Jet Black ZHP Mod-A-Palooza

[johnrando]

I decided to chronicle my various minor modifications here, since they are starting to add up. Everything I've done is reversible and I've kept the original parts. Since there are quite a few I'll post them in separate posts but grouped together.

First off, electronics:

Parrot Bluetooth with Connects2 for steering wheel controls.
Dice for IPOD
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110809-00016.jpg

Valentine One hardwired with StealthOne unit which shows V1 alerts through Nav.
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110809-00013.jpg

[johnrando]

Next up was some interior goodies:

Aluminum Pedals
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110809-00009.jpg

BMW Euro First Aid Kit that fits under passenger seat
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110809-00010.jpg

And new standard BMW OEM floor mats (no pic needed for that) :)

[danewilson77]

Good stuff John.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

[johnrando]

Next are the engine bay goodies posted earlier, but it never hurts to see them again. :)

First up, AA tune, not pictured of course.

OEM Performance Strut Brace and OEM Performance Intake:
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/bmwoilcapo.jpg

"Custom" oil cap.
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/bmwoilcap3.jpg

[johnrando]

No-holes license plate:
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110809-00017.jpg

Front amber markers were replaced with Jet Black. (EDIT: notice that pic was taken before the no-holes plate kit).
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/eaa5a87copy.jpg

Aspherical "euro" mirrors, for wide angle viewing. Really helps with the huge B pillars when the few times the top is up.
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110809-00011.jpg

And, re-badging:
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110809-00007.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110809-00008.jpg

[johnrando]

Finally, I put a carbon fiber diffuser on that really doesn't fit. I'm going to look for an OEM one. Once I get that, I've already got Gloss Black OEM kidney grills, C/F roundels (inside and out), and Nacho is wrapping an OEM trunk lid spoiler for me as I type. And of course, the "mini-antenna" mod has a little c/f in it too, hopefully that will be just the right touch. I'm hoping Umnitza comes out with opaque Angel Eyes for my car and those will be next.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110809-00018.jpg

And don't forget the Mafia Stickers!
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/bmwstickers.jpg

[Marcus-SanDiego]

Dang, John, you've been busy! Looking good.

[johnrando]

Thanks DW, Marcus!

[Marcus-SanDiego]

John, here is the tape.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BO9L00?tag=zhpcom-20&camp=213381&creative=390973&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=B000BO9L00&adid=1SNS9XEQ83T26PTRA077&

Free shipping.

[johnrando]

Replaced windshield cowl as (a) it kinda needed it and (b) it was somewhat dinged up when SafeLight replaced my cracked windshield (from a rock hit on the freeway). Not a great cell phone pic, but it's so much better!

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110809-00020.jpg

[danewilson77]

Car is dank John.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

[Marcus-SanDiego]

DW, that's funny. I had to look up dank because I know the real definition of it. I figured there must be some slang meaning for it. Sure enough. It means cool (slang).

Good call.

[johnrando]

I'm lolling because I didn't exactly know what the "slang" dank meant.

On a side note, I should probably update the mechanical fixes while I'm at it. Beyond standard maintenance, nothing major, but new CABs, battery, and expansion tank. I would guess at some point Vanos would need to be done, and I did get pulleys. Between that, the AA tune, and the Perf. Intake, thinking it will pull just a little harder overall. Future wish would be H&R Race Kit, and future for that is the ever elusive new wheels (preferably BBS).

[Marcus-SanDiego]

Big winning when you get the BBS wheels, Johnny.

[billschusteriv]

Nice work John! Love the progression. In for moar.

[GSEN820]

Looking great John.

[jayjay_dee]

nice set of mods...

[johnrando]

Thanks Bill, Gary, Jay-Jay!

[lilcdkey]

:drool love it, i wish i had a vert.

[johnrando]

Thanks! Next up is c/f diffuser. Found a couple for sale finally, so gonna just eat the cost of the one that doesn't fit and hopefully have a new one soon.

[PKR]

Let us know which cf diffuser you use ... there are a bunch of us who are interested

[Marcus-SanDiego]

John, how did that 3M tape fare?

[johnrando]

Marcus, the tape didn't hold. Just bought a C/F diffuser from Eurospec. On sale, $200 out the door. I'll let you know how it fits. Looks like bimmian is getting theirs in stock again for $349, but after sinking $200 in one that didn't fit from an individual, I needed to get an inexpensive one that I can return if it doesn't work out. The fit looks pretty good at a glance though.

[Marcus-SanDiego]

And that 3M tape was strong, too. Must have just been a really bad fit.

Good luck with the next one.

[johnrando]

Got my new Carbon Fiber Diffuser installed. More "mini-mods" to come this weekend.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110826-00041.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110826-00042.jpg

[GSEN820]

That looks really good!!!! Nicely done

[danewilson77]

That looks really good!!!! Nicely done

+1

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

[Marcus-SanDiego]

John, looking good.

[wsmeyer]

Looks good! Hopefully this one fit a lot better and didn't break when you tried to install it?

William.

[static667]

Nice mods, John. They are all really smooth and tasteful. Keep up the good work.

[johnrando]

Thanks all! That really means a lot. Yes, this one fit MUCH better... only a minor tweak to get it to fit just right.

[WOLFN8TR]

Got my new Carbon Fiber Diffuser installed. More "mini-mods" to come this weekend.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110826-00041.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110826-00042.jpg

That looks sweet!
I like the "ZHP" lettering, where did you get them?

[danewilson77]

That looks sweet!
I like the "ZHP" lettering, where did you get them?

Bimmian?

[johnrando]

That looks sweet!
I like the "ZHP" lettering, where did you get them?

Thanks! Yes, Bimmian. The original idea was to de-badge the 330 on the right, but I actually don't mind it there. Got used to both being on.

[WOLFN8TR]

Cool Thanks. My ZHP has a M3 badge where the 330CI use to be. I like the ZHP badge, looks good. Gonna put that there instead.

[johnrando]

Cool Thanks. My ZHP has a M3 badge where the 330CI use to be. I like the ZHP badge, looks good. Gonna put that there instead.

Much better w/o an M3 badge IMO. BTW, they sell letters and numbers individually so you really could put anything you want back there.

[WOLFN8TR]

Just checked out Bimmian. Went with the custom painted license plate frame with small 'ZHP' lettering for it. Thinking of either just "330" emblem at the oem location or nothing at all. Thanks for the info, they have some cool stuff on there.

[johnrando]

Sounds good, looking forward to pics.

[johnrando]

Another small step, C/F roundels. Better pictures later, just snapped these with the phone in the garage, no room for a wide shot. Eventually going to switch out blue license plate for something more neutral to go with the black/cf.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110827-00045.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110827-00046.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110827-00048.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/SouthBayCities-20110827-00049.jpg

[johnrando]

OEM Gloss Black Grills

Again, poor cell phone pics in garage, but wanted to get these posted. One more step in reversible mods to give my car a slightly unique and slightly more aggressive look.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20110828-00050.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20110828-00053.jpg

[Marcus-SanDiego]

:chuck


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[lilcdkey]

You need to take some new pics and get a new sig :biggrin

[johnrando]

You need to take some new pics and get a new sig :biggrin

Both are on the list. I've enlisted the one and only Casey the great for the pics.

