Rus_ZHP project thread

[RUS_ZHP]

Hello Mafia,

Finally I had a chance to introduce myself and started a thread about my ZHP. Let me start with the car details:
Production: 03/2003
Purchase date: Feb 2014
Spec: IR, 6 MT, slick top, alcantara + black cube, no premium pack.

Mileage at purchase: 121,700

My name is Sergey and I registered back in October. Once I bought the car, I was frequently visiting site for some info. But for some reason didn’t enjoy community right away.
My ZHP spends all its life in Virginia, as far as know. I didn’t get any maintenance history from previous owner. But it didn’t bother me much, because I bought the car as a project and for the right price.
Drawbacks that I had during the purchase were mostly cosmetic. Interior was pretty dirty, all plastic heavily scratched, all 4 wheels had a curb rush, leather on steering wheel heavily worn. Lights output was terrible and one window regulator was broken.
Most of the time ZHP services as weekend ride for me. Occasionally I am driving ZHP to work, when me DD brakes down. I have 50 miles one way commute to work and don’t want to rack up mileage on her. In addition, I don’t think that 18” wheels and high performance tires matched well with dreadful New England roads, especially during winter season.
As you will see from my maintenance list all projects are moving kind of slow. Mostly, it’s due to the lack of time and finances as well. I am enjoying the process and hopefully soon I will have a pristine example of my beloved e46 BMW.
I have to say that Mafia community was extremely helpful during my ownership. I am very excited to be a part of the family.

Maintenance/Projects Performed as of December 2018

- OEM left rear window regulator – 122,495 -2/10/14
- Oil and filter – 122,522 – 2/12/14
- OEM hood roundel – 122,680 – 2/25/14
- OEM front right speaker cover - 122,680 – 2/25/14
- Zimmerman rear rotors + rear Acebono pads – 122,726 – 2/27/14
- All windows tinting – 122,730 – 3/1/14
- Interior plastic trim restoration with ScratchWizard – 126,314 – 10/14/14
- Wheels curb rush restoration - 126,900 – 11/12/14
- All wheels straighten – 126,900 – 11/24/14
- New rear Michelin Pilot SS - 126,900 – 11/24/14
- Set of new OEM floor mats – 127,010 – 11/27/14
- New OEM driver side mirror glass – 127,010 – 11/27/14
- Inspection II +OEM fuel filter and right front fender liner – 127,456 – 1/6/15
- New front Michelin Pilot SS – 128,183 – 3/14/15
- New OEM ZHP shifter knob and boot – 128,183 – 3/15/15
- New OEM windshield – 130,527 – 4/24/15
- Takata passenger side airbag recall – 130,527 -4/24/15
- 3000k HID for fog lights – 131,120 – 5/23/15 (thanks Jupiter BMW for his tread)
- New OEM driver side for light assembly – 131,120 – 5/23/15
- Lower mesh grill paint – 131,120 – 5/23/15
- Lightwerz 4300K morimoto projectors retrofit – 131,120 – 7/18/15 (thanks Tom Tom Tuning for the thread)
- New OEM headlight covers – 131,120 – 7/18/15
- New OEM secondary air pump, control valve and gasket, relay – 131,127 – 7/22/15 (thanks Shadowpuck for the tread)
- Used OEM rubber mats – 131,179 – 7/25/15
- Oil + filter + OEM oil sensor – 133,959 – 10/10/15
- OEM front pads and sensor – 134,009 – 10/12/15
- OEM driver side visor (mirror was cracked) – 136,800 – 11/14/15
- New OEM front right window regulator – 136,898 – 11/27/15
- Winter wheels and tires - 136,943 - 11/29/15
YEAR 2016

- Ignition coils #3 and 5, new OEM hood latch and engine insulation pad - 138,367 - 3/20/16
- New brakes all around: StopTech drilled rotors, street/track pads, new rotors screws - 138,367 - 3/27/16
- Summer wheels and tires - 138,367 - 3/27/16
- New OEM guibo and exhaust center support bracket - 139,828 - 5/15/16
- New OEM M3 transmission mounts - 139,828 - 5/15/16
- Power steering overhaul: re-manufactured pump, all lines and reservoir - 139,832 - 5/21/16
- New OEM expantion tank, cap and coolant sensor - 139,832 - 5/21/16
- New OEM oil filter housing gasket, all belts and tensioners - 139,832 - 5/21/16
- Lemforder M3 engine mounts, OEM steering coupler, oil pan gasket - 139,973 - 6/5/16
- BMW 5W-30 oil + Mann filter + Ceratec LM additive - 139,973 - 6/5/16
- New Duratech gold battery - 139,973 - 6/5/16
- Exhaust clamp bolt and BG 44K fuel additive - 144,744 - 10/9/16
- New OEM left front vender liner - winter wheels installl - 146,710 - 11/21/16
- New OEM thermostat, lower hoses and coolant flash - 147,021 - 12/8/16
- Replaced defective Rein power steering pressure hose with OEM - 147,021 - 12/8/16
- BMW 5w - 30 oil, Mann filter and Ceratec LM additive - 147,054 - 12/11/16
- Driver side air bag recall - 147,482 - 12/26/16
YEAR 2017

