itself is very responsive and works well. When pressing the buttons, they feel "firm" and not terribly cheap (a feeling I truly hate, I'd compare this to having a solid "heavy" sounding door closing on a vehicle). Broken down further:

IPOD: I had the cable mounted in the glove box along with the USBs for the time being. The last picture listed below is where my HUGE issue is with this HU and UI. When you select "Artists" it will show your list of artists on your IPOD. From there, if you select an artist/band that has multiple albums, it DOES NOT go to a new screen where it lists the separate albums. It just lists every song (albeit, in album order) without a breakdown/further organization. This aggravates me because if I just want to listen to a specific album and put it on loop I can't do that. Also, when in the settings and selecting "last mode" to have the HU boot to when you were previously in the vehicle, the IPOD function doesn't work well. When coming out to/getting in your car after previously listening to your IPOD, the HU will boot and begin playing music from where you left off at, but if you choose a different song via the screen/touch it won't select the song you choose, instead it will randomly skip around. In order to fix this, I have to select a totally different artist and song then go BACK to that artist and select a song in order for it to respond to my touch requests correctly. I don't know if this is something setting wise I am messing up but also aggravating.

NAVI: WOLF put a 16gig SD card in the mail for me yesterday with the NAVI software on it. I can't personally attest to or critique this aspect of the UI at this time, so I will edit and report back on this when I can.

UPDATE: got the SD card from WOLF and loaded it up in no time. Very clean UI for the NAVI and once it boots up for the first time it works smooth. overall not bad at all, zero complaints in this area.

BLUETOOTH: works like a charm. I called my mother and she heard me clear as day using the external mic on the unit itself. In the picture below, you can see I had the external remote/wired mic mounted right next to the base for the rear view mirror, great spot personally. If you mount here, the wire is too short to connect to the unit, you'll need to go to your local electronics store and get a normal male/female audio cord (like your headphones) to extend and ultimately connect it to the unit. I had my buddy run the external mic just in case I decide to use it at some point.

DVD: I was very surprised by the picture quality of a $400 HU. I popped in JarHead and ended up sitting my car to finish an entire scene vs. just watching 10-15 seconds. I think its rather crisp. The DVD load/boot time takes a short clip of time but overall its not bad at all. The remote works rather well (even though I loathe the aesthetics that that remote, it looks terrible haha).


It would be nice if the equalizer/tune-ability of the unit was a little bit more in depth, but I can live with what it does currently. I also wish you could dim the LEDs on the unit itself, I like the interior lighting to be on the darker side. And for the life of me, I cannot get the damn time to turn off/not display since it doesn't keep accurate time. I've selected the option to remove it from the display in the settings multiple times and it still shows up.



Overall, I would give the unit itself an 7.5 out of 10. Aesthetics are great and it looks like it came in there from the dealer brand new. The IPOD issues, lack of LED brightness adjustability, and the NAVI button finish flaw where the major sticking points. The unit itself was packaged rather nicely and was pleased at that, especially since its coming from waaaaay overseas. Id recommend the unit, but I think I'll be switching to the Parrot Apple CarPlay unit when it (supposedly) releases later this year. Hopefully I can get my hands on it and take it for a test run before actually purchasing one (pending I like it more). I would recommend this unit to guys looking for the best bang for your buck HU option that "does it all" because frankly, this does. Not a bad way to spend $400-450 at all.

This is how I feel now riding in the car with being able to access proper tuneage:


http://www.writeups.org/img/fiche/4495c.jpg




https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7576/15714028914_90a76aed15_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pWAvk1)DSC_0638 (https://flic.kr/p/pWAvk1) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8590/15714031344_c57485d799_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/pWAw3U)DSC_0637 (https://flic.kr/p/pWAw3U) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8567/16336449475_e7b30db966_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qTAzgZ)DSC_0639 (https://flic.kr/p/qTAzgZ) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7515/16148862778_8d053125e4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qB29hA)DSC_0640 (https://flic.kr/p/qB29hA) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7480/16334690041_7fb2ee363d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qTryfV)DSC_0641 (https://flic.kr/p/qTryfV) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7524/16334680471_c27f69f2f9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/qTrvpV)DSC_0642 (https://flic.kr/p/qTrvpV) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr







All that being said, I had four small dings removed from the body (2 hood, 1 pass front door, 1 driver rear quarter behind door) today via PDR and gave her a solid wash and trim detail on the outside. She looks good and it'll make me much happier when its warmer and I can wash the damn thing on a regular basis. Now its on to hopefully some suspension modifications.

[TWong1200]

Great review. Can you comment on bluetooth streaming on this unit? I stream most of the time in my other cars and miss not having that ability right now with the factory nav unit.

[BADCLOWN]

I was actually going to mess with that this afternoon, I'll report back on that later today.

[cakM3]

I like where you placed your external microphone. Perfect spot if you ask me :thumbsup

[johnrando]

EONON GM5150 review:


This is how I feel now riding in the car with being able to access proper tuneage:


http://www.writeups.org/img/fiche/4495c.jpg








All that being said, I had four small dings removed from the body (2 hood, 1 pass front door, 1 driver rear quarter behind door) today via PDR and gave her a solid wash and trim detail on the outside. She looks good and it'll make me much happier when its warmer and I can wash the damn thing on a regular basis. Now its on to hopefully some suspension modifications.

LMAO. Good review.

[BADCLOWN]

The bluetooth music works flawlessly as well after messing with it today.

[WOLFN8TR]

Good Review!

I really miss my GM5150. :(

[BADCLOWN]

no picture updates as of yet but i updated my OP with a "list of parts awaiting install" and "yet to purchase"


probably going to do this in stages:

1. suspension refresh/upgrade
2. CH refresh/tires
3. exterior lighting refresh and install
4. audio install (including dynamat/fatmat to all 4 doors)


turn the style 135s into winter wheels, have them refinished this year sometime and powder coated black with some new tires.


idk what the time table is for all of this but it will come along at a somewhat slow rate.


i purchased my brothers white toyota 4 runner which i will take possession of this friday and take the ZHP out of daily duties FINALLY. car is due for an oil change here coming up in maybe the next month, will have that and the DISA done then and after that its on to hopefully start slapping some parts on.

[Vas]

Any pics of the BBS Wheels? Didn't know you got a set.

[johnrando]

good stuff

[BADCLOWN]

Any pics of the BBS Wheels? Didn't know you got a set.



seller is working on packaging them up tonight/tomorrow in preparation to ship out from FLA. hoping to have them shipped out by friday. even after a light refurb and color refinish ill still be into them cheap.


id still ultimately like to get a set of BBS RSII wheels built in a staggered spec but this was too good of a deal to pass up.

