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

[Aethir30]

Wow, I have to do this too in the spring when I get my car out of the storage unit (and with my QuickJack!)

Question: Is there any reason the lug nuts are on without the wheels other than just to be sure not to misplace them?Holds the rotors nicely in place.

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[Overboost]

No, that's all it is. Just avoiding the senior moment of wondering where I put them. :rofl

[pedro2u]

No, that's all it is. Just avoiding the senior moment of wondering where I put them. :rofl

oh, I'm well into that senior moment. Good solution though, my magnetic trays are no longer enough to find all the parts I remove :facepalm

[johnrando]

That really looks good, thanks for the tips!

[wstr75]

Baby came home today from the body shop with a new face (New bumper, fog lights, grill). Yes, it does not have the bumper side marker reflectors as coupe and convertibles bumpers have. The original bumper had been repaired previously and a recent tangle with a parking wheel stop on a rainy night in a newly opened fast-food place was too much to repair. My 435ix convertible with M-Sport front bumper is yet to encounter a parking wheel stop or curb drain or other similar parking feature that rubs underneath its bumper. I'm always on the lookout for those features when parking my ZHP. That dark rainy night my vigilance was not up to par and when backing out, the bumper hooked onto the park stop and, while it did not pull off the bumper, it did tear up its internals including breaking the one fog light's tab to connect to the bumper when the bumper deformed. Expensive evening for my wife and I.
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[johnrando]

Bmr, we've all been there (well, many). Glad it's back.

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[ZHPizza]

Nice that you got a reflector-less bumper! The body shop that did mine apparently got the sedan part too, then realized their mistake and cut the openings for the reflectors with a damn jigsaw or something. Reeeeealllly wish they had left it bare!

[jorbon]

Leisurely wash and wax on New Years Day... First I've had a moment at the computer to upload the proof I still care for Silvie.
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[dpark]

Leisurely wash and wax on New Years Day... First I've had a moment at the computer to upload the proof I still care for Silvie.
36069

Wow, she is in great shape. Puts mine to shame.

[Thatguy_JZ]

I think I fixed or improved my skipping drivers side wiper by tweaking the wiper arm angle where the blade attaches.

I also had a lower headlight trim piece that never would clip into the fender all the way. Turns out my headlight was slightly too far forward. Adjusted that and got the lower trim to clip right in.

Got a new windshield last week too but the kid that installed it broke my lower cowl and rear view mirror because he didn't know what he was doing. He also left some light scratches at the bottoms of my A pillars. Pretty disappointed honestly, but thankfully the shop has been understanding and ordered me a new rear view mirror and lower cowl from BMW.


Oh, and that Imola ZHP parts car I found was indeed an Auto, Slick Top with a fixed rear back seat. It's in good hands now with a local ZHP enthusiast who's building it into a track car.

[nextelbuddy]

Nice that you got a reflector-less bumper! The body shop that did mine apparently got the sedan part too, then realized their mistake and cut the openings for the reflectors with a damn jigsaw or something. Reeeeealllly wish they had left it bare!



They must have got you a euro equivalent because if you have the sedan version of the bumper you would have more than just no holes on the side you would also have an empty spot for the black trim that goes on the front bumper for sedans... Looking at your sig picture looks like you got the right bumper for coupe.

[ZHPizza]

They must have got you a euro equivalent because if you have the sedan version of the bumper you would have more than just no holes on the side you would also have an empty spot for the black trim that goes on the front bumper for sedans... Looking at your sig picture looks like you got the right bumper for coupe.Facepalm.jpg

Totes forgot about the trim

Good lookin out

[DeathTrap]

This.Sucked.Balls.
So.hardhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200105/7eb37d3ea3a5d869ca781103c44589ef.jpg

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[papa_g]

This.Sucked.Balls.
So.hardhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200105/7eb37d3ea3a5d869ca781103c44589ef.jpg

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I hope it was worth it! I hope to do this one day as well.


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[704sw]

This.Sucked.Balls.
So.hardhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200105/7eb37d3ea3a5d869ca781103c44589ef.jpg

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Now let’s see a picture of your busted knuckles...

[DeathTrap]

It was definitely worth it. I have my power back! And no more misfire. Apparently I had a leak at the header as well.

No busted knuckles this time! There are a few small, annoying scratches though.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200105/704916a2c6ba2eda6f2af2d82ddcd9fe.jpg

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[ZHPizza]

It was definitely worth it. I have my power back! And no more misfire. Apparently I had a leak at the header as well.

No busted knuckles this time! There are a few small, annoying scratches though.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200105/704916a2c6ba2eda6f2af2d82ddcd9fe.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using TapatalkOh hell yeah you had a leak. That's definitely not cylinder 6 tho...

I cannot imagine how awful it is to install those equal length bois

[papa_g]

A little late, but my brother got me these for Christmas. I also have the steering wheel emblem, but I don’t know whether to just stick it on, or somehow remove the current one first. Most threads say not to mess around with the airbag.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200106/2f5343e8744c8dd0480942f621fa56ea.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200106/192df3eed6f3e9f4edf0128d02df7dc9.jpg


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[WOLFN8TR]

Just stick in on the existing emblem. The BMW emblem is part of the airbag.

[Will]

This.Sucked.Balls.
So.hard...

Nice work!! Glad you have the power back, and a nice upgrade too!

[YoitsTmac]

While the E46 was up on the QuickJack getting the BBK installed, the 18 years of dirt and road contamination in the fender wells was just too much for my OCD. Took a few hours and cleaned them up again. Certainly not perfect or concours but fine for street driving. Amazing what a gallon of Simple Green, a bucket, some rags and brushes can do... :roundel

36045

36046

I'm not here often, but this is hot.

[johnrando]

Just stick it on but the airbag is not hard at all, just a bit tricky and once you do it, it's relatively easy after. One key is to unplug the battery for a few minutes before you remove the airbag so you don't throw a code.

[Thatguy_JZ]

Picked up a 26mm M3 Front Swaybar and 20mm Xi Rear Swaybar today on the cheap.

Ordered Hotchkis Front endlinks to make up for the difference in bar angle up front and new OE rubber bushings for the rear bar since they're spent and the donor car was a rust bucket. I can't believe Poly bushings cost so much. It'd be $65/55 Front/Rear. That's nuts compared to other bushings I've bought.

Still need to do my 3.38 diff swap and new OE diff bushings. Honestly pressing out and in the bushings has me procrastinating. Not looking forward to it.

[stephenkirsh]

I got front rear m3 bar for the wife’s ZSP recently. Haven’t had time to put them on.

[Will]

Oil change at 109,709. Went with Mann OEM filter and Castrol 0w-40.

[ZHPizza]

I got front rear m3 bar for the wife’s ZSP recently. Haven’t had time to put them on.Rear m3 bar won't fit non-m fyi

[Rovert]

Rear m3 bar won't fit non-m fyi

Not with that kind of attitude young man.

Jerry rig that sh!t!!!! [emoji2957]

[az3579]

Not with that kind of attitude young man.

Jerry rig that sh!t!!!! [emoji2957]

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[stephenkirsh]

Rear m3 bar won't fit non-m fyi

Oh that’s true. I forgot.

I wasn’t even planning to put it on but the guy wanted $40 for both bars, so I wasn’t gunna try and mess with that deal.

[Overboost]

Got the Bilstein B8's installed in the front today. Amazing that the factory struts that came off were still in good shape at 205,000 miles. They still had decent damping by hand but it was definitely time, the bump rubbers were destroyed.

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[johnrando]

Nice!

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[YoitsTmac]

Got the Bilstein B8's installed in the front today. Amazing that the factory struts that came off were still in good shape at 205,000 miles. They still had decent damping by hand but it was definitely time, the bump rubbers were destroyed.

36142

Dang man, looks super clean, wish I could see it. I almost doubt they were original and still good at 205k though, both my previous and now current e46 were got dead shocks under 130k YMMV, I also drive the 330 slower than I drove the 328 oddly.

[Chaplian]

Dang man, looks super clean, wish I could see it. I almost doubt they were original and still good at 205k though, both my previous and now current e46 were got dead shocks under 130k YMMV, I also drive the 330 slower than I drove the 328 oddly.

I mean, anything is possible, but you’re probably right.

My factory struts were blown on both my E46s by 115k miles.


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[darksidee46]

I sold my black one and bought a white one!

[Fenrir]

I stared at all the parts in the shed and muttered about waiting for spring to out em on lol.

[Yankeefan]

Updated my DME to the latest software, with the help of Scott (balidawg) at E46Fanatics. Scott was so generous to give me about an hour and a half of his Saturday. He's super organized and efficient and talked me through every step, and answered a bunch of questions that I had. He remoted into my laptop which was very easy. He even cleared some existing fault codes and showed me how to use NCS-Expert for vehicle settings which I'm very excited to experiment with. Yet another example of why I am very thankful for the experienced people that share their knowledge on these forums! See the link below if anyone is interested:
https://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=1081716.

[BaliDawg]

Updated my DME to the latest software, with the help of Scott (balidawg) at E46Fanatics. Scott was so generous to give me about an hour and a half of his Saturday. He's super organized and efficient and talked me through every step, and answered a bunch of questions that I had. He remoted into my laptop which was very easy. He even cleared some existing fault codes and showed me how to use NCS-Expert for vehicle settings which I'm very excited to experiment with. Yet another example of why I am very thankful for the experienced people that share their knowledge on these forums! See the link below if anyone is interested:
https://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=1081716.

Thanks for the kind words!

Anyone needing a DME or EGS update see my thread on e46fanatics.
https://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=1081716.[/QUOTE]

[johnrando]

Cool!