- Driver side alcantara bolster repaired,A-B-C pillars re-wrapped - 148,837 - 4/2/17
- TMS rear subframe reinforcement - 149,444 - 4/15/17
- Brakes and diff fluids flash - 149,444 - 4/15/17
- New OEM Z4 FCAB - 149,444 - 4/15/17
- Lemforder diff bushings + rear subframe bushings + rear sway bar bushings + OEM M3 trainling arm ball joints - 149,444 - 4/22/17
- New OEM Z4 RTAB + used TMS limiters 149,444 - 4/22/17
- Alignment - 149,623 - 4/28/17
- New OEM expansion tank ( replaced due to defect by ECS) - 149,869 - 5/8/17
- All dings and dents from the right side and trunk were repaired - 151,809 - 6/3/17
- Clear OEM rear tail lights installed - 151,837 - 6/4/17
- New OEM and cabin filters - 151,837 - 6/4/17
- Stealth rear turn signal bulbs and LED number plate bulbs installed - 152,947 - 6/21/17
- LED reverse bulbs and new OEM cargo net installed - 154,435 - 7/14/17
- New automarket spare key - 154,761 - 8/12/17
- Clutch stop - 154,853 - 8/12/17
- Shark Injector software - 154,904 - 8/12/17
- Castrol 0W - 40 oil + Mann filter - 155,112 8/16/17
- GAS 1.2 bar coolant cap - 155,112, 8/16/17
- OEM M3 front sway bar - 155,222, 8/23/17
- Uper and lower intake boots, OEM - 156,214, 10/05/17
- Blackstone oil analysis - 155,112, 10/13/17
- New OEM winter mats - 157,620, 11/16/17

Year 2018

- V1 hardwired - 159,347 - 1/7/18
- Meyele hood struts - 159,665 - 1/20/18
- transmission oil change with MT90 - 159,715 - 1/28/18
- Xtron head-unit installed + HVAC relocation bracket - 159,715 - 1/28/18
- new OEM water pump, lower and upper radiator hoses, coolant flash and AUX fan switch - 159,715 - 2/4/18
- new TMS under drive pulleys, complete set with alternator and new belt - 159,715 - 2/5/18
- new Bosh alternator - 159,715 - 2/25/18
- complete overhaul of CCV system, cold climate version, new OEM throttle body gasket, new OEM ICV grommet, new OEM intake manifold gasket, new vacuum hoses for manifold, new OEM oil dipstick o-ring, new OEM vacuum caps for intake manifold - 159,715 - 3/11/18
- Vanos rebuild (system had no rattle, just a preventative maintenance): new Beisan seals and anti-rattle rings - 159,715 - 3/25/18
- new OEM exhaust camshaft sensor, new OEM Vanos gasket, new OEM Vanos oil line, new Vanos bolts, new OEM valve cover gasket and bolt grommets and new OEM oil cap gasket - 159,715 - 4/1/18
- GAS DISA rebuild kit - 159,715 - 4/2/18
- new OEM upper and lower intake boots (FCP warranty), new OEM radiator coolant plug, new ECS tuning SS lines all around new OEM brake bleeder screws, refurbished front left brake caliper, brand new brake lines that run from filter all the way back to calipers, new exhaust gaskets for midsection - 159,744 - 4/30/18
- Liqui Moly LM2007 injector cleaner - 159,758 - 5/1/18
- new VDO windshield washer pump and grommet, new OEM licence plate bulb covers - 160,130 - 5/9/18
- new go-mini-go licence plate bracket, new OEM licence plate filler panel - 160,160 - 5/11/18
- alignment and A/C recharge - 160,569 - 5/24/18
- brand new Lemforder control arms, tie rod assemblies and sway bar endlinks, alignment - 160,658 - 6/20/18
- state inspection - 160,667 - 6/21/18
- A,B and C alcantara re-wrapped pillars - 160,980 - 6/24/18
- passenger side new OEM trim clips - 161,544 - 7/11/18
- new VDO fuel pump, new OEM o-ring and new OEM M3 fuel tank baffle - 161,548 - 7/12/18
- Liqui Moly engine oil flush, oil change with Castrol 0W-40 oil, Mann oil filter - 162,511 - 7/24/18
- new Meyele front brake rotors and set screws - 162,551 - 7/31/18
- Blackstone oil report - 162,511 - 8/6/18
- installed used PedalBox throttle remap - 162,985 - 8/14/18
- new OEM intake camshaft position sensor and o-ring - 163,420 - 8/28/18
- new OEM rear right door seal - 165,051 - 10/22/18
- new licence plate bulbs and interior dome bulbs - 166,287 - 11/14/18
- new OEM left fender liner, fixed stripped wires on ambient temperature sensor - 167,337 - 12/25/18

Future Projects and Mods: none, since the car is going for sale.