[johnrando]

Added the keyhole cover. (Pardon the dust in the photo).

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20110918-00086.jpg

Went over 50K miles.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20110916-00084.jpg

[kayger12]

Nice. Gonna go with the keyhole cover.

Like the look.

Droid X. Tapatalk. Use it.

[johnrando]

Not quite yet: My c/f wrapped rear spoiler arrived today. Set it on the car to see how it will look. I'm going to like it, but there were some imperfections in the wrap, so Nacho is going to fix those for me. (For some reason, photobucket will not display the pic correctly).

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20110929-00105.jpg

[danewilson77]

Why would he send you a product with imperfections? Did he tell you before hand?

[johnrando]

Why would he send you a product with imperfections? Did he tell you before hand?

Honestly, not sure (wondered that myself). He didn't mention that ahead of time. What I pointed out mainly was a strange green hue that showed in sunlight reflection... likely he was working indoors and didn't see that. He said he'd fix it though.

[Ryans323i]

John the new key cover looks great. And the CF splitter is going to look awesome too. Hope there's a quick turnaround on that for ya.

And I can't believe you just went over 50k miles! So low it's crazy.

[johnrando]

Thanks Ryan!

[johnrando]

Update:

INSTALLED SPRINT BOOSTER (SB)

SB working. Love the quicker pedal response. Pic with accelerator bracket out and booster connected. 2nd pic is with the new accelerator bracket installed.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20111024-00150.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20111024-00151.jpg

NEW TIRES/WHEELS

As posted earlier, in order to go to a square setup for the least investment, I bought 4 chrome 135s with tires. Once these go, I'll replace the tires with 245/35 with the 8.5's all the way around.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20111017-00139-1.jpg


Bought Graham's C/F license plate frames, pics later, as I ordered new plates.

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?5201-For-Sale-Khoalty-Carbon-Fiber-License-Plate-Frames-50-for-the-pair-%28SOLD%29

[danewilson77]

Good deal John. How long did the install take?

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

[danewilson77]

Also.....do you have any completely installed pics?

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

[johnrando]

It didn't take long at all, maybe 15 minutes max, and that was because I had to replace the accelerator bracket that I broke originally taking it out, and a couple of minutes was just in deciding where to tuck it and the wire away. I'll get a pic and attach to this post.

EDIT: added better pics. See that little wire above the accelerator? The SB is tucked in there. The wire is the remote for the different modes, which runs all the way to my center console. The 2nd pic shows the remote switch at the console.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20111024-00152.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20111024-00154.jpg

[danewilson77]

So that lil sucker just hangs out next to the seat?

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

[johnrando]

So that lil sucker just hangs out next to the seat?

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

You can put it wherever you want, they give you plenty of wire length... I just hadn't decided yet. I'll likely have it tucked right next to the seat on the drivers side. They even supply a small sticky the size of the remote to tack it down. I'm guessing some people put it under the dash. I'm used to my DICE ipod cable tucked to the left side of the passenger's seat along the console, so I just reach down to grab in and connect my Ipod. Thinking the same thing will work for this cable too.

[danewilson77]

Ok...thanks.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

[webster]

glad to see you finally got it working! i think it's a great mod. enjoy.

[danewilson77]

Now....just to be clear...before I lose this thread......this would NOT be good for people who have some stop and go traffic. Correct?

[zj96sc]

You could mount it underneath your shifter or e-brake boot and just push it through the boot. Hidden switch!

Or buy the expanded button center console switch unit and wire it up to one of the unused switches. Probably a little electrically challenging...

I just love a seamless install.

[johnrando]

You could mount it underneath your shifter or e-brake boot and just push it through the boot. Hidden switch!

Or buy the expanded button center console switch unit and wire it up to one of the unused switches. Probably a little electrically challenging...

I just love a seamless install.

Good idea running it through the shift boot.


Now....just to be clear...before I lose this thread......this would NOT be good for people who have some stop and go traffic. Correct?

It has 3 modes, hence the remote. Off, medium, and full on... so that's why I want it handy. So it's fine for traffic.

[danewilson77]

Good idea running it through the shift boot.



It has 3 modes, hence the remote. Off, medium, and full on... so that's why I want it handy. So it's fine for traffic.

Yeahhhh....copy. Forgot about that aspect. Duh.

[johnrando]

Yeahhhh....copy. Forgot about that aspect. Duh.

No worries, the original ones didn't have this, so you're good. :)

[johnrando]

New plates, (plus those little c/f "BMW" emblems on the top plate screws).
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20111121-00045.jpg

[Ryans323i]

Love the roundels on the plate screws! I really like that California plate design too. Do the letters/numbers mean something? All I got was Beach 10s, or Beach 1 OffShore?

PS. Sorry I missed your SuperSprint install. Looks great. Hows it working out for you?

[johnrando]

Love the roundels on the plate screws! I really like that California plate design too. Do the letters/numbers mean something? All I got was Beach 10s, or Beach 1 OffShore?

PS. Sorry I missed your SuperSprint install. Looks great. Hows it working out for you?

BCH 10-S = Beach Tennis. RE: plate screws, thanks. Found those on ebay. As far as the Sprint Booster, I absolutely love it. Definitely improves the feel of the throttle response, worth every penny to me. It has 3 settings (off, mid, full), and I run it on full all the time. To me this is how the car should have felt from the factory.

[Ryans323i]

Beach Tennis! Ok, I got it!

Excellent news with the SB.

[wsmeyer]

New plates, (plus those little c/f "BMW" emblems on the top plate screws).
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20111121-00045.jpg

Wait, does that mean you're OUTFORSURE :rofl

William.

[johnrando]

No William, still N 4SHORE - it's sitting in my garage. :) And Ryan, I play beach tennis, which is tennis on the beach on a volleyball court... it's a cross between beach volleyball and tennis/badminton. You keep the ball in play over the net, playing doubles.

[Ryans323i]

Sounds like a lot of fun. I enjoy Tennis and badminton myself.

[danewilson77]

Sounds like a lot of fun. I enjoy Tennis and badminton myself.

We have the "Wimbeldon of Badminton" In my front yard every year. Serious stuff.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

[johnrando]

Angel Eyes.
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/DSC_0096.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/DSC_0098.jpg

[GSEN820]

Great way to bring back this thread John!

The Angel Eyes look really good.

[johnrando]

Thanks Gary. I update it when I mod. Starting to run out of mini-mods. Suspension is likely next.

[zj96sc]

kudos for going nice and yellow.

I'm dead serious, too. :thumbsup

[johnrando]

Thanks. It's not really yellow, that's just the pic. It's 4300k, which is more of pure white... I really like it against the black ZHP (thought that would look better on black than the more subtle blue-ish 6000k.

[zj96sc]

Whatever it is, I like it. I think it's easy to go overboard on the angel eye color temp and you've chosen well IMO.

[johnrando]

Appreciate the compliment!

[johnrando]

OK, next mod installed... Turner Motorsports Power Pulleys! Too soon to tell the difference, but it certainly "feels" like it pulls better. On top of that, new brake fluid and oil change. Will try to post more power detail on the pulleys when I get a better feel for them.

[JohnnyGraphic]

Hey Johnny-

How about something like this for your Sprint Booster button?