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[FungShui]

My car had a rough idle and didn't take long before it stalls. Cleaning the the MAF had no effect. :(

The car now with Carbahn in San Jose for bleeding the ABS module and diagnostic on the rough idle.

[stephenkirsh]

My car had a rough idle and didn't take long before it stalls. Cleaning the the MAF had no effect. :(

The car now with Carbahn in San Jose for bleeding the ABS module and diagnostic on the rough idle.

Oh cool, Carbahn. My dad takes his e90M there. One of the machanics, David, has worked on all 4 of our BMWs. My zhp. Wife’s ZSP. Dads M. Moms e61.

[FungShui]

Carbahn found a hole in the intake boot and replaced it with the temperamental MAF.

I recently replaced the stock brake lines with SS brake lines and rebuilt of the calipers. Since then the brakes feel spongy to me which is why I brought car to shop. After they bled the brakes there is some improvement to pedal feel but not as good as before. I still think there is still some air in the system. From what I read online it took some people a couple bleeds and time i.e. track days or driving the car before the pedal returned to "normal".

[ZHPizza]

Carbahn found a hole in the intake boot and replaced it with the temperamental MAF.

I recently replaced the stock brake lines with SS brake lines and rebuilt of the calipers. Since then the brakes feel spongy to me which is why I brought car to shop. After they bled the brakes there is some improvement to pedal feel but not as good as before. I still think there is still some air in the system. From what I read online it took some people a couple bleeds and time i.e. track days or driving the car before the pedal returned to "normal".Dude I have fought these brakes non-stop since swapping calipers/lines. The pedal feel has definitely improved with time, but I still cannot get it back to where it was, even while bleeding the abs system with inpa. There are lots of us across all the forums chasing this issue.

[Overboost]

Got the 21mm/27mm H&R sway bars installed. Put them on the softest setting to compare to stock bars.

https://forum.e46fanatics.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=792677&stc=1&d=1580432595

https://forum.e46fanatics.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=792733&stc=1&d=1580585177

https://forum.e46fanatics.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=792735&stc=1&d=1580585179

[johnrando]

Interested in the results.

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[BADCLOWN]

man I need some sway bars, those look great snuggled up in there

[Overboost]

My first impression with only about a 6 mile drive is pretty close to stock feel but maybe just a slight difference if I run over a bump on one side only. Since the bars are stiffer and connected by both sides of the suspension, any movement on one side will transfer to the other side so that's what I am looking at. At this point for my street driving, I think the softest setting is where I will run. I held off for so long on upgrading the H&R bars to go with my H&R springs mainly because of the cost. My H&R 27mm/21mm kit from ECS Tuning was $557 and was the last thing I needed to go with the new Bilstein B8 shocks and struts and BBK installed.

[delvin]

Installed a nice alcantara wheel, I know they aren’t advisable for DD use but I love it. I’ll stock up on Sonax
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200207/4a5429f658cd4371844294e27d09f70d.jpg

[fredo]

Looks good, man ! :thumbup

[DaveInMD]

After.going down the headlight parts-swap rabbit hole to deduce an elusive bad wire, I decided to finally get the lenses apart to clean them up inside and out. Presumably need to reseal but would like to find something not so sticky.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200208/d711850137cc21db61367e260ed82382.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200208/6f2ee864d79e69b439f999fec85a23bf.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200208/8914ddcdf2a4b1515c29016d983c6a09.jpg

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[RUS_ZHP]

Well, I finally took my defective LSD a part on order to evaluate the issue. This was also requested by MFactory, so they can tell me if warranty will cover the failure.
Take a look at this beauty: two bolts and buch of metal chips.
Oil was surprisingly clean.
Let see what MFactory will tell me. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200208/f046a01452f801a57bc5c728aab7277f.jpg

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[ZHPizza]

Well, I finally took my defective LSD a part on order to evaluate the issue. This was also requested by MFactory, so they can tell me if warranty will cover the failure.
Take a look at this beauty: two bolts and buch of metal chips.
Oil was surprisingly clean.
Let see what MFactory will tell me. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200208/f046a01452f801a57bc5c728aab7277f.jpg

Sent from my SM-G960U using TapatalkOh man MFactory actually did a quasi recall on their diffs early on because of those bolts backing out. There are threads on e46f about it. Definitely reference those to see what you can expect from them.

[RUS_ZHP]

Oh man MFactory actually did a quasi recall on their diffs early on because of those bolts backing out. There are threads on e46f about it. Definitely reference those to see what you can expect from them.Thank you for letting me know. I'll check it out.

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[delvin]

Looks good, man ! :thumbup

Thanks!


Picked up some 135’s from a member and mounted them today
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/33752adbaa98f436cf42534d9c1608e4.jpg

[stephenkirsh]

Track day bro! Bit of snow in the distance. Nothing like Road Atlanta this weekend, though.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/6fd0eaf4373251c85bb6977c909607dc.jpg

[RUS_ZHP]

Track day bro! Bit of snow in the distance. Nothing like Road Atlanta this weekend, though.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/6fd0eaf4373251c85bb6977c909607dc.jpgNice! Did you just traveled there? I thought that you're on west coast.

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[RUS_ZHP]

I haven't done something like this for almost a year - just went for a nice drive. Catskill area in NY has fantastic roads, there are some rough spots and bumps, but still great. Car quickly become dirty as pig and covered with nice layer of sand, Wash, drive, then wash again cycle had fixed that.
I wish I still had my lsd, so the fun level will ne even higher. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/9557506ea34032d75fc5bb3285fd0cee.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/55779d95fd895b251a6f90379f1432db.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/51e5d51933e5041beb44682c5c5d3ee2.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/ec37ad66f195da62464ce92c3a50b9ea.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/82ea3c8d92e5a1063cc253430daf0dc1.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200209/4b0cf5f3cc231b8d366b97921e1f8181.jpg

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[johnrando]

Don't get to do that as much as I'd like, but still get 'em in, so nice to do that.

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[BADCLOWN]

the blue on ZHPs really looks great, understated color at times I think.

wagons look SOOO much better with the exterior ZHP bits

[stephenkirsh]

Nice! Did you just traveled there? I thought that you're on west coast.

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Thunderhill is in CA, as are the photos. I did an HPDE event.

I was simply referencing the giant snow storm that covered Road Atlanta on a race weekend.

[az3579]

wagons look SOOO much better with the exterior ZHP bits

This. M-Tech 1 or 2 is a necessity on the E46...

[fredo]

Replaced the car battery. It was BMW brand with prod date Feb 2010. Yes, it lasted 10 years. My mechanic said "this one needs to be at a museum." Last week it was very cold (31* overnight) and I could hear it was weak. It still started the car, but I knew it was time to say good bye.

[DaveInMD]

Replaced the car battery. It was BMW brand with prod date Feb 2010. Yes, it lasted 10 years. My mechanic said "this one needs to be at a museum." Last week it was very cold (31* overnight) and I could hear it was weak. It still started the car, but I knew it was time to say good bye.(1) that's a good long run
(2) holy crap it's 2020
(3) ... And to think so many of us recycle our vehicles after 4 or 5 years

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[DaveInMD]

Getting there...https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200220/1433409e711510f054cb7580c773f059.jpg

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[Oli77]

Bought some Lamin-X to cover my fogs.

[dpark]

Had the 2nd recall work done on my passenger front airbag. Takata really screwed the pooch for OEMs all over the planet. What a pain in the butt. But at least I got a free car wash out of it.

They did a free safety inspection and the good news is all but one of the things they flagged I already knew about and can't decide if I want to fix it or not.
1. Oil pan gasket leak - a couple of drops a day, nothing crazy. They want $1500 to fix. I think this is a pretty big job, just don't know if I care enough to do it for how little it is leaking.
2. Valve cover gasket leak - will do myself once it gets warmer
3. AC belt and drive belt tensioner need replacing - had all of this replaced a couple of years ago when the whole front end was off for the cooling system replacement. Surprised this is was flagged as an issue. Will have my indy guy check it out to be sure.

Thankfully, no other issues came up, not that I was expecting anything bad, the car has been pretty solid the last couple of years.

[jwalther]

New general control module and glove box latch assembly. I bought a new key a couple of weeks ago thinking that was the cause of some door locking issues. Turned out to be the gcm.

[ZHPizza]

Was cleaning up some extra style 264's to post for sale and the mounting faces were straight nasty from years in the northeast. Figured it was a perfect time to try out my new toy and boy oh boy did it deliver!

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200224/7f36a6287246f29d513de0442f8189b3.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200224/1669a0dcbb348a2e072a93f34c4079c7.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200224/595262cf63b2904c4dffc271153a2e7e.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200224/db5bab37e46a01085d65993f41352ca4.jpg

Can't wait to try it on the hubs too!


Edit: link https://www.ecstuning.com/b-bav-auto-tools-parts/wheel-hub-and-rotor-grinding-cleaning-kit/b8800132~bav/

[johnrando]

Nice result!

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[Rovert]

XPEL PPF'ed by fog lights!