First morning at new home. There was tons of snow on the way home
23816
23817
First wash and detailing:
23818
Fog lights HID retrofit:
23819

Curb rush and wheels restoration
23820
23821

Interior plastic restoration
23822
23823
23824

Morimoto projectors retrofit
23825

[BMWCurves]

Welcome! You seem to be trucking along in the maintenance department quite well. I look forward to your updates!

[fredo]

Welcome, Sergey ! I like the progress on your ZHP. What's your other car ?

[ELCID86]

welcome home.

[Vas]

братан, Cool ZHP :)

[johnrando]

Welcome. Good stuff.

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[theothersawyer]

Nice car and great progress so far!

[RUS_ZHP]

Welcome, Sergey ! I like the progress on your ZHP. What's your other car ?
Thanks Fredo. My daily is 03 Celica GT. Really want to have e39 wagon or e91

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[RUS_ZHP]

братан, Cool ZHP :)
Здорово -:)))))

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[RUS_ZHP]

Thanks guys. Planning to do some staff over the winter.

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[RUS_ZHP]

Hello Mafia,

I wasn’t updating my project for a very long time, but it’s better to do it sometime, then never. I am terrible on keep my thread on the forum. Sorry guys.
There is not much interested happened over the winter period. All real progress on maintenance and repairs started on late March.
At first, I started by tracking my rough idle after I got some codes about misfiring in some cylinders. I changed coils and the car is running beautifully after that.
26320
26321

After that I detailed an engine bay in order to remove all the salt from winter driving. I bought my car without hood insulation and hate a bare metal look on the hood. So, an OEM engine insulation was installed along with my bent and slightly jammed hood latch.
I love the look of clean engine bay
26322
26323

New vs. Old

26324


Now the latch is flush with the grill.

26325

Also in late march and changed brakes in all four corners. I was debating between OEM and Stoptech brakes and ended up buying a Stoptech.

26326
26327


After market crap went on the garbage bin

26328


Some good stuff from ECS and FCP for my coming projects


26329
26330


Most fun began in late April – early May. Initially I was planning to change all leaky oil gaskets, cracked guibo, cracked expansion tank and some small thing in suspension department. I was sourcing most of the parts for those projects during a winter time. But my power steering pump died on me first week of May. Nice! An extra expense that I wasn’t planning for. What is the saying we have; I think it’s called Murphy’s law, right)))) Since I needed to change a pump, I decided to overhaul a complete steering system. I was pretty sure it was original. So I bought all hoses, reservoir, and pump. All parts, except the pump, I bought OEM.
I started with flex disk and center support bearing since I didn’t have all parts for a power steering system on hands. Changing guibo wasn’t hard.
Ready for flex disk job

26331
26332

This is my original guibo (sorry for crappy photo). It had few cracks, but considering a mileage it was ok.

26333

Some of the exhaust mounting areas were pretty rusty on my car, but it went very smooth. Here is the one example: completely rusted mid-section support bracket. Looking great!

26334
26335


I also upgraded transmission mounts and went with OEM M3 units. A very easy DIY. Sorry I didn’t take pictures.
By the next weekend all of the parts for power steering system had arrived. During that time I change the following with all OEM parts:
• Complete power steering system
• Oil filter stand gasket
• Accessory belt, idler pulley, AC belt and AC drive belt tensioner
• Expansion tank kit form ECS
My old and nasty power steering reservoir. I had some fluid leak once my pump failed; I think it clogged my reservoir. This project was a time consuming, but overall it was fine, since most of the parts are located in the same area and I had very nice flow of removing and changing them. A lot of beer and some music or a car show talks is absolute plus for this type of work:-)))

26336

Working on the filter housing gasket

26337

Finally, a weekend after Memorial Day I’ve done the biggest project – oil pan gasket. My plan was to change oil pan gasket, engine mounts and steering guibo.
Starting on oil pan

26338]

Oil pan removed

26339

This is how the bottom looked – absolutely dreadful

26340

This is how it looked before cleaning

26341

Almost finished cleaning

26342]

My biggest surprise of the day was a condition of the engine mounts. They were Completely shot! I wasn’t expecting to see that one of the mount literally disintegrated. My car had 139K at that time on original mounts. My right side, which is close to the exhaust manifold, was badly melted on one side. This is OEM quality….interesting. I installed M3 engine mounts and really skeptical about the quality.

