JD's 2005 Alpine White Restoration - Daily Duties

[jdauria]

Long time lurker and have been lusting after a ZHP for the better part of 15 years or so. Been through a dozen other BMWs. Just picked this up yesterday in Tampa Bay, FL and drove it back to West Palm Beach, FL (~3.5hrs). She needs a bit of TLC, and probably more than I thought but that's the fun of it all, right? Currently have a '16 F31MSport and a '05 ZHP Convertible (for sale!). But, with my daily commute of 40mi on the highway the convertible just isn't that practical - Figured a sedan would fit the bill.

2005 330i ZHP
Alpine White
Natural Brown
144k

Only picture I have right now. It's definitely a 10 footer at the moment and the interior needs a lot more work than anticipated but it'll get there. At some point this vehicle experienced extended periods of time in heat (TX/FL vehicle). Small amount of paint peel on the rear bumper and roof. Already have a whole laundry list of parts on order and in transit. I should have fairly regular updates as go through this daily refresh/restoration. I dont really have any service history at all which I hate.

Maintenance:
[ ] Windshield Cowl Replacement
[ ] Spark Plug Service
[ ] Oil Service
[ ] Cabin Filter
[ ] Intake Filter
[ ] Automatic Transmission Service
[ ] Fuel Filter replacement
[ ] Rear Differential Service
[ ] Convert to Electric Fan
[ ] G.A.S DISA Kit

Restoration:
[ ] Heavy Deep Clean on all carpets and seats
[ ] Headlight Restoration: Lenses, Gaskets, and Seals
[ ] Rear Inner Tail Light Replacement
[ ] Fog Light back to OEM color
[ ] Exterior Trim Refresh
[ ] Rear View Mirror Case
[ ] Center Console - Armrest delete
[ ] Cup Holder
[ ] Coin Holder
[ ] Sunglass Holder
[ ] Seat Back re-glue/fix
[ ] Interior trim piece re-glue or replacement
[ ] A,B,C Pillars
[ ] Headliner Sag Fix
[ ] Cluster Fix? (Not showing gear indicator, think something came unsoldered due to heat. The stalk buttons dont work either)
[ ] Trunk Carpet replacement
[ ] Remove all window tint (Driver side is already messed up and I rather have it all removed)

[BADCLOWN]

Love these kinds of rejuvenation/build threads. I love alpine white, wish mine was. Following this closely, congrats and good luck!

[fredo]

Congrats, JD! AW is among my favorite colors. :thumbsup

[jdauria]

Love these kinds of rejuvenation/build threads. I love alpine white, wish mine was. Following this closely, congrats and good luck!

Appreciate it! Have a huge box of parts coming in this week, stay tuned!


Congrats, JD! AW is among my favorite colors. :thumbsup

Appreciate it!

[jdauria]

08.01.2024 - So it begins...

Received expensive gifts from FCP Euro and BMW of Fairfax. I usually go with Fairfax as they have the absolute lowest prices on OEM parts I've seen. I plan to get started this weekend and knock out as much as I can. Stay tuned!

[TrKy3]

Nice - was this the one from CA originally that was just recently sold to someone in FL? Might be a different white sedan I am thinking of.
Either way, congrats.

[jdauria]

Nice - was this the one from CA originally that was just recently sold to someone in FL? Might be a different white sedan I am thinking of.
Either way, congrats.

Nope different one. I actually looked at that one down in South Florida, it's still for sale. Had a bit more miles, a bit more paint work. This one is very similar condition, but the other seller wasn't really willing to negotiate.

[jdauria]

08.01.2024 - Part I: Kick-Off / Small Update

I couldn't help but start on some very small things. I've had the 'Check Gas Cap' light on since I bought the vehicle last week. A new one was definitely in order as the old seal had completely cracked and was missing the door string. Small details matter to me, and not having the string was annoying me. As usual, "when you're in there" - might as well clean it up too

First fill up required some LM Gas Cleaner, as Sreten would say 'Cheers!'

Window Tint: so the driver side window tint had two large creases across the entire window. This was not repairable so I wanted them removed. Luckily, I have a local friend who has a local window tinting business. He warned me that they can be a PITA to remove and he actually is not in the business of removal just installation. Luckily, these came off relatively easily and took him no more than 20 mins. I removed the driver side and passenger side window tint to make them match at least.



