KendrickC's Australian 325i Individual Thread

[KendrickC]

Not a ZHP I know... but one day it'll have an S54, M3 rear end, and a manual gearbox (most likely will be done in a reverse order).

Original Build
Munich built sedan. Completed on the 17th April 2003. I am the fourth owner of the vehicle. Originally purchased by a chap in Brisbane, then by a chap on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, then by this poor example of owner bloke in the next neighbourhood over from me, and finally myself.

Options list:
- EU2 Exhaust Emissons Standard
- RHD
- Automatic
- Sport Suspension Settings (S226A)
- M-Sport Steering Wheel
- Factory model number delete
- M-Sport 2
- Climate Comfort laminated glass
- Climate Comfort windscreen
- Sunroof

The important Individual stuff:
- Colour - Estoril Blue Metallic
- Upholstery - Seat side sections, headrests, arm rests (rear), and door trim inserts are Alcantara. Rear seat is suede. Rest of car is Montana Black
- Original steering wheel was bi-colour (top/bottom beige, left/right black) with beige stitching.

Maintenance List (Either OE or OEM parts unless otherwise stated):
- Sparks, valve cover gasket, new tyres (Achilles ATR Sport 2)
- Ignition Coil #2 replaced
- Oil filter housing gasket
- Mechanical Fan replaced with manual transmission electric fan
- Cooling System Overhaul (Motul Inugel Ultra coolant)
- MAF replaced
- Brake Overhaul
- DISA Rebuilt
- Pulleys and belts overhauled
- Driver regulator
- Front suspension overhauled (bar struts/springs)
- Intake boots replaced
- CCV overhaul
- Transmission serviced
- VANOS rebuilt (Beisan)
- Oil pressure switch replaced
- Intake camshaft position sensor replaced
- Oil level sensor replaced
- M3 engine mounts and oil pan gasket replaced
- Rebuilt rear calipers (new seals and new bleeder valves)
- Fuel pump replaced

Modification List:
- Umnitza Orion V4 angel eyes
- Eagle Eyes LED tailights (dead/sold)
- OEM M3 strut brace (sold)
- ECS Tuning CF strut brace (sold)
- Eonon GM5150
- Ultra-Gauge (WOLFN8TR's thread convinced me!)
- Brushed aluminium/aluminum sedan interior trim
- Projector retrofit (Morimoto Mini H1 with 5500k bulbs)
- Turner Motorsport 27mm front sway bar
- ECS Tuning Billet aluminium dipstick, oil filter cap, and WP pulley
- ECS Tuning magnetic drain plug
- Stud conversion (ECS/Mishimoto)
- Remus muffler
- M3 steering wheel w/ Tri-Stitch
- BMW Performance handbrake handle
- BMW Performance CF strut brace
- Muteki 20mm open ended lug nuts
- BMW Performance intake
- Catch can (Radium Engineering)
- Genuine BMW Style 403 F: 19"x8" R: 19"x8.5" -> back to Mishimoto lug nuts

Future Plans:
- Coilovers (Hakon/Ground Control)
- Enkei RPF1 18"x8.5 ET40 square or APEX ARC-8 18x8 ET40 (See above for current)
- Big Brake Kit (Wilwood AERO6 or if I can afford it... AP Racing Monoblocs)
- Manual Swap (looking for an S5D-320Z ideally, but open to others!)
- M3 rear end inc. LSD
- Subframe reinforcement (Vince Bar + Plates if they're still in production when I get around to it
- S54B32

[KendrickC]

As she stood originally:
27487
27488
What a lovely ///M badge. It was removed pretty quickly.

Small interior pic:
http://i.imgur.com/T97Xcw1.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/7rgUx0M.jpg

First drive with a mate of mine. Friendly neighbourhood Holden Commodore SV6. More common than dirt here
http://i.imgur.com/laOgZIj.jpg

[KendrickC]

Earliest picture in modification/maintenance history that I could find. Didn't really know how to take photos back then so apologies for poor white balancing/exposure etc.

Electric fan conversion pics:
http://i.imgur.com/IMRsfmIl.jpg

Angel eyes and what not:
http://i.imgur.com/2xtnojrl.jpg

Provo plates and angel eyes. What a combo. I quite like the amber bulbs in the clear corners.
http://i.imgur.com/xNS0ATj.jpg

Gotta be that obnoxious guy.
http://i.imgur.com/tFrCjKn.jpg

Original muffler with aftermarket tips (PO's stuff)
http://i.imgur.com/TQknpCK.jpg

CF rear diffuser. Note extremely poor fitment. This was fixed later on by a lot of silicone adhesive, time, and frustration/swearing
http://i.imgur.com/xRfUeZ7.jpg

Better shot of the angel eyes
http://i.imgur.com/lhWfdXN.jpg

Eagle Eyes LED tails. They looked pretty good from the outside, but when they're on, it just doesn't match facelift sedans since you have the inner trunk lights always on. Not to mention the messed up shape (not symmetrical)
http://i.imgur.com/U80CA6P.jpg

[KendrickC]

Brakes, pulleys, belts, oil, sedan interior trim:

http://i.imgur.com/gdKM7e1l.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/FfCPuLVl.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/73YwAmJm.jpg

Managed to convince a mate of mine to pick one up! He was about to sell it this month... but saw a reflection of his car when driving and he remembered why he's hooked :P I'm almost infectious.
http://i.imgur.com/vhzjebml.jpg?1

Eonon GM5150 insatlled:
http://i.imgur.com/lt7JN7nl.jpg

ECS Tuning CF strut brace:
http://i.imgur.com/1zmVWecl.jpg

New shoes for a while (Style 32's in E46 factory 18" fitment). Didn't like the ride on them so got rid of them.
http://i.imgur.com/ofponQZl.jpg

