What did you do for your ZHP/ BMW / MINI today? #2

[das boots]

That's the plan, I'm gonna clean everything so I can see if I have any leaks (which I probably do)



Have you done CCV yet?


Affirmative.

[Johal E32]

Well, I have a new thermostat, throttle cable, parking brake shoes and a polish/seal to do over Christmas time. Should be fun

[JupiterBMW]

Well, I didn't do anything for my BMW today, but I did get off the ship this evening to hang out with John (rando) and William. Always great to see some of my Mafia family and of course, ride in a ZHP... Makes me miss my car even more!

For those of you in SoCal, I apologize if I/we didn't contact you, it was last minute and I honestly didn't even think Rando was coming out, that was unexpected! But, I might get off the ship again on Friday, so perhaps we can all meet up then...

[Lanister]

Any plans to stop by SF Jon?

[JupiterBMW]

Probably won't happen this time Giya... I don't make it up there very often, and our ship VERY rarely goes into the bay. We have in the past, but not for a year or two now...

If I do, I'll be sure to post! I've met a few of the SF area Mafia guys already, would love to see them again and meet you and others as well!

[Lanister]

10-4 :)

[kayger12]

Well, I didn't do anything for my BMW today, but I did get off the ship this evening to hang out with John (rando) and William. Always great to see some of my Mafia family and of course, ride in a ZHP... Makes me miss my car even more!

For those of you in SoCal, I apologize if I/we didn't contact you, it was last minute and I honestly didn't even think Rando was coming out, that was unexpected! But, I might get off the ship again on Friday, so perhaps we can all meet up then...

:thumbsup

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[wsmeyer]

Getting her washed the old fashioned way

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/20/ga4ytuha.jpg

[johnrando]

I should pull mine out of the garage and get a quick free rinse. Looks like it stopped for now though.

[derbo]

I bought the Turner bleeder bottle with a check valve

sent from Moto X Dev Edition

[Lanister]

I bought the Turner bleeder bottle with a check valve

sent from Moto X Dev Edition

You like?

[derbo]

You like?

Haven't used it yet. Car will be jacked in the air maybe next week.

[kayger12]

Took the drivers rear tire to STS Tire today.

They found a nail wedged between the treads. $20 and we're all plugged up and ready to go.

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[QC_ZHP]

I bought the Turner bleeder bottle with a check valve

sent from Moto X Dev Edition

Nice.

I finally hit 81k and was able to install the coded Euro LCM I got from Alexandre. Can't wait to start on my angel eye project

[johnrando]

Took the drivers rear tire to STS Tire today.

They found a nail wedged between the treads. $20 and we're all plugged up and ready to go.

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

Nail bad. Resolved. Good. :thumbsup

[Hermes]

Getting her washed the old fashioned way

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/20/ga4ytuha.jpg

Same here... it just hailed actually

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/20/vuqygeve.jpg

[kayger12]

Nail bad. Resolved. Good. :thumbsup

:)

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[danewilson77]

Good news KG.

Bad news JP.

[das boots]

Same here... it just hailed actually

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/20/vuqygeve.jpg

I swung through Ramona on my way to and from Warner Springs........It was cold and snowing. I was caught unprepared from the cold. I was shivering. All I brought was thin jacket. It was sunny down by the coastal inland.

[Hermes]

Yeah, I've been freezing my ass off all day. Doesn't help that my jacket is not waterproof and I've just been soaked since this morning

[fredo]

Took the Mini to Discount Tire to top off the tires. They were between 24-27 PSI and they need to be 33 PSI. Oh, and the spare was at 40 PSI and needs to be 61 PSI.

[stephenkirsh]

11392

Was sitting at a stop light when I felt a good sized pop.

Long story short, my expansion tank exploded. EXPLODED. Coolant just drained from the car.

Had it towed to my mechanic.

I had a date set up in January to redo my entire cooling system. I just missed it by 3 weeks and now I have to pay a lot more on part of it.

Oh well. I also planned to have my tranny serviced, so I'll be spending some coin today.

[fredo]

That's bad news, Stephen. Good thing you were already stopped. Imagine if it happened in the middle of a highway, it could be worse.

[stephenkirsh]

Yea. It's a good thing I was stopped. If I was driving I might have just ignored it as a bump since the roads in my area are so bad.

I'm just surprised how it EXPLODED!

[johnrando]

Wow, that's crazy! Bummer on the timing date wise, but good timing that you were stopped as you said. GL w/repairs.

[ELCID86]

Sorry it happened, but glad you were in a decent location. How many miles/years on the ET?

[stephenkirsh]

Looks original. No service records with the car. That's why I planned on doing the whole cooling system in January. Now it's half n half :(

[echo46]

What was the mileage?

[stephenkirsh]

Bought it at 115k in early october. It's at 116k now. Long over due.

[echo46]

Yes, long long over due. Glad the thing didn't overheat on you.

[stephenkirsh]

Yea I was turning the engine off at stop lights on the way to the gas station just in case. It was only about 1 mile, but it felt like forever.

When I got to the gas station I bought a thing of coolant. It poured straight through the car. I figured it was the bottom of the expansion tank. That's when I called AAA.

Parked it at my mechanic over night. He called me saying there was a pool under it in the morning, so it kept dripping all night.

[kayger12]

Finished giving my ZHP her Christmas love for this year.

Resolved the very minor issues with the rear bumper that have been there since I bought her (story for another thread) and got her new plates and cf plate cover mounted.

Merry Christmas.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/21/5u3u5e3e.jpg

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[danewilson77]

Wow. That sucks.

Good thing it didn't leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere!

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[stephenkirsh]

Wow. That sucks.

Good thing it didn't leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere!

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH



Indeed :(

Kayger, I thought about getting that EXACT license plate but in CA!

[cakM3]

I washed off my ZHP this morning to take off the last two week's worth of grit and salt. Yeah, my daily is grungy again but at least I can hand wash her tomorrow ;)


Sent from my DROID RAZR MAXX HD using Tapatalk 2

[johnrando]

Finished giving my ZHP her Christmas love for this year.

Resolved the very minor issues with the rear bumper that have been there since I bought her (story for another thread) and got her new plates and cf plate cover mounted.

Merry Christmas.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/21/5u3u5e3e.jpg

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

Since you've had it? This is a good thing. In for the story sometime.

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[kayger12]

Since you've had it? This is a good thing. In for the story sometime.

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

Yeah, she was originally a New York City car. She had two little indents in the rear bumper from what looked like license plate bolts (typical city parking hit).

They weren't terribly obvious, but I knew they were there.

I'll get a thread going later tonight.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4

[danewilson77]

Looks perfect KG.

My buns have had the pleasure of adorning this zhp, and to follow, these buns would say this is a very nearly perfect BMW.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[kayger12]

Looks perfect KG.

My buns have had the pleasure of adorning this zhp, and to follow, these buns would say this is a very nearly perfect BMW.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

Thanks brother.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4

[Pip]

CF diffuser looks sweet Keith.

[Pip]

New engine emblem.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/21/ugysu7yn.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/21/ugybadev.jpg

[danewilson77]

:drool

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Pip]

Just installed the clutch stop. I'll see how I like it later tonight.

[Avetiso]

Nice. Finally complete.

[Hermes]

11392

Was sitting at a stop light when I felt a good sized pop.

Long story short, my expansion tank exploded. EXPLODED. Coolant just drained from the car.

Had it towed to my mechanic.

I had a date set up in January to redo my entire cooling system. I just missed it by 3 weeks and now I have to pay a lot more on part of it.

Oh well. I also planned to have my tranny serviced, so I'll be spending some coin today.

That sucks, make sure you get the updated pn tank. Are you gonna do a Stewart pump also?


Finished giving my ZHP her Christmas love for this year.

Resolved the very minor issues with the rear bumper that have been there since I bought her (story for another thread) and got her new plates and cf plate cover mounted.

Merry Christmas.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/21/5u3u5e3e.jpg

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

Nice!


Indeed :(

Kayger, I thought about getting that EXACT license plate but in CA!

I thought about that too at one point... but didn't Mark have that as his old plate? I think his car was built within a month of mine, so 05 as well...


New engine emblem.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/21/ugysu7yn.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/21/ugybadev.jpg

I want me some ITB's...

I also want VANOS delete and a throttle cable... :(


Nice. Finally complete.

Nope, CSL airbox and then you can call it complete :P

[Vas]

Installed new ziza led lighting. looks nice and crisp now.

[Pip]

JP you buying?

I'd love that but it is out of the budget for now.

[kayger12]

CF diffuser looks sweet Keith.

Thanks!

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4

[kayger12]

New engine emblem.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/21/ugysu7yn.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/21/ugybadev.jpg

:like

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4

[Hermes]

JP you buying?

I'd love that but it is out of the budget for now.