Maintenance:
[X] Liqui Moly Gas Cleaner Service @ 144,300
[X] OEM Gas Cap replacement @ 144,300
[ ] Windshield Cowl Replacement
[ ] Spark Plug Service
[ ] Oil Service
[ ] Cabin Filter
[ ] Intake Filter
[ ] Automatic Transmission Service
[ ] Fuel Filter replacement
[ ] Rear Differential Service
[ ] Convert to Electric Fan
[ ] G.A.S DISA Kit

Restoration:
[X] Remove window tint @ 144,300
[ ] Heavy Deep Clean on all carpets and seats
[ ] Headlight Restoration: Lenses, Gaskets, and Seals
[ ] Rear Inner Tail Light Replacement
[ ] Fog Light back to OEM color
[ ] Exterior Trim Refresh
[ ] Rear View Mirror Case
[ ] Center Console - Armrest delete
[ ] Cup Holder
[ ] Coin Holder
[ ] Sunglass Holder
[ ] Seat Back re-glue/fix
[ ] Interior trim piece re-glue or replacement
[ ] A,B,C Pillars
[ ] Headliner Sag Fix
[ ] Cluster Fix? (Not showing gear indicator, think something came unsoldered due to heat. The stalk buttons dont work either)
[ ] Trunk Carpet replacement

Plans for this weekend:
- Remove Driver/Passenger seats from the vehicle
- Deep clean and condition both seats
- Deep Vacuum/Clean all the carpeted areas
- Remove Armrest Assembly
- Replace Center Console
- Replace Cup Holder
- Replace Coin Holder
- Remove CoCo Mats (SMH...), utilize black carpet for now
- Remove Windshield Cowl, Replace with OEM
- Spark Plug Service
- Cabin Filter replacement
- Intake Filter replacement
- Oil Service
- Liqui Moly Engine Flush
- Liqui Moly Engine Ceratec Additive
- Remove Pusher and Mechanical Fan
- Replace with Electric Fan
- Headlight Refresh: all new gasket, lens, trim
- Replace Turn Signal Corners with OEM replacement
- BlueBus installation
- Replace ZHP Rear Diffuser Trim with OEM replacement

[fredo]

I see a busy weekend in your future. Good plan. :thumbsup

[Vas]

An exciting weekend of wrenching

[jdauria]

I see a busy weekend in your future. Good plan. :thumbsup

Thanks man!


An exciting weekend of wrenching

Who doesn't like a wrench day? Going to be a hot one though

-------------------

08.02.2024 - Part II: Session I while I had a couple hours to kill.
Weather in South Florida is brutal lately, 92 degrees and doing this all outdoors with no shade is not fun at all. But, we must press on. This is session I because I needed a break from the heat and session II will be later this evening.

Was able to knock out LM Engine Flush, let it idle for 15 mins and drain oil. Performed oil service and got to inspect underneath for the first time. I was expecting an oil caked undercarriage, but to my surprise that really wasn't the case at all. Noticed upgraded (?) control arms by Uro Parts ///M (?) - not sure if thats good or not, BUT with polyurethane bushings FTW! No leaks from power steering lines or pump. Not all good things though, noticed some NAPA auto parts bullshit coolant hoses...So, cooling system overhaul will be added to the laundry list. Can't stand cheap owners who cut corners on these cars.

Intake filter - Made in China...circa 2019: replaced with proper MANN filter
Cabin filter - Made in China...circa 2018: was absolutely filthy: replaced with proper OE filter
Cleaned up up the cabin filter tray as it was disgusting and probably never cleaned in 20 years.

Spark Plug Service: Coils have a red cap? Doesn't seem OEM from my previous experience but nevertheless they did look almost brand new. No name or label on them. No history on last time the plugs were changed, but my guess is not that long ago as they didn't look awful. Still replaced all 6.

She fired right up and sounded smoother already. Took her around the block, inspected for leaks and all systems go.