Ultra-Gauge!
http://i.imgur.com/upcMbeSl.jpg

Projector Retrofit (bonus pos plastic Christmas tree):
http://i.imgur.com/datKhaVl.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/robfsOrl.jpg

[KendrickC]

ECS Tuning goodies:
http://i.imgur.com/wH3KR8rl.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/3zSJf0fl.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/5BqWIMyl.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/KADwwvsl.jpg

CF splitters. Average fitment. I got them for $50 AUD, and I'm using them as protection for the bumper from scrapes so...
http://i.imgur.com/tdUYWMJl.jpg

M3 6MT steering wheel + BMW Performance handbrake handle + boot:
http://i.imgur.com/wiix9QTl.jpg

Brings us to this:
http://i.imgur.com/gobjj3rl.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/LTo6jrPl.jpg

Sorry for this crap image quality here:
http://i.imgur.com/Dchen51l.jpg

Brakes being rebuilt and resprayed to silver. This was a fun, and surprisingly easy job.
http://i.imgur.com/vo0MmB8l.jpg

[az3579]

I don't think you have an idea of how jealous I am that you have Estoril Blue... it is my all-time favorite color, and it isn't/wasn't offered on any of the cars I'm interested in! :(

Absolutely gorgeous.

[KendrickC]

It's a very pretty colour indeed. I'm not going to lie though... There's an Imola Red M-Sport 330Ci down the street from me that I've been eyeing for a long time. But then I saw an Estoril M3 on the road and I went back to loving my car again.

You'll own one one day! If not, maybe one day you'll need a respray or something. I love the BBK behind your BBS's btw. Looks great. The BMW Perf from the 1 series? Or a Brembo/Stoptech kit?

[az3579]

You'll own one one day! If not, maybe one day you'll need a respray or something. I love the BBK behind your BBS's btw. Looks great. The BMW Perf from the 1 series? Or a Brembo/Stoptech kit?

It is unlikely I'll ever own an Estoril car. The ZHP isn't worth dropping 6-8 grand on a respray on... not until I'm loaded. I'd rather put that money toward my dream car, an F80 M3 with the Competition package.

The brakes in that pic are the yellow BMW Performance calipers for the 1/3 series of the E82/E9x era. I don't have those calipers anymore - I have Wilwood Forged Superlite calipers now, all around. The BMW Perf kit was only for the front, and the rears were stock calipers, so it didn't quite look right from the side.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/701/21573366272_6c43dce92b_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ySn9bU)IMG_20150905_190537455 (https://flic.kr/p/ySn9bU) by botond.pal (https://www.flickr.com/photos/65070296@N06/), on Flickr

[san]

an F80 M3 with the Competition package.


Sakhir orange with silverstone leather?


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[slater]

Sakhir orange with silverstone leather?


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i think yas marina blue... which is the only color choice in my opinion. ;)

[fredo]

Looks really sharp, congrats ! So, what's the "P" sign next to license plate ?

[az3579]

Sakhir orange with silverstone leather?

Yes, though I'd prefer Sonoma Beige ... so perfectly two-toned... won't be able to find that combo though since nobody seems to be ordering that interior. :(

Second choice is Mineral Grey on either Sakhir or Sonoma interiors.
Third choice is Silverstone on Sakhir or Silverstone interiors.
Fourth choice is Mineral White on Sakhir...

I've thought about this too damn much. lol



i think yas marina blue... which is the only color choice in my opinion. ;)

Meh. I've grown up, baby blue is not appealing to me. lol
Tanzanite Blue would be a possibility, but that's too rare to be able to easily score one on the secondhand market. Damn I wish Estoril was offered on the M cars...

[ELCID86]

Nice work. Thanks for sharing.


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[Aeternalis]

Estoril E46 Sedan...

27501

Gorgeous.

[KendrickC]

It is unlikely I'll ever own an Estoril car. The ZHP isn't worth dropping 6-8 grand on a respray on... not until I'm loaded. I'd rather put that money toward my dream car, an F80 M3 with the Competition package.

The brakes in that pic are the yellow BMW Performance calipers for the 1/3 series of the E82/E9x era. I don't have those calipers anymore - I have Wilwood Forged Superlite calipers now, all around. The BMW Perf kit was only for the front, and the rears were stock calipers, so it didn't quite look right from the side.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/701/21573366272_6c43dce92b_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ySn9bU)IMG_20150905_190537455 (https://flic.kr/p/ySn9bU) by botond.pal (https://www.flickr.com/photos/65070296@N06/), on Flickr
Very true. The wilwood kit looks good. Definitely my choice as well though I'd get the aero6 myself since I can get a fantastic price on that locally.

You guys can't get individual colours? I'm sure if you talked to your dealer, maybe even do a euro delivery you could get it. Definitely worth it if possible! :)

i think yas marina blue... which is the only color choice in my opinion. ;)
Santorini blue for me. Or Mora metallic. Just beautiful.

Looks really sharp, congrats ! So, what's the "P" sign next to license plate ?
Provisional plates. Have to use them for 3 years. Essentially a stage in earning my full license. While you're on your p plates you can't drive cars with more than 125 kW or over 100 kph. Just Australian things.

Yes, though I'd prefer Sonoma Beige ... so perfectly two-toned... won't be able to find that combo though since nobody seems to be ordering that interior. :(

Second choice is Mineral Grey on either Sakhir or Sonoma interiors.
Third choice is Silverstone on Sakhir or Silverstone interiors.
Fourth choice is Mineral White on Sakhir...

I've thought about this too damn much. lol




Meh. I've grown up, baby blue is not appealing to me. lol
Tanzanite Blue would be a possibility, but that's too rare to be able to easily score one on the secondhand market. Damn I wish Estoril was offered on the M cars...
Silverstone is beautiful. Of all the factory m colours at the moment, that sakhir orange and yas marina blue are my favourite.

Nice work. Thanks for sharing.