Ha! Let me finish fixing my E21 and then we'll talk ;)

Edit: like you, I have plans that are currently out of the budget. I want a Z3 all aluminum M52B28 swap for my E21, and a 6 speed, and an E30 medium case LSD... maybe by summertime I can buy a parts car and the other crap I need

[Hermes]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/21/y5y4esa4.jpg
Throttle Body

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/21/yzu9a7av.jpg
Air Fuel Meter

oh yeah, I bought an early E21 all metal radiator today. I'll never have to worry about heat cycles on the plastic end caps with that!

[Hermes]

Screw it, I'm all in...

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c288/jhermes/320i/5B01BC06-EDD1-4ABD-B348-D7CC6E8FDD36.jpg

[Lanister]

Re-installed the re-manufactured driveshaft and replaced the tranny mounts with ///M alternatives. Car feels awesome. No more vibration issues.

[328ioc]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/21/y5y4esa4.jpg
Throttle Body

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/21/yzu9a7av.jpg
Air Fuel Meter

oh yeah, I bought an early E21 all metal radiator today. I'll never have to worry about heat cycles on the plastic end caps with that!

That looks like such a pita.

Why Noe just throw some side drafts on and be done with it. Lol

Yes I do know that they are expensive.

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[Hermes]

That looks like such a pita.

Why Noe just throw some side drafts on and be done with it. Lol

Yes I do know that they are expensive.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

I would've done that already. Can't go backwards in technology when you live in California :(

(If you see my post in the "which mod would you do first" thread you will see more of why I hate the Air Resource Board)

[das boots]

Screw it, I'm all in...

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c288/jhermes/320i/5B01BC06-EDD1-4ABD-B348-D7CC6E8FDD36.jpg

How's the condition of the engine mounts?

[Hermes]

Not too bad, but I'll probably change them anyways

I'm thinking these urethane ones from Euro Metric (he's an E21 guy on the forums)

http://images.ecwid.com/images/683006/59830324.jpg

vs

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/22/apa5a7aj.jpg
driver

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/22/a8yzu4eq.jpg
passenger

[328ioc]

I would've done that already. Can't go backwards in technology when you live in California :(

(If you see my post in the "which mod would you do first" thread you will see more of why I hate the Air Resource Board)

Ahh that makes sense.

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[Lanister]

Picked up an aluminium 2 ton jack from Harbor Freight Tools store. So stoked. 3-1/4 in to 18-1/2 in lift range is hard to beat.

[az3579]

This was actually yesterday:
Swapped back to stock brake calipers and bled the front two lines. Also rinsed (at high pressure) the massive amounts of salty shit on the car from the past two snow fallings we had. :shifty

[Johal E32]

Changed tstat. I expect mpg to go up, heater to work faster (it takes a long time to heat up LOL), engine to finally warm up, and the idle should change rpms.

[stephenkirsh]

That sucks, make sure you get the updated pn tank. Are you gonna do a Stewart pump ?

Not sure yet. Should I? What's the advantages? How do they play with under drive pullys? (Haven't installed them yet but I will in the future.)

[stephenkirsh]

11392

Was sitting at a stop light when I felt a good sized pop.

Long story short, my expansion tank exploded. EXPLODED. Coolant just drained from the car.

Had it towed to my mechanic.

I had a date set up in January to redo my entire cooling system. I just missed it by 3 weeks and now I have to pay a lot more on part of it.

Oh well. I also planned to have my tranny serviced, so I'll be spending some coin today.


11404

Here's my tank. A little underwhelming compared to what the explosion felt like.

[danewilson77]

Mine was in a slightly different spot, though it was also longitudinal.

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/Maintenance%20and%20Misc/DSC02730sz1200-2.jpg (http://s1015.photobucket.com/user/nicee46/media/Maintenance%20and%20Misc/DSC02730sz1200-2.jpg.html)

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[stephenkirsh]

Did you fill up w/ some sam adams? :P

What's the yellow on there?

[Hermes]

Not sure yet. Should I? What's the advantages? How do they play with under drive pullys? (Haven't installed them yet but I will in the future.)

I have a Stewart pump and Turner pulleys, they work fine together.

A Stewart pump has a metal vs composite impeller, and also is designed to be 20% more efficient than the stock pump. Even with underdrive pulleys it is still more efficient than the stock pump

[Imola.ZHP]

Left her in the garage (yesterday) and hopped a plane direct to Tampa...

https://scontent-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/p480x480/1525760_436745816453339_967946494_n.jpg

[danewilson77]

Beautiful

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Johal E32]

Any recommendations on some pulley kits?

Turner? Evosport?

http://store.vacmotorsports.com/vac---s50-s52-m50--m52-underdrive-power-pulley-set-p1402.aspx

This really appeals to me but its for E36 m52, I have m52tu.. Would it still work?

[cakM3]

11404

Here's my tank. A little underwhelming compared to what the explosion felt like.


Mine was in a slightly different spot, though it was also longitudinal.

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/Maintenance%20and%20Misc/DSC02730sz1200-2.jpg (http://s1015.photobucket.com/user/nicee46/media/Maintenance%20and%20Misc/DSC02730sz1200-2.jpg.html)

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

Damn guys......

[alexandre]

Replaced rear shocks, mounts and hardware; replaced RTAB's and installed limiters; replaced 2 front tires with bubbles (FML :facepalm); and had a professional alignment done.

[Vas]

bmw performance grills installed

[Lanister]

Before and after shots request

[Vas]

Before and after shots request

I might snap a picture with them installed tomorrow. But i personally like the gloss grills better.

[Lanister]

Are performance grills mate black?

[Vas]

Are performance grills mate black?

They are gloss black. I had some cheap mattes ones on the car when i bought it

[Lanister]

Oh I see. Yeah the extra bit of shine makes it look right. Sounds like yours got plasti-dipped :)

[Pip]

Didn't happen today, but thought I'd post some night pics of the M5 knob. Perfect color to make the OEM amber...guess it is OEM so that makes sense.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/24/qurapede.jpg

[Avetiso]

Didn't happen today, but thought I'd post some night pics of the M5 knob. Perfect color to make the OEM amber...guess it is OEM so that makes sense.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/24/qurapede.jpg
That looks great, Sean. How are you liking the new shift lever?

[johnrando]

I used Turner w/ no issues. They don't make much of a diff but the engine does feel 'lighter' on acceleration if that makes sense.

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[Hermes]

Any recommendations on some pulley kits?

Turner? Evosport?

http://store.vacmotorsports.com/vac---s50-s52-m50--m52-underdrive-power-pulley-set-p1402.aspx

This really appeals to me but its for E36 m52, I have m52tu.. Would it still work?

I'm sure they still work for the Tech Update engine

[oclvframe]

I installed a Dynavin D99+ in my 'vert this past weekend. Install went ok with a few discoveries of trim issues along the way which made the install take longer than I had hoped. Plus, running that ridiculously long cable from front to back (since I already had factory nav) was crazy. I ended up coming through on the driver's side, passing to the passenger side in front of the rear seats, then running forward under the door sills. I had hoped to bring it forward on the driver's side but coming up on the driver's kick plate (in the footwell) was not gonna be pretty.

So far, I am not thrilled about some of the odd functionality of this unit. Time will tell on how much I will really love it.

-r

[echo46]

Thorough wash and air dry of the 1999 E36M. I'm getting some light knocking from shifter area when I first start out. I'm thinking either Center Mount Bearing or Guilbo. I got a pretty good look at the Guilbo and it looks good so maybe CMB or CV joints?

[MrMaico]

11404

Here's my tank. A little underwhelming compared to what the explosion felt like.

Damn! That looks like a good reason to invest in the GAS low pressure ET cap.

http://germanautosolutions.com/bmw_solutions/cooling_system/12_bar_coolant_cap/product_bmw_12_bar_cap.php

EDIT: I just noticed they are backordered. :(


Left her in the garage (yesterday) and hopped a plane direct to Tampa...

https://scontent-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/p480x480/1525760_436745816453339_967946494_n.jpg

I'm jealous! It was -31 here yesterday morning. It's supposed to be about 60 degrees warmer today. Needless to say, my ZHP is tucked away in the garage.

Barry

[BavarianZHP]

Damn! That looks like a good reason to invest in the GAS low pressure ET cap.

http://germanautosolutions.com/bmw_solutions/cooling_system/12_bar_coolant_cap/product_bmw_12_bar_cap.php

EDIT: I just noticed they are backordered. :(



I'm jealous! It was -31 here yesterday morning. It's supposed to be about 60 degrees warmer today. Needless to say, my ZHP is tucked away in the garage.

Barry

I'm still undecided on the GAS cap. I know it is much more likely to prevent a catastrophic failure of the expansion tank, but ever since the install I've been losing small amounts of coolant. My coolant runs from max level to min level in a few months (3-4), so I find myself adding a little every now and then. Before I never even had to add a drop. I can't find a leak anywhere. I believe it must be venting out during high pressure so i may put on the OEM one and monitor it some more.

