Cooling System Overhaul - Price Breakdown

[danewilson77]

So....I will compare the kit from ECSTuning, to buying the same parts...individually (But Genuine BMW), from ECSTuning. This can be done a million different ways. Feel free to help out and do you own "breakdown". Parts below are represented for a 2/2004 build date, MT, Sedan.

The ECSTuning Level II Kit > $368.33 Shipped
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Engine/Cooling/ES2063861/

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/Maintenance%20and%20Misc/ECSTuningLevelIIKit.jpg

Thread being built...be patient.

Parts Individually priced from ECSTuning > $420.71 Shipped.....which does not include an upgraded WP Pulley....but all parts are Genuine BMW.

1. Upper Radiator Hose > $25.91
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Search/17127510952/ES38318/

2. Lower Radiator Hose > $26.30
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Search/11531436408/ES24801/

3. Expansion Tank > $76.37
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Search/17117573781/ES38201/

4. AC Belt > $17.24
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Search/11287512762/ES21723/

5. Serp Belt > $28.27
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Search/11281706545/ES209727/

6. Temp Sensor (Aux Fan Switch) > $19.90
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Search/13621433077/ES34327/

7. Exp Tank Cap > $13.84
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Search/17111742231/ES37937/

8. Coolant > $18.84
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Search/BMW_Coolant/ES196290/

9. Water Pump > $93.12
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Search/11517527910/ES10751/

10. T-Stat > $82.39
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Search/11537509227/ES25078/

11. Level Sensor > $13.86
http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Search/17137553919/ES38492/

12. Bleed screw (Upper Rad Hose) > $4.67
http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/11537793373/ES25157/

[Hermes]

Thanks Dane!

[danewilson77]

So...in a nutshell...it saves you about $50 and you get an upgraded ECS WP pulley. Not that drastic of savings....but it is nice to buy a "kit".

[Newjack]

Just giving getbmwparts.com a shout out here. I went with this kit here (http://www.trademotion.com/partlocator/index.cfm?action=MorePartInfo&PartID=774527&siteid=214672&catalogid=4462) when I redid my cooling system, I bought the aluminum water pump pulley separate from ECS.

getbmwparts.com kit includes all OE parts just like the ECS kit except this version doesn't have belts. (Which was fine by me because I had just purchased Contitech belts to pass MD state inspection.)

Price for the kit is $325.00 - Also if you are local you can pick up the kit from getbmwparts for a minimal $3 fee, saving shipping costs.
http://www.trademotion.com/sfimages/214336/partImages/4462/SFPLImage137097.jpg

Individually priced parts from getbmwparts.com

Thermostat w/ housing/gasket (11537509227) - $90.18
Waterpump (11517527910) - $104.07
Upper radiator hose (17127510952) - $27.50
Lower radiator hose (11531436408) - $31.38
Expansion Tank (17117573781) -$78.70
Radiator Cap (17111742231) - $15.46
Engine drain plug crush ring (07119963200) - $0.38
Lower hose temp sensor (13621433077) - $21.12
1 gallon BMW antifreeze (82141467704) - $19.04

Grand Total - $387.83

[danewilson77]

Just giving getbmwparts.com a shout out here. I went with this kit here (http://www.trademotion.com/partlocator/index.cfm?action=MorePartInfo&PartID=774527&siteid =214672&catalogid=4462) when I redid my cooling system, I bought the aluminum water pump pulley separate from ECS.

getbmwparts.com kit includes all OEM parts just like the ECS kit except this version doesn't have belts. (Which was fine by be because I had just purchased Contitech belts to pass MD state inspection.)

Price for the kit is $325.00 - Also if you are local you can pick up the kit from getbmwparts for a minimal $3 fee, saving shipping costs.
http://www.trademotion.com/sfimages/214336/partImages/4462/SFPLImage137097.jpg

Now.... You just need to price out all of the parts from Tischer individually, and you'll be golden.

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[kayger12]

And via AutohausAZ for comparative purposes-- only issue is the expansion tank they offer is a Uro (non-oem I believe--who makes the oem tank?). Total shipped is $318.91, or about $50 cheaper than the ECS kit.

