Jet Black ZHP Mod-A-Palooza

[johnrando]

Replaced my NAV with another used unit, but used an internal ribbon from mine, plus bought a new LCD sceen. An acquaintance did the work. The result, working NAV again and absolutely loving the new LCD, no marks or missing pixels! (Can't really tell from the cell phone pics). Missed not having my music for 2 weeks.

10463

10464

10465

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[Avetiso]

Nice, JR!

[Imola.ZHP]

Glad it turned out well! I need to get mine re-done!

[johnrando]

Thanks. I still need the DVD portion fixed. What this swap fixed was the random reboot and now no missing pixels. Every once in a while the maps won't read even though I have an OEM map DVD. I'm thinking it might be the laser.

[Imola.ZHP]

Thanks. I still need the DVD portion fixed. What this swap fixed was the random reboot and now no missing pixels. Every once in a while the maps won't read even though I have an OEM map DVD. I'm thinking it might be the laser.

Does it tell you it cannot read the DVD? About 3-4 years ago mine was giving an error, I think it was something like cannot read the DVD. Then, magically, about 3-4 months later when I was about to order a new laser, it started working again, and has ever since. I think I had found the laser on eBay or somewhere, its been so long ago I don't really remember. The "fix" seemed pretty straight forward, I just had a lot of stuff going on at the time (story of my life!).

[johnrando]

It says "one moment please" or something like that. Sometimes it comes right on to the maps, sometimes it doesn't and it has that message. Then, eventually the maps will show, but it might take awhile. I did read about the laser replacement, not exactly straightforward but not rocket science. Think I'll try a dvd laser cleaner as someone suggested. If that doesn't work, I'll replace the unit. Thanks for your info. Glad that worked, I'd love it if mine just started working all the time again. :)

[jayjay_dee]

Lookin good JR...

One word, Eonon, lol...

[johnrando]

Thanks Jay Jay. I might have to, kinks still not ironed out. Just found out my steering wheel push buttons aren't working for some reason, and they worked before the nav switch.

[jayjay_dee]

It can only be the canbus... Its whats controlling those steering wheel buttons... Hope its only a lose connection...

[johnrando]

I tried a DVD laser cleaner and so far the maps now come up every time instead of intermittently. The system has not rebooted itself, so that's good. Now I just gotta figure out this canbus issue.

[Imola.ZHP]

^ awesome! When mine went out for a few months, I tried blowing in there with some compressed air, didn't do anything.

I'll keep your victory in mind if it ever gives me trouble again!

[johnrando]

Thanks Marcus.

[johnrando]

Research has shown that a dead horn and no steering wheel controls indicates a bad clock spring. Replaced mine today and voila, they work! Guessing just a coincidence that the clock spring went bad same time I changed out my NAV.

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[Pip]

Didn't you just put a new clock spring in for the smg paddles?

[johnrando]

Yes, a new 'used' one. Probably a fluke that it went bad. Or I "fixed' something changing it out. :) I did check the connections before replacing and it all seemed fine, so I'm still pointing to the clock spring.

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[kayger12]

Great solve, Rando. Nicely done.

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Thanks Keith.

[johnrando]

As mentioned in 'what did you do....', installed rear BSW speakers.

11001

11002

11003

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[echo46]

Have those speakers in my e36 M. Really really good.

[derbo]

Awesome work John

[ELCID86]

He be jammin...! Nice.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1).

[Imola.ZHP]

I'm sure they sound a lot better than that OEM paper crap, although BMW's "OEM paper crap" is nicer than others I saw back when I worked at a car audio shop. Some of the factory speakers in cars are just laughable.

I need to put speakers on my "to do" list for my car, ugh, I know thats going to be expensive and time consuming.

Nice work!

[johnrando]

Thanks all. The sound is better, not dramatically, but definitely better.

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[derbo]

Is it worth it?

[johnrando]

That's always been the million dollar question. Audiophiles say no, not enough bang for the buck. But, for ease of installation and better sound, it was worth it to me. Clearly you can do research, find speakers, cut/mod your setup, and put in better speakers for the same/lower price, but I didn't want to deal with all that. So, while not a dramatic improvement, it was worth it to me as it IS better and it IS easy.

[kayger12]

Nice job, Rando.

I've been on the fence with this mod going on three years now...

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Thanks. It's a tough call, but I finally pulled the trigger and glad I did. Keep your eyes open on e46 for used ones.

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[johnrando]

Btw, next up for consideration is the BSW Vert sub. Basically the 'in car' is done, fronts, tweets, mid rear bass. The only thing I didn't change is the rear tweeters.

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[echo46]

Nice job.

[Avetiso]

I'll be that guy cutting up everything installing aftermarket speakers. :rofl

[derbo]

Thanks for the insight Rando!

Being an audiophile and getting car audio is already a conflict of interest. Road noise and subpar room size make it rather difficult to get a good sound regardless. I know you just put in the speakers and still haven't burned-in the speakers but what audio changes have you noticed so far?

[johnrando]

So far, crisper overall, higher highs, fuller sound when turned up (less distortion).

[johnrando]

Since this question seems to come up, and I've bought these pieces not all that long ago, I figured I'd post here for future reference.

Jack Pads from ECSTuning.
Brand: Genuine BMW
ES#:130119
Mfg#: 51718268885

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20131116_150044_513_zps9cea4e6a.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20131116_150044_513_zps9cea4e6a.jpg.html)

Oil Drain Plug Access Panel - Door Only
Brand: Genuine BMW
ES#:127041
Mfg#: 51617199687

You need the screw clip, and the door with screw and washer
51 71 8 212 164 (screw clip)
and
51 71 7 036 493 (trap door including screw and washer)


http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20131116_150017_947_zpscbc74590.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20131116_150017_947_zpscbc74590.jpg.html)

[danewilson77]

Thanks JR.

[johnrando]

Awaiting a MKIV computer to arrive. Mine works, but it's a little intermittent. And, today 3/10 is Ness's 8 birthday.

[Avetiso]

Congrats!

Is that the computer for the navi?

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Thanks, yes it is.

[johnrando]

I paid off Ness today, it's all mine!

[Imola.ZHP]

Congrats! Best "mod" to date!


--Marcus

[Pip]

That's awesome! Congrats.

[QC_ZHP]

Congrats, probably a great feeling.