Wet just a dab so it creates a layer of slippery in between to position:
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lxA9R_EOy1BsuKLLfYRtxIoX_s2E__YxdzESpEgRnQ7lZaEKgJ KtqxkyuLuT2s62c0e8kd3okeUoEAnE5IOZNsOWbr1qSTfAZNbX IJVZR30Nk6QO0Sc3muVrksGMDvIJbue7zLo-114=w1920-h1080

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/yUfrWgIwGgsRcGm6Vf3r9pgpspi__sZ84N_CmhVnoKCdpMrLmo J9dTCjcF-HRHFT9BkAFkyixGq2Ep6ccyjr1kVnzfeUbLHLS76Wboz_eP2Me qbAC1mN43o_1IYFgvxbdINP98cNhbQ=w1920-h1080

Then start pushing the water out so it can adhere to the surface:
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lBuSM2AuFiYllPEJw1sxGb2Sn9zh-M7JNzwcnfBjs6eGEdGGhksf48tadNhlssnPUJwrlfEDq9cv6ek uMALFK-d1j-ewgQoAiV7ymSvwVn6kxvOG2ORutGel04wsIAOUlwmW-dF6go8=w1920-h1080

Massage the outside where the film starts to ripple from the curvature and it'll smooth out to look perfect:
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CYDfp0ZRtpojRLasGaBpDfvfqr7PLmVBuIwMV5uKabGVGJRHzt 5MUDrI-T6wKDsJp5OYFKuj_CVz0RP_seu_FgVH7aA8htj3Bhz50Js0lTt NGMCQpH_iqTSpt59m8MIrJFcLk7T9r4I=w1920-h1080

Then reinstall on car!
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/K0RB9oWTqZLANdZy-lw9ZeDRwyNMaf7Xf0FLPQNlgvxqm9UhNmdw_lMuzEaWIcbKSby B3RZ8cKkNAkqAgX-nLCNiIVdbvv_Ki3640hmf_8YjBsG2s-d4O1BMkO5ScHGpvlEl5LfGpLI=w1920-h1080

[ZHPizza]

@rovert more o them meaty arc8 pics plz

[usinjin]

New wheel installed today.

36233

[Rovert]

@rovert more o them meaty arc8 pics plz

Here! LOL

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?2784-Post-your-daily-ZHP-BMW-MINI-pics!&p=592140#post592140

[PdZHP]

New wheel installed today.

36233

Drool

[pedro2u]

New wheel installed today.

36233

Can't say I've been following all the steering wheel upgrades since I've kept my car mostly stock. But that wheel is amazing, and very tempting.

So what wheel is that? I've looked at Coby's (and love the look) but don't see this wheel on their site.. Is it an E9X M Sport wheel? How costly is that and any issues with the swap? Airbag was plug & play?

And since I also have an E92....... an option for that car at least

[JPMo]

Can't say I've been following all the steering wheel upgrades since I've kept my car mostly stock. But that wheel is amazing, and very tempting.

So what wheel is that? I've looked at Coby's (and love the look) but don't see this wheel on their site.. Is it an E9X M Sport wheel? How costly is that and any issues with the swap? Airbag was plug & play?

And since I also have an E92....... an option for that car at leastI've only seen that wheel on eBay and I'm curious as well because it looks great and would be a nice update to the zhp. In for the details.

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[usinjin]

I've only seen that wheel on eBay and I'm curious as well because it looks great and would be a nice update to the zhp. In for the details.

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Indeed, it is an eBay wheel. A fellow Mafia member had a flat-bottomed wheel and I liked it so much I bought one for myself. I bought it from a seller located in Ukraine (his eBay username is "andri-zakus"). I'd bought a wheel from him previously and was impressed with the quality.

To be honest I'm not sure where the wheel is originally from. It's bigger than a 3-series wheel, just a little bit. But it has the same layout as the M-sport wheel, so the airbag plugged right in. They wrapped the badged piece in leather too. I thought maybe it was from an E53 X5 (the ad mentioned this), but I can't find an X5 wheel with the same M-sport center layout.

The leather is very high quality and they did a perfect job of wrapping and stitching it. Didn't come with airbag or upper controls but again the bottom wrapped piece was installed already. After all of that, it was only $250. It took about a month to arrive, though a rather small price to pay imo.

[pedro2u]

Thanks, I was looking at his steering wheels.

Question, does the wheel come like the image below? And then you remove and transfer the airbag, trim, controls and //M logo lower trim at the bottom from your existing ZHP wheel?

Here's the eBay listing https://www.ebay.com/itm/BMW-MSport-M-Tech-MTechnic-Mtech-M-Technik-E46-E38-E39-X53-Steering-Wheel-NEW/113666515809?hash=item1a770d6361:g:TCMAAOSw86JaZkI Q

[usinjin]

Exactly. He has quite a few variants, such as some wheels do come with lower trim/upper controls, but that one appears to just be wheel only. That one looks to be the same as mine—can you tell what it originally was from?

Also, bear in mind it is a little bigger than stock, by maybe 3/4” total. If you want exact measurements just let me know and I’ll measure mine.

[pedro2u]

so if I bought that wheel, I just transfer the airbag and trim pieces over?

[usinjin]

so if I bought that wheel, I just transfer the airbag and trim pieces over?

Correct. It's a little hard to tell from the photo, but I'm pretty sure the bottom trim is the same. Just remember to pull negative connection to the battery before disconnecting the airbag.

[johnrando]

Correct. It's a little hard to tell from the photo, but I'm pretty sure the bottom trim is the same. Just remember to pull negative connection to the battery before disconnecting the airbag.Pull it and let it for 15 minutes before you so the airbag. You don't want that airbag light.

Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk

[pedro2u]

Pull it and let it for 15 minutes before you so the airbag. You don't want that airbag light.

Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk

Thanks Rando - noted!

I just pulled the trigger and ordered it! I contacted the ebay seller (https://www.ebay.com/str/AZA-AUTO-LLC?_trksid=p2047675.l2563) with a picture of the wheel and he confirmed that this was it:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/BMW-MSport-M-Tech-MTechnic-Mtech-M-Technik-E46-E38-E39-X53-Steering-Wheel/113861449119?hash=item1a82abd59f:g:dq0AAOSwdHBaZkL P

As you said, it will take some time to get here (projected in mid April), but that's about when the vert comes out of storage! Can't wait

[ZHPizza]

Pull it and let it for 15 minutes before you so the airbag. You don't want that airbag light.

Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk

Not necessary -- I hot swap them all the time just like they do at the dealership (car off, battery connected). Just don't do it while you're driving into a wall and the airbag won't blow up.

[pedro2u]

Just don't do it while you're driving into a wall and the airbag won't blow up.

Always good advice:dunno

[az3579]

Not necessary -- I hot swap them all the time just like they do at the dealership (car off, battery connected). Just don't do it while you're driving into a wall and the airbag won't blow up.Same. No need to disconnect the battery, just make sure you don't turn on the ignition.

Sent from my Pixel 3 using Tapatalk

[pedro2u]

Same. No need to disconnect the battery, just make sure you don't turn on the ignition.

Well noted, thanks! If it arrives while my car is in storage (with no battery in it), I may make this a storage unit Saturday project! Can't wait for it to come!

Then the dilemma will be whether to sell the original mint alcantara wheel or keep it

[704sw]

New wheel installed today.

Looks good, I had the exact same wheel for 6-8ish months.


I've only seen that wheel on eBay and I'm curious as well because it looks great and would be a nice update to the zhp. In for the details.


Exactly. He has quite a few variants, such as some wheels do come with lower trim/upper controls, but that one appears to just be wheel only. That one looks to be the same as mine—can you tell what it originally was from?

Also, bear in mind it is a little bigger than stock, by maybe 3/4” total. If you want exact measurements just let me know and I’ll measure mine.

It felt very similar in thickness to my Coby rewrapped wheel, which is a little meatier than the OE ZHP and M3 wheels, but not a huge margin. Or do you mean the diameter of the wheel is bigger?

I was really impressed with the quality of the wheel, but I just couldn't get used to the flat bottom when I was making turns. Grabbing a straight piece (or worse, the angled portion) when you're expecting a curve was just really weird. The super aggressive thumb slots were awesome on the track since your hands never leave 3 and 9. The easier ingress/egress from the driver seat was also great.

[pedro2u]

The super aggressive thumb slots were awesome. The easier ingress/egress from the driver seat was also great.

+1 on added fun driving and improve ingress/egress. And really like the look

[usinjin]

Looks good, I had the exact same wheel for 6-8ish months.





It felt very similar in thickness to my Coby rewrapped wheel, which is a little meatier than the OE ZHP and M3 wheels, but not a huge margin. Or do you mean the diameter of the wheel is bigger?

I was really impressed with the quality of the wheel, but I just couldn't get used to the flat bottom when I was making turns. Grabbing a straight piece (or worse, the angled portion) when you're expecting a curve was just really weird. The super aggressive thumb slots were awesome on the track since your hands never leave 3 and 9. The easier ingress/egress from the driver seat was also great.

I'm weird, grabbing the flat part while turning feels amazing to me :D

[johnrando]

Glad there is an easier way. I was always told to disconnect for 15 mins, I did, and it worked! Lol

Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk

[ZHPizza]

Finally installed the rack and put my summer wheels up!

Like a month until they go back on the car lol
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200229/4b49cfb465fdecd5ec0fb3fd916823cd.jpg

[cakM3]

I washed and cleaned up my M3 today after taking it out for a nice drive....damn does it feel good to be behind the wheel in my E46 ///M. Just sayin’ [emoji41]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200229/7222158475688a2ea33f23fb438b8181.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200229/0785d180093a660186e92919df828788.jpg


Even took the time to give my engine bay a wipe down[emoji1360]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200229/652ef72de462507d2b1329d749725220.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200229/4f3b04519a70405c73d15f9a224d932a.jpg

Pays to give the old girl a good detailing before hibernating her. She’s now ready to be driven for the upcoming 2020 car season[emoji41]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200229/8e65c1ad3f58482f3e79c8772faa5f5a.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200229/2d8212b6571cbdd280e812d22a5d36cc.png


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[Rovert]

Finally installed the rack and put my summer wheels up!

Like a month until they go back on the car lol


Git those off of there. Mount em now! You’re late!! [emoji12]

[Oli77]

Finally installed the rack and put my summer wheels up!