26343

Several people on forums had mentioned that it’s not that difficult, but for me it was challenging. I am not a very experienced “wrencher”, plus my garage is very tight and doing this job on the jack stands is not the most convenient way in my opinion. But I wasn’t alone in this job. My co-worker really helped me out and spends the most of his day of inside the lovely and humid garage. A big thanks to him!
The most challenging part for me was to put an oil deep stick back, since there is not much room under the car. Thanks to the forum advice, I bought some spare o-rings for the deep stick and it was good, because I broke two of them while I was trying to put the deep stick back. I ended up removing intake boots and DISA valve for an extra room and went that way to install a deep stick back. Thanks god I had my friend with me at that time. Placing a pan and oil deep stick gasket was the most difficult part for me.
A note about the steering guibo removal. I took me a good 30-40 minutes to remove steering guibo from the rack. Steering guibo is made out of aluminum and the steering rack is steel. I am not sure why BMW designed that assembly that way, but I think connecting aluminum with the steel is not the greatest design idea. Plus there was some plastic housing that I was afraid to break while slamming on flat screwdriver with the hammer. As always, luck of room under the car is issue for the jobs like this one.
Next morning and was so enthusiastic to drive my car with all fresh gaskets and oil, engine mounts, etc., but another surprise for me. F…k!!! I wasn’t able to start the car. I did a battery test – 6.8V. I charged it, fired up, tried to start it again and nothing. That was a sign for me that the battery needs to be changed. I went to the local Autzone to get a Duralst gold.
That was about it for the most recent projects. After I changed all leaky gaskets, I forgot what it is to top an oil every week and randomly seeing a yellow oil light warning on the dash. Mileage after those projects – 140K.
I took my car on the biggest road trip after the purchase. I went from Boston to Montreal to see a Canadian Grand Prix. Car rode exceptionally wheel. There are some stretches on I-89 in Vermont where I made multiple triple digits sprints and the car was very happy to do that.
The only really annoying project that I have to tackle is a rattling noise from differential bushings. But I don’t think I will be dealing with that any time during the summer. I just going to drive it. Especially after I installed a bike rack and started to ride my bicycle almost every weekend.

[san]

Damn that's a lot of work! Glad you got it all done


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[BMWCurves]

Damn that's a lot of work! Glad you got it all done

+1

[RUS_ZHP]

+1
Yes it is. But I bought a car in the rough shape and little by little bring it back to life. All of these projects were typical e46 problems, based on the info from multiple forums. I was surprised to see my steering pump failure so early without any symptoms. But well, it is what it is.
As I mentioned earlier, now most of the mechanical problems were sorted and car is ready for the summer[emoji3]

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[Vas]

Nice job.

[johnrando]

Nice werk

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[ZacharyMikel]

Nice job, we've done almost all of the same maintenance to our cars haha


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[RUS_ZHP]

Nice job, we've done almost all of the same maintenance to our cars haha


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O yes and there is more to come. I haven't touch my DISA unit, vanos,etc.


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[RUS_ZHP]

It's time to wipe off the dust from my thread.
There were some many projects done over the winter. Details will be provided later once I'll organize all the dates and data.
But today is the big day. First milestone wad achieved under my ownership - my ZHP turned 150k!!!! https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170514/277d3f5f6d994c379dda82586198ab54.jpg

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[Tatarin]

Good thread! +1

[tomnobes]

If you have pictures of the wheels after the curb rash repair I'd love to see some photos. Car looks good!

[Vas]

Do you recall what brand you went with for the flex disk and center support bearing?

[RUS_ZHP]

If you have pictures of the wheels after the curb rash repair I'd love to see some photos. Car looks good!
Hi,
I sorry for the late response. I just noticed a question from you.
Here is the pictures after the painting was done.
I have absolutely zero experience, but my wheels looked so bad. So I decided to try and restore them myself. I used this guide:
http://www.diymybmw.com/e46/refinishrestore-curb-rashed-wheels/

Wheels came out realy nice. The only thing that didn't come very nice wad the cleat coat. Since I don't have an access to the paint gun, I had to work with can spray. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170615/cd684ee6abe19b8066a21ac1d323f327.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170615/8579d75ecdb4f904a5c80d7cd33060bc.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170615/b5ad3b9bdd997f37042e0f2288c33948.jpg

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[RUS_ZHP]

Do you recall what brand you went with for the flex disk and center support bearing?
Hi Vas,
I went with OEM guibo. There was an event at my local CCA chapter and all parts were offered at 25% discount. Price came out to be the same as all online stores. That's why I went with OEM.
CSB is OEM also, since I bought it along with butyl tape and some hardware (non oem) at ESC.