[328ioc]

I'm still undecided on the GAS cap. I know it is much more likely to prevent a catastrophic failure of the expansion tank, but ever since the install I've been losing small amounts of coolant. My coolant runs from max level to min level in a few months (3-4), so I find myself adding a little every now and then. Before I never even had to add a drop. I can't find a leak anywhere. I believe it must be venting out during high pressure so i may put on the OEM one and monitor it some more.

Mine seems to lose a very small amount as well.

I can't find a leak but every once and a while I can smell it.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[stephenkirsh]

The OEM caps are designed to leak a bit under high pressure, so this cap probably just lowers the threshold? Seems like a top up every 4 months would be normal.

[kayger12]

The OEM caps are designed to leak a bit under high pressure, so this cap probably just lowers the threshold? Seems like a top up every 4 months would be normal.

My understanding is that you should never really have to top off coolant, and certainly not every 4 months. It's a closed system. There shouldn't be any appreciative fluid loss unless there's a leak.

I was never sold on the GAS cap. BMW engineers picked the higher-pressure cap for a reason.

[MrMaico]

I'm still undecided on the GAS cap. I know it is much more likely to prevent a catastrophic failure of the expansion tank, but ever since the install I've been losing small amounts of coolant. My coolant runs from max level to min level in a few months (3-4), so I find myself adding a little every now and then. Before I never even had to add a drop. I can't find a leak anywhere. I believe it must be venting out during high pressure so i may put on the OEM one and monitor it some more.


Mine seems to lose a very small amount as well.

I can't find a leak but every once and a while I can smell it.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

Hmmm.....Thanks for the first hand info guys. I've been going back and forth about getting one myself. I can't help but wonder if there might be some reason no one knows about for BMW to have used such a high pressure OE cap.

I always have used a bit of coolant myself. Not a lot, maybe 3 or 4 ounces a few times a year and I don't see any evidence of a leak either. I'd be interested to see if you find a difference if/when you try going back to the stock cap.

I'll probably just order one when they're back in stock and see if I notice any difference in my coolant temps.

[Hermes]

I'm with Keith and was never comfortable with a lower pressure cap. I just bought a new factory one when I did my cooling system

[BavarianZHP]

My understanding is that you should never really have to top off coolant, and certainly not every 4 months. It's a closed system. There shouldn't be any appreciative fluid loss unless there's a leak.

I was never sold on the GAS cap. BMW engineers picked the higher-pressure cap for a reason.


Exactly. I even see topping it off every 3-4 months an early sign of something going wrong with the cooling system. I haven't limited it to the GAS cap yet though, it could be something else. The GAS cap does have a lower pressure release threshold - but that threshold should still never be reached in normal operating conditions so it should still seal 100%. I'll switch the caps and monitor tomorrow.

[Johal E32]

My understanding is that you should never really have to top off coolant, and certainly not every 4 months. It's a closed system. There shouldn't be any appreciative fluid loss unless there's a leak.

I was never sold on the GAS cap. BMW engineers picked the higher-pressure cap for a reason.

yep.

No need to top up coolant, thats bad. dont see the need for GAS cap either,..

Back on topic. I bought some style 44's for the car.

[kayger12]

Exactly. I even see topping it off every 3-4 months an early sign of something going wrong with the cooling system. I haven't limited it to the GAS cap yet though, it could be something else. The GAS cap does have a lower pressure release threshold - but that threshold should still never be reached in normal operating conditions so it should still seal 100%. I'll switch the caps and monitor tomorrow.

Yeah, water pump weep hole or the thermostat housing would be my first guesses.

I never had to top off my first E46 or the ZHP unless I had a problem somewhere.

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

[danewilson77]

But it adds 5Hp (the red one)

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Avetiso]

While I respect the engineers at BMW, they have made plenty of mistakes on the E46 that owners must rectify (VANOS, DISA, CCV,); enough for me to doubt them. I'm sure 2.0 bar is a good pressure for the cooling system, but I'm also sure they didn't plan for expansion tanks to detonate and for the entire cooling system to become a regular maintenance item. The G.A.S. kit is an adaptation to the weak E46 cooling system, in my view.

I bought one. I feel better about it, but time will tell if it ever saves me anything. It was time, though, because I saw white deposits around the top of my tank when I removed my old cap, which was apparently leaking.

[trancenation]

Gave the 02 a nice wash.http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/25/a9yty7eh.jpg


-Jay

[Lanister]

Picked up some maguire ultimate rubbing compound and quik wax. Time to shine it up and protect it from the elements.

[das boots]

Am I reading this correctly that some of you are using or will use the G.A.S. kit so as to protect the cooling system specially the expansion tank? How so? Please explain on protecting the cooling parts?

[danewilson77]

This is the read. If it's bullshit, than I am a sucker.

http://germanautosolutions.com/bmw_solutions/cooling_system/12_bar_coolant_cap/product_bmw_12_bar_cap.php

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Hermes]

Gave the 02 a nice wash.http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/25/a9yty7eh.jpg


-Jay

Beautiful. Now we just need to find you some early bumpers ;)

[stephenkirsh]

While I respect the engineers at BMW, they have made plenty of mistakes on the E46 that owners must rectify (VANOS, DISA, CCV,); enough for me to doubt them. I'm sure 2.0 bar is a good pressure for the cooling system, but I'm also sure they didn't plan for expansion tanks to detonate and for the entire cooling system to become a regular maintenance item. The G.A.S. kit is an adaptation to the weak E46 cooling system, in my view.

Exactly. The "engineers know best" thing is BS because there's so many issues with the car, any car. Rear sub frame mounts; early e46s and their control arms; Half the cooling system and things listed by Avesto, etc.

[stephenkirsh]

My understanding is that you should never really have to top off coolant, and certainly not every 4 months. It's a closed system. There shouldn't be any appreciative fluid loss unless there's a leak.

I was never sold on the GAS cap. BMW engineers picked the higher-pressure cap for a reason.

Every E46 my family has had, hada bit of leak by the valve cap. Isn't that the ENTIRE POINT of the valve cap? I've been told by two different BMW shops that it's normal.

My 325 would get it, even after the entire cooling system was redone.

Top up was always very minimal and far apart, but it was indeed there.

[Hermes]

Listen, the issues that we now complain about are because BMW was forced to compete with Lexus/Acura/Infiniti. We no longer lived in the days of the E30 overengineering. Hell, the plastic cooling system parts started in the late 70's and I just managed to find an early model all metal radiator for my E21.

These issues were caused because the cars were built cheap enough to be priced well and to live 60k miles, not stay on the road forever like the older cars will.

Even with a lower pressure cap it does not solve all coolant system issues. IMHO a Stewart pump will probably do more for you than a low pressure relief cap on your expansion tank. If your coolant is hot enough for you to need it to release pressure you probably have bigger issues with the system

Edit: there are 2 reasons why these tanks seem to fail, aftermarket ones seem to be of cheap quality, and OE ones are old/heat cycled and brittle. A good new BMW tank should last you appx 6-7 years, which is the point that the newest E46 is at the moment. We all need expansion tanks at this point no matter how low the mileage on said car may be

[kayger12]

Exactly. The "engineers know best" thing is BS because there's so many issues with the car, any car. Rear sub frame mounts; early e46s and their control arms; Half the cooling system and things listed by Avesto, etc.

Yeah, you're right, BMW engineers are terrible. :shift

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4

[danewilson77]

Exactly. The "engineers know best" thing is BS because there's so many issues with the car, any car. Rear sub frame mounts; early e46s and their control arms; Half the cooling system and things listed by Avesto, etc.


Yeah, you're right, BMW engineers are terrible. :shift

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4

I think they are very good at engineering a car to last a specified amount of time.

I think they overlooked the vanos piston rings, and ZKW bowls.

Everything else lasts quite significantly.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[kayger12]

I think they are very good at engineering a car to last a specified amount of time.

I think they overlooked the vanos piston rings, and ZKW bowls.

Everything else lasts quite significantly.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

I think most of the stuff that drives us nuts with these cars are decisions that are made later in the process as cost saving measures.

The vanos unit is engineering genius. The cheap seals that fail so quickly are probably much more attributable to the bean counters than the engineers.

Same with the cheap plastic parts that fail all over the place. Same with those miserable ZKW bowls.

When it comes to design concept, however, their engineering is generally very good.


Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4

[danewilson77]

Agree KG.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[kayger12]

Listen, the issues that we now complain about are because BMW was forced to compete with Lexus/Acura/Infiniti. We no longer lived in the days of the E30 overengineering. Hell, the plastic cooling system parts started in the late 70's and I just managed to find an early model all metal radiator for my E21.