[BADCLOWN]

Well, I came across these wheels and as previously stated it was kind of hard to pass up, ultimately Id like something thats 3 piece with some lip but after seeing multiple ZHPs with these and agreeing that they look good I decided to continue to go broke. They arrived yesterday and I just spent about an hour washing all the brake dust and grime off of them without putting excessive elbow grease into it. They will get refinished, probably in powder coat gloss black (continuing with the theme/plans to "go black and never go back"), find some black metal valve stems, and then probably seek advice from you all on tires sizes at some point (further down the road). I have a local guy who can refinish them for $320 including powder. I have a friend that works at Forgeline in Dayton, OH that Im going to get in touch with as well and see what they would charge for a refinish. I had them refinish my BBS RXIIs for my VW Harlequin back in the day and they knocked it out the park. They won't go on until I acquire new suspension for the car as well. Anyways, here they are. The only two more detailed photos are of the problem areas. One of the front wheels has a slight curb nick and one of the rear wheels has bad clear coat peel.

19x8.5F
19x9.5R

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8686/17267187572_ca19b53803_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/siQRhy)DSC_0643 (https://flic.kr/p/siQRhy) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8774/17081424030_88d06e2cd2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/s2qLfS)DSC_0644 (https://flic.kr/p/s2qLfS) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8775/17242986946_7b77b8d56e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/sgGPho)DSC_0645 (https://flic.kr/p/sgGPho) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7713/17082755159_c2b436e606_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/s2xzXn)DSC_0646 (https://flic.kr/p/s2xzXn) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7693/16646509714_3914a7aa1d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/rmZHob)DSC_0647 (https://flic.kr/p/rmZHob) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7725/17061549527_25e077d106_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/rZEUg2)DSC_0648 (https://flic.kr/p/rZEUg2) by BADCLOWN (https://www.flickr.com/people/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[JB3]

CH look so damn good.

[FL116]

Awesome!

[WOLFN8TR]

Dam those are Sweet!! [emoji106]

[ELCID86]

Nice find.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[johnrando]

Su-wheet!

Sent from mobile

[BADCLOWN]

GAS DISA upgrade was done tonight along with an Amsoil oil/filter change and a DME adaption clearing resulted in a well lubed and 4k dip free ZHP for this guy.

[johnrando]

:like

Sent from mobile

[WOLFN8TR]

GAS DISA is a great upgrade. Nice job. [emoji106]

[derbo]

mmm CH.

http://i.imgur.com/MK2RAzfl.jpg

[Ssparrow]

Looks so good!

[az3579]

This.


mmm CH.

http://i.imgur.com/MK2RAzfl.jpg

[Vas]

mmm CH.

http://i.imgur.com/MK2RAzfl.jpg

Hmm black looks soo good with some BBS CH.

[BADCLOWN]

I have to figure out what finish of black I'd like on the wheels, that's the next order of business is getting those done.

[BADCLOWN]

Put continental dws06 on the ole gal today. When I bought the car last year (9 months roughly) the front tires were already cupped due to a bad alignment. Basically worthless, pulled the car all over the place on the highway. Sometime shortly after the passenger rear picked up a small piece of metal on the inner sidewall resulting in a slow leak. With me having to loan the 4Runner out to the GF since she had a mishap in her car from someone not securing their load down, it was time to replace. Here's the before and after spec sheet

245/35/18 front
255/35/18 rear


http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a121/blkvr6pwr/56CE077B-2DED-4921-B7F0-F4D7698C6778_zpslape1yzn.jpg (http://s10.photobucket.com/user/blkvr6pwr/media/56CE077B-2DED-4921-B7F0-F4D7698C6778_zpslape1yzn.jpg.html)

[Vas]

Any pics of the front? Curious to see how wide it looks with a 245 section width tire

[BADCLOWN]

I'll grab some later this week and throw them in this thread

[az3579]

Any pics of the front? Curious to see how wide it looks with a 245 section width tire
Fronts are very hard to capture due to how low the front bumper is; easier to just turn the wheel. I just snapped a couple from Wobz to save him the effort, since I have 245/35-18 all around.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/21/d0a7175e0f4ae86688a7794d95ec6aed.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/21/7f262cb21fc5a0de8db4ecc5136abcc4.jpg

[BADCLOWN]

I havent grabbed any pictures of the tires yet, but I will. I know its late as hell and apologize. The ZHP has been under a fitted car cover for the last 2 months or so. The neighbors think the car sitting in the driveway under a FITTED car cover is an "eyesore and annoyance/nuisance" to the neighborhood. We live in an HOA neighborhood where they LOVE to bend the rules to how they see fit (there's literally NO rule being broken). They can happily go f** themselves. The 4runnah has been handling daily driving duties well and will continue to do so.

only update I have is body/paint wise:


I'm finalizing plans to send the car down to Louisville and have my brother's place of employment repaint the front bumper/hood/mirror caps and then touch up or blend in some areas of concern. The previous owner acquired over the years since he bought it brand new some odd paint chips around the fenders (on the flat edge luckily). Given, they are very small and some of them you can't even see 10 ft away, I know they are there and it bugs me haha. They are going to address those how they best see fit. They will also be painting the mesh insert for the front bumper.

Next on the list is having the paint brought back to life by my same brother in his off time. When I say bring it back to life, its not like the paint is sun burnt/faded/damaged per se, but it shows light swirls in some areas, clear coat scratches, and just generally isn't up to spec. We all know how good black can look and with a good rework of the paint it should look awesome.


I MIGHT be sending my various carbon fiber bits down to have those clear bra covered. Still haggling a price on that.

The car should go down sometime in the next 2-3 weeks, I'll be taking before and after photos of the aforementioned areas pre and post work.


Other than that, been trying to find someone willing to part with their BMWP BBK as some of you may have seen around the boards. Still saving up parts for a mass install in the spring. On the list to acquire before the end of the year:

- coilovers
- angel eyes
- sport button center console section out of an M3 so a sport button mod can be done when the sprint booster is installed (also thinking of wiring the angel eyes to a button as well)
- upgraded/updated LCM
- dynamat

[johnrando]

:like

sent from mobile device

[WOLFN8TR]

Nice! HOA's do Suck!

[BADCLOWN]

Moving in September because the neighbor issue has been so bad. It's insane really. First and last time for the HOA experience.

[cakM3]

Yeah, HOAs can really suck. I will never live at a place where there's an HOA.... you have to pay in (dues) and then they have the nerve to tell you how you're gonna live at your home. The heck with that foolishness....