1)Upper rad hose $31.02 http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?sid=z0z1bfa1h4h5fc45uq0hyumz&partnumber=17127510952

2)Lower hose $25.26 http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?sid=z0z1bfa1h4h5fc45uq0hyumz&partnumber=11531436408

3) Exp tank (non-oem Uro) $37.76 http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?sid=z0z1bfa1h4h5fc45uq0hyumz&partnumber=17117573781

4)AC Belt $9.77 http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?sid=z0z1bfa1h4h5fc45uq0hyumz&partnumber=11287512762

5)Serp Belt $18.20 http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?sid=z0z1bfa1h4h5fc45uq0hyumz&partnumber=11281706545

6)Rad fan switch (temp sensor) $17.20 http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?sid=z0z1bfa1h4h5fc45uq0hyumz&partnumber=13621433077

7)Exp tank cap $10.82 http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?sid=z0z1bfa1h4h5fc45uq0hyumz&partnumber=17111742231

8)Coolant $24.94 http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?sid=z0z1bfa1h4h5fc45uq0hyumz&partnumber=82141467704

9)Water pump $60.70 http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?sid=z0z1bfa1h4h5fc45uq0hyumz&partnumber=11517527910

10) Thermostat $61.37 http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?sid=z0z1bfa1h4h5fc45uq0hyumz&partnumber=11537509227

11) Coolant level sensor $19.28 http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?sid=z0z1bfa1h4h5fc45uq0hyumz&partnumber=17137553919

12) Bleeder screw $2.59 http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?sid=z0z1bfa1h4h5fc45uq0hyumz&pn=W0133-1640416,

[Hermes]

So in my case both belts were recently changed when my WP failed and snapped my main belt, my T-stat was replaced a while before that. The hoses I will order separately from Samco and the WP will be the Stewart one. I can sell my "new to me" re-man OEM WP (any ideas what I can get for it) that has less than 1K on it now, maybe a few K by the time I get around to this.

From this list the parts I need are appx $150, Samco hoses will be about $200 since red is non-standard, Stewart pump is another $200... so about $550 in stuff for me to order. Maybe I should just change pulleys at the same time (more $). Projects seem to be my life! :facepalm

[cakM3]

Thanks guys :thumbsup This is great reference since I will be doing this once it begins to warm up around here...:)

[UdubBadger]

So which is recommended?

[danewilson77]

So which is recommended?

Lol. Depends.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

[UdubBadger]

well pick one for me, I need to order soon!

I get employee discount from BMW but if that kit is missing stuff that the others have am I screwing myself over?

[acontzhp]

well pick one for me, I need to order soon!

Yeah what he said


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[Newjack]

Just to point something out, the ECS tuning kit Dane posted includes OEM parts, the getbmwparts.com kit includes OE parts.

[danewilson77]

Just to point something out, the ECS tuning kit Dane posted includes OE parts, the getbmwparts.com kit includes OEM parts.

Yes? That is the way I decided to do my comparison. Like mentioned, you can compare many different way.

Data point: I ended up going with ECSTuning level 2 kit.

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[UdubBadger]

and why? and why not level 3?

[danewilson77]

and why? and why not level 3?

Because I did not plan to replace the radiator. That ended up being planned for me.

[UdubBadger]

ah ha. do you recommend it being replaced ever?

[aurelius]

Just to point something out, the ECS tuning kit Dane posted includes OE parts, the getbmwparts.com kit includes OEM parts.

Other way around. OE = original equipment = Genuine BMW Parts. OEM = original equipment manufacturer.

[Newjack]

Other way around. OE = original equipment = Genuine BMW Parts. OEM = original equipment manufacturer.

Why did I think it was the other way around?

Gingervolt + TT

[danewilson77]

ah ha. do you recommend it being replaced ever?

I would recommend between 100k-150k miles.

[strz0001]

I just did a cooling system refresh in March 2011. Saved some money with a BEHR expansion tank . Last week it burped some coolant from what looks like the large seal on the bottom. Now I get to swap that out and will be using a BMW factory tank. Just a data point to offer around what to chose when doing the refresh - penny smart, pound foolish comes to mind.

[kayger12]

ah ha. do you recommend it being replaced ever?

Mike Miller recommends 90K.

[aurelius]

I just did a cooling system refresh in March 2011. Saved some money with a BEHR expansion tank . Last week it burped some coolant from what looks like the large seal on the bottom. Now I get to swap that out and will be using a BMW factory tank. Just a data point to offer around what to chose when doing the refresh - penny smart, pound foolish comes to mind.

Tho let's all remember the OE/Original BMW E46 expansion tank isn't exactly a paragon of durability.

By contrast, I'm still running factory-installed coolant reservoirs in my 21 and 25 year old E30's.

ECS sells the Meyle tank for $50.

[UdubBadger]

I would recommend between 100k-150k miles.

well then if I'm at 90ish maybe I should just do it

[UdubBadger]

Mike Miller recommends 90K.
ah there it is

[Mtnman]

I just did a cooling system refresh in March 2011. Saved some money with a BEHR expansion tank . Last week it burped some coolant from what looks like the large seal on the bottom. Now I get to swap that out and will be using a BMW factory tank. Just a data point to offer around what to chose when doing the refresh - penny smart, pound foolish comes to mind.