These issues were caused because the cars were built cheap enough to be priced well and to live 60k miles, not stay on the road forever like the older cars will.

Even with a lower pressure cap it does not solve all coolant system issues. IMHO a Stewart pump will probably do more for you than a low pressure relief cap on your expansion tank. If your coolant is hot enough for you to need it to release pressure you probably have bigger issues with the system

Edit: there are 2 reasons why these tanks seem to fail, aftermarket ones seem to be of cheap quality, and OE ones are old/heat cycled and brittle. A good new BMW tank should last you appx 6-7 years, which is the point that the newest E46 is at the moment. We all need expansion tanks at this point no matter how low the mileage on said car may be

This

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4

[stephenkirsh]

All I'm saying is that the accountants got involved on the e46, and combined with the fact that engineers aren't perfect, there are places on an otherwise perfect car that aren't perfect. I don't think there's anything wrong with that.

[danewilson77]

Ok. Nothing wrong at all.

It's not a toy, it's a Droid > Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Hermes]

All I'm saying is that the accountants got involved on the e46, and combined with the fact that engineers aren't perfect, there are places on an otherwise perfect car that aren't perfect. I don't think there's anything wrong with that.

BMW engineering was NEVER perfect. The front suspension geometry on the E21 is the perfect example. Supposedly all the engineers that designed that suspension were promptly fired before they could design another car

Also, the "Ultimate Driving Machine" refers to one car in particular and only later was used as a marketing term by the sales staff

This is the said car(s) that earned that moniker:

http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-1940-1949/1940-BMW-328-at-Mille-Miglia-Munich-Parade-1280x960.jpg

[LivesNearCostco]

I'm selling my GAS ET cap, in bright anodized red! Make an offer. I had it on the car for about 2,000 miles and put the previous Myele back because the GAS version would hit the heat shield of my aFe intake.

I did have to top off coolant both before and after using the GAS ET cap. I believe this was due to fitment problems with my Myele ET and later--after putting in a genuine BMW ET--the Myele ET cap. I recently put in a genuine BMW ET cap so we'll see if that stops the slow leak or if it's the base plate on which the ET sits.

[WOLFN8TR]

Before I purchased my GAS ET Cap I did a lot of research on this subject and apparently the E39 Caps are rated close to the same psi rating as the GAS ET Caps. So if you want to go this route these can be picked up for around $22.

I upgraded my water pump to the Stewart when I did my entire cooling system. Installed the GAS ET Cap and did the Mechanical Fan delete mod. I'm using the UltraGauge to monitor the cooling temps which has a audible alarm in case the temps get too high.

This photo is from Amazon

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/26/4eburumu.jpg

[ELCID86]

Thanks! I'm interested in the cap. Also considering the fan mod.


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

[cakM3]

Took the ///M out for a little ride this Christmas day before taking on my next big project. It felt really good to run the ///M out on the highway this morning ;) It's been sitting patiently in the garage for the past 3 weeks now....

[Hornung418]

Getting my car back today!! Super pumped to drive her.

Sent from my GS3.

[Rmckinley81]

Pulled intake and replaced both hard pipes for the cooling system as one had shot o-rings. Knocked out oil seperator and hoses as well. Feels good to let go of the paranoia I had driving knowing I was seeping coolant at an alarming rate. Not a pleasant job...


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1)

[kayger12]

Getting my car back today!! Super pumped to drive her.

Sent from my GS3.

Nice!


Pulled intake and replaced both hard pipes for the cooling system as one had shot o-rings. Knocked out oil seperator and hoses as well. Feels good to let go of the paranoia I had driving knowing I was seeping coolant at an alarming rate. Not a pleasant job...


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1)

Nice work.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4

[Hornung418]

Pulled intake and replaced both hard pipes for the cooling system as one had shot o-rings. Knocked out oil seperator and hoses as well. Feels good to let go of the paranoia I had driving knowing I was seeping coolant at an alarming rate. Not a pleasant job...


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1)

Nice! How long did it take you to pull the intake? My record is one hour having done it previously...so all the zipties were cut.

And yes KG, that mailbox was $2600 worth of damage and maintenance. Had to be done...some shit was unnecessary though. Oh well. Looking forward to driving her :)

Sent from my GS3.

[kayger12]

And yes KG, that mailbox was $2600 worth of damage and maintenance. Had to be done...some shit was unnecessary though. Oh well. Looking forward to driving her :)

Sent from my GS3.

No sense looking back. She's all squared away and ready to tear up some pavement-- that's all that matters!

[WolfBMW]

http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac357/MonroeWolf/Mobile%20Uploads/20131226_132025_zpsd29e45cc.jpg

Finally installed the aux cable adapter-yay! Also replaced the bumper reflectors because one was cracked and what do you know, the older side markers look yellow in comparison. Always more to do!

[cakM3]

http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac357/MonroeWolf/Mobile%20Uploads/20131226_132025_zpsd29e45cc.jpg

Finally installed the aux cable adapter-yay! Also replaced the bumper reflectors because one was cracked and what do you know, the older side markers look yellow in comparison. Always more to do!

It never stops....next thing you know, you're deep into modding your ride...;)

[WOLFN8TR]

It never stops....next thing you know, you're deep into modding your ride...;)

So true. We've all been bitten by the Mod bug, Charlie was attacked by a swarm. LoL...

[cakM3]

So true. We've all been bitten by the Mod bug, Charlie was attacked by a swarm. LoL...

That's an understatement Gary :biggrin More like a hive....;)

[LivesNearCostco]

Hmmm.. another possible source for my coolant leak, if it is still leaking. Last few days it doesn't look like the coolant level went down at all, so hopefully it was just replacing the Myele ET cap with a BMW one. But if it's still dropping and it's not the base plate, then maybe the hard pipes. (I thought there was only one coolant hard pipe--now wondering where the other one is.)


Pulled intake and replaced both hard pipes for the cooling system as one had shot o-rings. Knocked out oil seperator and hoses as well. Feels good to let go of the paranoia I had driving knowing I was seeping coolant at an alarming rate. Not a pleasant job...


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1)

[ELCID86]

http://i915.photobucket.com/albums/ac357/MonroeWolf/Mobile%20Uploads/20131226_132025_zpsd29e45cc.jpg

Finally installed the aux cable adapter-yay! Also replaced the bumper reflectors because one was cracked and what do you know, the older side markers look yellow in comparison. Always more to do!
Nice (needed) addition. So who is getting more drive time, you or your dad??

[Pip]

Took out the ZHP for a nice 15 minute drive around Folsom before having to say goodbye. It has been a fantastic daily driver for the past two years, but it was time for someone else to enjoy it.

Hopefully the new owner will be just as happy with it as I was.

[Hornung418]

Car is driving phenomenal. Steerung feel is amazing with New control arms and bushes.

Sent from my GS3.

[Avetiso]

Took out the ZHP for a nice 15 minute drive around Folsom before having to say goodbye. It has been a fantastic daily driver for the past two years, but it was time for someone else to enjoy it.

Hopefully the new owner will be just as happy with it as I was.

Bittersweet to sell it. Congrats on the sale.

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[ELCID86]

Took out the ZHP for a nice 15 minute drive around Folsom before having to say goodbye. It has been a fantastic daily driver for the past two years, but it was time for someone else to enjoy it.

Hopefully the new owner will be just as happy with it as I was.

Glad you got it gone. Hope to see you and the new owner abound here often.


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

[kayger12]

Car is driving phenomenal. Steerung feel is amazing with New control arms and bushes.

Sent from my GS3.

Good news. You should hit things more often. :p

Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk

[stephenkirsh]

Ordered my Z4M LCAB and a stewart water pump (based on recommendations earlier in this thread) from Turner. Hope to have them all installed by mid January. Then I'll be taking an epic drive up to Clear Lake and back down 101.

Here's a link to my planned route:
https://maps.google.com/maps?saddr=Petaluma,+CA&daddr=Calistoga,+CA+to:Middletown,+CA+to:Kelseyvil le,+CA+to:Petaluma,+CA&hl=en&sll=38.780317,-122.875214&sspn=0.631088,0.656433&geocode=FWFhRwIdlLaw-ClNDHTCjEqEgDHyYi1kNbj_qw%3BFWyqTAIdB5Wx-CmRMnGHCUOEgDFA7pgzYeKLBw%3BFZRQTwIdNwux-CkNFeR-bW6EgDGXut-MwB6QlQ%3BFaHBUgIdc56t-CnZt3JoHu6DgDHARV7ooAiI8w%3BFWFhRwIdlLaw-ClNDHTCjEqEgDHyYi1kNbj_qw&oq=Peta&mra=ls&t=m&z=10

[WolfBMW]

Nice (needed) addition. So who is getting more drive time, you or your dad??