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[RUS_ZHP]

Hi Mafia, it a new year, but I was not updated all my projects that were done in 2017.
Time to gather all my projects that were done during this spring/summer time and put them in one single post. I hate to do that, but I would rather include and share them with mafia instead of them been lost somewhere.
There were relatively small projects were done back in December 2016. I replaced thermostat and leaking lower hose as well as flashed coolant. While I was doing that I noticed the leak from power steering pressure hose, which was changed 6 months before. That explained occasional oil drops in my garage. As it turned out, hose was defective as was confirmed by Eeuroparts. Lesson was learned – do not use Rein hoses in the future.
Back to important and challenging projects. Initially, I was planning to replace cracked and worn diff bushings that were causing a noticeable clunk while driving at low speed. After browsing thru various DIY, I made a decision that changing rear subframe bushings along with all other bushings at the rear end will be a good idea and wise use of time. And lastly, since I noticed a tiny hairline crack on the subframe, I decided to weld in TMS reinforcement kit. Most of the work was done during the Easter holiday weekend. Here are some pictures of the process:
Subframe is out:
Bushings out:
New bushings:
RTAB limiters installed
TMS kit is welded and everything is covered with etching primer and rubber coating
OEM Z4m FCAB installed. Mileage -149,444

Also in April, I re-wrapped all my nasty looking and sagging pillars. I didn’t want to spend a lot of money at that time to buying all 6 new pillars and decided to give a try for re-wrap. It came out OK, will see how they last. Mileage -148,837

Driver side bolter repaired. Here is how it looked before.

June 26: best cosmetic mode I’ve done by miles – clear OEM euro lights! Car looks much better IMO and I am absolutely loving it. Mileage -151,837

June 26. There was a local BMWCCA event for paintless dents removal, which sparked my interest. Since I wasn’t planning to spend any money for addressing body imperfections of my car, I only managed to pay for entire right side and trunk. Next year I will tackle left side of the car if this event will be scheduled. Mileage – 151,809

While I was doing an alignment at the shop, I asked to check the source of my coolant line. When I replaced my expansion tank back in May 16 and changed the sensor as well, light popped up right away. I checked all wires and connection with voltmeter and they were fine. Then I exchanged the sensor with ECS, because I thought it was the source of the error. Apparently, shop told me that I have a defective floating mechanism inside the tank. Called ECS and they issued a refund for the defective part, which was shipped back to therm. Mileage – 149,869

Bought a cargo net to keep any stored stuff neat.

Bought and programmed an aftermarket spare key. Mileage -154,761
Also, on this day I did my first real engine mod since my ownership – I installed Shark Injector software. Throttle response is better IMO between 2 – 3k rpm and I car feels a bit more powerful after 4k. I am happy with the purchase, especially at 25% discounted rate[emoji4]))) Mileage – 154,904

Another little milestone - 155k on the clock.

Changed the oil with Castrol 0W – 40 and Mann filter. Also, installed G.A.S. 1.2 bar coolant cap. Mileage – 155,112.
I came a cross of used M3 front sway bar for a good price on Ebay. I couldn't resist and bought it. Install was super easy and I did it during the oil change. Car is definitely handles so much better.
Blackstone lab report. Seems like everything is fine.
Plans for the winter:
CCV
Fuel pump
Water pump plus coolant hoses
Beisan Vanos repair
SS brake lines
20 mm rear anti roll bar install. I already purchased one
Everything was purchased already and I am going to start on those projects in next two weeks.
Finally, resolution for new year is to keep my page alive and updated.


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[RUS_ZHP]

02/04/18 - 159,715
Replaced hood struts with Myele parts.
Also, changed transmission fluid with Red Line MT90. Oil was pretty clean, but it has been on my car for almost 3 years and 35k miles. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180205/4b31fd347027caebe96b395afb2c531c.jpg

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[san]

Good work! Got lots of stuff done


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[johnrando]

Nice werk.

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[RUS_ZHP]

Car is removed from daily drive duty for quite a long time, while I'll be change many things.
First, I decided to start with cooling system and TMS underdrive pulleys. Most of the coolant components were changed last year. What's left was water pump and upper hoses.
Removal process wad pretty easy going. I noticed that I have a chipped out piece on the water pump pulley. Well, it will be replaced anyways, so I am not super concerned.
But, as usual I had a two road blocks. Number 1 is one broken and one stripped studs on the water pump. Right before I started to criss-cross nuts, one stud snapped. Now I have to drill it out somehow.
Second block is not that bad. Since I am changing alternator pulley, I decide to change alternator as well. My car has almost 160k at this point and I think my alternator will fail soon, so it's better to replace it now.
I have Valeo unit. I noticed that Bosh units are a bit cheaper. Do you guys know if Valeo and Bosh are interchangeable? Also, I don't know how many amps do I need. I've seen 120 and 180 units.
And lastly, seems like it's time for me to purchase impact gun. I don't see how I would be able to install new TMS pulley as well as remove old one from alternator.
Here is some pictures https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180211/8b92f44136ba2c09bad16f75742e6476.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180211/89c205470eae30c03860efddbb0ea04d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180211/b94afafe1550953e02718093eecb4756.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180211/7a9cd65373e769b8b3a0ab7de32f38b8.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180211/5cc97663fd70cef24f69614d9081403d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180211/611a4a43ff21640f4f0bbfc63dae4f13.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180211/270b407dbf0786652bc1cdc484286189.jpg

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[johnrando]

Don't know the answers but nice work going on there. There's always something that snags things up along the way.

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[RUS_ZHP]

Don't know the answers but nice work going on there. There's always something that snags things up along the way.