[az3579]

Moving in September because the neighbor issue has been so bad. It's insane really. First and last time for the HOA experience.

I'd stay there just to stick it to 'em. :biggrin

[BADCLOWN]

It's not worth the hassle. They've complained that the garage door staying open too long is a magnet for crime (never any type of crime back in this part of the neighborhood, EVER). They also complained about cars parking too close to their mailbox but they were parked legally and gave enough room for the mail to be delivered.

We were fined for all of this, of which we have paid none of it. The HOA board is insane

[cakM3]

It's not worth the hassle. They've complained that the garage door staying open too long is a magnet for crime (never any type of crime back in this part of the neighborhood, EVER). They also complained about cars parking too close to their mailbox but they were parked legally and gave enough room for the mail to be delivered.

We were fined for all of this, of which we have paid none of it. The HOA board is insane

Seeing what you have to endure from all this bull crap is the main reason I will never ever live in a place that has an HOA. I refuse to be told how I can live in my own home. This is total bull crap as far as I'm concerned. Those people (your neighbors) seriously need to get a life!!! Man I'm sorry you have to go thru this kind of crap.... :facepalm


After you move out of the neighborhood.... you should get a bunch of people with loud cars to drive thru the neighborhood and really make some noise! A way of saying "goodbye"...

[BADCLOWN]

Oh, we plan on having a huge party.

[danewilson77]

Oh, we plan on having a huge party.
:rofl

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

Geez I thought my HOA was bad. [emoji15]

[Sockethead]

Yea you can live in a nice house in a nice neighborhood but if your neighbors suck it's game over.

We've sweated two house sales right next to our house but they both turned out ok.
Our next house will have several acres so we can make lots of noise :)

[Pip]

Yea I wish I were father away from neighbors. Wanted a louder exhaust but can't imagine early morning gym sessions. I'd be hated. Already been turned into the HOA for an oil change that went bad so don't need to make enemies.

[BADCLOWN]

^^^^^^thats insane. i really hate asshole neighbors. BADLY. luckily, the house i grew up in all the assholes around us moved out over the years instead of us having to move.


saw in the "what did you do to your ZHP today" thread that someone bought a new lower center grille piece for 40 bucks or so. I was going to have mine repainted by the body shop but i MAY just buy a new one since they are that cheap.

[Sockethead]

[QUOTE=BADCLOWN;447892
saw in the "what did you do to your ZHP today" thread that someone bought a new lower center grille piece for 40 bucks or so. I was going to have mine repainted by the body shop but i MAY just buy a new one since they are that cheap.[/QUOTE]
I was thinking the same thing...

[az3579]

Buy the grille from FCP Euro and take advantage of their lifetime warranty when it fades.

[BMWCurves]

Buy the grille from FCP Euro and take advantage of their lifetime warranty when it fades.

Would they really warranty the part for fading?

[az3579]

Would they really warranty the part for fading?
They'll warranty anything and everything. I specifically asked them that when I was there on Friday.

sent from my Droid Turbo

[BMWCurves]

They'll warranty anything and everything. I specifically asked them that when I was there on Friday.

Interesting. I knew their warranty covered failed parts but never considered a faded part as "failed" or would fall under warranty. Does anyone know how black the part is? Maybe I'll do that instead of painting it.

[az3579]

Interesting. I knew their warranty covered failed parts but never considered a faded part as "failed" or would fall under warranty. Does anyone know how black the part is? Maybe I'll do that instead of painting it.

Their limitations are actually very few. Excerpt from their warranty page (https://www.fcpeuro.com/page/lifetime-guarantee):


Q. Are there any limitations on the lifetime warranty?

A. The warranty does not transfer to a new vehicle owner, and it does not cover parts modified to fit applications other than what they were originally intended for.

The guy I talked to even gave me an example. He says things like cooling system parts they even recommend be replaced in intervals, even if it hasn't failed yet. He even said they'd cover an oil filter. An oil filter!

[BADCLOWN]

That blows my mind/is hard to believe they warranty in that manner. Nice of them though, not complaining

[cakM3]

FCP Euro is awesome! But you got to make sure you keep your receipts for everything you buy from them! Without receipts I seriously doubt you will be able to take advantage of their awesome warranty.

[BADCLOWN]

only makes sense, i keep most of my receipts for purchased new items anyways for that exact reason. i bought a new couch 5 years ago and still have the receipt haha.


ill have to comb through their site when the time comes. i know for sure ill be ordering my BC coils there.

[cakM3]

i know for sure ill be ordering my BC coils there.

good choice my friend! :thumbsup

I know my next set of pulleys for either cars will be from them....can't beat their lifetime warranty! :thumbsup

[BADCLOWN]

Well: what I mildly avoided mentally is becoming a reality. The past 2 days I've been driving the car instead of the 4runner and since coming back from the emerald isle trip in the ZHP I've noticed a popping sound in the lower front part of the car when making slow right hand turns or starting from a stop and turning. Sounds mildly metal in nature. My gut tells me its a steering rack issue but dont know for sure. I'm driving the car to atlanta this weekend and then hopefully upon returning I can give it to my indy for a few days to diagnose.

[ELCID86]

Always something... I have a bit of a clunk in the front also. Can't pinpoint it.

Have a great trip to ATL.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[BADCLOWN]

I'm hoping my Indy can nail it down. I'm letting him have the car to drive for a few days beforehand if needed to diagnose

[BADCLOWN]

Well, the worst case scenario played out: steering rack needs replacing. Somehow tire discounters managed to fuck the rack up when i took it for an alignment not too long ago. Issue developed shortly after that and one of the tie rods has a TON of play in it which obviously isnt good/normal.

Trying to find it now but wheres the place you all were getting reman racks from for a great price?


Edit: found it. Rackdoctor



Going to take the car to tire discounters to see if they will cover the fix as i had no issues like this until after the alignmemt

[Vas]

Dude that sucks. Hope you get it figured out.

Rackdoctor is the way to go though

[BADCLOWN]

Yeah, seems like the initial upfront price blows regarding the core exchange but at least you get that 150 back. Going to pick the car up now/drop it off at Tire Discounters but I doubt they will do anything about it. Last time I'll be going to them for sure.

[Sockethead]

A friend of mine took his Camaro SS to Mr. Tire for tires, alignment and a few other things. When he got it back it was running like crap, missing etc. He finally figured out that they stole his spark plugs... That's right, they swapped his brand new spark plugs for some old crappy AC plugs.... Who does that shit?

I consider those places the Mc Donald's of the automotive industry. Rarely do you find a skilled mechanic there.