Haha, he's always welcome to drive it when I'm home. It's actually fun to ride with him sometimes because he's a bolder driver than I am.

[cakM3]

Took out the ZHP for a nice 15 minute drive around Folsom before having to say goodbye. It has been a fantastic daily driver for the past two years, but it was time for someone else to enjoy it.

Hopefully the new owner will be just as happy with it as I was.

It's like closing a chapter to a good book Sean :) You enjoyed your ZHP and now it's someone else's time to enjoy it ;) Sad to see it go but at least you're able to concentrate on your ///M now :thumbsup Congrats on the sale!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[toddness]

Picked up the euro bumpers for the e12. I have regained faith in taking a man for his word; not requiring a document to back it up.

[Hermes]

Picked up the euro bumpers for the e12. I have regained faith in taking a man's for his word; not requiring a document to back it up.

Sweet! How does the chrome look?

[az3579]

Picked up the euro bumpers for the e12. I have regained faith in taking a man for his word; not requiring a document to back it up.

Need a source for E12 euro bumpers... does this person have more?

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

[Hermes]

Todd, in case you need brackets for the front:

http://www.ebay.de/itm/BMW-e12-518-535-i-Stosstangenhalter-/231121447616


Need a source for E12 euro bumpers... does this person have more?

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

there's some on ebay.de, search for "E12 Stoßstange"

Edit: Todd - I know he says on that item shipping in Germany only, but I've managed to convince people to send me stuff from Europe after I win the auction. If you need them you should at least try...

[Pip]

Well I had grand plans of doing the tranny fluid, belts, diff fluid, exhaust swap, and coolant flush. The M3 is not the ZHP because as similar as they are things are very different. The M3 fan shroud/heat shroud thing was designed by the devil. I broke the two clips and dremeled/chiseled them out because there was no other way.

I ended up finding my leak from the valve cover gasket so I pretty much just reinstalled and used a little RTV on the back of the VCG in addition to the little bit on the VANOS unit.

Fixed one leak and installed the new SGT muffler I picked up locally for a decent price. I liked the stock exhaust because it doesn't drone, is quiet to allow engine noise and some rasp to bleed into the cabin at WOT. I really just wanted a touch louder to compete with the engine noise. The SGT muffler offers a lot louder like the TSE3, but has some drone while shifting in low RPMs. I actually like the rasp (2 stroke dirt bike rasp) sound it produces when running through the RPMs, but the lower range is like listening to Snoop Dogg in a decked out car with 2x12 and doesn't sit well with my ears. I'm hoping it'll break in a little or maybe I'll get used to it...time will tell.

Once I figure out if I fixed the leak I'll hit up the tranny fluid and diff fluid. I also took two videos of the OEM exhaust and the SGT exhaust to share what I'm talking about.

[cakM3]

@ Sean....sorry to hear you running into some issues while doing maintenance.

Today I fully sorted out my CSL center console by adding my door mirror switch :)

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/30/pu8u9uha.jpg

It was a PITA as I was primarily concerned not gouging the carbon fiber around the hole I had to cut out....
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/30/ba9a3u7u.jpg

A thick coat of trusty masking tape and use of my Dremel did the job :thumbsup




Sent from my DROID RAZR MAXX HD using Tapatalk 2

[jakksfor20]

Installed the M shift (auto) knob in the wife's sedan I picked up for $40. Broke the plastic shaft removing the old one even though I followed the DIY's. That was fun fishing that out.

[Pip]

@Charlie that is going to look awesome installed. I cannot wait to see the photos of the complete interior after the CSL conversion. Goodness gracious it is going to be sweet!!!

I think it is awesome you'll be combining all controls to the center console. I've gotten so used to them there it makes sense. In other cars I like that they are on the door, but with a stick when you're active hand is always there you might as well have other controls.

[cakM3]

@Charlie that is going to look awesome installed. I cannot wait to see the photos of the complete interior after the CSL conversion. Goodness gracious it is going to be sweet!!!

I think it is awesome you'll be combining all controls to the center console. I've gotten so used to them there it makes sense. In other cars I like that they are on the door, but with a stick when you're active hand is always there you might as well have other controls.

Thanks Sean! :thumbsup If I looked at things this time last year, doing anything using OEM CSL parts was no where on my radar....until just recently, this didn't materialize until the last minute when the opportunity to purchase OEM CSL door cards and bootlid presented themselves. I now have a line on purchasing an OEM CSL rear diffuser panel as well so I'm just going with the "CSL" flow so to speak.

These cars are so awesome already but I was looking to set my ///M apart from all the others. Since my ///M is considered "high mileage" I wanted to refresh the interior from grey to black and then the CSL thing just happened so I went for it. ;) Looking back, I'm glad I did. :thumbsup Guess you can say I made my ///M more rare :)

[JKO_ZHP]

Attempted to clean the wheels today for the first time.
So glad to have openings bigger than the narrow spokes on the style 135s. Much easier to clean and saves a lot of time....

Plus the butt dyno says it's faster, since some weight has been shed by swapping out the 135s.

[Avetiso]

Attempted to clean the wheels today for the first time.
So glad to have openings bigger than the narrow spokes on the style 135s. Much easier to clean and saves a lot of time....

Plus the butt dyno says it's faster, since some weight has been shed by swapping out the 135s.

Seriously? No pictures?

Mods, a new rule is in order. :rofl

T-Mobile Note 3
Jedi Elite v5 ROM

[cakM3]

Today I made two mirror control wiring harnesses, one for me and the other for a very good friend who will be getting the Status Gruppe carbon fiber door inserts for his ///M.

When he's done you won't be able to tell the difference between his door cards and my OEM CSL door cards. Except his will be much cheaper than mine ;)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[LivesNearCostco]

1) Re-attached left C-panel cover fabric. It's been sagging for a few months. Bought LocTite spray adhesive at Home Depot--it was the middle choice in strength and cost. It still sags a little in the middle where I couldn't spray but looks much better now.

2) Ground wheel rash bumps off one wheel using the cheap ($7 with coupon) Harbor Freight rotary tool. Now I need Wurth silver wheel paint! Debating between brush-on touch-up paint and spray can.

3) Turned off bulb-out indicator. Was showing left rear bulb was bad and left reverse light didn't work, but bulb looked fine. Cleaned and rotated bulbs from left trunk lid light and reverse light resumed working but bulb out indicator still mocked me. Yesterday I pulled both left rear light clusters and tested each bulb with a cheap DMM -- one bulb showed much higher resistance than others (but not totally failed) so replaced that and problem solved.

[3ZHP]

Installed my Christmas present. Thank You Wife Jeanne!

http://i591.photobucket.com/albums/ss351/3zhpguy/ZHP/Maintenence/Coby%20Wheel%20Wrap/20131230_CobyWheel_0002.jpg (http://s591.photobucket.com/user/3zhpguy/media/ZHP/Maintenence/Coby%20Wheel%20Wrap/20131230_CobyWheel_0002.jpg.html)

http://i591.photobucket.com/albums/ss351/3zhpguy/ZHP/Maintenence/Coby%20Wheel%20Wrap/20131230_CobyWheel_0003.jpg (http://s591.photobucket.com/user/3zhpguy/media/ZHP/Maintenence/Coby%20Wheel%20Wrap/20131230_CobyWheel_0003.jpg.html)

http://i591.photobucket.com/albums/ss351/3zhpguy/ZHP/Maintenence/Coby%20Wheel%20Wrap/20131230_CobyWheel_0004.jpg (http://s591.photobucket.com/user/3zhpguy/media/ZHP/Maintenence/Coby%20Wheel%20Wrap/20131230_CobyWheel_0004.jpg.html)

http://i591.photobucket.com/albums/ss351/3zhpguy/ZHP/Maintenence/Coby%20Wheel%20Wrap/20131230_CobyWheel_0001.jpg (http://s591.photobucket.com/user/3zhpguy/media/ZHP/Maintenence/Coby%20Wheel%20Wrap/20131230_CobyWheel_0001.jpg.html)

[cakM3]

Nothing like fresh alcantara!!!! Feels so good! Looks great :thumbsup

[danewilson77]

Looks awesome Guy. Feels so damn good in the hands.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[3ZHP]

Thanks Charlie, Dane, I know it should feel good but, I just can't break the habit of putting my gloves on yet. I'll try again tomorrow. :(

[WolfBMW]

Charlie, your CSL project is so cool, I can't wait to see the finished product!

This afternoon my dad and I went out and bought a polisher and we buffed out minor scratches (some of them my fault, novice snow-shoveler that I am--won't make that mistake again!) and detailed the car. It looks great with cleaned-up wheels and a fresh coat of wax.

Those style 135's are a pain, but they look so good once they're clean!

[das boots]

Today I made two mirror control wiring harnesses, one for me and the other for a very good friend who will be getting the Status Gruppe carbon fiber door inserts for his ///M.