Sent from my SM-G955U using TapatalkThanks. I am actually looking on alternator options online.

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[RUS_ZHP]

I found the answer to my alternator dilemma. According to ECS and FCP, cars that have oval 2 pin connector should have Bosch. I have Valeo alternator currently installed. I am going to buy Bosh at FCP, which would cost $165.39. I don't even see an option for Valeo alternator at FCP.


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[johnrando]

So Bosch works on both but 2 pin Valeo does not work with?

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[RUS_ZHP]

So Bosch works on both but 2 pin Valeo does not work with?

Sent from my SM-G955U using TapatalkBoth alternators have 2 pin connectors. But there are two types of sockets: rectangular and oval. My current Valeo alternator has oval connection. So I bought Bosch alternator with oval connector. FCP and ECS sell Bosch alternators with oval and rectangular connection.
I should get my alternator in the economy half of this week and I will send an update with pictures.

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[johnrando]

Ah, thx.

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[RUS_ZHP]

My 2018 projects update:
1/28 - OEM hood struts, transmission oil flush with MT90, Xtron install. Mileage - 159,715

2/4 - coolant system overhaul. Everything was replaced, except expansion tank, thermostat and radiator. Thermostat and expansion tank were replaced in 2017 and radiator looked fine.
Mileage - 159,715

2/25 - TMS underdrive pulleys and Bosh remanufactured alternator.
Mileage - 159, 715
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/c5e2672c27b91e233a31dae37ef842ff.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/6d67286f24eb1b4af0343bbb3e5efe49.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/11e74f7fdb6fb87368527bc31a939f6f.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/22c2cc1fad8649d114089889b67f0397.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/cfe03c8e06b7fb858c4de5523e4ed71a.jpg

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[RUS_ZHP]

3/11 - CCV overhauled. Old system was clogged badly. I went with OEM cold climate version from FCP. In addition, folowing parts were changed:
Intake manifold gaskets
Intake manifold vacuum caps
ICV clean and grommet replaced
Throttle body gasket
Oil dip stick o-rings

Lastly, used alarm was retrofitted. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/9485f1c30e36d44e85359ea58ceedccf.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/454bf848702af1be233707fca22dc59a.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/5ce0549079bfd1e0c6fd71e5d36c7a34.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/e28052a8cfad60d89bc3f4d0726ae63b.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/5dd029f646bda0ea9bb304adf2971ea9.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/6f76b01ecb9b076222bed1b4bde0cb2b.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/8f488b04be1c0c859221572c02cd6183.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/945f1f2926c4ad49b6b42fc0c14cf2e6.jpg

[RUS_ZHP]

4/2 - installed and replaced the following
Beisan Vanos rebuild kit with anti-rattle kit
Vanos gasket
Vanos oil lines
Vanos bolts
Exhaust camshaft sensor
VCG
DISA rebuild kit from German Auto Solutions
Oil cap gasket

Mileage - 159,715

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/ecbbefa33ae9be277fb76b17ddeb7915.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/54647e0cef48e85221ac95834e964c8c.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/4bb6a7775d48d513c766ce30df5974c0.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/e1014677c581b9efb0f0b043355444e5.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/2dd591ed53ec56ddfd6dbd94e35ccb10.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/bd647bf2678b2a8a8b4a007cec00850c.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/9fdaab52492db0c78e4487860defbc0c.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/451baaa3260b36539e5f11d7863d1fb5.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/60a48e68a2507ec6b7e6640b8c51848b.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/0637ffd33aa48702291621ea9395b1ce.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/b946db1d212856700f7a6f15b3cabc24.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/f73ba4b8d61d9f732f7490ea896542eb.jpg

[RUS_ZHP]

4/25 - new break pipes all the from fuel filter to the rear calipers. Mine look very rusty and I didn't feel safe to keep driving.

All brake lines and clutch line were replaced with ECS SS lines.

Rusty exhaust mid section flanges were replaced.
Installed summer wheels.
Car got Liqui Moly Injector cleaner.
And lastly, wired and installed Thinkware F770 dash cam.

Mileage - 159,744

[RUS_ZHP]

4/30
Replaced front left break caliper, all 4 bleeding screws with fresh BMW break fluid.
Car was seating for way too long during the winter time and one caliper got badly seized.

Mileage - 159,744

[RUS_ZHP]

5/9
Replaced original leak windshield fluid pump with new VDO unit. Also:
Installed new licence plate bulb covers
Center filler for the front bumper
GMG licence plate relocation bracket

Mileage - 160, 130https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/ad1ada5ba773de9b3bfa6b2d434234c0.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180703/2348ed7642216a46c6e95610df5f47a0.jpg

[RUS_ZHP]

5/24
4 wheel alignment and AC recharge.