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Cheers mate

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[az3579]

You guys can't get individual colours? I'm sure if you talked to your dealer, maybe even do a euro delivery you could get it. Definitely worth it if possible! :)

But $5000 USD... just for a color that's not standard. That is asinine... and that's only assuming you can afford the buy the car new to begin with!
New is out of the question at this point...

[KendrickC]

But $5000 USD... just for a color that's not standard. That is asinine... and that's only assuming you can afford the buy the car new to begin with!
New is out of the question at this point...
Wow really?? Damn. I thought it'd be cheaper for paint over on the other side of the pond, haha.

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[Aeternalis]

Wow really?? Damn. I thought it'd be cheaper for paint over on the other side of the pond, haha.

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It's a culture thing I guess. BMWs are taxis and police cars in Europe, here in the States they're marketed as mid-high end luxury autos. So naturally BMW dealers Stateside have outrageous prices for certain things.

[az3579]

It's a culture thing I guess. BMWs are taxis and police cars in Europe, here in the States they're marketed as mid-high end luxury autos. So naturally BMW dealers Stateside have outrageous prices for certain things.

The sad part is, while our vehicles are better equipped, they're still cheaper than in Europe. lol

[Aeternalis]

The sad part is, while our vehicles are better equipped, they're still cheaper than in Europe. lol
I had no idea. o_O

[az3579]

I had no idea. o_O

Yep. For example, a 2017 330i RWD, base model with a manual starts at €40,050 MSRP (Currently $44,870). Automatics are still an option there, so an auto would start at €42,200 ($47,264) for a non-sport automatic. The same base model 2017 330i with either an auto or a manual (because autos are FREE here) in the U.S. starts at $38,750. For that, you even get sport seats and a sport automatic transmission as standard on 330i's and above.

[KendrickC]

Jesus you guys have it good. A 2016 330i starts at around $97k for a dealer demo car. M3's start at $150k. The i8? $280k

[az3579]

Jesus you guys have it good. A 2016 330i starts at around $97k for a dealer demo car. M3's start at $150k. The i8? $280k
HOLY CRAP!!! 73k USD for a USED 330!!

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[KendrickC]

Yeah... I paid 16k for my car. It was 116k kms, and 11 years old at the time. Go figure haha.

[slater]

HOLY CRAP!!! 73k USD for a USED 330!!

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you have to understand how different the economy, and the AUD is, compared to the ol' US of A.

i would be making about 50-60% more at my job if i lived in australia, but the cost of living is higher, too. it's all relative.

[az3579]

you have to understand how different the economy, and the AUD is, compared to the ol' US of A.

i would be making about 50-60% more at my job if i lived in australia, but the cost of living is higher, too. it's all relative.
I figured it would be, but there's always the factor of "well things ARE more expensive here in relation to salary". I would think there is some of that going on there.

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[slater]

I figured it would be, but there's always the factor of "well things ARE more expensive here in relation to salary". I would think there is some of that going on there.

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yeah. supply and demand.

[KendrickC]

Yeah cost of living is quite high, and housing is ever increasing. Definitely making it harder and harder to buy a house for younger generations (like myself lol). Considering moving to Melbourne at the moment, since housing there is still pretty cheap (about 30% of the cost of Sydney for a comparative location)

The pay here is definitely a plus side, and there are so many benefits. I do a lot of my shopping overseas though since I'm not working full time yet. Also the beaches, the scenery, and the culinary mixing pot is fantastic.

[anandoc]

Yeah cost of living is quite high, and housing is ever increasing. Definitely making it harder and harder to buy a house for younger generations (like myself lol). Considering moving to Melbourne at the moment, since housing there is still pretty cheap (about 30% of the cost of Sydney for a comparative location)

The pay here is definitely a plus side, and there are so many benefits. I do a lot of my shopping overseas though since I'm not working full time yet. Also the beaches, the scenery, and the culinary mixing pot is fantastic.

Almost sounds like you are describing Toronto. I will never be able to buy a house here. FML.

Welcome to ZHPmafia though!

[KendrickC]

I like to think Canada and Australia are reasonably similar, aside from the inversed climates, and the fact that your politicians aren't quite as retarded as ours.

[FL116]

Beautiful car!

[KendrickC]

Cheers mate.

Will probably be buying a Radium Engineering catch can in the near future ~ November/early December I think

[johnrando]

Beauty

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[KendrickC]

Thanks John. Your sig pic is spot on as well!

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[KendrickC]

So... got a few things done. I apologise - I forgot that ZHPMafia existed for a while. Please don't burn me at the stake.

As slater would know, I have a Radium Engineering catch can. that's now on the car with a simple self fab'd bracket. Also have silicone hoses (Samco branded) that I am yet to put on the car.

Anyway:

Revision 1 for bracket: this needs to be updated now, since I've realised I need to offset it more from the ground post towards the centre of the car, or angle it towards the centre of the car. On the actual fabrication, I have angled it.
http://i.imgur.com/8oTHBLdl.png

Here it is attached to the catch can:
http://i.imgur.com/gMOH2Jnl.jpg

All mounted up and functioning:
http://i.imgur.com/Oq5VDlyl.jpg

A better shot of the mounting and can:
http://i.imgur.com/LFJDBmrl.jpg

If anyone would like a part list, PM me. I have it saved in AUD!

[johnrando]

Thanks.

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[Sockethead]

Strange seeing that catch can mounted where the master cylinder goes here in the states.
This is where mine is. It takes a lot more hose.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161204/7e44ddfa4206ea74a53030f69ff130b6.jpg

That catch can is nice! Although the Mishimoto I have looks good, it's just an empty can

[KendrickC]

Strange seeing that catch can mounted where the master cylinder goes here in the states.
This is where mine is. It takes a lot more hose.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161204/7e44ddfa4206ea74a53030f69ff130b6.jpg

That catch can is nice! Although the Mishimoto I have looks good, it's just an empty can

Oh really? I thought the Mishimoto one was also baffled. I must be thinking of the ECS one (it's also really nice, and probably mounts a lot better. The Mishi one does look very nice though

Re: the mounting. If my car was LHD like stateside ones, then yeah mounting would be a breeze. So would the BMW Performance Strut Brace mounting too, since mine is a mess of green and red tape insulation on the positive cable terminal. Alas, it is not.