[sillieidiot]

Was bored and found your thread John. The thread didn't disappoint. I guess you did get around to doing that mic mod on the steering wheel that I told you about when I first installed your angel eyes lol But man, you did a ton of stuff from when I did your angel eyes to the time I first saw your car at that one DIY meet thing. Keep up the good work.

[johnrando]

Thanks Marcus, Sean QC. And thanks H, it sure has come a long way since you first saw it, appreciate you help along the way and the kind words.

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[johnrando]

Swapped my TSE3 out for a Magnaflow Exhaust. The muffler shop modified a vert brace for traction that should not have been, to get the TSE3 to fit. Not wanting that, I swapped for a Magnaflow as I heard that fit. So, JP and I replaced the brace, then I went to the shop and they fit the TSE3 with minor tweaks.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/03/5u6ysajy.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/03/ahebu3up.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/03/ehete8y6.jpg
I also removed my spacers as it was rubbing with the H&R Touring Cup Kit on a vert, as that hangs low. I recently bought a BBK and later found out you need 3mm of spacers on the rear to clear the wheel. I'll likely get 3mm spacers on the rear and on the fronts, as I plan on going with a square setup.

[Avetiso]

Nice werk, JR.

[johnrando]

Thanks Dario.

[danewilson77]

:drool

Samsung Galaxy S5...

[sillieidiot]

nice, now we have the same exhaust. i don't know what it sounds like anymore. haven't seen my car for like 3+ months lol

[johnrando]

??? Where is your car? BTW, I'm getting used to the sound more, but it is still quiet to me. And, the car does have more pep w/this vs. the stock exhaust.

[derbo]

JR pics of the BBK!! or at least specs!! :)

[Imola.ZHP]

New setup looks great!

I would consider a new exhaust system but I can't justify it. Stock unintentionally sets off car alarms in the parking garage at school, plenty loud enough for me!

[bradacal]

Looking awesome John! Do you happen to have the part number for the windshield cowl? Was it hard to change out? Thanks!

[sillieidiot]

??? Where is your car? BTW, I'm getting used to the sound more, but it is still quiet to me. And, the car does have more pep w/this vs. the stock exhaust.

yeah it's pretty quiet compared to the tse3

it's been at the bodyshop. some delays getting my front m3 fenders to work with the facelift headlights. hopefully it will be done next week, but it's not like i can even drive to bfest so whatever.

[johnrando]

But it will be kick aZZ when you get it back.

The cowl was really easy... just mark where the wipers are before you lift them... follow the DIY. Very straight forward. I'll look for that part #.

EDIT: 51718232894

Here is a DIY. I did not watch this.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4W5XJjV2Lo

Derek, been pretty busy, the BBK is a week or two away at minimum, plus I need the 3mm spacers.

[derbo]

I totally understand. What kind of BBK did you get?

[sillieidiot]

But it will be kick aZZ when you get it back.

The cowl was really easy... just mark where the wipers are before you lift them... follow the DIY. Very straight forward. I'll look for that part #.

EDIT: 51718232894

Here is a DIY. I did not watch this.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4W5XJjV2Lo

Derek, been pretty busy, the BBK is a week or two away at minimum, plus I need the 3mm spacers.

yeah i hope i don't stall and/or destroy the bumper driving it lol all i have been driving for FWD cars. they suck lol

[johnrando]

I totally understand. What kind of BBK did you get?

BWM OEM Perf. BBK. Phx. Yellow. Gonna look great on my black NESS. (#seewhatididthere?)

[Tnhl1989]

Oh nice one JR. Hope you are enjoying the new exhaust overall though.

[johnrando]

Thanks Tony.

[az3579]

JR pics of the BBK!! or at least specs!! :)

Let's just say that they are very sexy indeed. :)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Today is a very special day for Ness. 5 years ago today, I brought Ness into the family. Today, I went to the DMW and removed the lien from BMW, who I financed the car through, as I paid the loan off last month. Legally, Ness is 100% mine. Like the poetry of completing the purchase exactly 5 years later.

A few mod items: I've always had c/f roundels, wheel caps, etc... but I finally got around to changing out the blue/red, etc M decals with monochrome c/f decals on both the wheels and the steering wheel. Pic also shows the recent c/f paddle shifts I added.

I'm also adding a couple of pics from when I went 18x8.5 all the way around with Michelin Pilot Supersports, and the Magnaflow exhaust.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/20140528_121322_zpsmzu2wfq5.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/20140528_121322_zpsmzu2wfq5.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/20140528_105305_zpsxt0avx31.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/20140528_105305_zpsxt0avx31.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/20140528_121351_zpsj04kowxo.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/20140528_121351_zpsj04kowxo.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20140515_101407_713_zpsl3amr6xj.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20140515_101407_713_zpsl3amr6xj.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20140515_094255_989_zps4xhgqdzm.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20140515_094255_989_zps4xhgqdzm.jpg.html)

[gmurphy]

Nice man


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

What a Great feeling, Congrats John! Ness is looking good!

[Pip]

Congrats! Those tips on the MF look pretty good. Which did you like better TSE3 or MF tips?

[danewilson77]

Way to go JR.

[johnrando]

Thanks Sean, Dane, Garry, Gary. It's a toss up on the tips, kinda leaning TSE3 but not by much. These are more pronounced, so I do like these. I may eventually go black chrome tips.

[3ZHP]

Congrats John

[johnrando]

Thanks Guy.

[Imola.ZHP]

Congrats! Keep it forever, it is 100% yours!

[johnrando]

Thanks Marcus. Absolutely they will have to pry this out of my cold dead hands. :)

[Pip]

Cinn interior?

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/pts/4516601281.html

[Avetiso]

Cinn interior?

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/pts/4516601281.html
:drool Come on, JR. Dhu eet.

[johnrando]

Trust me, every time I see one I think long about it. Love that color. I would have a hard time dealing with a somewhat worn/faded interior, which you can't really tell on black. They always look good in the pic until you examine up closely. These look pretty good outside of the drivers seat. Love the idea and thanks for posting!

[Vas]

Somebody is going to have a new set of wheels soon. Cant wait for pictures.