3100

[johnrando]

LOL. Love it. I actually bought this button panel off an M Vert. Hoping to put the SB button behind the "sport" button.

http://mxpaintball.phpwebhosting.com/M3_Parts/Cars/2002_Carbon_M3_Vert_II/DSCN1810.JPG

[JohnnyGraphic]

LOL. Love it. I actually bought this button panel off an M Vert. Hoping to put the SB button behind the "sport" button.

http://mxpaintball.phpwebhosting.com/M3_Parts/Cars/2002_Carbon_M3_Vert_II/DSCN1810.JPG

Can't tell from the pic which button, but good going with keeping it with stock BMW bits!

[johnrando]

Another update to the modding. Finally got around to installing the H&R Cup Kit with Race Springs on my car. I went for broke (literally :) ) and bought this kit on sale a few months ago. I actually bought the Sport Springs with the kit, but bought some relatively low mileage Race springs at a good price. Decided to try them first, and if I didn't like it, I'd switch to Sport. I absolutely love the Race springs so I will be selling my Sport, and I'm keeping my ZHP setup to return to stock if ever wanted.

I went with H&R after some research and knowing that coilovers were really overkill for my street driving and added unneeded cost. I also wanted:
1) lowering - check
2) a quicker "return" when hitting a depression in the road at high speed - check
3) better stability/predictability on a curve when hitting a depression/slight bump at high speed - check
4) keep the refined ZHP ride as much as reasonably possible - check

My impressions:
This kit is amazing. Absolutely love the feel, stability, the ride, everything about them. They gave me what I wanted from above and more. On top of that, it actually rides SMOOTHER on the freeway, which I really don't get. Again, this is one of those mods that make the ZHP feel more how I thought it should have been from the beginning (which is saying a lot as it's a great car). Maybe my suspension was wearing down or something because my car never quite felt like the descriptions I've read of others, but now it's that and more. I find myself going faster on the freeway than normal because it's so smooth. You do feel minor bumps slightly more, but I'd bet someone like my wife wouldn't notice a different feel, you have to be looking for it. Very happy I did this. Gary helped with the recommendations, and also recommended Mike at Mig Motorsports of San Diego to do the install. Mike did a great job, was efficient, and I was very happy with his work, I'd definitely recommend him.

Now for the pics:

The setup (red = race, blue = sport)
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/DSC_0199.jpg

Before:
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/DSC_0203.jpg

After:
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/DSC_0269.jpg

As a plus, they look good on the car:
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/DSC_0239.jpg

After closeups front:
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/DSC_0275.jpg

After rear:
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/DSC_0276.jpg

[GSEN820]

John your car made my ZHP look like a 4x4 parked next to yours. I love your set up (same one on my 325ci). I was going to start a thread for you to update. = )

[johnrando]

LOL, thanks.

[Ryans323i]

Wow JR, I'm really surprised at how much lower you are in the rear with those Race springs. Very sexy!

You mentioned the difference in ride, obviously the new setup is different from stock, but your before picture shows a saggy rear which would negatively impact your ride.

Either way, I'm very happy for you. Glad the ride is better and the over all look is a ton better. I love it!

BTW, Love the new sig!!! So hawt!

[GSEN820]

All Verts look to sag in the rear (due to. Weight in the rear). The pics aren't doing the drop justice. I rides incredible.

[johnrando]

Wow JR, I'm really surprised at how much lower you are in the rear with those Race springs. Very sexy!

You mentioned the difference in ride, obviously the new setup is different from stock, but your before picture shows a saggy rear which would negatively impact your ride.

Either way, I'm very happy for you. Glad the ride is better and the over all look is a ton better. I love it!

BTW, Love the new sig!!! So hawt!

Thanks! I might lower the front just a tad more.

[johnrando]

I'll summarize my "mini" performance boosts here now that I have them all done. First was the BMW Performance Intake, then the AA Tune, then the Sprint Booster, then the Pulleys.

The Performance Intake gave the car just a slight more growl and just a little touch of better throttle response. (Worth it to me, but mostly engine eye candy). Adding the AA tune again improved throttle response, gave it a little more oomph, and improved gas mileage (an extra bonus). The Sprint Booster was the "most fun" thing I added, removing the throttle lag and making the car feel like it should have from the factory. Love that mod. Adding the Turner Motorsports Pulleys continued that trend, although not as much as a difference as I thought. The car just seemed to pull easier, which is what others have said, but it's hard to define.

Adding them up, when driving the same year stock ZHP Vert vs. mine, you could tell there was a difference. It's not huge, but the little things add up: better pull, better growl, better throttle response, slightly better butt dyno but probably not much on a real dyno. I definitely recommend a tune, an intake, and a Sprint Booster. The pulleys didn't do much for me (in fact my gas mileage dropped a bit down from the tune but better than when I started still) but they helped a little in the "feel" of the pull.

Next up, a UUC TSE3 exhaust or close to it, but that's a long time coming.

[Ryans323i]

Nice.

"Butt dyno", I like that. My car has come crazy numbers on the butt dyno. :)

[danewilson77]

One word Johnny.

DUMPED!

[tripod06]

that drop is so sick!

[LivesNearCostco]

Wow that's low... in the back I don't think my GC coilovers can even go that low unless I buy shorter rear springs. I think StanceWorks is gonna send you an honorary membership hat.

[johnrando]

:rofl. I'll await my membership card. As Gary said, that's a vert thing, those rears do go low. I just need to figure out how to match the front up just a tad, so maybe lower it, or raise the rear. I don't mind it as it is, but I think I might want to match them up better. I definitely avoid speed bumps, etc now.

[Ryans323i]

Speed bumps! Shoot, you're now part of the "I look like a drunk driver when driving pot hole filled roads" club. I bet you have to swerve for bottle caps. :biggrin
You'll now be checking google earth before you enter any new parking lots, too.

[johnrando]

Speed bumps! Shoot, you're now part of the "I look like a drunk driver when driving pot hole filled roads" club. I bet you have to swerve for bottle caps. :biggrin
You'll now be checking google earth before you enter any new parking lots, too.

:rofl Too funny, yet true.

[johnrando]

A few minor additions: A previously owned 2.5 spec dock (the yellow is old glue I have to remove). Love it! Works great with the new iPod Nano (recall exchange from original Ipod). Rear cupholder (don't expect to use it much, it's just in case. Not a great fit). New (updated) phone mount. Finally, not pictured, but recently removed the Race springs and went back to full H&R Touring Cup Kit. Please excuse the not so great cell phone pics.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-05-04134759.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-05-04134846.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-04-28101702.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-04-28104009.jpg

[danewilson77]

Looks great John.

Sent from SIGFest 2012

[Ryans323i]

That Ipod mount looks awesome! Btw, my Kyle did the Ipod exchange too, pretty cool to get a new free Ipod for something that was just sitting in the drawer.

[johnrando]

That Ipod mount looks awesome! Btw, my Kyle did the Ipod exchange too, pretty cool to get a new free Ipod for something that was just sitting in the drawer.

I love the doc. It's much cleaner than having to tuck that long cord from my glove box, then digging it out. And yes, that Ipod exchange is killer. Turn in a 2GB (I was using it in my car) and get an 8GB free, with a better screen! I love how it fits low in the spec dock.