[KendrickC]

New wheels!

Style 403 from an M-Sport F30.

28519

[az3579]

That is a great choice.


New wheels!

Style 403 from an M-Sport F30.

28519

[Sockethead]

They look pretty damn good!

[nextelbuddy]

Such a beautiful car, and good on you for taking such good care of it.

[holyc0w]

Nice

Can we get a picture from the side of the car?

[danewilson77]

Perfection!

[KendrickC]

Thanks guys.

Re: holyc0w, i'll get a side on shot this weekend. Going for a roadtrip down to Victoria, so hopefully will be able to get some better shots of the car with the new shoes.

If anyone's curious, the specs on the wheels are as follows:

BMW Style 403M
Front: 19 x 8 ET36
Rear: 19 x 8.5 ET47

Bridgestone Potenza S001 RFTs
Front: 225/40/R19
Rear: 255/35/R19

[KendrickC]

Some shots from my roadtrip down south this year:

http://i.imgur.com/We3sZv0l.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/85GXkDVl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/1BsTRCZl.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/9SyEJfJl.jpg

sideshot for h0lycow
http://i.imgur.com/BLDTj88l.jpg

And for lols (my best mate taking a picture of the missus taking a picture of me taking a picture of the car):
http://i.imgur.com/OMHiZC0l.jpg

[az3579]

http://data.whicdn.com/images/13567961/original.jpg

[Sockethead]

Man, That's a beautiful color!

[danewilson77]

Man, That's a beautiful color!

+1

Great shots

[BMWCurves]

Man, That's a beautiful color!

It really does look good

[holyc0w]

sideshot for h0lycow


Thanks :biggrin

Looks great

[KendrickC]

Thanks lads, appreciate the kind words :)

[KendrickC]

I haven't updated this in a long while since I've been extremely busy with an internship and my honours project running concurrently.

Despite the business I managed to get around to buying and installing a set of coilovers, selling my BMW Performance intake, and buying an AEM intake. Order of those events was 2, 3, 1.

I chose the AEM due to Geo31's many raving reviews about the company (AEM), and their development methodology for their intakes. As a studying mechanical engineer (I will be one next year!), I admire the way they do things, as opposed to the garbage that many others put out. Qualitative testing is something that is just something to appreciate in this day and age. Also JDM/pretty shiny metal thing. It gives a nice intake noise, and a mildly annoying hiss/woosh near 2k RPMs. Any extra power? Maybe, but probably not. I just did it cos money was burning a hole in my pocket.

Why did I sell the BMW Performance intake? Just got bored of it honestly. That, and it's fitment with my catch can hoses was troublesome to say the least. In saying that, working on the alternator, working on the right side of the engine bay is likely going to be a hassle now with that giant freaking heatshield in the way.

Now, onto the coilovers. I picked AP coilovers for my car. They're roughly equivalent to KW V1's, and ST Coilovers - KW is the parent company of all the brands.
30813

I'm quite impressed with them. I paid roughly $1200 AUD in total, and the ride is sublime in comparison to my completely blown factory m-sport suspension. I would argue that they would have been slightly stiffer than the factory suspension, but still very compliant when going over imperfections in the road. In less wordy words, they were comfortable to daily drive.

I'll get more pictures soon, but my car is essentially refreshed mechanically bar rear bushings and what not. Diff fluid has been changed with Motul Gear 300 75W-90, engine is filled with Castrol 5W-40, and tranny has Valvoline full synthetic.

Sorry for the crappy cellphone pic. I don't carry my DSLR with me all the time.

[704sw]

Pretty sure I've told you this before, but those 403Ms look really good.

[danewilson77]

Great update. Would like to see the intake for sure.

Sent from my S8+

[KendrickC]

Will grab some pics for you Dane when I get home. Cheers, 704sw. All my mates like them too but I'm eh about it for the most part. Would rather a set of apex arc-8 in 17 or 18 fitments. Shame they're too expensive to ship to Australia

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[johnrando]

Good stuff

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[KendrickC]

I keep forgetting that I have an account on here. Small update, with pictures hopefully by the end of the year (before you crucify me, it's because I'm waiting on items from the US).

Updates:
- Running AP coilovers (KW derivative from Germany).
- Whiteline polyurethane FCABs.
- Ground Control Rear Shock Mounts

Coming:
- APEX ARC-8 incoming! Square set. 17x8.5 ET40. Will be running Michelin Pilot Sport 4's (235/45/17).

If you're wondering why I'm going with 17" wheels over my 19"s, it's due to the fact 17's tyres are SO much cheaper, and more comfortable. Also, the lightweight (~8kg per wheel) nature of the ARC-8 wheels is something I've been lusting after for over two years. Comfort too.

Pictures of all will come eventually...

[BMWCurves]

I keep forgetting that I have an account on here. Small update, with pictures hopefully by the end of the year (before you crucify me, it's because I'm waiting on items from the US).

Updates:
- Running AP coilovers (KW derivative from Germany).
- Whiteline polyurethane FCABs.
- Ground Control Rear Shock Mounts

Coming:
- APEX ARC-8 incoming! Square set. 17x8.5 ET40. Will be running Michelin Pilot Sport 4's (235/45/17).

If you're wondering why I'm going with 17" wheels over my 19"s, it's due to the fact 17's tyres are SO much cheaper, and more comfortable. Also, the lightweight (~8kg per wheel) nature of the ARC-8 wheels is something I've been lusting after for over two years. Comfort too.