[johnrando]

Was concerned that the wheels I bought to go 8.5 squared weren't holding air. Turns out the slow leak in one was repaired very easily (a tiny pinhole somehow was causing a leak). Easy fix from a wheel repair place. Other seems OK. No need to buy new ones.

[Vas]

I thought you jumped on the group deal for the new apex wheels.

[johnrando]

I was as a placeholder (they said it was ok), but I didn't need it. I really like those wheels, but I have others things I need more.

[Avetiso]

New wheels? Eh? Do tell.

[Imola.ZHP]

Pics?!

[sillieidiot]

did you fix the exhaust problem that you were having?

[johnrando]

I didn't get the new wheels... no need as the 8.5s I got to go square is holding air after the fix. I haven't had time to delve into that exhaust "whistle" yet. Next up is installing that Kicker sub. :rockon

[ELCID86]

I saw this and thought of you. Do you have it?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/X46CB-Automated-Remote-Roof-One-Touch-Roof-for-BMW-E46-FBC-electronics-/151335002324?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item233c44e0d4


Tapatalk on iPad

[johnrando]

Thanks for the heads up! Funny thing is William and I were literally talking about that just the other day. I likely won't get it though, a little pricey for a minor convenience. It's pretty cool though so I'd get it if cheaper.

[johnrando]

Heiu and a I worked all day to install my 'new', 500W Kicker subwoofer that I got for a good price from e46f.c. Many thanks again to orange260 for the advice in buying all the parts and the main components. And huge thanks to Heiu for the long day of work, in which we never even had a chance to get food. It was worth it as it sounds great.

Clearing the trunk for install
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/31/3ynesude.jpg

Getting the interior ready.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/31/uny7aqy3.jpg

The stock HK amp in the rear driver's side panel.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/31/utupu9ah.jpg

Overview. Leatherique'd my seats while out.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/31/3upa8adu.jpg

The internals.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/31/e8a2e9aj.jpg

The old subwoofer in the ski pass through

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/31/re8u5ypy.jpg

Final product.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/31/9e9e9unu.jpg

[orange260z]

You're welcome, Rando, and I'm happy to hear you finally got it in.

How does it sound top up, top down? With different kinds of music? How high are you setting the gains on the Kicker amp?

That Kicker amp is tiny, it looks about 1/2 the size of my Rockford Fosgate. If it's good, I may want to buy one - mine is hard to fit properly because of the physical size.

Congrats! Now you can rock the 'hood listening to gangsta rap. Or some 2 Live Crew.

[WOLFN8TR]

Awesome John!! I bet that sounds Sweet!!

Heiu is there anything you don't know about BMW's?

[ELCID86]

Nice job on the install, you'll be thumpin' into some beach tennis tourneys now! Nice assist Heiu and Ayan (Orange...). Like it??

[NoVAphotog]

Congrats! Now you can rock the 'hood listening to gangsta rap. Or some 2 Live Crew.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWbXQQG9B6c

[johnrando]

Thanks all! Ayan, I have yet to really put it through it's paces but it cranks. Again, really appreciated your help.

All, we muddled through using the BSW install guide and then forums for when we got stuck. Fairly straightforward, but like VANOS, it's a lot of steps and it takes awhile. Would be much faster the 2nd time. I'll post a pic of the view from the inside later. Still needs a little fine tuning on the install, etc.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/01/9e7e4eny.jpg

[danewilson77]

:drool

[CarbonZHP]

Yay didnt need me. Wasnt looking forward to having to attempt another sub install.

[johnrando]

LOL. BTW, to add to my thread (was focused on the sub), thanks to Carbon for fashioning me some splitter plates so quickly! And Heiu delivered them when he came to help with the sub. (Pics shortly). Carbon, Heiu said they were $100 so if he gives you less than that he's pocketing some coin. :biggrin.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/01/a3avu4ej.jpg

[CarbonZHP]

Haha I think he may have made the trip worth his time. Not sure why I included the screws but I suggest putting some pilot holes in the plate first. Then they bolt up nice. These new ones are so much better than the old ones that just came off. Metal is much nicer. Better shapes. Still have tons of metal is anyone else needs them.

[WOLFN8TR]

LOL. BTW, to add to my thread (was focused on the sub), thanks to Carbon for fashioning me some splitter plates so quickly! And Heiu delivered them when he came to help with the sub. (Pics shortly). Carbon, Heiu said they were $100 so if he gives you less than that he's pocketing some coin. :biggrin.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/01/a3avu4ej.jpg

John are these basically skid plates for the splitters?

[johnrando]

Yup

[orange260z]

Looks great, brotha... we'll need to compare sounds at the next meet... ;)

Thanks Dan, now you've got me listening to 2pac...

[sillieidiot]

Awesome John!! I bet that sounds Sweet!!

Heiu is there anything you don't know about BMW's?

i don't know a lot, and I also don't know what I do know LOL

[johnrando]

Posted the same in the "what did you do.. " thread:

Removed my old spoiler that Nacho c/f wrapped but it's fading. I'll probably list it for sale, OEM coupe spoiler. You'd need to strip it. Replaced it with an eBay one, which didn't look like I thought it would when it arrived but I like it. Also removed the 'zhp' badge. Re-installed my subwoofer, replaced my broken splitter.


http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/04/sy3aby9e.jpg
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/04/3y8u8abu.jpg

[WOLFN8TR]

Looks good. Did you get tired of the "ZHP" badge ?

[johnrando]

Had to re-set one of the letters and it stopped sticking well. I so then I had to be extremely careful washing near it so I got tired of that, and it not holding exactly where I put it. So instead of re-applying glue, I removed them all.

[sillieidiot]

i would just use double sided tape. that thing holds my emblems/plates on with no problems lol

[johnrando]

Which double sided tape do you use? I've tried 3M on other things and it doesn't seem to hold as much as I'd like. As for the letters, I'm fine w/o them. It would be too much trouble to cut the tape the size of the letters, etc.

[sillieidiot]

the grey one with the red wax paper. that one always works well to me. if i were to pull off my plate right now, it would be bent to hell lol you just gotta clean the surfaces you're going to use it on though. then when you stick it on sort of like move it back and forth after it's on (like what you would do with velcro i guess) and it should be good.

yeah when i did it for my 330ci emblems it took a little while i guess. i just put a piece on then go around it with a razor following the letter/number. it was totally pointless cause i have the csl trunk now, so i can't even use it. the letters are still in room somewhere.