[Ryans323i]

Completely agree. It looks so clean. :thumbsup Wish I could do the same thing. Unfortunately, my pioneer doesn't have rear inputs, only the one in the front so I have to deal with the cord either way.

[wsmeyer]

The iPod dock is cool. Where'd you find it? Can it be used with an iPhone?

William

[johnrando]

The iPod dock is cool. Where'd you find it? Can it be used with an iPhone?

William

It's called the spec doc 2.5, and it does work for iphone I believe. BSW and others sell them. http://specdock.com/ I got mine used off of e46f.c

[wsmeyer]

It's called the spec doc 2.5, and it does work for iphone I believe. BSW and others sell them. http://specdock.com/ I got mine used off of e46f.c

Damn them things are expensive. Where's the chinese knockoff?

Spek Dok?
Speck Doc?

lol

William.

[johnrando]

Damn them things are expensive. Where's the chinese knockoff?

Spek Dok?
Speck Doc?

lol

William.

lol, that's why I bought used. It's really too much dinero new for what it actually takes to make it. Maybe you could start a side business William. :)

[johnrando]

Got a decent deal on fender rolling so I roll the rears. Updated pics with 10mm and 12mm spacers coming soon because.... 3 year anniversary of my car purchase today!

[328ioc]

forgive me if I missed the answer to this in your updates but have you made any headway on the sprint booster to sport button mod?

Magically sent from my Crackberry tablet using tapatalk

[johnrando]

No, you didn't miss it. It's still sitting on my desk. William (wsmeyer) said he'd take a shot at it but we haven't had time to get together to do it.

[Ryans323i]

Got a decent deal on fender rolling so I roll the rears. Updated pics with 10mm and 12mm spacers coming soon because.... 3 year anniversary of my car purchase today!

Congrats on your 3yr anniversary. Did you get her leather?

[johnrando]

OK, I've made a few mods that i haven't posted. Been busy so I've got some catching up to do, unintentionally holding out on you. The H&R Cup Kit has settled and I really like the new height. Not as low as the race springs but I like it. Then, I put on 40% tint all the way around, from a place Mark and Casey know, the Tint Source in San Diego. Then, this weekend, I bought a lightly used UUC TSE3 exhaust and had it installed. Officially they don't fit verts, but I called them and it's a very minor adjustment of adding a few washers to add some length to fit around an extra vert brace that others don't have. Then I cleaned up the wheels and put spacers on, 10mm front, 12mm rear. As far as maintenance, I've driven so few miles that no maintenance necessary. I'm still waiting on Edison to see what their offer is on the scratched paint. So, here are some pics (all from my cell phone so not that great). Thanks for looking!

PS A few more goodies to go and them I'm basically done.

TSE3 Installed at Cars in Redondo Beach
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-06-09110649.jpg

Part of the work
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-06-09112749.jpg

Really like the exhaust tips.
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-06-09113006.jpg

A little sound clip (just listen to the first few secs, idle after that). First start up w/new system.
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/th_video-2012-06-09-11-29-22.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/?action=view&current=video-2012-06-09-11-29-22.mp4)

The wheel cleaning (with Poboys wheel wax for sealing)
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-06-10111139.jpg

After cleaning
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-06-10130302.jpg

The spacers
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-06-10111149.jpg

A view of the spacers and the drop
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-06-10133612.jpg

The tint, drop, and spacers view
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-06-10133720.jpg

Another angle
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-06-10133710.jpg

[derbo]

nice! did you get that TSE3 from that one guy on E46F in socal?

[danewilson77]

Looks great.

Sent from my ADR6400L using Tapatalk 2

[WOLFN8TR]

Looks Good John! Should of painted the brake calipers flat black when ya had those wheels off.

[Ryans323i]

Everything looks great John. The exhaust sounds really good, and then pretty quiet at idle which I really like too. Great work buddy.

[johnrando]

Thanks all. Painting calipers is on the list. Needed more time. Really like the exhaust and I notice a little more oomph now, which was unexpected.

johnrando: sent using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Oh, I forgot. Yes Derbo. 1 got one of the 2 for sale from Socal. 1 wanted a trade but I wanted to keep oem, so I bought the other.

johnrando: sent using Tapatalk

[jayjay_dee]

keep up the good work John...

[elric]

Exhaust sounds GREAT!!!!

[derbo]

Oh, I forgot. Yes Derbo. 1 got one of the 2 for sale from Socal. 1 wanted a trade but I wanted to keep oem, so I bought the other.

johnrando: sent using Tapatalk

yea I saw that! they were the same price basically and one was no trade. I would've taken the no trade in a heartbeat if I was ALOT closer.

[johnrando]

Lol, yup, no brainer. There is 1 for sale in MD that looked good for basically the same price, but he's not shipping. I did tell the trade guy what I ended up doing, so maybe he'll bend on his price as his is out of line. Crazy that you can't find these used and then 2 local showed up.

johnrando: sent using Tapatalk

[midlandtech]

I realize the vert is going to be a bit different than a sedan but are the H&R race springs that aggressive of a drop on the sedans too? I cannot decide between H&R sport springs or race springs

[johnrando]

Yes, verts tend to sag in the back, but it's a decent difference between the Race and the Sport. I forgot to add to my list that I also had the fenders rolled for the rear spacers.

[midlandtech]

Cool I may have to go with sports then... I'm worried the race will be to low on a daily driver.... I think as your car sits now it's about perfect


~Steve
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Aligned my car yesterday, posted details in the "alignment" thread (below). Might have to go back to 10mm spacers in the rear as I still scrape a little.

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?321-BMW-330-ZHP-alignment-and-data-Pics&p=186174#post186174

[nike001]

I'm so jealous of your drop, I don't know how yours is so much lower than mine since you have the Touring kit and I have the Sport kit..


But.. What spacers do you have in the rear right now? I have 12mm's out back w/ 0 rubbing.

[johnrando]

Oh, that's my old drop with the race springs in the sig pic w/the flag. Guess I need a new sig pic. The drop difference between the Touring and the Sport is minimal. I'm running 12mm in the rear and scraping, so I guess I'll have to go to 10mm. There are no spacers in the sig pic with the flag.

[Ryans323i]

John, how's the transformer incident going? Feel free to PM me if you want to keep this out of your Mod thread.

[nike001]

... You're scraping with 12mm in the rear with the sport & the touring kit? That's weird.

I ran my 12mm in the rear with my stock suspension AND this new H&R Sport Cup kit and have 0 problems.

[johnrando]

... You're scraping with 12mm in the rear with the sport & the touring kit? That's weird.

I ran my 12mm in the rear with my stock suspension AND this new H&R Sport Cup kit and have 0 problems.

I know. Can't quite understand why. Gary had a very similar setup and didn't scrape - with the same car, an '06 vert.

[johnrando]

Switched to 10mm rear, 12mm front, no scraping. Also adding better definition pics of current suspension drop, H&R Touring Cup Kit.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/BMWDrop4frontcorner.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/BMWDrop1rearside.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/BMWDrop3rearcorner.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/BMWDrop5front.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/BMWDrop7frontfinger.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/BMWDrop6rearfinger.jpg

[Ryans323i]

Car sits perfect IMO.

Also hadn't noticed your ZHP on the rear. :like

[wsmeyer]

YES! The new stance is perfect IMO

William.