Mileage - 160,569

[RUS_ZHP]

6/20
Installed new front tie rods, ZHP front controll arms and sway bar end links. I went with all Lemforder parts.
Had to do another alignment.
Car passed state inspection.
Mileage - 160,682https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180704/72d1f5e4c21c26da20e3dd6dc5fb24dd.jpg

[RUS_ZHP]

6/27 - installed Coby rewrapped Alcantara steering wheel. I bought it over the winter time, but did installed it right away. I wanted to finish all other maintenance items and waited for the good weathet.
Car feels soo good! Absolutely love this wheel.

Mileage - 161,312https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180704/f50dd795cb449709617db38ad1b0ae2f.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180704/9966b6572b4bf34797e01452f2f4450a.jpg

[cakM3]

Awesome progress Serg! [emoji1417][emoji1417]


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[johnrando]

Nice werk!

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[RUS_ZHP]

Awesome progress Serg! [emoji1417][emoji1417]


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Nice werk!

Sent from my SM-G955U using TapatalkThank you. Yes, this winter was the busiest for me, even though my progress was very very slow.
Car drives so much better.

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[RUS_ZHP]

No more mods were planned for the rest of the year. I have 20 mm rear sway bar that needs to be intalled. I think it will be done with the next few weeks.
I realy want to install new struts and springs to complete my entire suspension rebuild. But I think it will be done next year since I already spent so much money this year.


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[Vas]

Slightly jealous of all these updates. Makes me want to buy some parts and do some wrenching

Good job

[RUS_ZHP]

Slightly jealous of all these updates. Makes me want to buy some parts and do some wrenching

Good jobI though that what you are usually doing Vas-:) I see a constant steam of updates from your site. Aren't you doing a clutch replacement in the near future?

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[Vas]

I though that what you are usually doing Vas-:) I see a constant steam of updates from your site. Aren't you doing a clutch replacement in the near future?

Sent from my SM-G900V using TapatalkIt sure seems like overkill sometimes since alot of it is preventative maintenance. Dont really believe in the "if it ain't broke then don't fix it" mentality.

But yeah clutch overhaul and power steering system.

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[RUS_ZHP]

I see.
Things that I've done for the last 2 years should of be done 4 years ago, when I purchased the car.
Half of that was preventative maintenance and other was repairs.
Good luck with the clutch Vas! I am looking forward to see a post from you about the process.
Actually, is it already scheduled?

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[BMWCurves]

Tons of great maintenance, nice work!

[Vas]

I see.
Things that I've done for the last 2 years should of be done 4 years ago, when I purchased the car.
Half of that was preventative maintenance and other was repairs.
Good luck with the clutch Vas! I am looking forward to see a post from you about the process.
Actually, is it already scheduled?

Sent from my SM-G900V using TapatalkWhen my back gives me the okay then I will do it lol

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[RUS_ZHP]

Tons of great maintenance, nice work!Thank you
When my back gives me the okay then I will do it lol

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using TapatalkO man, that's not fun at all.

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[danewilson77]

Great work Rus

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[RUS_ZHP]

Just washed the engine bay today.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180709/d2fd3a9b266d42075aaead5a538076d0.jpg

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[RUS_ZHP]

Perform a small repair and proactive maintenance last night.
Mileage - 161,548
So, for the last few days of driving, I noticed a little rattle from the passenger side trim. I pulled it out and realized that trim which hold pins was damaged. I am assuming it's due to the age and possibly many cycle of stretch and compression.
All 4 clips were replaced with the new one.

Also, I change the fuel pump, which I bought back in February. My original pump was working well, but I decide to change in advance and not to wait until it will fail.
I went with VDO assembly for FCP. IN addition, I replaced o-ring with OEM part and installed M3 fuel baffle.

Next on the agenda is a proper detailing. I bought tons of cleaning and polishing product, so it's going to be fun. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180713/1a03db812c3969097dbab5d689ec9c80.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180713/4335a00baa3a2e7d22caa407eca7ebec.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180713/59006a9fcccd72cb4d60c154f4b6bc98.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180713/92c8dfaf50b6a2147f7fc5dfddb7880c.jpg

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[Vas]

Nice job man

[johnrando]

+1

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[RUS_ZHP]

Thank you guys.

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[RUS_ZHP]

Today I changed the oil with two Liqui Moly products that I was trying for the first time.
Here is details:
Date: 07/24/18
Mileage: 162,511
Oil: Castrol 0w-40 and Mann oil filter.
Before draining the oil, I added LM2037 pro-line engine flush, let it idle for 10 minutes and then drained the oil.
I didn't noticed any significant changes with the oil, except that oil actualy looked a bit cleaner than usual.
In addition to the fresh oil, I've added Liqui Moly oil saver.
And lastly, I just noticed that my driver side fog light is cracked. It must be happend during my recent trip to VT last weekend, where I had to drive on some gravel road.
Looks like I'll be shopping for a new fog light and some protective film.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180725/ea2232a0051b9055d28c3ee66ee33927.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180725/dc5b1c824901da60ff502d5325599e6d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180725/0dacac670beadf67fcd972694240d25e.jpg

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[RUS_ZHP]

A few small updates on my car.
I've became super lazy over the summer time and not working much on my cars. I am just keeping up with maintenance at this point, even though I have some upgrade parts that need to be installed.