Pictures of all will come eventually...

I went for 17s for a similar reason, although I will be the first to admit 18s have an edge in the looks department in my opinion.

[704sw]

403M’s to APEX will be quite the weight difference! When I picked up San’s 17x8.5 ET40 Arc-8 I actually laughed out loud at how stupidly lightweight they are (and my wheels are already very light for 18s).

[KendrickC]

I went for 17s for a similar reason, although I will be the first to admit 18s have an edge in the looks department in my opinion.

I considered a set of 18" Enkei RPF1s, but I don't think that style fits an E46 at all. Maybe NT03+M's, but not the RPF1.

In saying that, 17's have my win for the ARC8. Just the right amount of meat for tyres. Are yours Hyper Black or Anthracite, and same setup as mine? If you don't mind me asking, what tyre size are you running? It appears as though 235/40/17 (as recommended by APEX) isn't readily available in Australia. Also, are you just running BMW valve stems, or are you using the APEX ones? I know for sure the wheels don't come with them.

[BMWCurves]

I have Hyper Black 17x8.5" ET40 wheels all around with 245/40R17 tires. The 245/40 size tires are slightly smaller than factory diameter, but I don't really mind.

I don't have either BMW or APEX valve stems. When I went and had my tires mounted and balanced to my APEX wheels at a local shop, they sold rubber valve stems for $1 a pop or $1.50 for metal ones. I went with metal.

[KendrickC]

I have Hyper Black 17x8.5" ET40 wheels all around with 245/40R17 tires. The 245/40 size tires are slightly smaller than factory diameter, but I don't really mind.

I don't have either BMW or APEX valve stems. When I went and had my tires mounted and balanced to my APEX wheels at a local shop, they sold rubber valve stems for $1 a pop or $1.50 for metal ones. I went with metal.

Cheers for that. My tyre shop is selling stems for $15 a piece. Glad I put an order alongside my wheels for the genuine ones lol.


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[BMWCurves]

Cheers for that. My tyre shop is selling stems for $15 a piece. Glad I put an order alongside my wheels for the genuine ones lol.


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Seriously? $15 per valve stem? Highway robbery. I was ~$100 out the door mounted and balanced with metal valve stems.

[KendrickC]

Yep. Australia sucks ass some times. We still don't have reasonable internet speeds either. It's hilarious how behind we are. We're slower than Kenya.

Tyres I'll be going 235/45/17 so slightly larger than stock but way smaller than what I have now. Michelin Pilot Sport 4 for $155 a corner is reasonable to me. That's fitted and balanced so pretty good all things considered for a pretty new tyre.


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[KendrickC]

403M’s to APEX will be quite the weight difference! When I picked up San’s 17x8.5 ET40 Arc-8 I actually laughed out loud at how stupidly lightweight they are (and my wheels are already very light for 18s).

Sorry didn't see your reply.

Yeah I'm excited to feel ghe weight difference. My 403M weigh about 12kg for the fronts. I would say 13kg for the rears. Good thing I've been getting into shape this year so it's not a hassle getting wheels mounted back up haha.


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[KendrickC]

A small update:

Things that have been put on since last update:
- APEX ARC-8
- Flow Designs Front Splitter
- Stewart EMP Water Pump

To be going in next January:
- GS6-37Z
- UUC Twin Plate Clutch / Flywheel
- OS Giken LSD with 3.15 gearing, (fully rebuilt diff)
- Custom shifter linkages
- ATI Super Damper with upgraded elastomers

As with the new wheels:
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With the lip:
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[danewilson77]

Oooo.... That's nice.

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[san]

Oooo.... That's nice.

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+1


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[704sw]

Dude I love that front splitter. How durably is it attached?

[Oli77]

Not your run-of-the-mill 325i!

[d-rod]

Wow beautiful vehicle. More profile photos of the wheels please ! Also the interior!


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[KendrickC]

Sorry for the late replies all, been busy. Thanks all for the kind words.


Dude I love that front splitter. How durably is it attached?
Front splitter is attached by nuts and bolts. I drilled into the bumper and attached them. Nuts are nyloc, and all hardware is stainless steel.


Wow beautiful vehicle. More profile photos of the wheels please ! Also the interior!


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All in due time. I don't have much time at the moment, but when I get some, I'll be sure to take some photos for you.

[KendrickC]

Latest update:

Still waiting until January for the main stage of my car to begin. Some small changes though:

- G6S-37Z manual transmission (with a complete internal gear set spare)
- UUC Motorwerkes Twin Plate Clutch (Organic)
- M-Factory clutch type LSD centre
- New differential bearings
- New differential seals
- New differential bushings
- Z4M finned differential cover
- ATI Super Damper
- Chassis hardmounted shifter

And lastly, some stuff for my roadtrip down to Melbourne (pics included):
- Thule AeroBars
- Thule Wind Fairing 871XT
- Thule Roof Pod
- Thule Bike Rack (not pictured - I don't even own a bike lol)
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[ZHPizza]

Damn that looks good! Putting in work down under

[johnrando]

Damn that looks good! Putting in work down under+1

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[BMWCurves]

More pics please :drool

[KendrickC]

New order as of this morning:
- Stoptech ST41 calipers on a 325x28mm disc up front with slotted DBA T2 rotors in the rear with stock rear calipers and Stoptech 308 pads.

My reason for choosing such a small kit is that I do a lot of long distance driving on the highway where in Australia there is a load of idiots and road kill (sometimes it's the same thing). It will be an improvement over my stock setup with Remsa pads, and is a complete front and rear setup I'm receiving.

I also didn't want to break the bank for a two axle upgrade. This cost me just shy of 3K AUD. Almost every over front kit alone would have been 3.5k+

Will have more pictures eventually. I'm a busy boy lol.

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[KendrickC]

Found some time to put the Stoptech kit on. Stopping power is great. Still needs additional bedding in but already quite good.