[johnrando]

Did my thermostat this past weekend. Not hard at all. Having the electric fan only made it even easier.

[WOLFN8TR]

Nice work John! The mechanical fan delete is so worth that alone.

[Johnmadd]

:thumbsup I just wish these cars had a regular one without all that extra piping they force us to buy.

[johnrando]

Did my CCV today. Symptoms: rough idle at times, grey smoke coming out of exhaust, oil leak (could be separate). The smoke got really bad and very consistent. Took things apart yesterday, buttoned it up today. Thanks to Wyatt for some text advice/encouragement, and a HUGE thanks to William for coming over to help. He thought taking off the intake manifold was a good idea to look deeper into the source of the oil leak. Fortunately we found a LOT of oil all over the place, the bad CCV really did a number on leaking oil inside the intake and all over the internals. So we cleaned as much as we could out, William was a huge help with the little fixes that help make it a job done right. The car fired up right away, with a lot of grey smoke still, with some oil even coming out the exhaust. Slowly it dissipated. Took the car out on the freeway to burn off what had gotten in there that we could not clean, and (fingers crossed) there is no smoke coming out of the exhaust at all! Might take some time to be sure, but I'm definitely pumped at doing this job a saving a ton of money. It's not hard, but getting to the CCV hoses is a REAL PITA. Removing the manifold definitely helps, but it's not necessary. In my case, removing it made a huge difference, finding all the oil. Very glad to have Ness back and running clean.

Getting started
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/24/8f5d7fd3394fc8d10f21ce780f8cc343.jpg


Stuff all labeled, bagged and tagged in order of removal.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/24/98672d81d3cf430862bc59dbbcc0af15.jpg


http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/24/61c7e89544de616048296e96c6f0139a.jpg

Intake Manifold
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/24/76527b80622b1304d8fc51986582afdd.jpg

Everything out that needs to be.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/24/67037a396cf3bd7c204a3bdc805a5ea1.jpg

Sent from mobile

[ELCID86]

Nice work guys! Was the ICV dirty too?


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[Whammy]

I do not envy you with the CCV job. Hopefully it was not too painful.

[WOLFN8TR]

Wow you guys showed that CCV!! Good work John and William!!

[johnrando]

Cleaned the ICV, it wasn't really dirty. Cleaned just about everything I could really. Getting to the CCV and putting things back wasn't hard, just lengthy. Getting the actual CCV out and back in was the hard part (well, until the manifold was removed). I eventually just broke the hoses like they said AND broke the CCV to get it out.

[wsmeyer]

The reason we took the manifold off was because Rando's CCV had gotten to the point where a significant amount of oil was getting into the intake and burning out the exhaust. After fixing the CCV it eventually would have burned out the oil on it's own but burning oil is REALLY hard on the O2 sensors and cats so if you're seeing smoke you really should take the manifold off and clean it out as best you can. When we took his off and tipped it up on it's side about 2 tablespoons of oil dribbled out so in his case it was well worth the effort. Which I must say was not much, 9 bolts on the top, 1 on the bottom and disconnect the fuel line.

[ELCID86]

^ good to know. Are these 'hints' in the DIY thread?

[Dave1027]

The reason we took the manifold off was because Rando's CCV had gotten to the point where a significant amount of oil was getting into the intake and burning out the exhaust. After fixing the CCV it eventually would have burned out the oil on it's own but burning oil is REALLY hard on the O2 sensors and cats so if you're seeing smoke you really should take the manifold off and clean it out as best you can. When we took his off and tipped it up on it's side about 2 tablespoons of oil dribbled out so in his case it was well worth the effort.

I wouldn't have thought an '06 California car would have a CCV that would be that far gone. With that much oil going into the intake, it was heading towards hydrolock!

My CCV is beginning to honk on start up. Kinda like Chewbaca's little brother. Only a matter of time till replacement is mandatory. Still contemplating doing the catch can and dumping the CCV.

[johnrando]

Yup Dave, it was WAY gone. Surprising to us too. Car runs like a champ now, amazing difference so quickly. Zero smoke coming out now.

[Imola.ZHP]

Nice work! I wish I had gone the extra mile to replace the tubes under the intake plenum. I still have them somewhere, brand new. I replaced everything but them.


--Marcus

[Vas]

Out of curiosity how much did you spend on parts for the ccv? I'm thinking of doing mine with the cold weather version.

[johnrando]

Thanks Marcus. Yes, it's nice to replace those hoses.

Vas, I got the CCV cold weather kit from ECStuning, plus a dipstick O ring, and a oil housing gasket (which I didn't use). The kit has all the hoses you need. That total was $161 including shipping. It's great because that means you can just break all the hoses out... it's amazing how brittle they are. I would say you'd almost have to take out the manifold to use the cold weather kit, as I don't see there being enough room to work. If you don't use the cold kit, you could get away with not removing the manifold.

Shawn, thanks. Not sure if they are, I'll have to go back and look.

Gary, Jeff, thanks!

[Vas]

Was your dipstick tube clean when you removed it or was it clogged? Ecs tuning recommends replacing it for some reason.

[johnrando]

That seems extra to me. I cleaned my pretty easily and it wasn't that clogged really. Guessing you COULD do it, but I didn't see the need. I also heard about the "redesigned" new dipstick tube but nothing there said spend all that money for not much difference to me.

BTW, I sprayed brake cleaner (a bunch) or something like that down it, then hosed it down, then blew air through, then let dry overnight.

[Vas]

Cool. I figured that as well. Time to order the parts then.

[Dave1027]

Hey John, since you have a brand new properly installed CCV system this would be a good time to get a baseline vacuum reading. Do you have (or can get access to) a vacuum gage? If so can you get a vacuum reading from the dipstick tube while idling?

[johnrando]

I don't. Are you interesting in numbers? I could see if William has one and get them for you if possible.

[Dave1027]

I think it could benefit all. If we knew what vacuum the crankcase was supposed to have we could more easily monitor the health of the CCV system. Right now mine has about no vacuum at all and I think that's one of the signs of the CCV beginning to go bad.

[wsmeyer]

I have a vacuum gauge but I'm not sure if I have a fitting large enough to go into the dipstick tube.

[alexandre]

If someone can link a DIY I can measure the crankcase pressure on my brand new (as of yesterday) CCV.