[BADCLOWN]

thats absolutely insane to me, mind blowing really. i feel bad for your buddy. the ONLY reason i went to them was because my indy wasn't available and i needed both done before a trip to emerald isle. i would have gone to BMW for both but they wanted astronomical amounts. i know they would have done it right but still, their prices for both are still overly steep.

[az3579]

A friend of mine took his Camaro SS to Mr. Tire for tires, alignment and a few other things. When he got it back it was running like crap, missing etc. He finally figured out that they stole his spark plugs... That's right, they swapped his brand new spark plugs for some old crappy AC plugs.... Who does that shit?

I consider those places the Mc Donald's of the automotive industry. Rarely do you find a skilled mechanic there.
Time for someone to get sued, not just for a spark plug service but for FRAUD.

sent from my Droid Turbo

[BADCLOWN]

Well: the clown is going to have to rob a few banks to pay for the rack. TD wouldn't claim any wrongdoing which I mostly expected. Manager stated that it would be "nearly impossible" for them to damage the rack, which I believe. He further added that they would have to be wrenching excessively on it in order to cause the problem to which I replied, "exactly, it is possible". His response: "Not in my shop". He proceeded to tell me that my Indy and I don't know simple mechanics 101. I explained I wasn't trying to screw TD out of money and if I honestly thought it wasn't their fault I would have already had it fixed BUT that it's way too much of a coincidence that it started going bad after they had their hands on it. I began to get frustrated at that point and asked for my keys and left.

Should be ordering a rackdoctor rack next week and have it replaced the week of the 21st. So much for having the front end repainted before putting the car in storage. That'll have to wait until spring. Bummed.

Disappointed but not surprised. Guess I'll be paying BMW to do my alignments from now on, at least I'll feel more comfortable leaving my car there.

[Vas]

Sorry to hear man

[BADCLOWN]

Meh, is what it is. I think I just made myself a little more upset by even bothering taking it there.

I can't even say with 100% certainty that they are at fault, but it's too coincidental. Was worth whatever micro chance of a shot to speak with them about it.

Oh well.

[WOLFN8TR]

Sorry to hear man

X2...Sucks

[BADCLOWN]

Looking to get the windshield replaced here shortly as well. Forgot to mention that while my Indy was doing a shakedown of the car, a truck kicked a rock up and put a dime sized chip at eye level on the driver side. When I bought the car it had a small chip same side but closer to the cowl so I figure "why not" and replace it. Insurance company will do an aftermarket windshield for free but I requested an OE windshield which they said I would have to pay the difference. I remember a while back guys talking about windshields.

Thoughts/insight? How much should the OE windshield be, I'm waiting for them to call me back with that quote.

[Vas]

Only go OE.

[QC_ZHP]

Only go OE.

Curious, why? I'm in the same boat so I want to make sure I make the right call.

[Sockethead]

Didn't BP get an aftermarket windshield that was good?

[az3579]

ack with that quote.


Only go OE.

Only go OE.
Most of the aftermarket is made in China, and there are countless stories of the issue I had with mine, which was rippling at various spots in the glass. It wouldn't bother most people, but it annoyed the hell out of me.

I actually requested OEM glass (Pilkington), and they gave me a sub-brand of Pilkington, called PGW. Made in China, made like crap. They replaced it under warranty (since I brought it up) with a brand new OE glass! I was very happy with that...

And then I got a long ass scratch from my wiper on the passenger side. Sigh.

[BADCLOWN]

That's what I thought I remembered reading that the aftermarket ones don't fit as well.

Cars love OEM parts.

I'm waiting for the glass place to call me back. Hoping it's not astronomical.

[az3579]

That's what I thought I remembered reading that the aftermarket ones don't fit as well.

Cars love OEM parts.

I'm waiting for the glass place to call me back. Hoping it's not astronomical.


Aftermarket glass for the most part fits ok, but just has overall quality issues. There have been lots of reports of certain ones made in China that have issues with the rain sensors and such. I forgot what DOT# that was though.

When I was looking, I found OE BMW glass from FCP Euro for about $280, though I don't know what shipping would be. I live locally so I considered picking it up and having Safelite install it, but they said there is a possibility of breakage during installation, and that they can't warranty it since it wouldn't have been purchased through them. Keep that in mind if you decide to buy your own glass.

Safelite charged over $500 for OE glass since their pricing was through the dealer! I got really lucky getting that was a replacement under warranty for free.

[ELCID86]

Pilkington glass has been good for me.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[danewilson77]

Only go OE.
Most of the aftermarket is made in China, and there are countless stories of the issue I had with mine, which was rippling at various spots in the glass. It wouldn't bother most people, but it annoyed the hell out of me.

I actually requested OEM glass (Pilkington), and they gave me a sub-brand of Pilkington, called PGW. Made in China, made like crap. They replaced it under warranty (since I brought it up) with a brand new OE glass! I was very happy with that...

And then I got a long ass scratch from my wiper on the passenger side. Sigh.
Isn't PGW "Pittsburgh Glass Works" hailing out of Pittsburgh, PA?

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[az3579]

Isn't PGW "Pittsburgh Glass Works" hailing out of Pittsburgh, PA?

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

Negative Ghost Rider on the Pittsburgh. I think at one point they used to be in Pittsburgh, but their stuff (based on the research I did) was offshored. The PGW glass I had originally installed was a DOT code of 563, which is "SHENZHEN AUTOMOTIVE GLASS MANUFACTURING" in the Peoples Republic of China.

[johnrando]

Sux. GL w repairs


Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

Had the windshield replaced today through a contractor via Safelite Repair. I decided to give the Pilkington glass a try. worst case scenario, something defects on it and it gets replaced for free or I go OEM on the next go around. ill be taking the car to get the windshield banner redone and then the car is going into storage sometime in early/mid-october.

planning to hold off on the steering rack repair until spring.

only updates ill have through winter will be parts acquisitions or preparation work for the (fingers crossed) giant install in spring i.e. BBS refinishing, carbon fiber bits being wrapped, etc etc.

[BADCLOWN]

update time:

the ZHP is getting ready to go into storage here in the next week or so thanks to a friend who was nice enough to offer up a spot in his lovely barn (and will also be stored with a lovely ZHP coupe from dayton, OH thats also FOR SALE for anyone interested). Over the past two weeks Ive been working to sell my 1998 4runner in favor of something slightly newer. Finally found something that mostly fit the bill aside from the work it needed, so I decided to bite the bullet:


http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a121/blkvr6pwr/5177CE66-A780-4AC4-827F-B2C7866AEA54_zpsucthndhq.jpg (http://s10.photobucket.com/user/blkvr6pwr/media/5177CE66-A780-4AC4-827F-B2C7866AEA54_zpsucthndhq.jpg.html)


2001 T4R SR5 Sport with 161k miles (3 owner clear history)

What I've already fixed and addressed is a terrible exhaust problem which resulted in a piece being cut out after the first cat and replaced and then the entire exhaust (muffler included) replaced just after the 2nd cat ($320). I recharged the A/C, had the driver front window retinted as it was peeling, and have since ordered an OEM fixed/screw in style antenna base and stubby antenna (pictured below). Im waiting on a new drivers side mirror glass piece to come in as the one on it is shattered.