When he's done you won't be able to tell the difference between his door cards and my OEM CSL door cards. Except his will be much cheaper than mine ;)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

Charlie...wondering if you are into making wiring harnesses into a business venture for folks with sedan that wants to convert to M3 mirrors. Just thinking...that's all.

[az3579]

Charlie...wondering if you are into making wiring harnesses into a business venture for folks with sedan that wants to convert to M3 mirrors. Just thinking...that's all.

Converting to M3 mirrors entails swapping the mirror motors from the squarish mirrors to the M3 housing. No wiring is needed...

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

[ELCID86]

Those style 135's are a pain, but they look so good once they're clean!

Great project.

Quite a pain--the small gap... The detailer today used a strong wheel cleaner (Sonax product: http://www.detailersdomain.com/Sonax-Full-Effect-Wheel-Cleaner-500ml_p_324.html) and something called Ride & Shine and a long haired badger brush like this: http://www.detailersdomain.com/Adams-Boulder-Blonde-Boars-Hair-20-Wheel-Brush_p_727.html Worked really well. He used this on the lug nut holes: http://www.chemicalguys.com/Chemical_Guys_ACC_S90_The_Goat_Boar_s_Hair_Detai_p/acc_s90.htm

I had been using this: http://www.autogeek.net/laitner-spoke-brush.html but it still isn't ideal. This one works ok: http://www.autogeek.net/mothers-tire-wheel-well-brush-kit.html (long one).

[cakM3]

Charlie, your CSL project is so cool, I can't wait to see the finished product!

Thanks Monroe! Just so you know, I'm always at Larz Anderson's BMW day on Father's day. Been showing my ///M there for the past 4 years now....maybe I might see you and others from the Boston area this year :) I'm also up for local meets, just need a heads up to make sure my schedule is clear :)

[WolfBMW]

Thanks Monroe! Just so you know, I'm always at Larz Anderson's BMW day on Father's day. Been showing my ///M there for the past 4 years now....maybe I might see you and others from the Boston area this year :) I'm also up for local meets, just need a heads up to make sure my schedule is clear :)

You know, I'll be moved out of the Northeast by then! I like the idea of a meetup, but when it comes to actually doing it I've been overloaded with work and thesis this year and it hasn't been on the top of my priority list. On the other hand, late spring after my thesis is due would be perfect :) so we'll see!

[cakM3]

You know, I'll be moved out of the Northeast by then! I like the idea of a meetup, but when it comes to actually doing it I've been overloaded with work and thesis this year and it hasn't been on the top of my priority list. On the other hand, late spring after my thesis is due would be perfect :) so we'll see!

No problem Monroe! I've been there regarding college and work...;) I graduated last September which is why I have gone all-in regarding my mods lately :) Since graduating from college I have more time to pursue my BMW interests/hobbies...;)

[Hermes]

Spend $80 on tools today for the E21. Cobalt LHD bit set from Snap-On (I kept breaking the Harbor Freight crap trying to remove that broken bolt), and a 3.5mm Allen hex bit 1/4" drive socket so I can adjust my AFM

[stephenkirsh]

Everybody's getting all this work done and I'm stuck at work! At least nobody's parked near me today.

Last night I ordered a MediaBridge from ECS and some trim replacement pieces.


11530

[Hermes]

I'm actually at work as well, sometimes it sucks when you're the boss

[Vas]

I got a full day of work as well. 6PM EST.

[webster]

working here as well. lone consolation was getting a whole floor of the parking garage to myself.

[QC_ZHP]

Same here, won't leave the office until around 9pm tonight.


I'm actually at work as well, sometimes it sucks when you're the boss

Beats being at the bottom of the totem pole.

[LivesNearCostco]

I need to get one of them Alcantara steering wheels! On the to-do list for 2014.

[Hermes]

Beats being at the bottom of the totem pole.

My dad and uncle own the stores, I'm the family slave

[cakM3]

I need to get one of them Alcantara steering wheels! On the to-do list for 2014.

Yes you do!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[jiggz]

I need to get one of them Alcantara steering wheels! On the to-do list for 2014.

I just installed a new Alcantara wheel a few days ago. My ZHP had one when I bought it in 2010 but condition was not perfect so I quickly swapped it out for a leather M3 wheel.

In regards to this new one, it's obviously in perfect condition, and I'm really trying to love this thing but so far I'm split 50/50 on whether I like it more than my leather wheel. Going to give it a little bit of time and if it doesn't click, it's back to leather (which I cleaned up nicely upon removing and it looks like brand new).

[derbo]

I just installed a new Alcantara wheel a few days ago. My ZHP had one when I bought it in 2010 but condition was not perfect so I quickly swapped it out for a leather M3 wheel.

In regards to this new one, it's obviously in perfect condition, and I'm really trying to love this thing but so far I'm split 50/50 on whether I like it more than my leather wheel. Going to give it a little bit of time and if it doesn't click, it's back to leather (which I cleaned up nicely upon removing and it looks like brand new).

Best part about alcantara is that it doesn't slip during track days. :)

sent from Moto X Dev Edition

[Vas]

Well what don't you like about it?

[Smolck]

Just installed headers on my ZHP. Why did I wait so long to do this mod? Holy moly did it make a huge difference. Granted, I had clogged cats so the gains were larger than would be with a normal car, but wow does it pull HARD with the 3.46 gears. 2nd is just a monster gear. Never had traction control come on and cut power while in the middle of 2nd before. Car is a beast. Can't wait to Eurocharge it for even more POWA!

[328ioc]

Just installed headers on my ZHP. Why did I wait so long to do this mod? Holy moly did it make a huge difference. Granted, I had clogged cats so the gains were larger than would be with a normal car, but wow does it pull HARD with the 3.46 gears. 2nd is just a monster gear. Never had traction control come on and cut lower while in the middle of 2nd before. Car is a beast. Can't wait to Eurocharge it for even more POWA!

Kinda jealous and happy new years

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[jiggz]

Well what don't you like about it?

It's not that I don't like it - it's just different (obviously), and I guess I'm just not used to it yet.

[cakM3]

Not necessarily for my ///M but for Kyle's bimmer....

I packed my old carbon fiber interior trim including my front and rear arm rest sets to ship out to him to enjoy...:)

Hope you love these Kyle!!!

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/01/02/uba3u2u5.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/01/02/duta2ybu.jpg

Managed to fit them all in one box to ship :thumbsup


Sent from my DROID RAZR MAXX HD using Tapatalk 2

[Pip]

Charlie what is your view on the CF trim covers? I think they look great but not sure how they fit on top.

[cakM3]

Charlie what is your view on the CF trim covers? I think they look great but not sure how they fit on top.

Sean, I ordered mine from Bimmian about three years ago and they are the AutoCarbon brand. A very good quality product but they cost $800 at that time....pricing for the same product has gone down considerably to $430 so I think if you're on the fence and really want real carbon fiber this is the way to go. Problem is that they come in 2x2 weave and everything I have (CSL parts) are in 1x1 weave so the trim would seriously clash with where I'm going.....

That's the only reason I changed out my interior trim to (Alu Tech - everyday use) and Titan Shadow (OEM CSL interior trim for car shows).

What I did when I installed my carbon fiber trim was use RTV to bond the trim overlay to my aged/scratched brush aluminum trim. I then attached several clamps to hold the overlay securely to the surface of the interior trim pieces. I allowed the RTV to set overnight and took the clamps off and they have remained secure ever since. One thing to note though is to have a few layers of cotton cloth between the clamp and carbon fiber surface. The clear is soft and will show indentations from the clamp if you don't. I would say that was the hardest part of permanently attaching the carbon fiber overlay. If you're not going to attach the overlay permanently then just press hard on the overlay so that the double-sided tape will adhere. For the driver's and passenger's front arm rests, I used the supplied double-sided tape in the event I had to remove the mirror control module. Hope this helps :thumbsup

If you're interested here's the link: http://www.bimmian.com/AutoCarbon-Carbon-Fiber-Interior-Trim-for-BMW-E46-3-Series (http://www.bimmian.com/AutoCarbon-Carbon-Fiber-Interior-Trim-for-BMW-E46-3-Series)

[jakksfor20]

Coupe- Had the scratches and the repainted hood paint corrected today. Car looks so much better. Still on the fence on whether I want to sell it or keep it. I've waffled over the last several days. Wife and I don't NEED 3 cars for another couple of years (son is 12), but we bought this one thinking I would use the 323 to autocross. Just don't know which way to go. Having 3 only costs us the price of insurance (liability) on the 323 or the coupe ZHP, so it's not a $$ detriment.

[Imola.ZHP]

Back from Tampa on Sunday, but didn't drive her until today. I was scared the battery might be dead after not running for over a week and cold temperatures, but no problem. Cranked up, drove to work, after riding in a new Chevy Suburban for a week in Tampa, I was so happy to drive her.