[johnrando]

I think it could benefit all. If we knew what vacuum the crankcase was supposed to have we could more easily monitor the health of the CCV system. Right now mine has about no vacuum at all and I think that's one of the signs of the CCV beginning to go bad.

Could be. Good idea.


If someone can link a DIY I can measure the crankcase pressure on my brand new (as of yesterday) CCV.

Hope you find it and publish.

[wsmeyer]

You just pull the dipstick out and measure the vacuum in the tube with the engine running. To do that you need a vacuum gauge and an adapter to seal the small line coming out of the gauge to the inner diameter of the dipstick tube.

[wsmeyer]

I have one of these Mity Vac's:

17735

In the picture the adapter looks perfect for this

[johnrando]

Good stuff William, thanks.

[Dave1027]

I have a vacuum gauge but I'm not sure if I have a fitting large enough to go into the dipstick tube.

I would try connecting a piece of rubber hose to the vacuum gage and stick the other end into the dipstick tube. Choose a rubber hose that has an outer diameter that fits the dipstick tube and seals.

[wsmeyer]

I would try connecting a piece of rubber hose to the vacuum gage and stick the other end into the dipstick tube. Choose a rubber hose that has an outer diameter that fits the dipstick tube and seals.

The I.D of the dipstick tube is like 1/2"

[Dave1027]

Maybe a rubber vacuum port cap with the end cut off?

[wsmeyer]

After all of that on my car it's not enough to even measure. The needle moves a tiny amount but it's less than 1 in. and the gauge I have isn't designed for that kind of accuracy. We can try Rando's car next time I see him.

[Dave1027]

After all of that on my car it's not enough to even measure. The needle moves a tiny amount but it's less than 1 in. and the gauge I have isn't designed for that kind of accuracy. We can try Rando's car next time I see him.

Sounds good. Thanks for the update. Hopefully John's car shows what a properly working system should have. When I tested my car it had no vacuum at all. At least yours has a small amount. It probably will turn out that even with a new CCV there is only a very small amount of vacuum.

[johnrando]

I think it could benefit all. If we knew what vacuum the crankcase was supposed to have we could more easily monitor the health of the CCV system. Right now mine has about no vacuum at all and I think that's one of the signs of the CCV beginning to go bad.


If someone can link a DIY I can measure the crankcase pressure on my brand new (as of yesterday) CCV.


After all of that on my car it's not enough to even measure. The needle moves a tiny amount but it's less than 1 in. and the gauge I have isn't designed for that kind of accuracy. We can try Rando's car next time I see him.

Anytime in the afternoons this week is fine for a quick test.

[Imola.ZHP]

Did you happen to look at the tubes under the plenum? Were they clogged, cracked or in bad shape? Now I'm considering going back and doing this. I did all but that and a bunch of other stuff at about 102k, I'm at 126 now.

[johnrando]

They were not (if we are talking about the same thing)

Sent from mobile

[Imola.ZHP]

They were not (if we are talking about the same thing)

Sent from mobile

Awesome, this makes my OCD twitch less noticeable.

[johnrando]

Passenger air bag recall done. Next up is OFHG and Oil Pan Gasket.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/08/26695b6ee60b887f75fd27650bbcf87a.jpg

[Whammy]

Sweet!

[danewilson77]

Passenger air bag recall done. Next up is OFHG and Oil Pan Gasket.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/08/26695b6ee60b887f75fd27650bbcf87a.jpg
In for diy on opg.

You know me, I'm down with opp.

"No flamesuit required"

[Vas]

Oil pan gasket is not a terrible diy. Just need an engine brace up top to support it.

[johnrando]

LOL Dane! I found some DIYs, if I do it, I'll let you know. I am going to do the OFHG alone first to see if that fixes it. If not, then the OPG - yeah you know me. :biggrin

BTW, thanks y'all.

[wsmeyer]

Sounds good. Thanks for the update. Hopefully John's car shows what a properly working system should have. When I tested my car it had no vacuum at all. At least yours has a small amount. It probably will turn out that even with a new CCV there is only a very small amount of vacuum.

Tested it on my new CCV today and it's roughly 2" Hg. Still very slight and much less than I would have guessed.

[Dave1027]

Tested it on my new CCV today and it's roughly 2" Hg. Still very slight and much less than I would have guessed.

Awesome! Thanks so much for following up. 2 inches of vacuum actually sounds like a good spec. Not too high to cause vacuum leaks at gaskets and seals but enough to make the low tension piston rings seal.

Now I know for sure my CCV is not operating correctly and is probably responsible the intermittent roughness on cold start. How is your cold start idle quality now that you have a new CCV?

This imo should be a sticky and be used as a simple method for checking CCV health. You simply connect a vacuum gauge to the dipstick tube, take a reading which should probably be between 1 and 2 inches vacuum.

[johnrando]

Just to keep things up to date, changed out my expansion tank and air filter. And, happy upcoming birthday to Ness. 03/10/06.

[Vas]

Good stuff :)

[WOLFN8TR]

John did you install that Tstat for the Trans located under the exp tank?

[johnrando]

Finally replaced my OFHG (I've had it for more than a month), and changed my oil. Thanks to William for the help. Also worked on William's cars yesterday too.

[WOLFN8TR]

Excellent! [emoji106]

[johnrando]

Took me a bit to get this updated. Recently:

At the SoCal Mafia meet a short time ago I changed my diff and transmission fluids, and fixed the rear sway bar install I bought from Derek (Derbo) SEVERAL months ago, that Hieu and I started but didn't quite finish. I still have to do the front bar. I also installed a Dynavin unit and just fixed most of the minor installation setup today. I bought the Dynavin from Seth (again, SEVERAL months ago), but then had to sell it due to a cable issue for verts, but fortunately found another unit on our site for sale. I also sold my NAV and my DICE kit, and eventually will sell my Parrot Bluetooth.

I still want to do my fuel filter and pump, and the front sway bar, as all this is near 77K miles. Pics shortly.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/08/82b6139270402b770abb24d63735f8c9.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/08/9a5a65bc37d78e2e366aa8d320330912.jpg

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http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/08/31b2df99c86f7adaad5c421212a9ece9.jpg

[sillieidiot]

look good. although, why are most of these pictures out of focus? lol

[WOLFN8TR]

Nice work John! [emoji106]

[johnrando]

LOL Hieu. My arms were too tired to hold the camera steady? :) Thanks Gary.