[Newjack]

Love it. :thumbsup

[johnrando]

YES! The new stance is perfect IMO

William.

Thanks Rob, Ryan; and William especially, cuz I KNOW you didn't like the Race springs stance. lol! Guess I need a new sig pic again.

[bimmeryota]

Glad you're likin' the TSE3! It must even more awesomer(I know it's not a word but I like it) in a 'vert since you can hear it more...
Love the stance too... I think I'm going to run those size spacers with my autocross wheels since I'm going to run rears all the way around anyway.

[johnrando]

I'd like to hear how this one sounds next to yours, as I think it could use some tweaking (since it had to be put back together).

[bimmeryota]

Shouldn't sound too much different if it's the full system but let's sync up whenever each of us is in the OC or SD! Mine's probably older if that has anything to do with it haha...

[WOLFN8TR]

John the ZHP looks awesome! Can you adobt mine? It needs some attention.


Bayerische-Motoren-Werke

[johnrando]

Not a ton done to my car lately, but a few updates:
Biggest thing was that I bought the Dinan STEP s/w which make the shifting quicker and crisper, especially in M mode. It's not a big chance but it's noticeable and I'm very happy with it.

Bought a nice c/f oil cap from bimmian (pic below) that looks good with the strut bar/perf intake.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2012-09-11105213.jpg

Bought mid BSW speakers, will buy the fronts soon, install them, and get another update posted when done. As far as maintenance, I drive so little that there hasn't been any necessary since the last time, coming up on 60K miles so I'll likely to the transmission fluid next.

Overall Ness is doing great, VANOS (no rattle knock on wood) and DISA are still on the todo list, but not urgent. Thanks for looking in!

[Ryans323i]

Looking good. Everyone's getting all Carbon Fiber-ed up.

[johnrando]

Epic day today with William (wsmeyer). Accomplished 4 sweet mods all at once, and kinda related. Originally we were just going to do the paddle shift mod but that morphed into other stuff. Please excuse yet more poor cell phone pics.

1st - installed paddle shifter mod that Ryan sold me. Absolutely love it. That, along with the Dinan STEP shift s/w makes the car shift much quicker. It's way more fun to drive, the paddles feel great, and it was very straightforward thanks to Ryan (whitexi) essentially selling me his whole setup. It seems like a different car and the STEP M mode (manual) is no longer an albatross. Some pics.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_11-21-09_149.jpg
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_11-46-32_576.jpg
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_11-47-40_262.jpg



2nd - while in there, we moved the Parrot Bluetooth mic from up above in the reading lights area w/o good voice pickup to the OEM mic location that's on the steering wheel column. This involved a little re-routing and then a cut/splice/switch of the OEM mic to the Parrot mic.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_11-24-30_229.jpg
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_12-07-16_54.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_12-08-03_187.jpg


Overview shot.
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_12-32-26_829.jpg
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_12-16-33_256.jpg

3rd - While the center shift boot, etc was out, we did the (vert only) individual windows auto-up, auto-down mod which is essentially taking off a clip and programming the car for it.


4th - While programming, William also set the top for "keyfob close". You could hold the unlock button and the top would lower remotely, but you couldn't close it that way. Now, you hold the lock button and the top will close.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_13-42-46_318.jpg



Thanks to William for his expertise and again to Ryan for selling me his setup.

EDIT: pic of completed work.
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_16-37-47_918.jpg

[Torxuvin]

Looks good. Liking the paddle shift mod especially.

[johnrando]

Thanks. I'll probably change out the paddle shifters to something that complements the interior more.

[nike001]

You swapped out your perforated leather wheel for that?

IMO I'd rather have that wheel than the paddle shifters.

[johnrando]

lol. Trust me, I already miss my perforated leather. It's some consolation that it has the tri-stitch in the center which you can't see. Down the road I'll get the whole wheel re-wrapped with perforated leather and the tri-stitch, but it's just too expensive at this time. I'm also going to switch out the paddles soon. The fun factor was too much to ignore on this one so I wasn't going to wait until I re-wrapped. The harsh flash doesn't do the wheel justice though, it magnifies any small imperfection.... it's in very good shape, other than a little shiny from wear, (and no perforation!).

[Whitexi]

Glad it's all together John, enjoy!

[derbo]

good stuff john

[JupiterBMW]

Holy crap John, I would buy a step ZHP just for the paddle shifter mod. LOVE it! Paddles are fun aren't they? Makes you feel like you're in a race car...


Sent from my hybrid iPhone 4/4S... :shifty

[Ryans323i]

The steering wheel looks great and the new functions are awesome. Now get out there and do some shifting! Congrats!

[johnrando]

Glad it's all together John, enjoy!

Thanks again. You made it so easy even a caveman could do it!


good stuff john


Holy crap John, I would buy a step ZHP just for the paddle shifter mod. LOVE it! Paddles are fun aren't they? Makes you feel like you're in a race car...

Sent from my hybrid iPhone 4/4S... :shifty


The steering wheel looks great and the new functions are awesome. Now get out there and do some shifting! Congrats!

Thanks all. Ryan, I already have! :) And, yes Jon, they are so much fun. It does kinda make you feel like that. I remember renting a Miata with paddles and it was a blast.

[robincx]

Very dangerous. John, I just read the entire thread, this is going to cost me some $. Beautiful set up, lots of great ideas in here, kudos!

[johnrando]

LOL. Thanks for the props. :thumbsup Let me know if you need any advice, etc.

[danewilson77]

Epic day today with William (wsmeyer). Accomplished 4 sweet mods all at once, and kinda related. Originally we were just going to do the paddle shift mod but that morphed into other stuff. Please excuse yet more poor cell phone pics.

1st - installed paddle shifter mod that Ryan sold me. Absolutely love it. That, along with the Dinan STEP shift s/w makes the car shift much quicker. It's way more fun to drive, the paddles feel great, and it was very straightforward thanks to Ryan (whitexi) essentially selling me his whole setup. It seems like a different car and the STEP M mode (manual) is no longer an albatross. Some pics.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_11-21-09_149.jpg
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_11-46-32_576.jpg
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_11-47-40_262.jpg



2nd - while in there, we moved the Parrot Bluetooth mic from up above in the reading lights area w/o good voice pickup to the OEM mic location that's on the steering wheel column. This involved a little re-routing and then a cut/splice/switch of the OEM mic to the Parrot mic.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_11-24-30_229.jpg
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_12-07-16_54.jpg

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_12-08-03_187.jpg


Overview shot.
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_12-32-26_829.jpg
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_12-16-33_256.jpg

3rd - While the center shift boot, etc was out, we did the (vert only) individual windows auto-up, auto-down mod which is essentially taking off a clip and programming the car for it.


4th - While programming, William also set the top for "keyfob close". You could hold the unlock button and the top would lower remotely, but you couldn't close it that way. Now, you hold the lock button and the top will close.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_13-42-46_318.jpg



Thanks to William for his expertise and again to Ryan for selling me his setup.

EDIT: pic of completed work.
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-01-06_16-37-47_918.jpg

Johnny, we're you going to post something in the diy forum regarding this mod?

Williamsburg, VA, Droid DNA, Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

Wow awesome work guys!