[JupiterBMW]

All you people whining about not being able to do anything to your car today... :facepalm I haven't seen my car since the middle of November... And I have parts at home waiting for me...

For my ZHP? Well, I haven't done anything in a while. Updates to come when I get home.

[az3579]

All you people whining about not being able to do anything to your car today... :facepalm I haven't seen my car since the middle of November... And I have parts at home waiting for me...

For my ZHP? Well, I haven't done anything in a while. Updates to come when I get home.

Our situations are far worse than yours. Remember, we also have to deal with shitty roads and constantly bad weather! :p

[stephenkirsh]

Well today's BS adventure is a screw in my rear passenger side tire. The apartment complex I live in is fully under construction to renovate everything. Literally everything and I have a 2 mile commute to work, so I know I picked it up "at home."

Long story short, I went to America's tire. The tire was unrepairable. Great. "So what tires do you have?" "We don't have anything in stock in that size." "Nothing? not even a 245? Not even an old used one in the back?" "Nope, it's a pretty rare size." So I ordered some tires and will limp home on my spare.

Have you guys been told that 255/35/18 is a rare size?

[JupiterBMW]

Our situations are far worse than yours.

Is that so?? Let's see...

1. I'm stuck on a boat, far away from my girls for the holidays...

2. I'm stuck on a ZERO TOLERANCE boat... That's correct, absolutely NO alcohol from the day I get on the ship until the day I get off.

3. I work 12-14 hour days... Manual labor, every day...


Remember, we also have to deal with shitty roads and constantly bad weather! :p

1. I'm heading to Alaska.

2. Last night the ship was rocking so bad that I had to sleep with one arm tucked under my mattress so that I wouldn't get tossed out of bed.




So, in a nutshell.... You lose. :biggrin

[cakM3]

Dashing thru the snow! I drove my LSD equipped ZHP thru the snow on my way to work today. Oh what a blast I had with my ZHP!!! :)

LSD + Bridgestone Blizzaks for the win up here in New England winters! :biggrin :thumbsup


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[kayger12]

Is that so?? Let's see...

1. I'm stuck on a boat, far away from my girls for the holidays...

2. I'm stuck on a ZERO TOLERANCE boat... That's correct, absolutely NO alcohol from the day I get on the ship until the day I get off.

3. I work 12-14 hour days... Manual labor, every day...



1. I'm heading to Alaska.

2. Last night the ship was rocking so bad that I had to sleep with one arm tucked under my mattress so that I wouldn't get tossed out of bed.




So, in a nutshell.... You lose. :biggrin

:slap:applause

[cakM3]

Guess Jon told you BP.....:p

[PirateZHP]

Well today's BS adventure is a screw in my rear passenger side tire. The apartment complex I live in is fully under construction to renovate everything. Literally everything and I have a 2 mile commute to work, so I know I picked it up "at home."

Long story short, I went to America's tire. The tire was unrepairable. Great. "So what tires do you have?" "We don't have anything in stock in that size." "Nothing? not even a 245? Not even an old used one in the back?" "Nope, it's a pretty rare size." So I ordered some tires and will limp home on my spare.

Have you guys been told that 255/35/18 is a rare size?

I was told that as well. Granted, they were able to get me the tires that day, but I was told that it was a rare or unusual size.

[das boots]

Is that so?? Let's see...

1. I'm stuck on a boat, far away from my girls for the holidays...

2. I'm stuck on a ZERO TOLERANCE boat... That's correct, absolutely NO alcohol from the day I get on the ship until the day I get off.

3. I work 12-14 hour days... Manual labor, every day...



1. I'm heading to Alaska.

2. Last night the ship was rocking so bad that I had to sleep with one arm tucked under my mattress so that I wouldn't get tossed out of bed.




So, in a nutshell.... You lose. :biggrin

Sounds familiar in my good ole days aboard a destroyer.

[328ioc]

I was told that as well. Granted, they were able to get me the tires that day, but I was told that it was a rare or unusual size.

I don't know if I would say rare and it can be ordered pretty easily.

But its definitely seems like an unusual size that no one ever stocks. Accept for maybe a BMW dealer.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

The tire shop was probably saying that because standard 330's didn't come in those tire sizes stock. That's my guess. Over here in Newport, I went to Townfair Tires and the manager of that shop was trying to tell me "my" ZHP didn't come in 18" wheels with 255's in the rear.

Needless to say, I didn't do business with that shop...


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[fredo]

My e90 has the sports package, so the tires are the same size as the ZHP (staggered: 18" and 18.5"). I went to Discount Tire for a new set. They didn't say "rare." However they were not in stock.

[stephenkirsh]

Bummer for us. I figured 18s are pretty standard these days. 255 isn't exactly huge!

I went with 235s on the front. Anybody done that?

[WOLFN8TR]

Bummer for us. I figured 18s are pretty standard these days. 255 isn't exactly huge!

I went with 235s on the front. Anybody done that?

I have 235's on front and 245's on the rear. All 18x8.5's.

[cakM3]

As I drove into work this morning threre were several spots where the snow wasn't completely plowed and I went over those high spots only to see my lovely ZHP dig deep and literally plow those spots using my Arqray lip spoiler resulting in the snow being thrown over the car. It was neat to see and I couldn't help laugh as I continued on to work today...:) The snow looked neat as it went straight up and over the car...;) Wish I had a gopro camera to capture those moments....would have made for an interesting pic! :thumbsup

[kayger12]

^Careful, Charlie-- hate to think what a chunk of ice would do to that beautiful lip. :eyetwitch

[stephenkirsh]

I have 235's on front and 245's on the rear. All 18x8.5's.

Why did you choose those sizes?

[oclvframe]

Today I did a little research and figured out why my headlights were turning on during broad daylight when set to the auto setting....turned out fuse #15 was missing. New 5amp fuse and we're all good. Love the easy ones!

-r

[Johal E32]

Installed amber angel eyes since it looks more OEM than the blue LED's IMO. If you look closely the inner rings are a few mm bigger too, awesome fit. I got the 4 th ring coming in the mail..

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

[Avetiso]

I think the bigger rings go over the projector.

T-Mobile Note 3
Jedi Elite v5 ROM

[cakM3]

^Careful, Charlie-- hate to think what a chunk of ice would do to that beautiful lip. :eyetwitch

I will work on being careful Keith :) I knew that the snow would be soft and went all out knowing that...it was an awesome ride :biggrin Now that I got all that out of my system I can drive on the more careful side :) Worse case, I just might have to source the same lip that Stuart did for his wagone...;)

[ELCID86]

Today I did a little research and figured out why my headlights were turning on during broad daylight when set to the auto setting....turned out fuse #15 was missing. New 5amp fuse and we're all good. Love the easy ones!

-r
+1 Where'd it go??

[Johal E32]

I think the bigger rings go over the projector.

T-Mobile Note 3
Jedi Elite v5 ROM

nope, the high beams are actually bigger. Just by a few mm, not too noticeable, but it bugged me enough to want larger rings for them.

[Avetiso]

nope, the high beams are actually bigger. Just by a few mm, not too noticeable, but it bugged me enough to want larger rings for them.

Oooh, okay. Must be a pre facelift thing.

T-Mobile Note 3
Jedi Elite v5 ROM

[kayger12]

I will work on being careful Keith :) I knew that the snow would be soft and went all out knowing that...it was an awesome ride :biggrin Now that I got all that out of my system I can drive on the more careful side :) Worse case, I just might have to source the same lip that Stuart did for his wagone...;)

:thumbsup

[Smolck]

I bought my girl some new shoes! E92 M3 wheels and tires!

[ELCID86]

I bought my girl some new shoes! E92 M3 wheels and tires!

Tease. No pics??


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

[Smolck]

Tease. No pics??


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

Very dark outside. I'll post tomorrow

[oclvframe]

+1 Where'd it go??

I have no idea....maybe the PO yanked it...or maybe it was used to make the lighter plug work when we were looking at it down in Florida....but that was done by a buddy of mine so I'll have to ask him.

-r

[JupiterBMW]

:slap:applause


Guess Jon told you BP.....:p

Haha, just giving BP a hard time... Although, every time I read people complain about how their weekend is so far away (this is a famous Monday morning Facebook post), I want to scream and reach through the computer and choke them... 5 whole days in a row... Wimps. :biggrin

Back on topic, I need to start shopping some more parts for my ZHP...

[Racinghart]

Finally got around to purchasing replacement fogs.

[Johal E32]

Oooh, okay. Must be a pre facelift thing.

T-Mobile Note 3
Jedi Elite v5 ROM

I think so

[Hornung418]

What did I do today?

I carefully drove my car in six inches of fresh fallen snow for one hour while I made my way to work. It's only 18 miles, but the conditions were horrible for a RWD vehicle.