Im trading trucks with my brother (he owns a 2002 T4R SR5 Sport) for a few weeks while he takes mine to Louisville and address a host of frame rust issues (i.e. wire wheel, sand blasting, re-sealing, etc), cuts and buffs the entire car, tints the tail lights and turn signals, paints the wheels semi gloss black, and addresses a shimmy in the front end between 65-75mph (hoping for out of balance tires). Possibly needs new front rotors and pads but that will be handling along with a seafoaming and oil change. Majority of the work/time put in will be in addressing the rust. Anyways, heres some pictures.


http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a121/blkvr6pwr/C1FDFD17-E570-4A63-A7EC-09CDAADA4C00_zpsrljda6wz.jpg (http://s10.photobucket.com/user/blkvr6pwr/media/C1FDFD17-E570-4A63-A7EC-09CDAADA4C00_zpsrljda6wz.jpg.html)http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a121/blkvr6pwr/12565A4C-DA65-427C-B091-912543A89A5C_zpsd0xrytdb.jpg (http://s10.photobucket.com/user/blkvr6pwr/media/12565A4C-DA65-427C-B091-912543A89A5C_zpsd0xrytdb.jpg.html)



and the two problem children together:


http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a121/blkvr6pwr/66C04D54-2BE6-47B4-9610-C7DC2B4E65AB_zpsn7gnm3ct.jpg (http://s10.photobucket.com/user/blkvr6pwr/media/66C04D54-2BE6-47B4-9610-C7DC2B4E65AB_zpsn7gnm3ct.jpg.html)

[Vas]

Kinda early to store the car for winter?

[fredo]

Congrats on the 4Runner ! Black always look nice.

[BADCLOWN]

Congrats on the 4Runner ! Black always look nice.


thanks fredo, they both need a HEAVY paint correction (4runner is much worse off) but the ZHP won't get its treatment until spring time.

Black always does clean up well, just a matter of KEEPING it clean

[johnrando]

Yup. Congrats

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

update time:

the ZHP is getting ready to go into storage here in the next week or so thanks to a friend who was nice enough to offer up a spot in his lovely barn (and will also be stored with a lovely ZHP coupe from dayton, OH thats also FOR SALE for anyone interested). Over the past two weeks Ive been working to sell my 1998 4runner in favor of something slightly newer. Finally found something that mostly fit the bill aside from the work it needed, so I decided to bite the bullet:


http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a121/blkvr6pwr/5177CE66-A780-4AC4-827F-B2C7866AEA54_zpsucthndhq.jpg (http://s10.photobucket.com/user/blkvr6pwr/media/5177CE66-A780-4AC4-827F-B2C7866AEA54_zpsucthndhq.jpg.html)


2001 T4R SR5 Sport with 161k miles (3 owner clear history)


Nice, looks real clean! What color is the interior? We have a 2006 T4R SR5 Sport with 140K and still runs and looks great! The only thing I've done to it since new is plugs, battery, brakes, wiper blades, signal bulbs and oil changes. Such a reliable vehicle. Congrats on the purchase. :thumbsup

[BADCLOWN]

Thanks, they are tanks. Super reliable trucks they are. The interior is a light tan. Only big issue is the frame rust on the early Toyota trucks. It's going to be a slight uphill climb for my brother to get the rust on this truck neutralized

[BADCLOWN]

alright: now that the T4R is in order and on the road and the ZHP is up for winter, i can concentrate ON the ZHP.

past 2-2.5 months I've been doing truck stuff (putting some money in my old white T4R, buying this new truck, modding/maintenance/getting this current T4R up to daily driver status) which has set me back:

remount/balance, sway bar end links, mild stripping of the frame to get rid of rust then preventative undercoating, re-tint a window, new antenna/radio, painting various bits including the wheels/tails/turns/trim, oil change, good solid detail, some light bulbs, and exhaust work.


sent the BBS CH wheels off for powder coat weds. ill post pics here when they return (pending i like the result, otherwise ill send them back for something different haha)

next step is to work on purchasing suspension/suspension refresh bits.

[danewilson77]

Where did you send your wheels?

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

Paint and Powder Pros north of Cinci


My brother is a service manager at Mercedes Benz Fort Mitchell here in NKY and they send all their wheels to them for work, even customer requests/custom stuff they want done.

[danewilson77]

Perfect. Thank you.

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[Vas]

Paint and Powder Pros north of Cinci


My brother is a service manager at Mercedes Benz Fort Mitchell here in NKY and they send all their wheels to them for work, even customer requests/custom stuff they want done.
Prices are reasonable?

[BADCLOWN]

Two of my wheels had VERY MINOR, super small curb bites on them that would take any wheel guy 10-15 mins to fix. That, plus stripping and powder coat cost $400

[johnrando]

Hope the come out, looking forward to pics.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[derbo]

Same. Looking forward to pretty CH.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

Same. Looking forward to pretty CH.

X2!

[BADCLOWN]

alright, heres the finished product:

paint and powder pros in blue ash (cincinnati), OH did the work at a recommendation from my brother who works for Mercedes Benz Fort Mitchell. They had the wheels about 3 weeks-ish (i told them no rush, leave it as a back burner type deal) and got them back today. after the discussion i posted in the wheel thread i heavily debated going with as close to OE BBS Silver finish as possible but then thought to myself that I've had this vision of just murdering out the ever living hell outta this thing so i decided to gamble on it instead of playing safe. i must say, the finish is great and the two very minor curb marks are nonexistent now. heres 5 random angles of the 9.5R wheel outside in the sun.


https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5640/23012943260_5563ac92ea_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/B4zmgN)DSC_0077 (https://flic.kr/p/B4zmgN) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/656/22681609403_dc66c3e1d6_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Ayibg6)DSC_0078 (https://flic.kr/p/Ayibg6) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5789/23308723655_e179f9a5f9_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BvHitM)DSC_0080 (https://flic.kr/p/BvHitM) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5697/23226138441_e8960d4019_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/Boq2LM)DSC_0079 (https://flic.kr/p/Boq2LM) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[Pip]

The job looks top shelf. Love the BBS caps you have as well. Can't wait to see them on the car.