[johnrando]

Thanks Gary. Dane, which mod were you thinking of a DIY on? Car update: Got some new (or new to me) interior pieces that I'll be installing soon. Wheel sent to be leather wrapped, should be some good updates soon.

[danewilson77]

Thanks Gary. Dane, which mod were you thinking of a DIY on? Car update: Got some new (or new to me) interior pieces that I'll be installing soon. Wheel sent to be leather wrapped, should be some good updates soon.

Paddle shifters.

Williamsburg, VA, Droid DNA, Tapatalk

[wsmeyer]

Paddle shifters.

Williamsburg, VA, Droid DNA, Tapatalk


We didn't do a DIY on the paddle shifters as Rando bought the wheel from Ryan (whitexi) and he's the one that made the wiring jumper to make it work. He documented the process in a DIY here on the site so maybe we should find it and link back to that.

We did take pics of retrofitting the Parrot mic into the stock housing and can do a DIY for that.


**** EDIT ********

I went back and looked and he didn't do a DIY either as he followed this DIY:

http://www.e46fanatics.com/forum/showthread.php?t=826971

Except instead of soldiering the wires onto the stock harness he made a jumper to go between the existing connectors. IMO, this a much better solution so I'm going to try and find the connectors he use on Amazon.com and hopefully post again with a link.

[danewilson77]

We didn't do a DIY on the paddle shifters as Rando bought the wheel from Ryan (whitexi) and he's the one that made the wiring jumper to make it work. He documented the process in a DIY here on the site so maybe we should find it and link back to that.

We did take pics of retrofitting the Parrot mic into the stock housing and can do a DIY for that.

Ok. Thanks.

Williamsburg, VA, Droid DNA, Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Update to my steering wheel/SMG swap. So I swapped out the OEM paddle shifters with longer, metallic black ones, and William and I had our steering wheels re-wrapped in leather/tri-stitch/extra-thick, with the ZHP overall pattern mimicked. I like the wheel, but I think extra thick might take some getting used to. Also, it's funny with the new leather, I was worried that it didn't feel right, but William assured me that his X wheel had the same feel until it was broken in. So, all-in-all it's so far, so good. I'll have to see how I feel about the thick wheel. Some pics:

Wheel with the new shifters:

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-03-08_11-26-42_641_zps6236c653.jpg

Close up of the tri-stitch - done really well.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/2013-03-08_11-25-59_18_zps58d9de24.jpg

[Pip]

Looks nice. It does look pretty thick, but I'm sure you'll get used to it.

[JupiterBMW]

Update to my steering wheel/SMG swap. So I swapped out the OEM paddle shifters with longer, metallic black ones, and William and I had our steering wheels re-wrapped in leather/tri-stitch/extra-thick, with the ZHP overall pattern mimicked. I like the wheel, but I think extra thick might take some getting used to. Also, it's funny with the new leather, I was worried that it didn't feel right, but William assured me that his X wheel had the same feel until it was broken in. So, all-in-all it's so far, so good. I'll have to see how I feel about the thick wheel. Some pics:

Wheel with the new shifters:

Close up of the tri-stitch - done really well.

Wow John, it looks amazing! Very nicely done. It is very thick but it looks good and I'm sure you'll get used to it.

Can't wait to meet up with you guys and check out the new mods.

[johnrando]

Thanks Jon. Hope the timing works out.

[wsmeyer]

I REALLY like mine. I hope you end up liking yours just as much!

[cakM3]

John,

Just went through your project thread....very nicely done my friend!!!
:chuck

[Avetiso]

Where did you get your wheel wrapped?

[kakashi169]

Coby I am assuming??

[johnrando]

No, this was a leather re-wrap. I got an SMG wheel for the paddle shift mod, so I had it re-wrapped at dctms.com (turns out they send it to Taiwan). I sold my OEM steering wheel to Charlie. As far as I know, Coby only does alcantera. William, I'm getting used to it. Thanks for the compliments Charlie.

[Ryans323i]

The new wheel looks great. The extra thick reminds me of the newer BMW wheels, and I love how they feel!

[johnrando]

Thanks Ryan, Sean.

[johnrando]

New tri-stitch shift boot and e-brake boot to go with tri-stitch wheel. New center c/f piece.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130414_143756_918_zps84aa90ad.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130414_143756_918_zps84aa90ad.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130416_104712_476_zpsf98411a9.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130416_104712_476_zpsf98411a9.jpg.html)

[danewilson77]

Feelin it!

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/Funny/2010-11-07_6639.jpg (http://s1015.photobucket.com/user/nicee46/media/Funny/2010-11-07_6639.jpg.html)

[johnrando]

literally LOL'd Dane, thanks! :)

[JupiterBMW]

Agreed, very drool worthy!

[Ryans323i]

Looks fabulous JR!

[johnrando]

Thanks Ryan. I now need to R&R that center piece with the shift indicator.

[wsmeyer]

Thanks Ryan. I now need to R&R that center piece with the shift indicator.

I wonder what it would look like if we just wet sanded it to a satin finish?

[johnrando]

Guess that's worth a shot, cuz if it doesn't work then we could go the plasti-dip route as someone recommended.

[wsmeyer]

Should have gotten this one to play with:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/BMW-E46-Trim-Gear-shifter-Cover-323-325-328-/200905764311?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr&hash=item2ec6eaadd7&nma=true&si=udsIuWi04pIqiozKxoRlweCboMo%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557

[johnrando]

Yup, nice find. I'll try to keep my eyes open for one.

[jayjay_dee]

car is lookin good John...

I love your new fat steering wheel, they are great for long drives, believe me...

[johnrando]

Thanks Jay Jay!

[johnrando]

Update: My first ever brake job, all the way around, all by myself (pretty happy about that). Thanks to William for moral support and tech advice. Upgraded to BMW Performance Rotors, Hawk Brake Pads front, OEM Brake Pads rear, painted the calipers, new brake pad sensors. Originally went with StopTech stainless steel brake lines in the front, but decided to go back to OEM. Not great lighting with my poor cell phone pics... but I'm really happy with the way they turned out, and the pics don't do it justice as far as how nice these rotors look.

EDIT: I did have to take the car to an Indy to do the ABS brake bleed, as you need a computer to do that.

Initial Jack Up
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130524_155520_331_zps5dfc970c.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130524_155520_331_zps5dfc970c.jpg.html)

Calipers Removed, old rotors.
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130525_120942_759_zps341b21fb.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130525_120942_759_zps341b21fb.jpg.html)

New Rotors
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130525_135215_663_zps1dd1da94.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130525_135215_663_zps1dd1da94.jpg.html)

With the painted Caliper brackets
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130525_150933_758_zpsaa439e4d.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130525_150933_758_zpsaa439e4d.jpg.html)

Close-up
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130531_100747_015_zps6a13e61d.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130531_100747_015_zps6a13e61d.jpg.html)

Overview
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130531_100733_702_zps53f9a660.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130531_100733_702_zps53f9a660.jpg.html)

[jayjay_dee]

Good job JR, i hope to be able to do the same someday, i have never done my brakes by myself...

Just to share this with others, a friend of mine gave me a link to good looking rotors, im considering them for my next set...

http://brakeperformance.com/brake-rotors/Premium-Dimpled-and-Slotted-Brake-Rotors.php

[danewilson77]

Wow...looks great Randoooooo

[wsmeyer]

Looks good. Really like those Performance Rotors. Why did you go back to the OEM lines?