One of the guys I work with put his Honda Accord into a pole on his way to work...sucks real bad.

[Smolck]

E92's....Wheels are perfectly clean, the car is FILTHY! Been really cold in my world (for us). Hopefully she will be washed today.

[terraphantm]

Oooh, okay. Must be a pre facelift thing.

T-Mobile Note 3
Jedi Elite v5 ROM
Actually no. Just less noticeable on the sedans because of the shape of the trim

[Avetiso]

Smolck, now you need low!

T-Mobile Note 3
Jedi Elite v5 ROM

[trancenation]

Bummer for us. I figured 18s are pretty standard these days. 255 isn't exactly huge!

I went with 235s on the front. Anybody done that?

I have 235s on the front as well.

[Vas]

Fixed the oil leak. The zhp is no longer puking oil out the side of the block.

[Smolck]

Smolck, now you need low!

T-Mobile Note 3
Jedi Elite v5 ROM

Springs are on the short list. Need DME tune first.

[JupiterBMW]

E92's....Wheels are perfectly clean, the car is FILTHY! Been really cold in my world (for us). Hopefully she will be washed today.

Looks awesome man... Can you post the size details/offsets? Spacers? I'm surprised to see those big 19s tucked so nicely into the E46 wheel wells.

[Avetiso]

Removed the exhaust and driveshaft from my parts car. Between the two, you could probably shave 80lbs going aftermarket. That stuff is heavy.

T-Mobile Note 3
Jedi Elite v5 ROM

[danewilson77]

Nice Smolck.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[Smolck]

Looks awesome man... Can you post the size details/offsets? Spacers? I'm surprised to see those big 19s tucked so nicely into the E46 wheel wells.
Thanks. I'm not actually 100% sold on the look. They are 18X8 up front and 18x9 out back. They aren't OEM 19s, they are reps from modbargains. The guy I bought them from has 225/40/18 on the fronts and 245/40/18 out back. Gonna switch to larger rears though.

[JupiterBMW]

Ahhh that makes much more sense. Ok, thanks. Looks good!


iPhone 5S. Tapatalk Pro. BOOM

[BCS_ZHP]

Oil change on the x5 today at 50K miles, I had the oil & filter but too cold today, my buddy's garage charged me $12 for the oil change, FTW. But they were too busy to take in another one, so will do the sparkling graphite tomorrow or next weekend as it's nearing 80K.

[Crickett]

Removed the exhaust and driveshaft from my parts car. Between the two, you could probably shave 80lbs going aftermarket. That stuff is heavy.

T-Mobile Note 3
Jedi Elite v5 ROM

Y’ mean something like this?

http://www.vividracing.com/catalog/wm.php/images/carbon-driveshaft.jpg (http://www.vividracing.com/catalog/acpt-carbon-fiber-driveshaft-bmw-e46-m3-0005-p-9388.html)

As for me and my ZHP today, she has officially gone square! 245/35ZR18 Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3s around 8x18" 135Ms on all four corners! Pics to come (it’s too dark now) …

[E_Rak]

Oil light came on after shutting down the car, down 1/2 a quart after 7000 miles, I can live with that. Meanwhile my gas mileage has been sapped as a result of winter and being at home, stop and go baby!

[Hermes]

Well today's BS adventure is a screw in my rear passenger side tire. The apartment complex I live in is fully under construction to renovate everything. Literally everything and I have a 2 mile commute to work, so I know I picked it up "at home."

Long story short, I went to America's tire. The tire was unrepairable. Great. "So what tires do you have?" "We don't have anything in stock in that size." "Nothing? not even a 245? Not even an old used one in the back?" "Nope, it's a pretty rare size." So I ordered some tires and will limp home on my spare.

Have you guys been told that 255/35/18 is a rare size?

I've had this happen when I needed another 255 PSS due to a weird bubble on my sidewall, I ended up going 265 on both rears because they had it in stock
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c288/jhermes/B8802FF7-A671-4BDC-8B0E-1A7D04F051F8-10098-00000CEECBFCB8AD.jpg

If you think that 255/35R18 is a weird size try to find stock sized tires for my 2001 740i, those are nearly impossible to find anywhere without having them ordered in

235/50R18 and 255/45R18

[danewilson77]

Thawed out and drove the ZHP and Mini today. Felt good.

This was in prep for it being -4F tomorrow.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

Why did you choose those sizes?

The car came with 245's on the rear and 225's on the front. When I trade rims with Crikett I needed two new front tires so after speaking with Travis about going with the square setup (4 18x8.5's) I decided on 235's. They actually look a lot better and handle a tad better also.

[stephenkirsh]

Y’ mean something like this?

http://www.vividracing.com/catalog/wm.php/images/carbon-driveshaft.jpg (http://www.vividracing.com/catalog/acpt-carbon-fiber-driveshaft-bmw-e46-m3-0005-p-9388.html)

As for me and my ZHP today, she has officially gone square! 245/35ZR18 Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3s around 8x18" 135Ms on all four corners! Pics to come (it’s too dark now) …

Those are the tires I just bought, but I went 235 front, 255 rear on OEM staggered

[johnrando]

Spent half a day yesterday with sc4me (Curtis) talking cars, checking out my suspension, and swapped out my front end links. Great guy, and it was a good day. Thanks Curtis (in the pic). Also, with 14+mpg city, it was good to see 27+mpg highway (which brought my city up to 16+)

11588

11589

11590

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[kayger12]

^Great stuff, Rando. Always good to see family helping family.

[danewilson77]

^Great stuff, Rando. Always good to see family helping family.

+1 :)

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[johnrando]

Gracias.

Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

[Lanister]

Finally got a chance to pull off the bumper to do the mechanical fan delete mod and also painted the mesh grille flat black. Not a bad start to 2014 with exception of forgetting to disconnect the battery and then having to deal with deletion of all sort of codes :facepalm

The car has never felt better :)

Barely finished before it got dark. I'll snap a few shots tomorrow and post them up in my project thread.

[NorCal-Dimitri]

An hour later and a few pm's to Dario and my bumper is finally off! I'm stoked to finally respray the lower grill, that silver/grey was driving me crazy for too long.

http://i1278.photobucket.com/albums/y508/dimitri1337/20140105_223122_zps1ad1cf9e.jpg?t=1388991511

http://i1278.photobucket.com/albums/y508/dimitri1337/20140105_223654_zpse1d60a66.jpg?t=1388991484

[johnrando]

Very nice Dimitri, Giya.

[QC_ZHP]

An hour later and a few pm's to Dario and my bumper is finally off! I'm stoked to finally respray the lower grill, that silver/grey was driving me crazy for too long.

http://i1278.photobucket.com/albums/y508/dimitri1337/20140105_223122_zps1ad1cf9e.jpg?t=1388991511

http://i1278.photobucket.com/albums/y508/dimitri1337/20140105_223654_zpse1d60a66.jpg?t=1388991484


Can't wait to see how it turns out. Mine drives me crazy as well.

[Lanister]

Looks like it's a wave of bumper mesh grille re-sprays this week :)

I just added a result picture of mine in my project thread. Link is in my signature.

[NorCal-Dimitri]

Feels so great to get rid of that annoying silver-grey look.

http://i1278.photobucket.com/albums/y508/dimitri1337/20140106_115125_zps37194148.jpg?t=1389039119

[Avetiso]

Well done, guys! It's about time!

Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

[ELCID86]

I was kinda liking the silver/grey, but after seeing this. I NEED to do it!


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

[Lanister]

The original color of the mesh was black. It does appear to be simply weathered. If you take a nail to the surface, you'll see that it comes off, revealing the original black behind it.

[Vas]

What did you guys use to clean the surface with so the paint sticks?

[NorCal-Dimitri]

What did you guys use to clean the surface with so the paint sticks?

I lightly pressure washed mine to get most of the grime off. Then I scrubbed it with steel wool and used a tooth brush to clean out the corners.

[Lanister]

I hosed it down and washed it with soap and a small scrubbing brush. Don't forget that the bracket behind the mesh too, it goes white as well so it also needs to be painted for best results.

[stephenkirsh]

I've never noticed it as a problem on my car. Now I fear it'll bug me after seeing these lol

[ELCID86]

I think we "sedans" can pop it out without removing the bumper, correct? (he asks hopefully)

[NorCal-Dimitri]

I think we "sedans" can pop it out without removing the bumper, correct? (he asks hopefully)

I wish. :(

[bimmergofast]

When I painted mine (sedan) I popped it loose and masked off the rest of the car's nose- painted in place. Seemed easier than trying to remove it!

[Lanister]

It's pretty easy to get the bumper off, which makes the job cleaner. Having done it once, I'd probably be able to have it off in less than 10 minutes. If I had the choice between masking and taking the bumper off, I'd still pull the bumper.