[johnrando]

In preparation for my BBK install, I painted my rear calipers to match the ECS caliper colors with the caliper paint kit. Before and after pics. The kit works great: clean the calipers with the spray they provide, mix the paint (and activator) with a little mixer stick they provide, then paint with a brush they provide. No need to remove the calipers. It goes on a little thin and not quite the color you think you bought, so I was a little nervous at first. But, as it dries/hardens it thickens and the color settles. I like how they came out.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/10/1e76a529db0e2840bc37b3e9adac5acc.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/10/e0646e5bd1b7484faf80dbb132999a96.jpg

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http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/10/0d0669a8af3010094b03989516b87460.jpg

sent from mobile device

[BMWCurves]

I like it! Phoenix Yellow?

[johnrando]

Thanks. I think so (I forget, lol).

[BMWCurves]

I still have to paint my calipers. I bought the standard yellow G2 kit, but am having second thoughts and may shift over to red or Phoenix Yellow.

Anyways, I like how yours look!

[johnrando]

Thanks again. Yes, it's a really nice enamel looking paint.

[Sockethead]

That looks great John! Great idea color matching. That BBK is on my wish list, jealous!

[WOLFN8TR]

Looks good John. :thumbsup

[johnrando]

Thanks Rob, Gary!

sent from mobile device

[johnrando]

Installed my front UUC Sway bar with Hieu, changed my fuel filter, and (a few days ago) changed out my center/right trim pieces. Still need to do the left one. Pics shortly.

UUC is on the right.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/13/69f5e9f2a96ab0d57283b51c978d2018.jpg


Installed
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/13/3388bf08cbbe8aaa12aadc0e4d5ebe58.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/13/5811e48655bb5ade2e35e3a75906774a.jpg

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http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/13/f328aadb176fa820bb6a9b5503b47621.jpg

[BMWCurves]

Good stuff :thumbsup

[WOLFN8TR]

Good work. [emoji106]
Must be nice doing these with the lift. [emoji2]

[johnrando]

Thanks. Yes, having the lift is awesome!

[Pip]

Whose lift is that? It is awesome

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

It's Hieu's.

[Sockethead]

So how do you like the UUC?

[johnrando]

Hadn't had a chance to really wring it out, but so far so good.

[ELCID86]

Oops

[johnrando]

So, you've likely seen from the other threads, that Ness got some great attention in Vegas this weekend. To net it out:

- Installed ECS Tuning BBK kit with new OEM Performance Drilled rotors and Hawk HPS ceramic brake pads. Great group effort here. Thanks to BP for his knowledge/work on this kit.
- Charlie removed my StealthOne for the ValentineOne as it works with OEM Nav which I don't have any longer. I will be swapping with Charlie for his Android Blue Tooth ValentineOne module
- Charlie removed old dash trim piece on the left and replaced, also re-aligned new trim and got the Bimmian mount to seat better
- Gary did awesome work tightening/securing the exhaust and associated bolts in the undercarriage as it's a tight fit between the exhaust, the UCC Sway Bar, and the vert reinforcement plates all in the same area. He used some washer spacers to get a better fit, as well as flame proof asbestos to help provide a buffer in case things do bump/rub together. It's very buttoned down though and nothing hits after the work.
- Checked the transmission fluid change that I did earlier while under the car for leaks, etc. and everything looks great.

Pics shortly.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/11/16/546acdb5b76fe2e326082485f7ece2d9.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/11/16/4a3eb018f143f3fae9f9eb9f7e31cbb7.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/11/16/71d638c5d1acde937917eca6f73792a7.jpg

[BMWCurves]

Nice work! :thumbsup

I admired the pics over in the meet up thread, very cool. How do the new brakes feel? And what did you do for the Bimmian mount to get it seat better? I am pretty set on buying one now that I've got a 6S that doesn't fit all that well in the cup holder.

[johnrando]

Thanks! I thought the brakes were mostly bling, as they not necessarily best for heavy tracking from what BP told me. But, surprise, they are SOLID and grip way better. Both BP and Charlie also drove it and said the same thing. Extremely happy with the way they look and feel. Not hard to install, I definitely would recommend them.

As for the Bimmian mount, I think Charlie just tightened it WAY down, almost to a bend, to get it to sit deeper so the trim pieces sat flush.

[danewilson77]

:drool

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[anandoc]

Nice work! :thumbsup

I admired the pics over in the meet up thread, very cool. <snip>

There was a meetup? There are pics? Where do I find these?

[johnrando]

In the members only section.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

Vert :drool

[Sockethead]

John, good to see your car get some outstanding attention from fellow members. The brakes look great behind the 135s

Vegas.... The Mafia....The Bellagio ... Ahh the memories...;)

[johnrando]

Lol. For sure. And, thanks.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Just to update year-end:

Removed the 12mm front spacers (emergency purchase needed to fit the BBK) and went with 10mm all the way around. Got new CA "vintage" license plates, and finished 2015 near 80009 miles.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/08/553368483ae45b160cb40f8a93c940f9.jpg

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[fredo]

I remember the 12 mm spacers ! Purchased at a LV gas station. :)

[johnrando]

Lol. Well, met at a gas station. It would be funny if they sold BMW 12mm spacers at some random gas station in Vegas. :)

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Sockethead]

Lol. Well, met at a gas station. It would be funny if they sold BMW 12mm spacers at some random gas station in Vegas. :)



Haha! that's what I thought when I read it. I was thinking WTF?

[johnrando]

:rofl

[WOLFN8TR]

Nice John! [emoji106][emoji106]

[johnrando]

Billet dip stick and new OEM hood shocks. Tried to install my new BSW rear tweeters (easy) but no sound would come out, so have to see what BSW says.

23915

23916

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[fredo]

Wow, the first pic looks great ! And I like the workaround shown on the second one. :thumbsup

[johnrando]

Thanks Fredo. That was just extra insurance for when I replaced my hood struts.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

Nice Dipstick John! [emoji2]

[johnrando]

Hehe

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Posted elsewhere, but wanted to update my project thread. Changed out fuel pump (added the M3 fuel baffle), coded (William did) the temp gauge to be more realistic, got Ness detailed (looks great!).