I also had a strange leak last week in my new expansion tank, and cant figure out where, but am leaning towards one of the lower ports. Interesting. I think I also got Behr, who is a reputable manufacturer of OE BMW goods. Not that the original tank is that well made.....Let me know when you isolated the issue.

[strz0001]

I also had a strange leak last week in my new expansion tank, and cant figure out where, but am leaning towards one of the lower ports. Interesting. I think I also got Behr, who is a reputable manufacturer of OE BMW goods. Not that the original tank is that well made.....Let me know when you isolated the issue.

I think the issue is on the side of the BEHR tank box where it says "made in china" ;). A genuwine BMW replacement is on the way, I'll do some investigating after the install and report back.

[danewilson77]

I've heard only good, about Behr?

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[llll1l1ll]

Does anyone have a general idea of the cost of labor at a shop for this job? I can't imagine it's more than 3-4 hours.

[GMATT]

I paid $300.00 for a complete cooling system refresh. Radiator, waterpump. expansion tank, plastic housing for expansion tank, cap, hoses all new pulleys and tensioners. Only item not replaced were belts, which were new 3k ago. I was also able to get all oem parts (BMW)

[Pip]

^^Where did you find this smoking' deal?


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[GMATT]

Sorry....that was labor! My total was $1050.00 :) and this was with a Behr Radiator

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[Pip]

Sorry....that was labor! My total was $1050.00 :)

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At first I thought you got some mafia rates :mafia lol.

[llll1l1ll]

Hahaha that makes more sense.

300 for labor isn't bad. So, one could estimate about 650 for the whole job (parts and labor)?

[aurelius]

Parts Individually priced from ECSTuning > $420.71 Shipped[/B].....which does not include an upgraded WP Pulley....but all parts are Genuine BMW.


So the Level 2 kit using OE/BMW parts is $30 more than buying the same parts individually and does not include shipping? That's some nutty pricing, I tell you.

[UdubBadger]

i just said fuck it... Imma ball out
3125

[danewilson77]

So the Level 2 kit using OE/BMW parts is $30 more than buying the same parts individually and does not include shipping. That's some nutty pricing, I tell you.

No... That's not what it says.

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[danewilson77]

i just said fuck it... Imma ball out
3125

Nice. That'll work.

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

[acontzhp]

i just said fuck it... Imma ball out
3125

I think I'm about to do the same.

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[UdubBadger]

leaving my car at IND while I'm in San Diego so it'll ALL be done while I'm gone and I'll come home to a car with a few other goodies on it too ;)

[acontzhp]

leaving my car at IND while I'm in San Diego so it'll ALL be done while I'm gone and I'll come home to a car with a few other goodies on it too ;)

Good shit :thumbup:

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[Smolck]

Here is the best kit and place to buy parts, hands down. I buy from Max for my customer cars and my own as well. You won't find better prices or faster shipping anywhere.

http://www.oembimmerparts.com/catalog/item/4237238/7621537.htm
OR
http://www.oembimmerparts.com/catalog/item/4237238/7266754.htm

[UdubBadger]

damn that is a good price but looks like it still doesn't have as much as ECS stage III :dunno

[Mtnman]

Mods/Marcus, we might want to look into having that place as a sit sponsor. prices look as good or better than autohausaz....and they seem to have a lot going on there at first glance.

[acontzhp]

i just sent oembimmerparts.com an email requesting a quote for a kit as comprehensive as the ECS stage III kit. hopefully they'll get back to me

[Smolck]

i just sent oembimmerparts.com an email requesting a quote for a kit as comprehensive as the ECS stage III kit. hopefully they'll get back to me

They will. Max is awesome.

Also, that level 3 kit comes with a lot of stuff you don't need. Especially the tensioner. ZHP will have hydraulic which rarely fails, all you need is the pulley which will save you like $200.

[UdubBadger]

too late now, already ordered from ECS

Oh well... :dunno

[acontzhp]

This is the response i received from max. I'm just awaiting the price quote. Great service.......




Angel, If you a second look over the list below to see if it is what you were looking for, I can make changes to some items that are available in different brands, In cases where the oem part was not used (level sensor) it is only due to the fact that the aftermarket one works exactly the same with no issues but is a bit cheaper, That being said I can make any change you need to just let me know and I will get it priced out. From what I am seeing though it will be hundreds of dollars cheaper then the one you send me in the link.