More updated pictures in about two weeks with how the car will be sitting post January updates. 3464734649

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[ZHPizza]

Damn them white calipers look wild

[johnrando]

Very cool!

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[nextelbuddy]

Those brakes look great "mate" lol

[Yass_ZHP]

Car looks amazing! Very nice! Congrats

[dannyzabolotny]

Awesome color, and excellent choice on the Apex wheels. Yes, everybody runs them, but they look fantastic, are affordable, and are lightweight so it's kind of a win-win-win all around.

Stoked to see you do the manual swap, that'll transform the car in the best way.

[KendrickC]

Manual swap is done. Lsd is in. One minor hiccup - the custom shifter I was using doesn't let me get into 5/6 due to some messuo in geometry. Had to drive 1000kms in 4th gear @ 90kph.

I have genuine BMW stuff coming in this week. Oem ZHP linkages and levers and a BMW performance gear knob. I'm looking forward to it.

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[KendrickC]

Oh my car also desparately needs a detail. I need to find some time before I go back to work.

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[danewilson77]

Good work.

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[dannyzabolotny]

Heck yeah! I imagine it feels awesome to have a manual after having the auto for so long. Did you run into any difficulties aside from the linkage, or was it all smooth sailing?

[KendrickC]

Pretty smooth sailing. My car had some oxidisation on the starter which made the auto removal quite difficult. My new Bosch starter had burrs which prevented it going on smoothly. Aside from that all good.

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[KendrickC]

Car shifts into 5 and 6. Hell yeah.

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[KendrickC]

BMW Performance shifters are so nice...

Now... does anyone have an Alcantara boot (black with white stitching) they'd like to give up? Apparently they don't make them purchaseable in RHD.

34789

Car is so much more enjoyable to drive now. Manual swaps are a must. Will be buying dailies for the missus and I soon. Planning a 2018 WRX for her, and an 09 WRX for me (I love hatches). Will have to hold me down for now until I can afford a C7 RS6.

34790

[dannyzabolotny]

Why not just daily the E46? They're super easy cars to daily drive.

[KendrickC]

It's not my daily is why :P

I'm planning an S54 swap over the next few years, and plan to tear down the car soon. Fully built NA motor is what I'm aiming for, though that will definitely be up for debate later on.

[az3579]

I'm sure if you send your existing shift boot to Coby Wheel he could probably hook you up. I doubt he'll have any RHD shift boot frames to work with, so you'll probably have to send yours...


And damn I love your seats.

[KendrickC]

I'm sure if you send your existing shift boot to Coby Wheel he could probably hook you up. I doubt he'll have any RHD shift boot frames to work with, so you'll probably have to send yours...


And damn I love your seats.

I've considered Coby Wheel. I've sent him an email too asking if he can do a black with white stitch. I suspect that while the frames are different, and there will be a slight variation between a LHD and RHD boot, it should still work.

Ah it annoys me so much that my boot is leather atm. Planning to detail the car on Saturday, so will hopefully have cleaner pics of inside and outside.

I hate my interior. If you were in Australia, I'd drive to you and we can swap. I'm after a black cloth, but my goal is Sportster CS in black leather with cloth centres, with a black cloth/alcantara interior. Impossible to find.

[az3579]

I hate my interior. If you were in Australia, I'd drive to you and we can swap. I'm after a black cloth, but my goal is Sportster CS in black leather with cloth centres, with a black cloth/alcantara interior. Impossible to find.

Well if you're gonna be dropping the coin on Recaro Sportster CS', I'm sure a quick re-upholster to your spec isn't going to break the bank too much! :)

Man, I would totally consider a swap with your interior; that is a super rare interior worldwide. Too bad it's next to impossible without spending a fortune getting the seats shipped. Ugh.

Thankfully I'm happy with my Natural Brown leather. :)

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8073/28761762251_8bd02d37db_k.jpg

[KendrickC]

Oh man your interior is nice. If i could find natural brown or cinnamon for a sedan locally, I would happily accept that. Downside is that if it's not local, I'll be without an interior for a large amount of time (though that's not too much of an issue for me at the moment since my current career/job doesn't require me to drive to work).

Car has finally been detailed today! Pictures will be taken tomorrow since I'll be working on my mate's new-to-him S2000 (I would love one for a daily) and what better time to photoshoot than that.

Updated plans for the rest of this year:
- Rear axle carrier panel reinforcement. Will be using CMP Automotive plates for underside, and a cut down version of the topside. Shop to do it to be determined.
- Potentially new wheels. My APEX ARC-8's are wonderful - I just can't run them legally at the moment. Australia has banned the use of wheel spacers due to shitty items in the early 90s. I have 5mm APEX spacers on at the moment, and luckily it's not enough to really draw attention. I'm looking at Enkei NT05+Ms in 18x8 +38, BBS LMs in 18x8 +35 ideally. I'm open to ideas.
- Seats/interior. I would absolutely love a set of Recaro Sportster CSs, or a set of Sparco SPXs. Too much money though, so will have to look for OE seats like Megane RS/Clio RS (Factory Sportsters).
- AGT Styling CSL bootlip. Probably the only bootlip that doesn't angle down the vertical of the boot as well.
http://www.agtstyling.com/images/stories/virtuemart/product/image1_17.jpg
- Racing Dynamics Style roof spoiler. I can't find a replica at the moment, and the genuine one is far too expensive for me to justify (600 Euros).

[KendrickC]

Updated photos:

https://i.imgur.com/383txm1l.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/a7ISADSl.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/2UnVSsnl.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/msQSv80l.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/yHpamdll.jpg

[johnrando]

Beauty

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[RUS_ZHP]

This color is amazing, especially on those sunny pictures!

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[KendrickC]

Thanks lads.

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[az3579]

Any chance you could post some more pics of your interior? I love that combo but don't see much of it in your pics. :)

[704sw]

I can’t get over how much I like that lip.