Like a month until they go back on the car lol
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200229/4b49cfb465fdecd5ec0fb3fd916823cd.jpg

Nice jig, where did you buy that? We might be doing our garage up this summer if funds are available (floor to ceiling).

[ZHPizza]

Nice jig, where did you buy that? We might be doing our garage up this summer if funds are available (floor to ceiling).MAXXHAUL 70489 Capacity Foldable Tire Rack (300-lb) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01I2CHTEW/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_MrUwEb71YH7GT

Really happy with the quality for the price

[Oli77]

:thumbsup

[Unamused]

Rebuilt the DISA with the GAS kit.
https://i.imgur.com/qKqTDcel.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/m6Fz2WJl.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/BXXiaZSl.jpg

[DeathTrap]

Cleaned the piston that made out with my valve. I don't think I'm going to reuse this one.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200301/d23d6c636d7e522a32c3b5a73423fa35.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200301/34b5c1d337899f436a287f8625d15abf.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[JPMo]

Rebuilt the DISA with the GAS kit.
https://i.imgur.com/qKqTDcel.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/m6Fz2WJl.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/BXXiaZSl.jpgI didn't have the greatest luck with my rebuild and I found the installation instructions a bit tricky

Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

[Unamused]

Overall process wasn't bad. Getting the top pin removed proved to be the most difficult. I used a pick and thin blade screwdriver to get the majority of the old ring removed. Then used a Dremel tool with a small wire brush attachment to finish things off. Overall the process took less than an hour. There's good video on Youtube that details the entire process.

[Thatguy_JZ]

I've got brass clutch pedal bushings and poly brake pedal bushings waiting for install. Also still need to get around to doing my diff swap and bushings. I have everything I need now.

Currently dealing with the flu right now so it's gonna be a while. Bummer.

[ZHPizza]

Cleaned the piston that made out with my valve. I don't think I'm going to reuse this one.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200301/d23d6c636d7e522a32c3b5a73423fa35.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200301/34b5c1d337899f436a287f8625d15abf.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using TapatalkFill er with jb weld and go

[Oli77]

That piston exchange is something else! Kudos, all I did today was remove a thin piece of film from the 3M sticker on this here lip:

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pGV1ELQf5QGva5urtwyU_5S1Dkr9qDpzzhjMEOsxydiXFIoV-U534DEEpaIuzZhMYkLIVm1l8ykUyrydgtFrsRRJTsHmz98Qn9J IJFNb5p4QIeEZciP4PkIhleSDfLLy-j0kkPSi8g=w1920-h1080

[stephenkirsh]

.

Currently dealing with the flu right now so it's gonna be a while. Bummer.


Uh oh...

[DeathTrap]

Fill er with jb weld and goAll about that prep werk!

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[DenzZHP]

The radiator had sprung a leak along the left side, so cooling system refresh was completed. New radiator, thermostat assembly, expansion tank, both expansion tank hoses, both radiator hoses and brackets and mounts, plus a few additional parts to complete the job. It was tough to pay that bill but one of those routine maintenance items that needed to be done.

[Oli77]

:thumbsup

[fredo]

I went to the DMV to pay the ZHP car registration and get new plates. I checked in at 8.25 am and was done at 8.38 am. They were not very busy, and it helped that I had an appointment. The parking was problematic, they used to have a huge parking lot but they are putting a new building in there. I parked across the street.

[DaveInMD]

Did you get out at 8:38 the SAME day? I wait longer for my Starbucks.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[das boots]

So I went back to Vegas over the weekend. I was on the way to Canes to get lunch after dropping off my stuffs. I noticed a puff of steam and went straight to a 7-11 gas station in Warm Springs & Buffalo. The ZHP decided to spill its guts....coolant on the lot......It was cold....it was windy. Had to call AAA tow and bring back to home and park in street. No shops open. But I did notice that the pump was cocked.....No. I do not have my tools or anything.

I am thankful that the ZHP held up and did not decide to spill its guts on the road to Vegas (Desert).

Following day, had the ZHP towed again to Southwest Bimmers (they are also members of the BIMRS.org). The shop was fantastic. They were able to accommodate my ZHP and got to work.

After a days work....I have a new Pump, Thermostat, Upper and Lower hose, Sensor. This situation was my bad. When I did the whole coolant system replacement, I left out the pump. Now I guess, the original pump decided to bite off my ass......at 154K miles.

So that's my story. Now, I'm back in San Diego.

[Will]

^damn, that's a bummer. Glad they were able to get you back on the road.

A friend and I got stranded 75 miles out of Vegas on the way back to socal; expansion tank exploded. He didn't have AAA 100 mile tow, the tow bill back into Vegas to a shop was eye-watering.

[DaveInMD]

Tough experiences. Good stories to share. Better rides and days ahead. And I think I'll be taking care of that long overdue alternator replacement.


Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

I retrofitted autofold side mirror functionality into my M3 OE side mirrors this weekend. Finished my passenger’s side this morning[emoji41][emoji1360]


Edit: I took my M3 out for a 150 mile cruise with a few local friends of mine. It was a nice day and turned out to be a good cruise. A great day for me to start my 2020 car season.

Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[DeathTrap]

Put her up to start stripping her down https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200309/7a1bf6bfb874f35c8da2ac56154e0676.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

So I went back to Vegas over the weekend. I was on the way to Canes to get lunch after dropping off my stuffs. I noticed a puff of steam and went straight to a 7-11 gas station in Warm Springs & Buffalo. The ZHP decided to spill its guts....coolant on the lot......It was cold....it was windy. Had to call AAA tow and bring back to home and park in street. No shops open. But I did notice that the pump was cocked.....No. I do not have my tools or anything.

I am thankful that the ZHP held up and did not decide to spill its guts on the road to Vegas (Desert).

Following day, had the ZHP towed again to Southwest Bimmers (they are also members of the BIMRS.org). The shop was fantastic. They were able to accommodate my ZHP and got to work.

After a days work....I have a new Pump, Thermostat, Upper and Lower hose, Sensor. This situation was my bad. When I did the whole coolant system replacement, I left out the pump. Now I guess, the original pump decided to bite off my ass......at 154K miles.

So that's my story. Now, I'm back in San Diego.Painful! But, glad the resolution wasn't so bad.

@DeathTrap looking forward to it. Love an opened car front. @cakM3 love it.

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

[DaveInMD]

Photos from my dimly lit garage don't do justice to the coat of Jetseal on the headlights. I followed the Chemicals Video. https://youtu.be/tSm8C3I6_w4. Wetsand 400 grit, 2500 grit, 3000 grit and v36 polish. Very happy with the results but the Jetseal took the shine to another level. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200309/a8ccb98de16adb19864becfc72be98fd.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[Galapolis]

Installed the shadow line trim that Pizzaman found for me in SC. Still need to install the quarter window pillars but I have no idea how to remove them.

36283

[ZHPizza]

Photos from my dimly lit garage don't do justice to the coat of Jetseal on the headlights. I followed the Chemicals Video. https://youtu.be/tSm8C3I6_w4. Wetsand 400 grit, 2500 grit, 3000 grit and v36 polish. Very happy with the results but the Jetseal took the shine to another level. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200309/a8ccb98de16adb19864becfc72be98fd.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 3a using TapatalkDaaaaayummmm
Installed the shadow line trim that Pizzaman found for me in SC. Still need to install the quarter window pillars but I have no idea how to remove them.

36283Hell yeah brother

Pillars look fine to me. They black!

[DaveInMD]

Third radio. Everything tests as working fine ... like the second one, until it ate my Stevie Ray Vaughn and Double Trouble CD.

Godspeed Stevie. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200310/c4234cc0c95291a8b03d7f7aa80b9174.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[fredo]

Bummer about your damaged CDs. But hey ... that's cool you have red trim on your IR sedan. :thumbsup

[DaveInMD]

Bummer about your damaged CDs. But hey ... that's cool you have red trim on your IR sedan. :thumbsupThanks. The wrap adheres better to the fake wood trim of a 325. Also just got some black mats with red piping on the edges. It's a good look. Is there a good thread for advice on improving the sound of the doors when they close to less of a "k-chunk" and more of a "fwoomp?".

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[Rovert]

^ Aquarium water hose inside the hollow windows/door seals to firm them up. Also dynomat sound deadening the panels from inside the door will remove any tininess.

[Thatguy_JZ]

Put in a new fuel pump today. Cleaned years of junk out from under the rear seat

[DeathTrap]

Thanks. The wrap adheres better to the fake wood trim of a 325. Also just got some black mats with red piping on the edges. It's a good look. Is there a good thread for advice on improving the sound of the doors when they close to less of a "k-chunk" and more of a "fwoomp?".

Sent from my Pixel 3a using TapatalkI got my doors fully deadened. I could take a video if you want to see what it's like. There is a pretty big difference.

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[Will]

I got my doors fully deadened. I could take a video if you want to see what it's like. There is a pretty big difference.


I'd be interested. Which products did you use to add mass/adhere to the doors?

[Will]

Photos from my dimly lit garage don't do justice to the coat of Jetseal on the headlights. I followed the Chemicals Video. https://youtu.be/tSm8C3I6_w4. Wetsand 400 grit, 2500 grit, 3000 grit and v36 polish. Very happy with the results but the Jetseal took the shine to another level.

Damn that looks great!!

[DeathTrap]

I'd be interested. Which products did you use to add mass/adhere to the doors?Knukonceptz Kolossus deadener. There was a sale on the B-stock product so I picked up 2 flat rate boxes of the stuff. There was a DIYMA (DIY Mobile Audio) thread comparing all the deadeners and this one ranked third and was also the best bang for the buck at the time.