OEM BEHR Radiator With Drain Plug
Water-Pump with metal impeller by Graf #11517527910
Aluminum Water Pump Pulley By Uro
OEM Thermostat by Wahler/Behr #11537509227
OEM Automatic Transmission Thermostat #17 11 1 437 362
OEM Upper Radiator Hose #17127510952
OEM Lower Radiator Hose #11531436408
OEM Expansion Tank #17117573781
OEM Expansion Tank Cap #17111742231
OEM Expansion Tank Clip #17 11 1 707 777
Coolant Level Sensor By Uro/Meyle # 17 13 7 553 919
OEM Drain Plug Washer # 07 11 9 963 200
OEM Auxiliary cooling fan switch with seal #13621433077
OEM 1 Gallon of BMW antifreeze #82141467704
OEM Alternator/Waterpump Drive Belt
OEM A/C Belt
OEM Hydraulic Tensioner Update Kit (Alternator/Water Pump)
OEM A/C Belt Tensioner Assembly
OEM Idler Pulley
All Seals & Gaskets

[Smolck]

too late now, already ordered from ECS

Oh well... :dunno

Too bad. You missed out on the best service and fastest shipping you will ever get from a parts supplier.

[acontzhp]

http://www.oembimmerparts.com/catalog/item/4237238/9170244.htm
just bought it. price is good and includes everything i can think of. shipping was only $7.

[acontzhp]

Too bad. You missed out on the best service and fastest shipping you will ever get from a parts supplier.

This couldn't be anymore true, i received the following email after my purchase. The service from Max was Amazing


Angel, Thank you for the order below is some more info for you

Did not charge you shipping so your order 6.99 less
Sent it all overnight so it will be there tomorrow.
Added a new air filter at no charge

On a side note, Keep in mind that most if not all the mounting nuts and bolts for the cooling system are very very low torque ratings so make sure to not over tighten the water pump or t stat bolts etc. E46 cooling systems are a bear when it comes to bleeding the air out so make sure to bleed the system a few times after the install before you drive off for a long trip, If you have no heater its due to air still in the system.

Thank you again.

[UdubBadger]

awesome

[aurelius]

it even includes the OEM Auxiliary cooling fan switch with seal(cooling temp sensor) #13621433077. The Ecs kit does not

This is not necessarily a plug for ECS but in the name of accurate info, all 3 versions of their cooling kits do indeed include the fan switch.

[acontzhp]

This is not necessarily a plug for ECS but in the name of accurate info, all 3 versions of their cooling kits do indeed include the fan switch.

You sir are correct. My mistake

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[L0veZHP]

"First, get a set of Evo-Sport Under-Drive Pulleys. You'll also probably want to get a Stewart Water Pump (less parasitic drag, 20% more flow, lifetime warranty; TOP of the line!) and just fix up your cooling system now. Install the pulleys, the water pump, and get a new thermostat and housing, expansion tank, radiator hoses, and flush the coolant and put new BMW Coolant in. This should give up to 13hp on your car.
You will also notice an increase in throttle response, thanks to the under-drive pulleys." Retrived from: nleksan http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=625874

Not sure about the pulleys but the water pump is definitely worth it. I've heard so much about this pump all over e46fanatics and everywhere I go.. Theses pump are actually really worth the $195.00 they cost.. But the kit already brings a Pump.. But that pump should be good for another 100k miles no? but remember "Less parasitic drag, 20% more flow, lifetime warranty; TOP of the line!" lol (I have one of these pumps myself)

just trying to help

http://www.turnermotorsport.com/image/engine/engine_stewart_pump_lg.jpg

[Newjack]

I have nothing bad to say about the Stewart pump, but unless your car uses FI, it's probably not worth it. OE water pumps are known to last at least 80k-100k no problem. Unless you have money to throw around I would just go with the OE pump.

[L0veZHP]

I have nothing bad to say about the Stewart pump, but unless your car uses FI, it's probably not worth it. OE water pumps are known to last at least 80k-100k no problem. Unless you have money to throw around I would just go with the OE pump.

+1 (ima go FI by the end of this year)

[webster]

i just bought a stewart water pump. the OE pump was already over $100, so i figured a lifetime warranty and better engineering was worth the extra bucks.

[RVAzhp]

while i have no records from the previous owner. i suspect my car had lots of this stuff replaced when it was CPO'd. i'm at 130k and never had a coolant issue. although after i do the clutch this will be on the agenda.

[llll1l1ll]

It could be that you are still on stock cooling components.

[VaTechZHP]

I'm also doing this overhaul, but I went with the BimmerWorld overhaul kit. I ended up getting new belts and rollers to supplement the system and it came out to be a tick under $600 shipped.

http://store.bimmerworld.com/e46-3-series-non-m-cooling-system-overhaul-kit-p1454.aspx

I think this should do fine, my car has been running cold recently and warming back up to normal temps which I think is a sign the thermostat is on its way out...I better get on this soon!