[KendrickC]

Any chance you could post some more pics of your interior? I love that combo but don't see much of it in your pics. :)I shall take some this weekend if I remember. It's usually a mess since I have a 4 month old haha.
I can’t get over how much I like that lip.They ship internationally! I can't speak for their rates though. Flow Designs is the manufacturer.

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[ZHPizza]

That boot lip actually looks kind of reasonable. Looking forward to seeing installed pics.

Also I agree with BP that your seats are dope and I want em

[KendrickC]

Quick question for y'all:

Keep the blue lug nuts, or get matching red lug nuts to the centre caps?

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[ELCID86]

Blue.

[az3579]

Blue.

[johnrando]

Blue. Any chance to get blue caps? Likely doubtful.

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[KendrickC]

Thanks guys. I'll have to fire a message to apex wheels to see if there's been any interest for blue caps. Otherwise I have a spare set of black caps I'll have to look into recolouring. Matching estoril? Or do you guys thinking a flat blue in a similar luminance to the red caps would be nice?

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[az3579]

I actually like the red cap with blue lug nuts. They contrast very nicely.

[KendrickC]

Yeah me too. That's why I wanted to match the lug nuts up. I'm also wanting to fit in US spec amber corners all around as well.

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[KendrickC]

Apologies for shitty photos. Was in the middle of a rain storm haha. 348393484034841348423484334844

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[ZHPizza]

Those seats look so damn breathable

[az3579]

Damn I love those seats. They are so rare, too. Jelly. I wish there was a feasible way to trade!

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[nextelbuddy]

ahh so that's what Fabric Jacquard/anthracite (H9AT/ANTHRAZIT) looks like. cloth light grey with a pattern.

[az3579]

ahh so that's what Fabric Jacquard/anthracite (H9AT/ANTHRAZIT) looks like. cloth light grey with a pattern.

His seats aren't grey. These are the H9AT seats:

https://static.schmiedmann.dk/ProductPictures/image_66258_big.jpg

[nextelbuddy]

His seats aren't grey. These are the H9AT seats:

https://static.schmiedmann.dk/ProductPictures/image_66258_big.jpg

Okay you're right thanks for the correction.

I didn't notice that in one of the pictures the center section has the same square perforated holes as the ZHP alcantara interior so it's almost like a white alcantara interior?? I don't really see an interior color code for that on real OEM.

[az3579]

Okay you're right thanks for the correction.

I didn't notice that in one of the pictures the center section has the same square perforated holes as the ZHP alcantara interior so it's almost like a white alcantara interior?? I don't really see an interior color code for that on real OEM.

Yeah, it is pretty much the same as our alcantara just a light beige color. I remember seeing the code a long time ago but I don't see it any more.
It's like how the Arizona Sun interior exists in alcantara (look it up) but it won't show up in RealOEM. I have a feeling Individual items aren't listed in RealOEM.

[KendrickC]

Yeah, it is pretty much the same as our alcantara just a light beige color. I remember seeing the code a long time ago but I don't see it any more.
It's like how the Arizona Sun interior exists in alcantara (look it up) but it won't show up in RealOEM. I have a feeling Individual items aren't listed in RealOEM.Yeah it's alcantara side bolsters, with cloth perforated centres all the way up to the headrest. I wish they weren't beige, since I have no idea how to maintain the clean look. I'm all ears to suggestions. Cos I know they look and feel dirty after 16 years.

Realoem use to show the individual codes. I'll see if I can find my original PDF of my cars OG options for y'all.

My goal seats are definitely sportster CS now. I just have to find a cloth black setup for the rear seats, and cloth black door panels as well with provisions for HK audio.

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[KendrickC]

See attached 3485434855

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[KendrickC]

Sorry for the distinct lack of updates - been busy at work.

Got a new steering wheel and shift knob.

Steering wheel is perforated leather at 9 and 3, alcantara 12 and 6, with a flat bottom. Contoured grips that take a bit of getting use to.

Shift knob is a Storm Motorwerks V1. Glorious. Significantly less notchiness when cold, and generally smoother shifting when warm. I still need to get better at shifting though.

Pictures are below:
35510
35511

[johnrando]

LIKE

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[KendrickC]

Minor update. Subframe is booked in for next Saturday (24/8)

CMP Auto plates, CMP Solid Subframe bushings, OE Diff bushings.

My current diff bushing is probably about to kick the proverbial bucket so figured what the hell.

I also have a replacement set of front shocks for my AP (essentially KWV1) coilovers. Looks like I got a revised design as my warranty replacements for my currently leaking fronts. When I do them I'm going to raise my rear height a bunch so I can have some more rake. Also since my diff has the dinner cover it sits a bit lower...

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[johnrando]

LIKE

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[KendrickC]

Subframe is almost back together according to the shop!

Been happy with their communication and work this far. A little bit behind schedule but that's no issue with me - I'm not in a position to force them to go faster.

Pics below!3561435615356163561735618

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[DeathTrap]

It's almost time for me to do subframe work. Those CMP plates look like they provide a bit more coverage than the Redish. I'm assuming you went with CMP because they are local to you?

Subframe looks great btw.

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[KendrickC]

It's almost time for me to do subframe work. Those CMP plates look like they provide a bit more coverage than the Redish. I'm assuming you went with CMP because they are local to you?

Subframe looks great btw.

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using TapatalkSubframe all finished today! Drove the car home and it felt better. Not sure if it's placebo or if it's actually better.

Yes cmp is localish to me. They're in the state north of me but more than I'm a friend of CMP's and I understand that he's done the research to determine ideal size and what not. He's a mechanical engineer (as am I). The plates are stage 1 of what he offers. I intend to do stage 2 next year some time

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[KendrickC]

Small update.

Will be finally doing my rear suspension bushings! Spindle joints will both be ball joints, RTABs will be CMP Auto's solid spherical bushings, and OE everywhere else.