I used one sheet for the rears and 1.5 ish for the fronts. Doors feel heavier, obviously, and close very nicely. Even compare to the wife's E90, it feels like a much more solid car as soon as the door is opened.

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[DeathTrap]

Realllllllly laid it in therehttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200311/780f6c60f88e52973f810251ca6631a6.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[DaveInMD]

Thanks for advice on door.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[DaveInMD]

^ Aquarium water hose inside the hollow windows/door seals to firm them up. Also dynomat sound deadening the panels from inside the door will remove any tininess.Water hose idea is creative. Brilliant.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[John in VA]

To dampen the doors, rear side panels, etc., you don't need to cover the panels 100% - just need to apply a patch the in center. Much is written about this, but if you have it, use it!
https://www.sounddeadenershowdown.com/

[DeathTrap]

To dampen the doors, rear side panels, etc., you don't need to cover the panels 100% - just need to apply a patch the in center. Much is written about this, but if you have it, use it!
https://www.sounddeadenershowdown.com/I usually follows Don's advice but the 25% rule was with "his" product which was number 1 in the comparison. Experimenting on the doors with the Kolossus showed me that 100% or as close as possible definitely changed the resonant sound of the panel. I wouldn't do double or triple layers like some of the other crazy people, but a single layer on such a flat panel was good.

BMW also offers a small patch of asphalt deadening already. It's decent. The aftermarket solution is better by a mile.

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[stephenkirsh]

Early spring track day prep :(

Rain scheduled for Saturday.


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200312/bfce108a08b12879da3704e8a366203e.jpg

[cakM3]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200314/2e5bca52e57ca4d0a797843b9c5b0169.jpg

I have Botond doing some coding to my M3 this afternoon [emoji57]


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[DeathTrap]

Dropped the rear outhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200314/dbe5dd78ffab9836defabe8c56a20efc.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Nice Charlie, BP,
Deathtrap!

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

[DaveInMD]

Huge step forward. Good luck.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[DeathTrap]

Did this last night. My second ever engine pull. Really I just wanted the transmission, but I figured it'll be easier to remove the whole assembly since I was so far into it. [emoji3061]https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200315/9ee1ef43ecdc9d8a76fad6fca4942850.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[Oli77]

^ Dang! Kudos to you for being able to get that far in there. I just have enough tools to pry around and investigate sources of leaks. Heck since buying my E93, I have not yet purchased T-wrenches and other tools I need to get into the OFHG leak (luckily, it's not bad yet and I keep it clean so it doesn't hit my belt).

But this morning I lifted and pried around the wheel liner to find out the hydraulic piston that pushes the flap up and extends the nozzle for the headlight washer is leaking. Removed the hose from the piston and plugged it hard with a wood dowel. That should stop the leak!

Will replace this summer when the temps are more appropriate.

[DaveInMD]

I felt a shudder in the ZHP force when that thing came out. I ll raise a glass tonight and say cheers to your effort and best of luck today getting her back together. Hope it's fun with minimal setbacks.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[DaveInMD]

Ashamed to say all I did was paint two wiper arms today. Womp womp

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[John in VA]

Swapped the winter wheels/tires off the E39 & E46 325xi, cleaned them up & put them away. Ready for spring!

[stephenkirsh]

AT trans fluid and filter!

[Prestovie]

Just got my car back from my brother who worked on it at his dealership in Grand Rapids. We swapped ZHP's for the month and it was weird driving mine again after getting out of his coupe with poly engine mounts, a stick shifter and a 14in momo wheel.
Major things done in preparation for a spring break trip that is unfortunately being put on hold...:
- Front pads and rotors - Oil Change, oil filter housing gasket replaced - Vanoss feed line replaced - Shifter bushings replaced - Bled brakes and slave cylinder - Fixed sagging B pillars, alignment, new wiper blades - removed matte black plastic dip on mirrors to find pristine color matched paint - Added a key cylinder to drivers side door after PO did delete, can finally lock my car after 2.5years36294
Only letting me upload the one, for some reason massive, photo. Feels like a brand new car, though. Missed my four door, plush seats, a steering wheel that feels like it wants you to hold it, and overall comfort.

[DeathTrap]

Never understood the key hole delete...I mean I guess I did want to do it to my old Honda back in the day.

To upload more than one picture for Tapatalk, you have to click the upload button after every single pic uploads... It's how they annoy you into going VIP.

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[Prestovie]

Never understood the key hole delete...I mean I guess I did want to do it to my old Honda back in the day.

To upload more than one picture for Tapatalk, you have to click the upload button after every single pic uploads... It's how they annoy you into going VIP.

Yea it’s been a frustrating endeavor the past few years, new batteries run around $120 and 6months into my replacement it crapped out on me. Lucky to have a tech in the family, feels good to be able to lock up again.
But I’ve been using my laptop, keep getting an upload image failure. Makes me want to redownload Tapatalk but that VIP price isn’t worth a couple more pictures lol

[DaveInMD]

New windshield cowl. Easy job. While in there , cleaned out debris from corners of engine compartment. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200321/d16755bd4a5c4c2f11a0ff135f04dfca.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200321/c46a66ce901f394a2ffe91d0c445dfc8.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[John in VA]

New windshield cowl. Easy job.
Not always. Had a b!tch of a time getting one of the wipers off last year. Need to replace the one on the E39 soon.

[Joerdan23TN]

Added my stripes and 10mm spacers today. Satisfying. Can’t wait to install my ACS mirrors now.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200321/ccd80f8dbaf6ae9f31708d5e13596ddd.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Joerdan23TN]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200321/83959528f066f6c7dc79abd6aacefce8.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[JPMo]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200321/83959528f066f6c7dc79abd6aacefce8.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkWow those wheels look great in there


Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

[Unamused]

Having the subframe and diff bushing replaced. Also having Morehead Speedworks reinforcement plates welded in. Thankfully no cracks were found!
https://i.imgur.com/xzW0v31m.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/UmZmRrGm.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/OySjmHhm.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/z0aRkkXm.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/0aHwNLtm.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/JhzpPFkm.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/CsGJNRnm.jpg

[Joerdan23TN]

Wow those wheels look great in there


Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

Thanks man!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[DaveInMD]

Not always. Had a b!tch of a time getting one of the wipers off last year. Need to replace the one on the E39 soon.True. True. A rare project to not hit a snag or snap off some important plastic tab.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[Prestovie]

Added my stripes and 10mm spacers today. Satisfying. Can’t wait to install my ACS mirrors now.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200321/ccd80f8dbaf6ae9f31708d5e13596ddd.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

That looks fantastic! Gotta know where you got those fog trim pieces

[johnrando]

That does look good. I do like the fog pieces too.

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

[FungShui]

I just ordered my Autosolutions SSK. The car has about 129,000 miles and was thinking about replacing the guidbo and transmission mount with Rouge Engineering. Is there anything else that I should replace while installing the SSK?

[DeathTrap]

I just ordered my Autosolutions SSK. The car has about 129,000 miles and was thinking about replacing the guidbo and transmission mount with Rouge Engineering. Is there anything else that I should replace while installing the SSK?Shift shaft seal. They tend to start a slow leak at about 150k.

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

... I do like the fog pieces too.

Botond is not a fan of those fog covers.....

[Vas]

I got a pair for sale if anyone wants them

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[704sw]

I just ordered my Autosolutions SSK. The car has about 129,000 miles and was thinking about replacing the guidbo and transmission mount with Rouge Engineering. Is there anything else that I should replace while installing the SSK?

Might as well do the CSB too. Dropping the exhaust and driveshaft is annoying, no need to do it more than once if you don’t have to.

[stephenkirsh]

Trying to repair broken hazard switch. Bottom clips broke. Button doesn’t click as it would normally. Tape to hold while I glue some bits.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200324/29d5d1d7fcea3c36b56e3d99a3e00db7.jpg

[ZHPizza]

Trying to repair broken hazard switch. Bottom clips broke. Button doesn’t click as it would normally. Tape to hold while I glue some bits.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200324/29d5d1d7fcea3c36b56e3d99a3e00db7.jpg

This has happened to every e46 I've owned. I've seen a lot of glued switches but have never seen the glue fix last. I just wrap a strip of packing [or a similar non-stretchy] tape over the bottom section that pops out, anchoring it to the sides. Never had that fix fail.

[sillieidiot]

What do you guys do to break it? Smash the switch or something? Lol

[DeathTrap]

Mine got Chic fil a lemonade spilled in it. It stopped working soon after lol. I ordered another one but don't need it anymore. You want it?https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200324/0d46791295b41090e6effe23c59d0656.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[Oli77]

In anticipation for nicer warmer weather and because I am not a fan of the rubber mats in my new-to-me E93, I bought some mats from GRAGints mats today.

https://www.dragintmats.com/product-page/dragint-mats-bmw-m3-series-coupe-e92-07-13

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/35f455_1545ff44c9f14bb793a504ba5a7bc90e~mv2_d_1920 _1280_s_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_1654,h_1102,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/35f455_1545ff44c9f14bb793a504ba5a7bc90e~mv2_d_1920 _1280_s_2.webp

[johnrando]

I got a pair for sale if anyone wants them

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using TapatalkPMd

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

[704sw]

In anticipation for nicer warmer weather and because I am not a fan of the rubber mats in my new-to-me E93, I bought some mats from GRAGints mats today.

https://www.dragintmats.com/product-page/dragint-mats-bmw-m3-series-coupe-e92-07-13

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/35f455_1545ff44c9f14bb793a504ba5a7bc90e~mv2_d_1920 _1280_s_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_1654,h_1102,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/35f455_1545ff44c9f14bb793a504ba5a7bc90e~mv2_d_1920 _1280_s_2.webp

That’s a great price for all four mats!