Sent from my OnePlus 2

[WOLFN8TR]

Very Very Nice!!

[johnrando]

Georgeous!

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Johnmadd]

:like

[Sockethead]

They look really good...is that gloss black or a black chrome variation?
I wonder if those are the guys in Cincinnati Kristen send my old wheels to...

[BADCLOWN]

they call it "wet black"



its a little more glossy than normal gloss i think.........if that makes sense.

[Sockethead]

I like that look a lot...

[BADCLOWN]

Still buying parts here and there. Picked up a NLA BMW Performance 6 speed short shifter selector rod and a UUC DSSR. This combo should tighten up the shifting well with a shifter rebuild kit.

http://store.uucmotorwerks.com/double-shear-selector-rod---e46-330-6-speed-p488.aspx?noredirect


I also contacted BBS USA via email about getting valve stems and center caps for the CHs. The carbon fiber caps that came with them were slightly worn on the finish. I received an email back within a half hour and every returned email after that under 5 mins. THE best customer service experience I've had in quite some time. Ordered 4 new carbon fiber center caps and 4 metal valve stems with BBS stamped valve stem caps.

Next large purchase is Coilovers and suspension refresh bits, then tires, then maybe possibly ready for a huge parts install.


I know everyone loves pictures, I'll take some in spring and update this accordingly.

[derbo]

wet black. mmm

[bcleaver]

Good looking wheels, looking forward to pics. What wheels are you running on the e30?

[BADCLOWN]

I no longer have the e30 but it had 16x9 16x10 BBS RS wheels (2 and 3 inch lips If I remember correctly)

[Vas]

Saw pictures of the items Coby Wheel did for you. Should look pretty sharp when you get it all installed.

[cakM3]

Just caught up on your thread....damn! You're making solid progress :thumbsup Those BBS CH wheels look sick! :biggrin

[BADCLOWN]

I'll have a big pictorial upgrade later at some point, it's just a parts hoarding winter for me, thank you though!

[BADCLOWN]

Well, over the last two days I've ordered the following:

- rogue RSMs
- lemforder FSMs
- TMS f/r reinforcement plates
- some OE shifter rebuild bits
- ///M oil cap

The last thing I need to order is tires for the CH wheels. I might have to put that on hold as purchasing my first place (and with the GF) just got kicked into over drive and might happen this week. Tomorrow I plan to take some pics and update in here of what's going on the car.

[WOLFN8TR]

Nice! Looking forward to seeing those BBS CH wheels mounted!

[BADCLOWN]

Well, here's the car last week after its first bath since covered winter storage

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a121/blkvr6pwr/CBEF7472-F34F-46A0-9E61-CDB426C0C9DF_zpsjmc045ry.jpg (http://s10.photobucket.com/user/blkvr6pwr/media/CBEF7472-F34F-46A0-9E61-CDB426C0C9DF_zpsjmc045ry.jpg.html)



Today, I swapped out fender and corner markers with Khoalty products and new amber bulbs. Giving the full smoke corners a try, thinking it might look better with the 5% laminex tint on the yet to be installed new lenses. I'll run them for a bit and see how I like them.


http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a121/blkvr6pwr/B4031CE6-D479-4DEF-96D7-24A5ABF9BFB9_zpsi6pjfr4z.jpg (http://s10.photobucket.com/user/blkvr6pwr/media/B4031CE6-D479-4DEF-96D7-24A5ABF9BFB9_zpsi6pjfr4z.jpg.html)

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a121/blkvr6pwr/3164115C-7503-41DC-B8AE-70E97F6A1843_zpsy8hoswhj.jpg (http://s10.photobucket.com/user/blkvr6pwr/media/3164115C-7503-41DC-B8AE-70E97F6A1843_zpsy8hoswhj.jpg.html)

[Sockethead]

When I first got smoked corners, I wasn't sure I liked them at all but after a few weeks on the car, I really liked them. They've been on it for about 8 years now

[WOLFN8TR]

Looks good. I did the same thing on my ZHP.

[cakM3]

Jacob, I can't see your pictures


Sent from my iPhone6S using Tapatalk

[danewilson77]

I'm seeing them.

Sent from an S6 Edge

[cakM3]

I'm seeing them.

Sent from an S6 Edge

Sent you text sir...


EDIT: Jacob I can see your pics on my Mac... for some reason the pictures weren't coming thru using my Tapatalk app on my iPhone... strange. Looks good though! :thumbsup

[BADCLOWN]

Odd. I tried tapatalk very briefly attempting to resolve my issue of not being able to view the site on my home wifi (only able to on my data network) and I disliked it. It's just.......odd.

Thanks for the comments. It's slowly growing on me.


I got my windshield banner done today and then washed it and put it back under the cover in the garage for the pending storms moving through the region over the next few days.

[cakM3]

Nice to have the ZHP out again, isn't it Jacob?

[BADCLOWN]

It does feel good, I need to get going on the install for this stuff but I've been crazy busy this month with the condo purchase, traveling for interviews, in house interviews in my dept for specialty units/detective.


I'll hopefully get it to my Indy the next 2 weeks

[BADCLOWN]

Alright: the Indy is making time to pencil me in over the next two weeks. Tomorrow is my day off and I don't have court so I'm locked in to do an inventory of all the parts, photograph, clean the semi dirty ones (suspension), and wax the new carbon fiber bits

[WOLFN8TR]

Sweet! [emoji106]

[cakM3]

Sounds good Jacob!