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/02/21/f076f3763557c5736620f161e4c3cffd.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/02/21/6090e3e23c8ac67d4882fbbe6e5b434e.jpg

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

Nice! [emoji106][emoji106]

[johnrando]

Thanks Gary :)

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[BMWCurves]

Nice. Was the replacement of the fuel pump preventative, or were you getting symptoms of a failed FP? And is the M3 baffle just a separate part you ad in, or is the fuel pump different as well?

[johnrando]

Replaced for preventative maintenance but also potentially slight hints of it going bad. Replaced with OE. The M3 baffle is a separate plastic piece that you put in the fuel tank below the pump. It helps prevent fuel starvation on hard curves. It's really for tracking/auto-x, etc. which I don't do but it's cheap and easy to do, so I figured why not? If I ever did want to I'd be set.

[johnrando]

I mentioned this elsewhere but Ness turns 10 years old today, and I've had it for 7 of those 10.

[johnrando]

Long time no project update. Finished 2016 at 86,435K miles. Towards year end I got the drivers airbag recall done, and (of course) they scratched the lower trim piece so I got a new one. A few misc items: got a new front fender 'guard' to replace broken one. Cleaned/oiled my K&N Gruppe M air filter. Bought a new engine liner and decided to add a little differentiation with spray paint. Heiu and I replaced my cracked 'euro-OEM' splitters with a new set. And finally, I procured a special interior trim set, to be unveiled later. Pics:

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170117/3ae1b68659efa761d480696928434f5a.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170117/24ea3f5ae1dacfa8140df7ab06f69c5f.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170117/95e8692a2575086aec74209e69515fd7.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170117/1db2c045640abf891713caebb48a2963.jpg

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

[sillieidiot]

Are these pictures from your phone? Man the tapatalk compression sucks lol

[johnrando]

Yup, and yup. :) But likely my camera lens was slightly dirty with all the car/house work I'd been doing and I hadn't cleaned it.

[Johnmadd]

Splitters look great! I need to refinish mine.

[johnrando]

Thanks!

[Sockethead]

You certainly got your money's worth out of that old set of splitters :)

[derbo]

How much did that hood-liner end up costing? I'm always debating getting a new one..

[johnrando]

Hmmm, I forget, but not a lot. Sorry.

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

[fredo]

The suspense is killing me. Special interior trim ? :foottap

[johnrando]

Yup! I'll see if I can take a pic of it today out of the box. :)

[Dual]

I replaced my hood insulator a few months back for $105.
What's a front fender guard?

[johnrando]

It's not a guard per se, just didn't know what to call it. It's that plastic piece that goes behind the front fender in front of the tire.

[BMWCurves]

It's not a guard per se, just didn't know what to call it. It's that plastic piece that goes behind the front fender in front of the tire.

Wheel well liner?

[Dual]

Thanks, guys

[johnrando]

That's what you call it, duh! :)

I posted in the 'what did you do...' thread. The mother of all trim kits as far as I'm concerned. After a 3 year search, a Birch Anthracite trim is in my possession!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170118/4534f670023de5d843afdf0584d739bd.jpg

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

[WALSTIB]

John,

I enjoyed your project thread here very much. Beautiful car. Do you have a link for the 2nd trunk lid spoiler or do you remember where you got it. I've been wanting to put one on my car and the shape of the ends on the second one that you installed look like they match the body lines better than the first one.

thanks

[johnrando]

Thanks! Think I found it on ebay. I will check


Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Haven't updated in awhile so here are some recent activities. Hit 90K miles. Before that, installed a Gruppe Status CSL (replica) Carbon Fiber Trunk, Genuine OEM M3 mirrors, Ground Control Coilovers, a new OEM bumper (due to being hit so their insurance paid), new Michelin PSS's all the way around, and both front seats redone (side bolsters) and all dyed for conformity. I still need some height adjustment on the suspension so no picks of that just yet.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170718/93c14bbbdc78f813211fe7a53647a9a0.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170718/e6a9df94bad7af5fe7ef16f65692f07d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170718/bdd65ed9082b68b2ed6374edb40fbd38.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170718/5584800a6b755533d69598b932efea8c.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170718/1ec0444d18a29304a8dde91ecc3aa56d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170718/b3cde22878acee6da94fb2da487eb2f6.jpg

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

[fredo]

Looking good ! Can't wait to see what happens between now and 100k. :roundel

[nextelbuddy]

wowee John your car has changed a lot. Loving all the new mods and for some reason i'm digging the ZHP stencil on the under hood mat. it has a very militaristic feel like army surplus lol.

did you change the anthracite birch trim to black cube? i thought you hunted for ever with that trim.

[Sockethead]

Looks great John!

[johnrando]

Looking good ! Can't wait to see what happens between now and 100k. :roundel

Thanks. I have a couple more tricks up my sleeve.


wowee John your car has changed a lot. Loving all the new mods and for some reason i'm digging the ZHP stencil on the under hood mat. it has a very militaristic feel like army surplus lol.

did you change the anthracite birch trim to black cube? i thought you hunted for ever with that trim.

LOL. It sure has, hasn't it? Thanks! Good memory, I've been hunting that forever, which is why I'm not switching until my (soon to be) Jr and Sr are out of high school. Not risking accidental/careless (carefree? :) ) scratches.


Looks great John!

Thanks Rob. PM'd you.

[danewilson77]

Well done Randeaux

Sent from my S8+

[WOLFN8TR]

Looking Good John! [emoji106]

[johnrando]

Well done Randeaux

Sent from my S8+


Looking Good John! [emoji106]

Thank you!

[johnrando]

PDR on a ding in a difficult area on the rear fender, and headlights polished/clear film protected. Much better!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170726/670bcb4c5c33b70f913736ff765591ca.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170726/e03bbb837267b6c594dd35e38ec74a77.jpg

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

[fredo]

Wow, the headlights look brand new. PDR FTW !

[johnrando]

Def happy how they came out, thanks!

[BMWCurves]

Wow, the headlights look brand new. PDR FTW !

+1

What products did you use?

[wsmeyer]

+1

What products did you use?

Just his wallet.

[BMWCurves]

Just his wallet.

Huh. I've physically thrown my wallet at all manner of parts in my car, nothing seems to work quite as well as it did for John.