[Oli77]

That's what I thought, shipping was free too. I will take pics and post review.

[ZHPizza]

@Oli77 I can't tell if I love or hate them so I'm excited to see them in your car lol

Do the front mats not attach to the floor anchors? I seem to remember trying some anchor-less cheapo mats like that a while back and struggling to keep it in place.

I also tend to kick shit around while I'm driving so...

[delvin]

@Oli77 I can't tell if I love or hate them so I'm excited to see them in your car lol

Do the front mats not attach to the floor anchors? I seem to remember trying some anchor-less cheapo mats like that a while back and struggling to keep it in place.

I also tend to kick shit around while I'm driving so...

All you have to do is poke a hole in the mat above the attachment point in the floor and use the oe anchors (not the crappy velcro ones)

There is never a reason to deal with a mat sliding around in an e46

[FungShui]

Shift shaft seal. They tend to start a slow leak at about 150k.

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk


Might as well do the CSB too. Dropping the exhaust and driveshaft is annoying, no need to do it more than once if you don’t have to.


Thanks guys, I'll add both to the list.

[stephenkirsh]

This has happened to every e46 I've owned. I've seen a lot of glued switches but have never seen the glue fix last. I just wrap a strip of packing [or a similar non-stretchy] tape over the bottom section that pops out, anchoring it to the sides. Never had that fix fail.

Hm. Good tip. Thanks.

[DeathTrap]

Gave the new touring a light workout. Cleaning out my shedhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200326/d89643eedd0ddca292067a068e384770.jpg

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[Rovert]

Gave the new touring a light workout. Cleaning out my shed

You have junk in your trunk.

I have junk on my trunk? [emoji51][emoji23]

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/x6gzLfW8B5E9MHleR2q7kZw-fISoyWXEfubWtUCyWgqPMrjWKN5r1w_R-JyrVify7u98lvWFk-tepGFMxPGORNW0Vb2gteDmUlubFLZ8ibQSFss2-RQFnuGtDeQeExaHz4gRXD17TME=w1920-h1080

[Oli77]

@Oli77 I can't tell if I love or hate them so I'm excited to see them in your car lol

Do the front mats not attach to the floor anchors? I seem to remember trying some anchor-less cheapo mats like that a while back and struggling to keep it in place.

I also tend to kick shit around while I'm driving so...

They are supposed to actually anchor and have the velcro area underneath. Will post my thought and review when I get them.

[704sw]

Gave the new touring a light workout. Cleaning out my shed

I don’t see an LS in this picture.

[Will]

I went to a junk yard and found a rear sway from the 330cic to complement the z4m front sway I've had sitting in my garage. Hopefully I'll have time to install them this weekend.

At the same time I pulled both front seats from the same convertible. I'm going to use the parts to retrofit the seat heaters and lumbar adjustments (both drivers and passenger had lumbar adjustment)... this project might be a little further down the road, maybe summertime.

[johnrando]

I went to a junk yard and found a rear sway from the 330cic to complement the z4m front sway I've had sitting in my garage. Hopefully I'll have time to install them this weekend.

At the same time I pulled both front seats from the same convertible. I'm going to use the parts to retrofit the seat heaters and lumbar adjustments (both drivers and passenger had lumbar adjustment)... this project might be a little further down the road, maybe summertime.Good find!

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

[DeathTrap]

I don’t see an LS in this picture.I've been thinking about it...but I have a spare B30 over here that I want to play with first. If I do a good job on that, then we'll see what happens next.

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[DaveInMD]

So...I tried to wetsand a just a wee little clearcoat imperfection but went right through what must have been only one coat of color. So I did the whole damn lip. Clearcoat tomorrow.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200328/7007068af43036b0e51002f05ad02641.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200328/e751e484acd4af7e322740d5d5112edf.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[Oli77]

Oh boy, not touching my lip! Thanks for the warning. Bought mine from ebay came from Thailand or China, likely also have one coat of paint.

[johnrando]

Looking forward to seeing finished product.

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

[pedro2u]

Last weeks snow is just a wet spot in front of the garage doors, so I declared winter over, pulled off the car cover and busted my vert out of winter storage. Looked pretty sad hiding in there against the wall, but fired right up and strutted right out into the sun no worse for the hibernation experience. Color Me - Gone!

Good to have it home again

[DaveInMD]

Clearcoat on today. Will give it until Wednesday before wetsanding to shine it up. Learning to be nervous and gentle around the edges. Good distraction on a day off. Hope everyone is well.

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[DaveInMD]

Clearcoat on today. Will give it until Wednesday before wetsanding to shine it up. Learning to be nervous and gentle around the edges. Good distraction on a day off. Hope everyone is well.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using TapatalkCan't upload photos for some reason [emoji19] on my Pixel 3. Technology is messing with me at every turn this week.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[DaveInMD]

There we go...https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200328/281848ff857b3aa3d25d803a4d8bcd79.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[DaveInMD]

Re Color Me Gone. That must be a great ritual.

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[pedro2u]

Re Color Me Gone. That must be a great ritual.

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Well I guess Color Me - Gone shows my age..... famous dragsters of the 60's and my youth... those were the days

[pedro2u]

a few more horses than our ZHP's - a different world

[DaveInMD]

a few more horses than our ZHP's - a different worldThat's awesome. Love the history insight. Thanks.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[stephenkirsh]

a few more horses than our ZHP's - a different world

A few more horses, no brakes, no chassis, no lots of things.

But I’m sure it was quite a fun ride.

[Will]

Installed the Z4M front sway and a 330cic rear sway. I'm still getting used to the feel of this 27mm / 20mm setup. The front is much more flat with direction changes, but I think I need some more mileage before I can say I'll keep this setup. The stock setup felt really good.

[stephenkirsh]

Gummi’ed the seals on both cars


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200329/21af1fe06c58dc89ce8c859e85dd55a6.jpg

[Prestovie]

Gummi’ed the seals on both cars
Ah shoot that just reminded me about the bottle I lost last year, how often do you usually apply? Thinking I need to pick up another bottle now unless I want to tear apart the garage

[Will]

Ah shoot that just reminded me about the bottle I lost last year, how often do you usually apply? Thinking I need to pick up another bottle now unless I want to tear apart the garage

1-2 times per year should be fine. I use 303 (https://www.goldeagle.com/product/303-aerospace-protectant/) on the seals instead of the gummi Pflege.

[Will]

I replaced the wiring grommet (a.k.a. "elephant trunk"). Not as bad of a DIY as I feared, it's very straight forward (just follow the detailed DIY posted on e46f (link (https://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=1258545&highlight=elephant))). Took just under 2 hours working slowly.


https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oxGu9wbi1WxhkGE9YVBp298PSJalNvahXKpfhNEtaHcfG54zcL nzPUBkdpeOf5KQxEn7kuMNd0dNEQbjvrID9RxVdCpNxhXpKkyN Xtl1uTTkwRNzNytgW8henhVWjC7aRoJJlPQX_tZgg9iPFchHWD 5x9GOMU04jEnknE4yrqjsswT0N_rJn0FfPaCBuxT_S-n3BfuYritmnSEV4GCZZKl599B0B6n6gZI0v7Ofv87qN4gftCJV C6OJm8i178Y0WPTVbNYYeWPZRwMSq0cDvmpRswLNGlmqS2sIfa 9OKsjkPz3jfYIrdizBsH-5OO48bB_iSoZZpvukVRKmJ0kN7KpYiUz_aWYq17anEYvM8LFA4 5uvv2jCFsJFUos1TRlUc4fMTmg2CWnCIrIttjxJiYyWkrBju2t h_tQSqGbZampgEO4CXYLW08PeiloweF1kPotmuCEhwtrPD77Oz B1JtRiwAN4Bm0NrFIwO6uVVJnIyI-SOeqfr-8lvrlD4WpSk4VWtbubut9YL7tXDOLRgALJYtIU9DgENMFfTF2s MmEeHczIrNNtR44kB8S0eFaL10CrlOhkchoNAOX5_eQuvkQpKs ulJ20P2s1KsD-Q9ZbywYscnzSlVSpGB7bPzdtO9yW20e3r_oZxfLmkUYEq3niFt rnXF3eV4T8onmxuSwDCZDns2Z5gRvPgtpzqMtqWdV0njwbkXFk 4CEhhayuuizZemHjjXCWDa8I--n24pBbCll45pm4VeFdA=w883-h662-no

[Prestovie]

1-2 times per year should be fine. I use 303 (https://www.goldeagle.com/product/303-aerospace-protectant/) on the seals instead of the gummi Pflege.

Thanks man!

[das boots]

I replaced the wiring grommet (a.k.a. "elephant trunk"). Not as bad of a DIY as I feared, it's very straight forward (just follow the detailed DIY posted on e46f (link (https://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=1258545&highlight=elephant))). Took just under 2 hours working slowly.


https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oxGu9wbi1WxhkGE9YVBp298PSJalNvahXKpfhNEtaHcfG54zcL nzPUBkdpeOf5KQxEn7kuMNd0dNEQbjvrID9RxVdCpNxhXpKkyN Xtl1uTTkwRNzNytgW8henhVWjC7aRoJJlPQX_tZgg9iPFchHWD 5x9GOMU04jEnknE4yrqjsswT0N_rJn0FfPaCBuxT_S-n3BfuYritmnSEV4GCZZKl599B0B6n6gZI0v7Ofv87qN4gftCJV C6OJm8i178Y0WPTVbNYYeWPZRwMSq0cDvmpRswLNGlmqS2sIfa 9OKsjkPz3jfYIrdizBsH-5OO48bB_iSoZZpvukVRKmJ0kN7KpYiUz_aWYq17anEYvM8LFA4 5uvv2jCFsJFUos1TRlUc4fMTmg2CWnCIrIttjxJiYyWkrBju2t h_tQSqGbZampgEO4CXYLW08PeiloweF1kPotmuCEhwtrPD77Oz B1JtRiwAN4Bm0NrFIwO6uVVJnIyI-SOeqfr-8lvrlD4WpSk4VWtbubut9YL7tXDOLRgALJYtIU9DgENMFfTF2s MmEeHczIrNNtR44kB8S0eFaL10CrlOhkchoNAOX5_eQuvkQpKs ulJ20P2s1KsD-Q9ZbywYscnzSlVSpGB7bPzdtO9yW20e3r_oZxfLmkUYEq3niFt rnXF3eV4T8onmxuSwDCZDns2Z5gRvPgtpzqMtqWdV0njwbkXFk 4CEhhayuuizZemHjjXCWDa8I--n24pBbCll45pm4VeFdA=w883-h662-no


Looks good, Will. Thanks for providing the Link.