Session II will hopefully consist of: ZHP rear diffuser replacement, Windshield Cowl replacement, (4) OEM Wheel Roundel replacement, electric fan conversion. I may try to push hard to perform the headlight restoration as the forecast next few days doesn't look great.

Maintenance:
[X] Liqui Moly Gas Cleaner Service @ 144,300
[X] OEM Gas Cap replacement @ 144,300
[X] Spark Plug Service @ 144,319
[X] Liqui Moly Engine Flush @ 144,319
[X] Oil Service @ 144,319
[X] Liqui Moly Engine Additive @ 144,319
[X] Cabin Filter @ 144,319
[X] Intake Filter @ 144,319
[ ] Automatic Transmission Service
[ ] Fuel Filter replacement
[ ] Fuel Pump Replacement
[ ] Rear Differential Service
[ ] Convert to Electric Fan
[ ] G.A.S DISA Kit

Restoration:
[X] Remove window tint @ 144,300
[ ] Windshield Cowl Replacement
[ ] Rear Diffuser Replacement
[ ] Heavy Deep Clean on all carpets and seats
[ ] Headlight Restoration: Lenses, Gaskets, and Seals
[ ] Rear Inner Tail Light Replacement
[ ] Fog Light back to OEM color
[ ] Exterior Trim Refresh
[ ] Rear View Mirror Case
[ ] Center Console - Armrest delete
[ ] Cup Holder
[ ] Coin Holder
[ ] Sunglass Holder
[ ] Seat Back re-glue/fix
[ ] Interior trim piece re-glue or replacement
[ ] A,B,C Pillars
[ ] Headliner Sag Fix
[ ] Cluster Fix? (Not showing gear indicator, think something came unsoldered due to heat. The stalk buttons dont work either)
[ ] Trunk Carpet replacement

[jdauria]

08.02.2024 - Part II: Session II - another 3.5 hrs in the heat and then came the mosquitos

Electric Fan Conversion: WOW - night and day better in terms of sound and dare I say performance? Motor just sounds so much more free instead of trying to suck in the atmosphere. Overall, it was pretty straight forward: remove front bumper, remove electrical components, bumper shroud, pusher fan bolts, mechanical fan and clutch. Clean out a ton of debris from years and years of driving. But, JESUS another MADE IN CHINA part! The fan clutch was MIC too - SMH...

Next was the windshield cowl, this was the worst cowl I've ever seen and experienced. The damn wiper arm assemblies gave me a tough time but I finally was able to get them off without a puller tool. Swapped in new wiper blades too. Underneath the cowl was absolutely disgusting with years of grime that got underneath due to seal being completely gone. I tried my best and didn't want to spend an hour cleaning up the entire area. New cowl gives it a great look.

ZHP Rear Diffuser: mine was cracked and glad I replaced it with brand new OEM part. The bracket was broken as well, everything just fell apart.

No time for headlight restoration, will have to give it a go tomorrow weather dependent. If I have additional time, I will start on the interior.

Maintenance:
[X] Liqui Moly Gas Cleaner Service @ 144,300
[X] OEM Gas Cap replacement @ 144,300
[X] Spark Plug Service @ 144,319
[X] Liqui Moly Engine Flush @ 144,319
[X] Oil Service @ 144,319
[X] Liqui Moly Engine Additive @ 144,319
[X] Cabin Filter @ 144,319
[X] Intake Filter @ 144,319
[X] Convert to Electric Fan @ 144,319
[ ] Automatic Transmission Service
[ ] Fuel Filter replacement
[ ] Fuel Pump Replacement
[ ] Rear Differential Service
[ ] G.A.S DISA Kit

Restoration:
[X] Remove window tint @ 144,300
[X] Windshield Cowl Replacement @ 144,319
[X] Rear Diffuser Replacement @ 144,319
[ ] Heavy Deep Clean on all carpets and seats
[ ] Headlight Restoration: Lenses, Gaskets, and Seals
[ ] Rear Inner Tail Light Replacement
[ ] Fog Light back to OEM color
[ ] Exterior Trim Refresh
[ ] Rear View Mirror Case
[ ] Center Console - Armrest delete
[ ] Cup Holder
[ ] Coin Holder
[ ] Sunglass Holder
[ ] Seat Back re-glue/fix
[ ] Interior trim piece re-glue or replacement
[ ] A,B,C Pillars
[ ] Headliner Sag Fix
[ ] Cluster Fix? (Not showing gear indicator, think something came unsoldered due to heat. The stalk buttons dont work either)
[ ] Trunk Carpet replacement