Sent from my iPhone6S using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

still missing tires (ordering possibly in the next week) and might splurge on a front BBK, but this is the accumulation over winter. everything is in lightly used stellar shape or brand new, the suspension has under 5k on it. the BBS caps still have the plastic film over them for now so thats why they look weird. install is coming soon.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7658/26907555186_130e7d6484_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GZJfHh)DSC_0213 (https://flic.kr/p/GZJfHh) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7209/26907554676_65a11ccb6b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GZJfyu)DSC_0214 (https://flic.kr/p/GZJfyu) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7519/26907554336_1490d5c3e9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GZJfsC)DSC_0215 (https://flic.kr/p/GZJfsC) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7739/26907553956_832e64d200_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GZJfm5)DSC_0216 (https://flic.kr/p/GZJfm5) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7795/26907553356_77ae6ace2f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GZJfaJ)DSC_0217 (https://flic.kr/p/GZJfaJ) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7769/26907552856_44c726394c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GZJf27)DSC_0218 (https://flic.kr/p/GZJf27) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7318/26907552326_b06152a211_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GZJeRY)DSC_0219 (https://flic.kr/p/GZJeRY) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7247/26907551926_d1d84c2520_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GZJeK5)DSC_0220 (https://flic.kr/p/GZJeK5) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7623/26846860762_3d36eff535_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GUnbnG)DSC_0221 (https://flic.kr/p/GUnbnG) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7050/26846860012_610ff3a48b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GUnb9L)DSC_0223 (https://flic.kr/p/GUnb9L) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7279/26846859622_8b0a42e0a8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GUnb33)DSC_0224 (https://flic.kr/p/GUnb33) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7577/26846859172_2cf218da1b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GUnaUh)DSC_0225 (https://flic.kr/p/GUnaUh) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7635/26846858892_30e26d8a41_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GUnaPs)DSC_0226 (https://flic.kr/p/GUnaPs) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7405/26846858042_83beee14bf_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GUnayN)DSC_0228 (https://flic.kr/p/GUnayN) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7106/26846857132_1ebda80883_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GUnai7)DSC_0231 (https://flic.kr/p/GUnai7) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7237/26846856692_ffeb2a82b2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GUnaaw)DSC_0232 (https://flic.kr/p/GUnaaw) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7442/26846856172_569b4a0ff3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GUna1y)DSC_0233 (https://flic.kr/p/GUna1y) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7584/26846855852_4c8dc5087f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GUn9V3)DSC_0234 (https://flic.kr/p/GUn9V3) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7341/26846855382_0399aae27e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GUn9LW)DSC_0235 (https://flic.kr/p/GUn9LW) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7697/26846854252_1acf84b9f7_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GUn9rs)DSC_0237 (https://flic.kr/p/GUn9rs) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7034/26846853792_7ea86bf91f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GUn9iw)DSC_0238 (https://flic.kr/p/GUn9iw) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7456/26907538106_7f85e0d235_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GZJaCN)DSC_0239 (https://flic.kr/p/GZJaCN) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7280/26907586866_37e0fdd7fb_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GZJq8u)DSC_0240 (https://flic.kr/p/GZJq8u) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7389/26873125921_2584b532cc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GWFN6g)DSC_0241 (https://flic.kr/p/GWFN6g) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7776/26873125051_3ed329245c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GWFMQg)DSC_0242 (https://flic.kr/p/GWFMQg) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7313/26873124291_7544d5e706_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GWFMBa)DSC_0243 (https://flic.kr/p/GWFMBa) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7075/26873123461_0f68c81330_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/GWFMmR)DSC_0244 (https://flic.kr/p/GWFMmR) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[Vas]

Nice man

[ELCID86]

Wow. Quite the collection.

[Sockethead]

Damn dude! You must be itchin to get started... what are you going to do first?

[BADCLOWN]

All of it, haha.

I've got a BSW stage 1 speaker setup as well but saving that for a different day.

[san]

Damn those parts are nice


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Johnmadd]

Time to have fun.

[Ssparrow]

Nice! Those coils look great


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

Thanks, I cleaned them up a little bit but overall were pretty well off when I got them. Probably the best packaged stuff for shipping I've bought from any single person

[WOLFN8TR]

You are going to be busy!! Nice collection of Bling and Performance!!

[derbo]

holy parts collection.

[slater]

dang, christmas at jacob's house!!! :)

:cheers

[Jconlin16]

Awesome stuff. I don't know how you're holding off on installing all of those! Can't wait to see pictures when it's all done.

[QC_ZHP]

that's serious inventory. i would be itching to get started.

[BADCLOWN]

Well, I took my wheels to tire discounters. I've already had rough week as it is. Dropped them off Friday afternoon, went to pick them up Saturday afternoon. Got them back to the house, discovered every wheel had finish damage to include pressure crack on one wheel, a scratch in the finish on another, a chip on another wheel, and permanent smudge marks in the finish on all 4 wheels.


I can't even describe the amount of pissed I was and still am. I called them immediately then drove them back up there. The manager came out and looked at them, took pictures and all. He stated that the smudge marks were unavoidable due to the machine mounting process, and that it was probably the finish. I said "I understand how they are mounted and the machine used, these wheels were freshly powdercoated and brand new. Your machine should not leave those marks regardless of the finish and whoever mounted these damaged them."

He said he would forward the pictures to the regional manager and they will call me Monday. I'll be calling them at 8am Monday morning and be all over their asses. Anything less than them footing the bill for a full strip and refinish plus refunding my money will result in some not so nice actions on my part. I definitely won't have any work done by them ever again.


So upset and disappointed. Been a rough week as it is, this was the icing on the cake.

When it rains it pours. Still dropping the car off today with my Indy. No wheels and tires for test fit though.

[ELCID86]

Dude. That sucks. How can they be so careless?? I hope the RM is an upfront guy/gal and takes care of you.

[danewilson77]

So.... They must not mount tires on any high end cars. Got it.

S7 Edge, out

[fw_fw]

A local indy BMW/Porsche/MB shop has the high-end type tire mounting equipment identical to a BMW/MB dealer. They charge twice the price, but they also guarantee that they won't screw them up like a average tire shop will. Well worth the extra cost for me!!!

[WOLFN8TR]

Dam! [emoji16] Sorry to hear Jacob. Someone needs to be arrested!!!

I went thru the same thing when I bought my VMR's for my ZHP. There are a few Discount Tire shops in Las Vegas that have the "No touch mount" machines. I drove to the other side of town just to use this method of mounting. But when the tech was installing them on the car they must of dropped the socket on the rims. I had a few nicks and scratches from that.

[fredo]

That sucks ... big time ! I've been lucky with my local DT so far. I notice the technicians are very young. Always makes me worry a little bit.

[BADCLOWN]

Meeting with the regional manager at the store 10am tomorrow morning with the wheels. I hope it's positive but I'm not optimistic

[az3579]

Ignore

[ELCID86]

Meeting with the regional manager at the store 10am tomorrow morning with the wheels. I hope it's positive but I'm not optimistic

I hope you'll be dressed for work ...

[BADCLOWN]

I probably should, I wish it fell on a work day but my off days are Sunday Monday Tuesday

[ELCID86]

Hopefully he'll take care of you but I'd consider it (and or possibly letting him know you'll spread the word of not properly handled...).

[BADCLOWN]

I plan to bring it up this way: "hey man, I'm not here to scam you guys. I work for Boone county and I have a standard that I'm held to. I expect a business of this magnitude holds themselves to a higher standard as well".

We shall see what they say.