Is the P/N for the trunk same as for the E39?

[Will]

Looks good, Will. Thanks for providing the Link.

Is the P/N for the trunk same as for the E39?

Thanks! The broken grommet just seemed unsightly, I finally broke down and got after it.

Yup. 61-13-8-366-627 fits e46, e39, and e38, according to realoem.com (link (https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/partxref?q=61-13-8-366-627))

[Will]

I ordered a new fuel level sender (the driver's side suction pump). When I replaced my sway bars I noticed wetness on the driver's side of the fuel tank and a faint fuel smell. I discovered a crack on the topside (a plastic protrusion on the lid, that's not the hose attachment) of the fuel level sender suction pump. Strange. Oh well, parts on the way.

I'm glad I swapped the sway bars, otherwise I wouldn't have discovered it and would have continued to drive with a fuel leak.

[DaveInMD]

Gummi’ed the seals on both cars


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200329/21af1fe06c58dc89ce8c859e85dd55a6.jpg[emoji848] Hmm. Inexpensive. Easy to apply. Not a four hour project. I must look into this. Thanks.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[Joerdan23TN]

I spent the day transferring my ribbon connectors motors into new housings.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200331/e51c361384160052eebb5328a9708813.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[704sw]

I spent the day transferring my ribbon connectors motors into new housings.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200331/e51c361384160052eebb5328a9708813.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I’m having a hard time identifying either of those mirrors—looks like an E30 on the left?

I’ve decided I’m just going to put my M3 mirrors on the car without connecting the motors. Once I get them set manually I won’t need to move them, and I just really don’t want to deal with fabbing up the brackets to allow re-using the ribbon motors.

[ZHPizza]

I’m having a hard time identifying either of those mirrors—looks like an E30 on the left?

I’ve decided I’m just going to put my M3 mirrors on the car without connecting the motors. Once I get them set manually I won’t need to move them, and I just really don’t want to deal with fabbing up the brackets to allow re-using the ribbon motors.

Stock sedan > ACS

I'm with you on the mirrors -- just connect the heating and call it a day. No need to move them with aspherical glass!

[704sw]

Stock sedan > ACS

I'm with you on the mirrors -- just connect the heating and call it a day. No need to move them with aspherical glass!

Oh i see it now. The angle made the mirror look like it went into the baseplate all chunky like the E30 mirrors. Second cup of coffee here I come...

As for the heating, I think it’s all part of the same ribbon but I haven’t take the stock mirrors off to inspect them yet. I might be able to rig up something simple with some thin gauge wire that’ll still pass through the opening.

[Joerdan23TN]

Stock sedan > ACS

I'm with you on the mirrors -- just connect the heating and call it a day. No need to move them with aspherical glass!

Would heat even work without receiving any power?

My OCD wouldn’t let me do it but I thought about just mounting them, it wasn’t that bad transferring the motors. De-pinning the ribbon connectors was the worst part.

Solid point on the aspherical glass tho, I wonder if I can find those for the ACS housing.


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[das boots]

I spent the day transferring my ribbon connectors motors into new housings.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200331/e51c361384160052eebb5328a9708813.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I still have my E39 M5 mirrors. Sitting in a box. Too complicated to do the refurbish to the E46.

[Joerdan23TN]

I guess I muffed something up, all my functions are there, just the wrong directional orientation to the switch. Like up goes left, down right, etc.

[pedro2u]

Finally replaced my fuel filter today 84,780 miles. As a measure of my procrastination, I bought the filter and hose kit from Bavauto in 2017.... But job done, and it appeared to be the original filter. I couldn't believe the black crap that drained out of the old one.

2 take aways for me....

1st - my wife bought these Nitrile gloves for some crafting she's doing. These are way better than the cheap latex gloves I've been wearing working on cars. Good grip and don't tear! Highly recommended and I now have my own box!

2nd - man I love this Quickjack..

[DeathTrap]

Stock clutch and DMF weight. About 40 lbs or 18.2kg.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200402/5a3abe7773e4e26fa817672c23ba7bf3.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Nice Pedro, Deathtrap

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

[stephenkirsh]

Finally replaced my fuel filter today 84,780 miles. As a measure of my procrastination, I bought the filter and hose kit from Bavauto in 2017.... But job done, and it appeared to be the original filter. I couldn't believe the black crap that drained out of the old one.

2 take aways for me....

1st - my wife bought these Nitrile gloves for some crafting she's doing. These are way better than the cheap latex gloves I've been wearing working on cars. Good grip and don't tear! Highly recommended and I now have my own box!

2nd - man I love this Quickjack..

I’ve been using these gloves. They’re super strong and I get a bunch of uses out of each glove.


SAS Safety 66518 Raven... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NCCXX1Y?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

[Thatguy_JZ]

After a year of ownership I finally got around to fully detailing the exterior of my car. It was a 2 day process. Clay Mitt, Medium Cut, Finishing Polish, and 2 coats of Gyeon Ceramic Can Coat.

The metallic pops out strong and the gloss is excellent. Its unlike me to own a car this long and not detail it so to see how well it turned out is hard for me to believe.

Might go out for some better pics tomorrow night.

https://i.ibb.co/fkSw0QK/2020-0404-18422600-01.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/TtwF2Cv/IMG-20200404-130225-01.jpg

[papa_g]

F*** that's nice...
I have owned mine for over 2 years, and only detailed it once by a professional. I have all the materials to do a very thorough detail. but i think I want to do some paint correction first.

[Will]

https://i.ibb.co/TtwF2Cv/IMG-20200404-130225-01.jpg

Looks great!

What kind of medium cut and finishing polish did you use?

[JPMo]

After a year of ownership I finally got around to fully detailing the exterior of my car. It was a 2 day process. Clay Mitt, Medium Cut, Finishing Polish, and 2 coats of Gyeon Ceramic Can Coat.

The metallic pops out strong and the gloss is excellent. Its unlike me to own a car this long and not detail it so to see how well it turned out is hard for me to believe.

Might go out for some better pics tomorrow night.

https://i.ibb.co/fkSw0QK/2020-0404-18422600-01.jpg

https://i.ibb.co/TtwF2Cv/IMG-20200404-130225-01.jpg

Wow, she looks incredible! Stop by the titanium silver thread and post pics

[Thatguy_JZ]

Looks great!

What kind of medium cut and finishing polish did you use?Thanks everyone.

They're a big body shop brand I got from a local detail supplier. Allura is the name. I've had em for a while now and I had good results with my Porter Cable and the Black IS300 I used to own. I used Hex Logic Foam pads as well.



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[DaveInMD]

That's a good shine even in the dim light. I'm inspired.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[papa_g]

For the first time since acquiring the ZHP back in 2017, and perhaps for the first time in its 103k mile life, I cleaned the alcantara steering wheel. I used genuine BMW alcantara fabric cleaner and a tooth brush. The grime I cleaned off from the wheel turned 2 buckets of water black, and fouled up a few microfiber cloths, but I think I have restored the wheel to its former glory.
The only thing I realized though, is that I am not sure if I like the feeling of an alcantara steering wheel. Even after all this, I think I want to get it changed to regular leather. Maybe I need to give it some time...

[ZHPizza]

Thanks everyone.

They're a big body shop brand I got from a local detail supplier. Allura is the name. I've had em for a while now and I had good results with my Porter Cable and the Black IS300 I used to own. I used Hex Logic Foam pads as well.



Sent from my Pixel 3a using TapatalkDude those results are incredible. I have a red car that you can do next if you're bored...

For the first time since acquiring the ZHP back in 2017, and perhaps for the first time in its 103k mile life, I cleaned the alcantara steering wheel. I used genuine BMW alcantara fabric cleaner and a tooth brush. The grime I cleaned off from the wheel turned 2 buckets of water black, and fouled up a few microfiber cloths, but I think I have restored the wheel to its former glory.
The only thing I realized though, is that I am not sure if I like the feeling of an alcantara steering wheel. Even after all this, I think I want to get it changed to regular leather. Maybe I need to give it some time...Lol I did the same. Thoroughly cleaned my Alcantara wheel and was like f this prissy ass fabric on a surface that my hands touch all the time. I picked up a worn M3 leather wheel, stitched on a $25 faux leather cover, and am significantly happier with it. Fatter, grippier against skin, and stays clean.

[DaveInMD]

Installed yellow fogs. Alternator and pulleys on the way for next weekend. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200406/180a5677212dcf77cbd22762efee40db.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[704sw]

The only thing I realized though, is that I am not sure if I like the feeling of an alcantara steering wheel.

In winter you’ll love not grabbing cold leather though.