[John in VA]

Don't forget to dress up the water pump threads with one of these!

https://www.bimmerworld.com/Cooling/Water-Pumps/Water-Pump-Shaft-Nut.html
40340

[jdauria]

Don't forget to dress up the water pump threads with one of these!

https://www.bimmerworld.com/Cooling/Water-Pumps/Water-Pump-Shaft-Nut.html


Probably a good idea, thanks for recommendation!

-------------------------

08.03.2024 - Part III: Headlight Restoration Complete

Small effects from this tropical depression on the west side of the state, rain most of the day here with some wind. Luckily I found about a 90 min window to knock out some more work. Headlight restoration didn't take long at all, hardest part was putting back the lower headlight trim without breaking anything. Driver side headlight took me almost 45 mins start to finish, while the passenger side took me maybe 15 mins once I knew what I was doing.

All OEM parts:
Headlight Lens - R/L
Headlight Lens Gaskets
Headlight Trim - R/L
Directionals - OEM Yellow - R/L (really debated on going clear but stuck with yellow to make the rears)

German Auto Solutions DISA upgrade kit was delivered today. May have to wait a few days before tackling this. I've done it before on my convertible. Crossing my fingers the DISA in the car is OEM and not MIC...

Maintenance:
[X] Liqui Moly Gas Cleaner Service @ 144,300
[X] OEM Gas Cap replacement @ 144,300
[X] Spark Plug Service @ 144,319
[X] Liqui Moly Engine Flush @ 144,319
[X] Oil Service @ 144,319
[X] Liqui Moly Engine Additive @ 144,319
[X] Cabin Filter @ 144,319
[X] Intake Filter @ 144,319
[X] Convert to Electric Fan @ 144,319
[ ] Automatic Transmission Service
[ ] Fuel Filter replacement
[ ] Fuel Pump Replacement
[ ] Rear Differential Service
[ ] G.A.S DISA Kit

Restoration:
[X] Remove window tint @ 144,300
[X] Windshield Cowl Replacement @ 144,319
[X] Rear Diffuser Replacement @ 144,319
[X] Headlight Restoration: Lenses, Gaskets, and Seals @ 144,319
[ ] Heavy Deep Clean on all carpets and seats
[ ] Rear Inner Tail Light Replacement
[ ] Fog Light back to OEM color
[ ] Exterior Trim Refresh
[ ] Rear View Mirror Case
[ ] Center Console - Armrest delete
[ ] Cup Holder
[ ] Coin Holder
[ ] Sunglass Holder
[ ] Seat Back re-glue/fix
[ ] Interior trim piece re-glue or replacement
[ ] A,B,C Pillars
[ ] Headliner Sag Fix
[ ] Cluster Fix? (Not showing gear indicator, think something came unsoldered due to heat. The stalk buttons dont work either)
[ ] Trunk Carpet replacement

[jdauria]

08.03.2024 - Part IV: Center Console Refresh/Replacement

I've never quite seen an armrest assembly completely fall apart before. Must have been due to extreme heat exposure for many years...Cup holders were not salvageable in my opinion. I always do armrest delete in all my E46's I've ever owned. I think it looks cleaned and my arm/elbow doesn't get in the way. I forgot to by the rear oddment/ashtray so I'll be ordering one of those in the future to finish everything off. The center radio bracket and sunglass holder need to be replaced as well...Just not looking to spend the funds on those just yet.

Also, added the rearview mirror case, that was missing when I bought the car. Tossed the nasty CoCo mats as well. The black carpet mats in the trunk were not OEM, so i'll be sourcing a set or all-weather mats in the future.