[Johnmadd]

Your ride is coming along very nicely, love it man!

[johnrando]

Thanks John! Yup, just my wallet on this one.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

[sillieidiot]

Did your car go under the knife yet? Looking good.

[johnrando]

Not yet.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Finished 2017 at 92,417 miles. Worked with William today to change the oil, fix an oil leak, and adjust my ride height. Oh, and one more thing... I recently SUPERCHARGED Ness!

I chose the ESS Twin Screw Stage 1 as that's basically what an auto trans can handle. Helpful advice and input from Hieu and Rob.

I've driven it a few months (but not many miles) so I could provide an assessment with the post.

First off, it's great. It's fast... not snap your head back turbo kick fast, (remember just a Stage 1 with 5 (or 8) PSI - I forget), but fast enough and to me the way it should have come from the factory.

The power comes in at low rpm which is where these cars are lacking to me, so it's a perfect fit, and it really goes at high rpm. I have not dyno'd it yet but I will soon.

The other thing that's great is if you don't step on it, the car drives as if it's not supercharged, a very normal driving experience.

Now, is it worth it? Yes and no. First the 'no'. For a (ballpark) $10K - $12K car putting on a $5,500 supercharger makes no sense. As for 'yes', I am keeping this car as long as I can, I got some layoff money from my previous job, and it's like getting a new car for cheap, so a no brainer for me! Been wanting one a long time. I'm definitely loving the driving experience. Ness is now pretty much like I would have wanted from the factory.

Pic from underneath after getting rid of the oil (not sure why upside down), and a couple of the supercharger.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180106/8c8a5ae66bbcd5a14b0dbe5e6d2839c8.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180106/46247ae53189226495a104194f1e3618.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180106/bdef6dbd97f4f1f74932319b530802fb.jpg


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[BADCLOWN]

super clean engine bay, i LOVE that you can utilize the BMWP box and not have to slap some type of stupid open cone filter on there. congrats!

[johnrando]

Thanks!

[WOLFN8TR]

Looks great John! Too bad you couldn't have driven it up to Vegas over the Veterans Day weekend.

[johnrando]

Thanks. Definitely bummed about that. Next time!

[3ZHP]

Again looks great and I luv the way it’s tucked in and natural looking!


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[fredo]

Congrats, JR ! Hope I can drive your car some day. :thumbup

[SaltyNC]

Looking good under that hood!

Salty

[joeybananaz18]

John that looks awesome. I'd love to hear more about the performance gains. Do you have any videos of it? I'd love to know what the sound is like.


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[704sw]

John, have you had any issues with those Orion V2 AEs?

[Sockethead]

Looks great John, glad you're happy with the power. How's your clearance with the strut bar? The bigger injectors only leave me with about 1/4 of clearance if that with the bar I'm currently using.
I believe the boost with the auto is around 6-7 psi. You have a 95mm pulley?



super clean engine bay, i LOVE that you can utilize the BMWP box and not have to slap some type of stupid open cone filter on there. congrats!

Yep the TS series all use the stock air box location so if it fits on a stock e46 it will fit on this. Very nice feature and it makes everything look like it belongs there...

[johnrando]

Looks great John, glad you're happy with the power. How's your clearance with the strut bar? The bigger injectors only leave me with about 1/4 of clearance if that with the bar I'm currently using.
I believe the boost with the auto is around 6-7 psi. You have a 95mm pulley?




Yep the TS series all use the stock air box location so if it fits on a stock e46 it will fit on this. Very nice feature and it makes everything look like it belongs there...

Thanks! NP w strut bar clearance. I had to swap back to my oem pulleys instead of the Turner power pulleys so whatever size that is.

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[johnrando]

John, have you had any issues with those Orion V2 AEs?None whatsoever and have had them for years (knock on wood). :)

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[johnrando]

John that looks awesome. I'd love to hear more about the performance gains. Do you have any videos of it? I'd love to know what the sound is like.


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkThanks Guy, Fredo, Salty.

As for sound, my Magnaflow exhaust plus other mods already gave the car a bit of a low rumble and I could still set off alarms, so the SC adds just a bit more lower rumble. At startup for about a min the cars seems to stutter and not sound great, and the butterfly valve chirps. Then things settle down, a faint hint of SC whine (a good thing) but not much to speak of. And of course at high rpm its more of a growl. I get a bit of screech from my exhaust but that was there before and was on my list to address.

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[danewilson77]

That's awesome JR!

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[Sockethead]

John, everyone with the TS I've talked to has the same issue on cold start. I think that's just the nature of the beast.
What of this chirp you speak of? I had a similar issue... never sorted it out as the noise went away after putting some mileage on it.

The pulley size I was asking is on the supercharger. It should be written on the face of it

You can still use your power pulleys. ESS says not to because they are concerned about under driving the water pump but I haven't heard of that being an issue with anyone. I put my UUC pulleys back on and Ryan (rkneeshaw) is running his Turner pulleys. I believe he dyno'd 10 additional HP on the upper end with the pulleys... he also dyno'd a 20 HP loss when he swapped his magnaflow exhaust for the Borla so you might be making some decent numbers...

There is a private Facebook page for ESS owners... here's the link on e46fanatics http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=1172377

[johnrando]

John, everyone with the TS I've talked to has the same issue on cold start. I think that's just the nature of the beast.
What of this chirp you speak of? I had a similar issue... never sorted it out as the noise went away after putting some mileage on it.

The pulley size I was asking is on the supercharger. It should be written on the face of it

You can still use your power pulleys. ESS says not to because they are concerned about under driving the water pump but I haven't heard of that being an issue with anyone. I put my UUC pulleys back on and Ryan (rkneeshaw) is running his Turner pulleys. I believe he dyno'd 10 additional HP on the upper end with the pulleys... he also dyno'd a 20 HP loss when he swapped his magnaflow exhaust for the Borla so you might be making some decent numbers...

There is a private Facebook page for ESS owners... here's the link on e46fanatics http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=1172377Thx for the fb link. The chrip goes away after a min or so, so I'm not too worried, nor am I worried about the cold start idle. Maybe I'll post a video. I'll check the pulley size and post. Good to know re my exhaust. Interesting re TMS pulleys, when EAS did the install they asked for the OEM pulleys.

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