Car is unchanged aside from that. Plans for this year will be suspension bushings, and front seats. Hoping to get a set of Recaros, but model has not been determined yet.

Also give me a follow on the 'gram if you want to see more photos of my car (or food. Food's good too.)

@estorilblau46

[johnrando]

Nice!

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[KendrickC]

I managed to snag a rare item that came past me randomly... OEM perforated leather steering wheel with M Tri-stitching!

https://i.imgur.com/GGfs76mm.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ELDKpO1m.jpg

I also finally bought a HVAC relocation plate as well, so will be able to install that in the coming weeks. Hope you've all been well and staying safe over there in the Americas!

[Oli77]

Love that wheel, and that cluster.
I find the e90 cluster is not as attractive and the e46 cluster.
Why have you not done the red sharpie mod on the needles and also added the silver rings?

[johnrando]

Def love that wheel!

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[KendrickC]

Love that wheel, and that cluster.
I find the e90 cluster is not as attractive and the e46 cluster.
Why have you not done the red sharpie mod on the needles and also added the silver rings?Silver rings are there and I'm too lazy to do the red needles.

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[Will]

I'm a big fan of that perforated wheel. Nice pick up!

[KendrickC]

Thanks! My final goal would be a full Alcantara wheel with a flat bottom. I'll have to wait for that, and I'm no hurry anyway. I want to get new seats first! Looking at Recaro Pole Positions.

[KendrickC]

Oh yes. AME Tracer GT-V. 18x8.5 ET35 square. Michelin Pilot Sport 4 235/40/18. No more spacers. I'm happy... only question is do I want the stickers on a spoke of each wheel.

https://i.imgur.com/9UoSAZhl.jpghttps://i.imgur.com/YHOFWWPl.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/Gj5303Bl.jpghttps://i.imgur.com/pOHwjlLl.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/0fCNtLzl.jpghttps://i.imgur.com/vWl5M7Yl.jpg

[johnrando]

Nice!

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[ZHPizza]

F it bro

Sticker up

[Oli77]

Uber nice!

[t.er]

Very nice set of rims! I quite like that "JDM" sort of style, myself having TR Motorsport C2. Personally I would prefer a clean look without stickers, but perhaps try it out and see if you like em!

[Will]

F it bro

Sticker up

I laughed way too hard at this. Lol.

Either way, you car's looking good.

[KendrickC]

I laughed way too hard at this. Lol.

Either way, you car's looking good.

I ended up removing the stickers. Clean is nice, kind of you like your car t.er - clean simple wheels and nothing to distract :)

Updated OP with current mods/maintenance to date.

Maintenance List (Either OE or OEM parts unless otherwise stated):
- Sparks, valve cover gasket, new tyres (Achilles ATR Sport 2)
- Ignition Coil #2 replaced
- Oil filter housing gasket
- Mechanical Fan replaced with manual transmission electric fan
- Cooling System Overhaul (Motul Inugel Ultra coolant)
- MAF replaced
- Brake Overhaul
- DISA Rebuilt
- Pulleys and belts overhauled
- Driver regulator
- Front suspension overhauled (bar struts/springs)
- Intake boots replaced
- CCV overhaul
- Auto Transmission serviced
- VANOS rebuilt (Beisan)
- Oil pressure switch replaced
- Intake camshaft position sensor replaced
- Oil level sensor replaced
- M3 engine mounts and oil pan gasket replaced
- Rebuilt rear calipers (new seals and new bleeder valves)
- Fuel pump replaced
-SAMCO Silicone Radiator Hoses
-Fuel Sender Unit
-Ignition Coils
-Intake and Exhaust Cam Sensors
-EMP Stewart Water Pump
-Rear subframe reinforced with CMP Auto Engineering plates + Solid Subframe Bushings
-OE Diff bushings
-Thermostat
-All rear suspension bushings refreshed
-Coolant hardlines + Expansion Tank (#2) + manual mountings


Modification List:
- Umnitza Orion V4 angel eyes
- Eagle Eyes LED tailights (dead/sold)
- OEM M3 strut brace (sold)
- ECS Tuning CF strut brace (sold)
- Eonon GM5150
- Ultra-Gauge (WOLFN8TR's thread convinced me!)
- Brushed aluminium/aluminum sedan interior trim
- Projector retrofit (Morimoto Mini H1 with 5500k bulbs)
- Turner Motorsport 27mm front sway bar
- ECS Tuning Billet aluminium dipstick, oil filter cap, and WP pulley
- ECS Tuning magnetic drain plug
- Stud conversion (ECS/Mishimoto)
- Remus muffler
- M3 steering wheel w/ Tri-Stitch SOLD
- BMW Performance handbrake handle
- BMW Performance CF strut brace
- Muteki 20mm open ended lug nuts SOLD
- BMW Performance intake
- Catch can (Radium Engineering)
- Genuine BMW Style 403 F: 19"x8" R: 19"x8.5" -> back to Mishimoto lug nuts
-StopTech Touring Big Brake Kit (ST41 calipers with 325x28mm rotor)
-AP Coilovers with Bilstein B8 rears
-Style 403s sold
-APEX ARC8s sold
-GS6-37BZ swapped in with UUC Motorwerkes Twin Plate Clutch + Flywheel
-M-Factory 1.5 LSD with rebuilt diff + Z4M finned diff (New bearings + Seals)
-Storm Motorwerkes Shift Knob (V1 weighted)
-AME Tracer GT-Vs (18x8.5 ET35 Square wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 235/40/18)
-Perforated M3 Steering wheel
-CMP Auto Solid RTAB (encapsulated spherical bearing)
-SR45R Muteki Floating Lug Nuts


Future Plans:
- S54B32
-330 rear trailing arm upgrade (purchased - just need to install)

[johnrando]

Wow, nice list.

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