[cakM3]

Damn Jacob! I just caught up and am sorry to see you're having to go thru this crap. Hope the regional manager steps up and takes care of you.... #fingerscrossed

[WOLFN8TR]

Tell them you are part of the ZHPMAFIA [emoji41]

[BADCLOWN]

Met with the regional manager: for the most part a nice guy. He stated that if the finish was powder coat (it is) that it shouldn't leave those marks. I agreed and further stated that they were brought to this store brand new condition and left in damaged condition to which he didn't dispute. He offered to have "their guy" refinish the wheels. I said thanks but I'd rather have my guy do them. The ultimate decision was for them to reimburse the mounting price ($100) and then pay for the refinish upon receiving the invoice for the work.

I dropped them off at Mercedes Benz Fort Mitchell where my brother works and how I got hooked up with the company that originally did them. The company is coming by to pick them up today for a full strip and refinish. I'm going to have MB do the mount and balance ($130) when they return. I've already ordered 90oz of black adhesive wheel weights on Amazon for when that does happen.

Happy with outcome just didn't want to deal with it in the first place.

[san]

Met with the regional manager: for the most part a nice guy. He stated that if the finish was powder coat (it is) that it shouldn't leave those marks. I agreed and further stated that they were brought to this store brand new condition and left in damaged condition to which he didn't dispute. He offered to have "their guy" refinish the wheels. I said thanks but I'd rather have my guy do them. The ultimate decision was for them to reimburse the mounting price ($100) and then pay for the refinish upon receiving the invoice for the work.

I dropped them off at Mercedes Benz Fort Mitchell where my brother works and how I got hooked up with the company that originally did them. The company is coming by to pick them up today for a full strip and refinish. I'm going to have MB do the mount and balance ($130) when they return. I've already ordered 90oz of black adhesive wheel weights on Amazon for when that does happen.

Happy with outcome just didn't want to deal with it in the first place.

Sucks to get them done again but glad you sorted it out...

[BADCLOWN]

Who knows whether it's the finish or the person who mounted the tires, but I always thought powder was pretty indestructible.

Regardless if it's done through Mercedes it'll be covered without this hassle. They are the paint/powder contractor for that dealership so I can't foresee their work as being shitty.

[WOLFN8TR]

Sounds like a fair deal. Too bad you even have to deal with this.

[az3579]

Regardless if it's done through Mercedes it'll be covered without this hassle. They are the paint/powder contractor for that dealership so I can't foresee their work as being shitty.

They probably do a fine job. The only thing is that just because a dealer has a particular contractor do work for them, it doesn't mean the contractor does good work. The prime example is my friend's E36 M3. Half his car was repainted by the shop that does the local BMW dealer's bodywork. So, now half the car is a lighter shade of Avus Blue than the front half, which is original. They did a terrible job paint matching...

I'm sure a lot of customers wouldn't notice a difference, but to enthusiasts like us, we'd pick it out in an instant. Sounds like we were happy with the finish though so you shouldn't have that issue. Glad it worked out for ya.

Sent from my LG V10 on Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

I agree with your statement entirely. I guess I should amend my statement: I would assume this dealership wouldn't use a shotty shop for work. The owner (Bernie Moreno) doesn't seem like he messes around when it comes to quality. Plus the guy at one time owned TWO Aston Martin Vulcans (sold one, still has the other, anyone that follows me on Instagram could see the pics, amazing car)


I guess we will see how round 2 goes

[BADCLOWN]

Indy has most everything done. He said the sport button mod was a bit time cosuming haha, but he loves the OE look. The guy I bought the GCs from didn't include the rear spring hats so I called GC and they are sending me new ones for $60 bucks.

I got the invoice for the wheel refinish today and emailed that to the regional tire discounters manager. Waiting to hear back from him. The refinish should be completed this week.


I also didn't realize it, but apparently the GC system had its own f/r strut mount systems so I didn't need my lemforder fronts and rogue rears. Undecided if I'll keep those or sell them.

[ELCID86]

Indy has most everything done. He said the sport button mod was a bit time cosuming haha, but he loves the OE look. The guy I bought the GCs from didn't include the rear spring hats so I called GC and they are sending me new ones for $60 bucks.

I got the invoice for the wheel refinish today and emailed that to the regional tire discounters manager. Waiting to hear back from him. The refinish should be completed this week.


I also didn't realize it, but apparently the GC system had its own f/r strut mount systems so I didn't need my lemforder fronts and rogue rears. Undecided if I'll keep those or sell them.

Coming together. You should sell em as you won't need em.

[BADCLOWN]

It's a possibility, would help pay for the large dent in my wallet I'm contemplating tomorrow.

[BADCLOWN]

Suspension bits are up for sale along with my old steering wheel and interior bits.

Made a hefty purchase today that should ship out Friday. Wheels went to the powdercoater yesterday, hoping to have those back by the weekend.

[ELCID86]

Good call. Hoping the wheels meet your expectations.


---
"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." - anonymous

[BADCLOWN]

They should, they did the last time. I think paint and powder pros will be mounting the wheels then Mercedes Benz will be doing the balance with the black wheel weights I bought.

[cakM3]

Looking forward to pics once everything has been set up Jacob :thumbsup

[BADCLOWN]

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a121/blkvr6pwr/A23D061F-A07E-4D08-9715-25B05201E809_zpsmiioktwm.jpg (http://s10.photobucket.com/user/blkvr6pwr/media/A23D061F-A07E-4D08-9715-25B05201E809_zpsmiioktwm.jpg.html)


My banana phone has terrible reception!

Was talking to a fellow member I had approached a while back about his BMWP bbk and buying it if he ever took them off the car. He said he was getting ready to and long story short couldn't work it out and I needed to make a decision by a certain time so ECS was called. Only thing different from the kit they sell is I swapped out the OE pads for EBC red stuff pads. Rear calipers will be painted black for now until the rear bbk can be done down the road.

This should be the last thing going on the car for a while, wheels will be done tomorrow.

[BMWCurves]

Sweet!

P.S. you probably have bad reception because you forgot to screw in the antenna (brake line).

[WOLFN8TR]

Man those are so dam nice!! We installed a set of them on John's car back in November.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160531/1f4252ac8f6103341b4cdcc62a3a91bc.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160531/b228b289508b34ebd3d7070fa45483c3.jpg

[BADCLOWN]

Thanks guys, I'm excited to get it all together and finally see the car after a good clay bar and wax by myself. I saw a sneak peak of it today when I dropped the braking items off and it's coming along nicely. It's going to be SUCH a different car between being totally stock vs. everything changed from suspension to mild performance to aesthetics.


I just need an S54 now haha

[Johnmadd]

I can't wait to see (any) more of this car!

[Johnmadd]

Oh yeah, lol at the banana phone shot!