All OEM Parts:
Armrest Delete Center Console
Cup Holder
Coin Holder


Maintenance:
[X] Liqui Moly Gas Cleaner Service @ 144,300
[X] OEM Gas Cap replacement @ 144,300
[X] Spark Plug Service @ 144,319
[X] Liqui Moly Engine Flush @ 144,319
[X] Oil Service @ 144,319
[X] Liqui Moly Engine Additive @ 144,319
[X] Cabin Filter @ 144,319
[X] Intake Filter @ 144,319
[X] Convert to Electric Fan @ 144,319
[ ] G.A.S DISA Kit
[ ] Automatic Transmission Service
[ ] Fuel Filter replacement
[ ] Fuel Pump Replacement
[ ] Rear Differential Service


Restoration:
[X] Remove window tint @ 144,300
[X] Windshield Cowl Replacement @ 144,319
[X] Rear Diffuser Replacement @ 144,319
[X] Headlight Restoration: Lenses, Gaskets, and Seals @ 144,319
[X] Rear View Mirror Case @144,320
[X] Center Console - Armrest delete @ 144,320
[X] Cup Holder @144,320
[X] Coin Holder @ 144,320
[ ] Heavy Deep Clean on all carpets and seats
[ ] Rear Inner Tail Light Replacement
[ ] Fog Light back to OEM color
[ ] Exterior Trim Refresh
[ ] Sunglass Holder
[ ] Seat Back re-glue/fix
[ ] Interior trim piece re-glue or replacement
[ ] A,B,C Pillars
[ ] Headliner Sag Fix
[ ] Cluster Fix? (Not showing gear indicator, think something came unsoldered due to heat. The stalk buttons dont work either)
[ ] Grey Trunk Carpet replacement

[Vas]

Great progress. [emoji106]

[jdauria]

Great progress. [emoji106]

Thanks Vas!

-------------

08.08.24 - Adding to the list...

Noticed the lower return hose was pretty swollen the other day, and last thing I need is to be stranded with coolant loss. In addition, the upper and lower radiator hoses are from Napa Auto Parts (sticker is still on them)...Luckily the thermostat was replaced as I can see the manufactured date stamp and I have service record of it. Went ahead and ordered all (3) hoses, new temp sensor, expansion tank, coolant sensor, etc. Hopefully that stuff arrives early next week so I can have peace of mind around the cooling system for awhile.

Overall, the car is driving mechanically much better and a lot more free since the electric fan conversion. But, there are three items that I would like to take care of right away. Cooling System, Suspension, and Headlights. Suspension feels very tired and probably has been neglected for awhile. I am starting to put parts list together for OEM/OE replacement, staying stock here. Headlights I think I am dealing with the dreaded zkw burnt projector bowls. I can barely see anything at night, output is very low. This is a safety hazard for me, and needs to be addressed as soon as possible.

Also bought a new fuel tank breather valve as I am still experiencing the 'check gas cap' message and during fill ups constantly cutting out. I already replaced the gas cap with a new OEM one. Wouldn't be surprised if the valve is still original. OEM Part from BMW FFX $93, FCP wanted $122.


Maintenance:
[X] Liqui Moly Gas Cleaner Service @ 144,300
[X] OEM Gas Cap replacement @ 144,300
[X] Spark Plug Service @ 144,319
[X] Liqui Moly Engine Flush @ 144,319
[X] Oil Service @ 144,319
[X] Liqui Moly Engine Additive @ 144,319
[X] Cabin Filter @ 144,319
[X] Intake Filter @ 144,319
[X] Convert to Electric Fan @ 144,319
[ ] Cooling System Components
[ ] Fuel Tank Breather Valve Replacement
[ ] G.A.S DISA Kit
[ ] Automatic Transmission Service
[ ] Fuel Filter replacement
[ ] Fuel Pump Replacement
[ ] Rear Differential Service


Restoration:
[X] Remove window tint @ 144,300
[X] Windshield Cowl Replacement @ 144,319
[X] Rear Diffuser Replacement @ 144,319
[X] Headlight Restoration: Lenses, Gaskets, and Seals @ 144,319
[X] Rear View Mirror Case @144,320
[X] Center Console - Armrest delete @ 144,320
[X] Cup Holder @144,320
[X] Coin Holder @ 144,320
[X] Heavy Deep Clean on all carpets and seats
[ ] Headlight ZKW Output Fix
[ ] Rear Inner Tail Light Replacement
[ ] Fog Light back to OEM color
[ ] Exterior Trim Refresh
[ ] Sunglass Holder
[ ] Seat Back re-glue/fix
[ ] Interior trim piece re-glue or replacement
[ ] A,B,C Pillars
[ ] Headliner Sag Fix
[ ] Cluster Fix? (Not showing gear indicator, think something came unsoldered due to heat. The stalk buttons dont work either)
[ ] Grey Trunk Carpet replacement