[Johnmadd]

Good jod :thumbsup

[Imola.ZHP]

Subbing...

Great thread, enjoyed checking it out from start to current. Love the new wheel and the tri-stitch theme upgrade with the steering wheel and boots. If my steering wheel ever gets torn, I'll probably switch too, looks very nice.

[Torxuvin]

Looks great John! Why did you decide to go back to OEM lines?


Good job JR, i hope to be able to do the same someday, i have never done my brakes by myself...

Just to share this with others, a friend of mine gave me a link to good looking rotors, im considering them for my next set...

http://brakeperformance.com/brake-rotors/Premium-Dimpled-and-Slotted-Brake-Rotors.php

They aren't particularly hard as long as your retaining bolts are not rusted to the rotor. Ask me how I know... :shifty Feel free to send me a message if/when you decide to do them.

[bcleaver]

Looks like you took the whole caliper off for the job. Any reason? Looks good, nice components.

[Crestwood1001]

Looks like you took the whole caliper off for the job. Any reason? Looks good, nice components.

I believe he painted the caliper mounting brackets

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 2

[illirep]

Rotors look great.

[Tnhl1989]

I just went through the whole thread. Just wow. So you are the Charlie of the West Coast. Good thing I don't have a automatic car. Love everything you did to the car though :)

Rick Hoffman playing tennis.
http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lob7ezYJHJ1qmvnyzo1_500.jpg

[johnrando]

Lol Tony. Thanks Tony, Bill, Dane, Cam, BCleave, Marcus, John, William, Jay Jay.

"The Charlie of the West...". :rofl. Charlie is out of my league, but I do have my share of personal touches on Ness. More to come shortly. :)

I took off the calipers to paint them, they were getting a little rusty/shoddy. I figured since I was doing all that, I might as well take them off. I just used High Temp Engine/Header spray paint. The silver color looks a little more blue-ish than I thought but I don't mind, I kinda like it. I took off the steel lines after my Indy (who bled the (ABS) brakes for me) complained about the perils of steel braided lines and the potential for leaks if they get tweaked. It really didn't matter either way for me so I went back to OEM.

[johnrando]

Update:
1 - added BMW OEM c/f splitters (I still need to shore up that "seam" gap).
2 - swapped replica rear diffuser with BMW OEM c/f diffuser
3 - added trunk "lip" spoiler. I had an OEM one wrapped in c/f and had it waiting around until I got my splitters on. Verts didn't come with them so I know some people won't like it, but I do.
4 - when I badged with "ZHP", I de-badged the "330". I like the "330", so I now re-badged with a more subtle black on black "330". I kinda like it as I get used to it, but if it's not your thing, that's OK.... curious what others think just for the heck of it. (You won't hurt my feelings either way).

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130607_152700_903_zpsca89e532.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130607_152700_903_zpsca89e532.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130607_152649_640_zps04dba139.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130607_152649_640_zps04dba139.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130607_152609_311_zpsc1af2f08.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130607_152609_311_zpsc1af2f08.jpg.html)

Spoiler
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130607_152507_778_zpsca22536c.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130607_152507_778_zpsca22536c.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130607_152549_372_zps62ba86c8.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130607_152549_372_zps62ba86c8.jpg.html)

Spoiler and re-badge (and diffuser)
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130607_153719_609_zpsa5df7dc8.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130607_153719_609_zpsa5df7dc8.jpg.html)

[jgt_zhp]

Nice mods.

I really like the "tone on tone" 330 badge. I've been kicking back and forth as I've dechromified my car whether to swap out my 330Ci badge for black. But hey, what about "imola on imola" That'd be more HP than a supercharger kit, right there.

[Pip]

John I like the mods. You did the spoiler right with glossy CF wrap and I like the look of the vert with spoiler. The CF accents are done right in my eyes - subtle and look OEM.

As for the badge...I really like the black 330i that you have but don't like the chrome ZHP on the left hand side. It doesn't give me the same clean OEM feel. Awesome work overall!

[Johnmadd]

Looks awesome man. The splitters, are those the group buy ones or your other ones?

[johnrando]

Thanks for the comments Jeff, Sean, John. Those were actually not the group buy ones. I had the GB ones but sold them. Frankly, they look exactly the same except for a hole in the bottom of the BMW ones.

[Johnmadd]

Thanks for the comments Jeff, Sean, John. Those were actually not the group buy ones. I had the GB ones but sold them. Frankly, they look exactly the same except for a hole in the bottom of the BMW ones.

That was what I thought after seeing, thanks for the confirmation sir.

[danewilson77]

Update:
1 - added BMW OEM c/f splitters (I still need to shore up that "seam" gap).
2 - swapped replica rear diffuser with BMW OEM c/f diffuser
3 - added trunk "lip" spoiler. I had an OEM one wrapped in c/f and had it waiting around until I got my splitters on. Verts didn't come with them so I know some people won't like it, but I do.
4 - when I badged with "ZHP", I de-badged the "330". I like the "330", so I now re-badged with a more subtle black on black "330". I kinda like it as I get used to it, but if it's not your thing, that's OK.... curious what others think just for the heck of it. (You won't hurt my feelings either way).

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130607_152700_903_zpsca89e532.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130607_152700_903_zpsca89e532.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130607_152649_640_zps04dba139.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130607_152649_640_zps04dba139.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130607_152609_311_zpsc1af2f08.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130607_152609_311_zpsc1af2f08.jpg.html)

Spoiler
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130607_152507_778_zpsca22536c.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130607_152507_778_zpsca22536c.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130607_152549_372_zps62ba86c8.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130607_152549_372_zps62ba86c8.jpg.html)

Spoiler and re-badge (and diffuser)
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130607_153719_609_zpsa5df7dc8.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130607_153719_609_zpsa5df7dc8.jpg.html)

:hashbrowns

[johnrando]

Thanks Dane.

[Sockethead]

Looks good... I like the subtle amount of CF. I have the CF splitters and diffuser too. I'm going to do M3 mirrors with CF shells soon...
I've been debating the 330 emblems. Kpro wants me to get them instead of the OEM. good to get a comparison

[johnrando]

Thanks Rob. The 330 is in the OEM font. I wish the "zhp" was available in that same font. I was definitely going for subtle c/f look.

[JupiterBMW]

Thanks Rob. The 330 is in the OEM font. I wish the "zhp" was available in that same font. I was definitely going for subtle c/f look.

Wow John, beautifully done! I agree, the CF you've added is just enough. I too would like a spoiler, but I think it'd be too much on a white ZHP... As for the badges, I like them, but I agree, the ZHP one needs to be in the same font, and black. Personally, I still think no badges is best. :)

[johnrando]

Thanks Joop.

[kayger12]

Car is looking perfect, Randeaux!

Nicely done.

[johnrando]

Thanks Keith.

[Sockethead]

I too would like a spoiler, but I think it'd be too much on a white ZHP...
I think a CF lip would look great on your car. The CF spoiler on Kpro's 135 looks really good..

[Ryans323i]

So late on this, but everything is looking great! Love those splitters.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2

[DasMechaniKer]

Lookin good there Rando!!! Kudos for the DIY brakejob. Also the fine touches you're putting on are very nice. Sets your car apart without going overboard.