[johnrando]

Installed yellow fogs. Alternator and pulleys on the way for next weekend. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200406/180a5677212dcf77cbd22762efee40db.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 3a using TapatalkLens cover or totally different fogs?

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

[papa_g]

In winter you’ll love not grabbing cold leather though.

I really don’t see that as being an issue for me personally. Sitting on a cold leather seat is another story.
I’m going to keep it the way it is for now because changing to leather means I have to change my ebrake and shift boots, which I kinda wanna keep.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[az3579]

In winter you’ll love not grabbing cold leather though.

The alcantara gets cold too. The temp difference between the two doesn't feel that much different.
The constant stress of having to worry about it wearing is not worth it IMO.

Plus, in my experience, winter gloves don't grip alcantara at all.

[704sw]

The alcantara gets cold too. The temp difference between the two doesn't feel that much different.
The constant stress of having to worry about it wearing is not worth it IMO.

Besides, that's what winter gloves are for, and winter gloves don't grip alcantara at all.

Different strokes, I guess. I find the difference between my Coby wheel and the leather wheel in the X3 to be significant. But nothing is colder than the wood wheel in my mom’s last two Lexuses. Jesus talk about a terrible idea. It’s not cold enough down here for winter gloves.

[papa_g]

The constant stress of having to worry about it wearing is not worth it IMO.

I keep a toothbrush in my car now so I can give wheel a quick little brush after every drive hahahah


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[ZHPizza]

I really don’t see that as being an issue for me personally. Sitting on a cold leather seat is another story.
I’m going to keep it the way it is for now because changing to leather means I have to change my ebrake and shift boots, which I kinda wanna keep.


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkNah man you don't need to change the boots. I made a rule with my car: if it touches skin, then it should be leather (steering wheel, shift knob, ebrake handle, armrests), and if it touches clothing, it should be Alcantara (seats), and if it touches nothing, then who gives a shit what material it is. Alcantara boots stay!

[papa_g]

Nah man you don't need to change the boots. I made a rule with my car: if it touches skin, then it should be leather (steering wheel, shift knob, ebrake handle, armrests), and if it touches clothing, it should be Alcantara (seats), and if it touches nothing, then who gives a shit what material it is. Alcantara boots stay!

Haha that’s a good rule. I bet alcantara seats are nice. I’m more concerned about everything matching. Like my interior aesthetic af


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[DaveInMD]

Lens cover or totally different fogs?

Sent from my SM-G988U using TapatalkeBay fogs. And therefore I had to Dremel the bulb housings a bit to get the bulbs to seat properly. Going to refurbish the old ones and keep them handy or give away when someone needs them.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[DaveInMD]

Since previous owner took good care of everything except the leather I'm been sitting on what feels like hard plastic. However periodic treatments with Griot's leather refurbisher is bringing them slowly back to life. Quite amazing actually.

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[Will]

Since previous owner took good care of everything except the leather I'm been sitting on what feels like hard plastic. However periodic treatments with Griot's leather refurbisher is bringing them slowly back to life. Quite amazing actually.



I've had good experiences with rejuvenating hard leather using Leatherique. I'd wait for warm weather, and would also wrap the coated seats with plastic bags.

[John in VA]

I've had good experiences with rejuvenating hard leather using Leatherique. I'd wait for warm weather, and would also wrap the coated seats with plastic bags.
Even E46 leather? I've had good results using it on 70s & 80s leather, but the top-coated stuff in post-E34 BMWs didn't respond as well.

[Will]

Even E46 leather? I've had good results using it on 70s & 80s leather, but the top-coated stuff in post-E34 BMWs didn't respond as well.

I don't mean to get people's hopes up. It's not the cure-all as some on the internet would have us believe. The results won't be as dramatic in the post-e34 coated leathers, but it still made a noticeable difference (more so than some of the other leather conditioners I've tried).

I used an entire bottle over the course of 1 week (probably overkill), during 80-85 degree weather, reapplying and covering with plastic every 1-2 days. Nothing dramatic, but at least it wasn't cardboard-hard anymore. Some of the creases and wrinkles looked to have "loosened up" and relaxed, with the leather feeling more pliable. I would say the leather went from a 2/10 to a 7/10.

I probably could have saved 1/2 the bottle and just spritzed some distilled water onto the seats to re-moisten.

Edit: brought it to a 7/10 after treatment. (It's subjective, so take it with a grain of salt).

[johnrando]

Everything I've read is that as good as Leatherique is, it's not that good on E46 type of leather.

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[Oli77]

That's likely cause BMW modified leather to give it some front-side structure and roughness. Dakota for example vs. Mereno leather (see here (https://www.bmwblog.com/2019/12/23/know-your-leather-here-are-the-different-types-of-bmw-leather-options/)).
When its totally unaltered raw but polished leather, then I bet Leatherique is the shits.

[Prestovie]

Took my ZHP into the dealership today to get my wheels balanced to see if that would fix my problem of having the car wash all over the road after putting the summers on.
Wasn't too thrilled about having to take a trip to any high-travel place but wore gloves and a mask - with aviators and a hat I looked pretty goofy - and brought my own lawn chair to sit out front of the shop in the sun while I waited.
Definitely an improvement in ride quality but they claim my tires are cupping which I attribute to going without an alignment for so long. The service rep seemed personally offended when I turned down her giving me a quote for new tires, told her unless they had PSS's in stock I wasn't interested.
Got to witness a guy coming to pick up his new Z4 M40i as well as a mystic blue M3 coupe struggle to engage first gear leaving the lot.

[fredo]

Cupping ? My money is on bad struts and shocks. Have they been replaced before ? :dunno

[Vas]

Started doing another oil pan gasket this evening on a dinan equipped E46 325i.

This marks my 4th car that now it's a breeze.

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[Thatguy_JZ]

Took my ZHP into the dealership today to get my wheels balanced to see if that would fix my problem of having the car wash all over the road after putting the summers on.
Wasn't too thrilled about having to take a trip to any high-travel place but wore gloves and a mask - with aviators and a hat I looked pretty goofy - and brought my own lawn chair to sit out front of the shop in the sun while I waited.
Definitely an improvement in ride quality but they claim my tires are cupping which I attribute to going without an alignment for so long. The service rep seemed personally offended when I turned down her giving me a quote for new tires, told her unless they had PSS's in stock I wasn't interested.
Got to witness a guy coming to pick up his new Z4 M40i as well as a mystic blue M3 coupe struggle to engage first gear leaving the lot.Have you done Rear Trailing Arm bushings? If original they need done. It'll make the ass of your car feel like it's caught in a crosswind. Worse in the rain or certain highways that have channeling or grooving in the pavement. It'll also cup and chew up your rear tires from dynamic tow changes under load.

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[Thatguy_JZ]

Nah man you don't need to change the boots. I made a rule with my car: if it touches skin, then it should be leather (steering wheel, shift knob, ebrake handle, armrests), and if it touches clothing, it should be Alcantara (seats), and if it touches nothing, then who gives a shit what material it is. Alcantara boots stay!Lol, I went back and forth on this myself. My car came equipped with black leather. But I did the armrest, boots, headliner and pillars all in black suede/Alcantara. I finally got my new steering wheel from Coby and settled on Alcantara. I'm hoping I don't regret it after a few years.



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[Prestovie]

Cupping ? My money is on bad struts and shocks. Have they been replaced before ? :dunno
That's actually a good shout, don't have a clue how old my current ones are, would have to dig through some paperwork but definitely a good idea to be replacing soon.

Have you done Rear Trailing Arm bushings? If original they need done. It'll make the ass of your car feel like it's caught in a crosswind. Worse in the rain or certain highways that have channeling or grooving in the pavement. It'll also cup and chew up your rear tires from dynamic tow changes under load.

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That sounds like a pretty spot on diagnosis! Definitely going to get those replaced ASAP(or as soon as I can leave the state and still have permission to re-enter). Most likely still the originals on there

[Rovert]

Since I wanted some outdoor sun time and there’s lots of time...might as well! [emoji2375][emoji23]

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Y750_dTRTgvoeeyDVbprQprk9_SJ2OpmTY-JjeXOhkG_J2G1EiUhjbXhyTOmemJxuybfNg_c3D0v5xBGhstil vvrq9_im-GNZsbTkC9xL21NSZUWwdrshSEd-CsSQUKEEMmnxQ7zPmw=w1440-h1080

[Oli77]

I can't read vertically, is that tire shine?

[Rovert]

I can't read vertically, is that tire shine?

Hahahahaha. You’re funny. Just sealant for the car!! Keeping it slippery!! #CovidArmor

[NYRhockey]

The %&#$ kids had done a job on the zhp recently and put a bunch of scratches on it so had it detailed by a local guy (not a pro, but an enthusiast) and gave it a good buffing and was able to remove a bunch of the scratches. The paint was in dire condition and now looks a heck of a lot better.

Left his house straight to autozone and got a heavy duty car cover.

36340

36341

[fredo]

Congrats. Car looks very sharp. I see a bumper grill (P/N 51117893331) on your future. :thumbsup

[Vas]

Congrats. Car looks very sharp. I see a bumper grill (P/N 51117893331) on your future. :thumbsupIt does look good.

Also add the 2 fog light surrounds.

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[NYRhockey]

Congrats. Car looks very sharp. I see a bumper grill (P/N 51117893331) on your future. :thumbsup


Thanks. I am happy with the job he did. He probably worked on it a good 5+ hrs for $150. As BP can attest, it had so many swirl marks and water spots it was awful and now it looks so much better. He lost his job so he advertised on my town's fb page that he was hoping to make some side money by detailing so it was a good way to help a local and get the car some much needed attention.

And do tell, what's wrong with the bumper grill? :) Had no idea i need a new one :dunno