[fredo]

My IR ZHP suspension was refreshed around 4 years ago. Check this post for additional info:

https://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?15710-Fredo-s-ZHP-Project&p=593000#post593000

[jdauria]

My IR ZHP suspension was refreshed around 4 years ago. Check this post for additional info:

https://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?15710-Fredo-s-ZHP-Project&p=593000#post593000

Thanks! Oddly enough I actually saw that post earlier this morning. I started compiling a parts list - most likely won't be able to address this for a few more weeks.

[jdauria]

08.08.24 - More Made In China BS....:facepalm

I swear this was the cheapest owner. All parts that I have removed so far have been Made in China. Add Fuel Tank Breather Valve and the DISA...Unfortunately, now I need to buy a used OEM DISA that I can rebuild/upgrade with the G.A.S kit. Won't be able to use this Vaico :facepalm

Replaced the Fuel Tank Breather Valve with fresh OEM part. Took vehicle for a quick spin around the block and no more 'check gas cap' light. This would come on immediately once I started driving. I'll continue to monitor and on next fill up see if I get anymore stop-clicks.

Maintenance:
[X] Liqui Moly Gas Cleaner Service @ 144,300
[X] OEM Gas Cap replacement @ 144,300
[X] Spark Plug Service @ 144,319
[X] Liqui Moly Engine Flush @ 144,319
[X] Oil Service @ 144,319
[X] Liqui Moly Engine Additive @ 144,319
[X] Cabin Filter @ 144,319
[X] Intake Filter @ 144,319
[X] Convert to Electric Fan @ 144,319
[X] Fuel Tank Breather Valve Replacement @ 144,485
[ ] Cooling System Components
[ ] G.A.S DISA Kit
[ ] Automatic Transmission Service
[ ] Fuel Filter replacement
[ ] Fuel Pump Replacement
[ ] Rear Differential Service

[Wobbly]

Great work on this so far, it's been fun to watch. I think one of the most satisfying visual changes is the turn signals. Clear plastic on the lights makes the car look much younger.

[jdauria]

Well with heavy heart, this did not last very long...I am gutted after all the work I've put in over the last 3-4 weeks.
Rear-ended at a red light yesterday morning by a pickup truck. Luckily there was a FL State Trooper on the corner who saw the whole thing.

[san]

Well with heavy heart, this did not last very long...I am gutted after all the work I've put in over the last 3-4 weeks.
Rear-ended at a red light yesterday morning by a pickup truck. Luckily there was a FL State Trooper on the corner who saw the whole thing.

Dude that?s terrible!
Do you think it?s fixable or too much damage?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[jdauria]

Dude that?s terrible!
Do you think it?s fixable or too much damage?

Trunk frame is too bent in my opinion, additionally the both rear quarter panels under the rear lights are bent in, not worth trying to fix. Will be a parts car for another enthusiast.

/thread

:facepalm

[BADCLOWN]

What a complete fucking bummer, sorry to see man. Make sure you get comparable ZHP sale prices to the condition and mileage of yours to get a proper pay out.

[fredo]

Oh, no! This project looked very promising. Sorry this happened, but glad to hear you are ok.

[Vas]

Aww man sorry to hear

[jdauria]

Thanks all for the kind words. I am very bummed about the entire situation. I put in a lot of time initially and had good plans in the future. Fortunately, we were able to settle and the entire car will be off to a buddy for parts.

[Vas]

Didn't realize Mark from NC was the new owner. Saw he is putting it back on the road.

[fredo]

Didn't realize Mark from NC was the new owner. Saw he is putting it back on the road.

Is Mark a member here? It would be interesting to see his progress.

[Vas]

No he is not. But he posts updates on his Instagram page