[johnrando]

Thanks Kyle, Ryan.

[TomTomTuning]

Man oh man, what a transformation your mini mod's have become... I really enjoyed through through your thread.

So whats next? ;)

[johnrando]

LOL, thanks. Not much left to do. I drive so few miles, the next up is a big maintenance/internals upgrade run. (VANOS, DISA, Stett silicone hoses, Stewart Water Pump, stuff like that). Also front BSW speakers. Much of the other maint has been done but I didn't post it here (change fluids, etc).

I will be adding a Dinan Throttle Body too though, hoping for a little performance bump with that. I have August targeted for this, and Gary is going to come out from Vegas to help.

[Avetiso]

I hear those throttle bodies are a tough find. Where are you getting it?

[johnrando]

Already bought it a few months ago used.

[illirep]

looks awesome

[johnrando]

Thanks.

[derbo]

Looking great Rando

[johnrando]

Thank you.

[johnrando]

This is old news but in pointing someone to my project thread to show how I masked the front grill for painting, I didn't see these pics, so I'll post them now so I won't have to dig for them in the future, as every now and then, this topic comes up. I believe the paint was a Krylon Gloss Black, due to the color of my car and my gloss black kidney grills.


http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20111210-00071.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG-20111210-00071.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG-20111210-00074.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG-20111210-00074.jpg.html)

[TomTomTuning]

Nice, I should also do this, my bumper grill is a bit faded. Do you mask behind the grill by any chance?

[jgt_zhp]

I did my front grille in place, following a DIY from E46f, which involved sticking balloons through the grille and inflating them. Didn't do much, since the Plasti-Dip I used seemed to react negatively with the cheap balloons, and immediately popped them all. There's photos in my project thread, if you're interested.

Like Rando said, masking isn't that huge a deal.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk 2

[johnrando]

I did mask behind the grill. Stuffed newspaper and other paper up through the bottom.

[johnrando]

Obviously for those following the SoCal mini-maint-meet thread from this weekend, we did some great stuff to my car (and others).

Here is that thread:
http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?10749-Mini-Socal-%28LA%29-Maint-gathering-work-this-Sat-Sun-my-house&p=291322#post291322

We did the VANOS, VCG, installed a Dinan Throttle Body, fan-delete mod, cleaned MAF sensor, changed out the intake boots, new spark plugs, oil/filter change, fixed the front OEM splitters and did some front bumper cleanup, installed c/f fog surrounds, 1-button unlock code, put in BSW tweeters and mid-bass, and changed out the center console pieces, painted the area behind the front bumper grill, painted the cabin air filter cover. After all that, gave her a wash and wax.

Posted these pics in the CA Regional thread talking about the weekend.

Video - started up - first time!
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/th_VID_20130817_231110_051_zps3be45755.jpg (http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/VID_20130817_231110_051_zps3be45755.mp4)

All buttoned up.
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130818_154549_408_zps4d34fc41.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130818_154549_408_zps4d34fc41.jpg.html)

After the wax (knocked the H off so I put it back on right after I took that pic):
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130818_190746_205_zps79b98f8d.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130818_190746_205_zps79b98f8d.jpg.html)

[danewilson77]

Looking good JR.

[Ryans323i]

Looks great! Nice lists of maintenance, mood, and DIYing.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2

[johnrando]

Thanks Ry, Dane!

[Johnmadd]

Looks great. What adjustment did you do to the splitters?

[johnrando]

Thanks JM. I was scraping on the bottom since I'm so low so we got them on tighter and gave them a little TLC - used epoxy to shore up the bottom where they scraped. Also the front top wasn't fully sealed to the bumper but now they are.

[Johnmadd]

Thanks JM. I was scraping on the bottom since I'm so low so we got them on tighter and gave them a little TLC - used epoxy to shore up the bottom where they scraped. Also the front top wasn't fully sealed to the bumper but now they are.

Did you guys simply push harder and then screw them on to fit better or did you use dap?

[johnrando]

Basically. Just pushed them in harder, and used Beta to help secure them. And, used it on the bottom too so that helped them seal/sit better.

[Johnmadd]

Basically. Just pushed them in harder, and used Beta to help secure them. And, used it on the bottom too so that helped them seal/sit better.

Cool.

[Vas]

Looks great.

[Avetiso]

Good werk, John! Black is looking good.

Sent from a junkyard via GS4.

[johnrando]

Thanks Vas, Dario.

[wsmeyer]

Need. More. Pics.

I didn't see the front with the new fog surrounds

[johnrando]

Yup, I realized that. I'll take today.

[johnrando]

After all the work over this weekend, I have to give my driving impressions and a pic of the c/f fog surrounds. So, I was at 16.5 mpg before the mods. Clearly the computer is adjusting as I'm at 10.5 mpg (actually went up to 11 today). But, who cares. When I drove off this morning I thought the Sprint Booster was on red, but it was only on green! The car has so much more pick up already, and it definitely pulls even harder at higher revs. It's WAY more quiet with the fan delete (I still don't full get how it's such a difference), and all in all, this thing is sweet! Can't wait for the VANOS to break in fully. Very happy so far. I'll post this exact info in the "what did you do for your bmw" too.

c/f fog light surrounds (thanks to William) to compliment the c/f splitter.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc481/johnrando/IMG_20130820_183745_993_zpsa2213433.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/johnrando/media/IMG_20130820_183745_993_zpsa2213433.jpg.html)

[Imola.ZHP]

"Fan delete mod" Did your car have a belt fan? Only an electric fan on my 2003, confused, why would your 2006 have a belt driven fan? Sedan vs Vert?

[danewilson77]

"Fan delete mod" Did your car have a belt fan? Only an electric fan on my 2003, confused, why would your 2006 have a belt driven fan? Sedan vs Vert?

Auto. Mechanical fan.

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S4

[johnrando]

The mechanical fan and electric fan are pulled and replaced with a single, more efficient electric fan.

[WOLFN8TR]

I didn't realize just how much work we did until I read your post John. No wonder I only got to see the beach for like 5 minutes. LoL...
So when I drove it the Sprint Booster was on Green? If so it ran really good!

[fredo]

I heard Rando locked the gate after the help arrived, and "misplaced" the key until everything was done. J/K ... good job, guys !

[johnrando]

Yup, wouldn't let Gary go home until done, lol. Yes, you drove with the SB on green. It already feels better now than that first drive. MPG is also already pushing 19 city (above the 16.5 I posted earlier today).

[WOLFN8TR]

Oh Wow, Nice! Good to hear John. I'm really curious what your mileage goes up to.

[Imola.ZHP]

The mechanical fan and electric fan are pulled and replaced with a single, more efficient electric fan.

Thanks for clarifying, auto vs manual makes more sense than sedan vs vert, lol.

[Avetiso]

Yup, wouldn't let Gary go home until done, lol. Yes, you drove with the SB on green. It already feels better now than that first drive. MPG is also already pushing 19 city (above the 16.5 I posted earlier today).
Wow. Interesting to see how much effect this maintenance has on your car, and it's so low mileage. Just drives home how important maintenance is. Good work!

[johnrando]

Thanks. :thumbsup

[az3579]

Like a boss, Randeaux.

[johnrando]

Thanks BP!