8/14/18 installed PedalBox throttle remap. Mileage - 162,985

8/26/18 purchased new OEM rubber truck mat since I am hauling bunch of crap lately, especially in camping trips. Mileage - 163,302

8/28/18 installed new intake camshaft position sensor. I've got a code and during troubleshooting I found that old sensor is sending intermittent signal.
Mileage - 163,420.

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[ZHPizza]

Too late now, but fyi the OE trunk mat is rubber on the back side. Just flip it over. I keep mine rubber side up for the same reason: filthy hiking equipment (and grip)

[RUS_ZHP]

Too late now, but fyi the OE trunk mat is rubber on the back side. Just flip it over. I keep mine rubber side up for the same reason: filthy hiking equipment (and grip)Thanks.
I used that trick for a several years. But I decided to buy rubber mat because it has side walls, has more ribs for retaining water and slightly more practical.


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[johnrando]

Good updates

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[RUS_ZHP]

There are not much things happened in September or October with my Imola sedan. Car drove great and performed daily duty very well, while bringing smile on my face and enjoyment of driving it.
I changed a few bulbs, washed it several times, but no major repairs or upgrades were made.
Actually, I finally installed and wired Khoalty angel eyes that have been seating in my garage for amounts 1.5 years. I like them, but I found them to be a bit too bright for my taste.
And lastly, winter wheels were installed on 11/14.
Curent mileage -166,287. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181123/fa227281fa8e71fe3c5a8ecc5c6837f2.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181123/9f91bdb57880ade9f754394f0d70b441.jpg

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[RUS_ZHP]

A little repair was done today. Last week I accidentally ran over a tire on the highway. I was blocked by cars on the both sides and didn't have a chance to switch line fast enough.
Anyways, front left fender liner was smashed into pieces, 1 fog light is cracked, trim on both fog lights gone and ambient temperature sensor was gone. Sensor was successfully saved by crimping wires with butt connector. Once rewired, temperature reading went to normal.
Luckily for me, front bumper was not damaged and remained intact.
While, I was fixing the damage, I repaired a damaged wire for low beam headlight. Wire was crimped and new insulation was added.
Lastly, car will go for sale soon and I need transfer Xtron, dash cam, factory alarm to my new touring as well as do few small things.
Mileage - 167,337. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181226/e67294043737de4717260f95ffa45dcd.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181226/9a88cd39d528405cbcd39d1c551f7ead.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181226/bfeb7987011977cebd8375640a51001f.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181226/041b4fa3996d556ed5a733ad966e3876.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181226/3198349c9f40249e8c987a98ad1fd58a.jpg

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[papa_g]

Awesome thread man. Looking at all the initial repairs, car looked like it was in horrible condition. Mine wasn't in the best condition when I bought it either.

[RUS_ZHP]

Awesome thread man. Looking at all the initial repairs, car looked like it was in horrible condition. Mine wasn't in the best condition when I bought it either.Thank you!
It was in pretty rough condition when I bought it. Slowly, I brought it to much nicer shape. Cosmetically it's still far from ideal, but mechanically it's very good.

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[johnrando]

Bummer, re running over that. Glad the repair went well. GLWS.

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[RUS_ZHP]

Bummer, re running over that. Glad the repair went well. GLWS.

Sent from my SM-G955U using TapatalkThank you.
What really annoying, is that road is toll interstate highway. Local authorities doing terrible job on keeping road debris off the road. The amount of shredded tires from trucks is outstanding.

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[RUS_ZHP]

Front of the car went to stock form: OEM kidney grills and this stupid OEM holder for licence plate. I realy liked the clean look of the center plate holder filler, even though my licence plate was shifted right and created asymmetric.
Also, swapped alcantara steering wheel to OEM leather. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181226/ce172afb303d57277f53218558163b40.jpg

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[RUS_ZHP]

12/27/18 - rear tail lights were swapped to OEM amber one. OEM clear lights will go on my wife's white ZHP.
Mileage - 167,392

[RUS_ZHP]

Sad day today: car is officially for sale.

[pedro2u]

I assume those are your ZHP lenses I'm seeing on CL in Boston/Brighton? GLWS - don't see your car there yet......

[johnrando]

Sad day today: car is officially for sale.A moment of silence.

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[RUS_ZHP]

I assume those are your ZHP lenses I'm seeing on CL in Boston/Brighton? GLWS - don't see your car there yet......No, they are not mine.
I'll need to create a post on CL and e46fanatics.
A moment of silence.

Sent from my SM-G955U using TapatalkVery true

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[RUS_ZHP]

Started 2019 with 167,510 miles.

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[RUS_ZHP]

2/23/19
Oil change: Castrol 0W-40 and Mahle oil filter.
Mileage - 169,659.

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