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

[ZHPizza]

Oops
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201204/84e52f11d57214cc2bf4e939ab1b92ba.jpg

[fredo]

No bueno. My detail guy charges $125 to refinish a wheel, not sure about your area.

[BMWCurves]

Sorry, bud. I hate when stuff like that is self inflicted.

[Galapolis]

Since it's just the edge I would just sand it down, bondo it and spray some primer and silver paint over it. Used that method to refinish some BBS wheels once and it turned out surprisingly good.

[t.er]

Oh no... eh just mount some RS4s/CR1s and use that as a dedicated beater track set. Then get another set for your street wheels :devilish

[Galapolis]

^this man is talking straight facts

Join 2 piece wheel gang

[ZHPizza]

Since it's just the edge I would just sand it down, bondo it and spray some primer and silver paint over it. Used that method to refinish some BBS wheels once and it turned out surprisingly good.My strategy is gonna be to leave it since it's a 15 year old shitbox

First oil change since 8/2019 happening now tho...

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201204/62f0cb6491189bb562176cfce1edaa06.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201205/3e90a7b1db5ab0d3b4bcf13f9eae7618.jpg

[holyc0w]

My strategy is gonna be to leave it since it's a 15 year old shitbox


:thumbsup

Practical solution for an inconvenient problem

[BADCLOWN]

What VCG is that and what’s its purpose?

[Rovert]

Oops

Me too. [emoji23] even shaved some rubber off! Battle wounds at 30mph. [emoji2958]

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/L5aCOOCZphMhKc4HfgNe3cRYMPc-Q6atscHP9AosnVIf55sH-oyFwcZJgaLrFtxJvWI65eB_Laq2tzj4xDyWzF4LzsuNz110eyg GHV4X2FyJ3-sEPDt0yQMq9_jLhrrwdqvJRUrtOus=w1440-h1080

[BMWCurves]

I know it ain't racing if you ain't rubbing, but what on earth are you dinging at 30 mph?

[Rovert]

I forgot the 335d has a 1/4 second of turbo lag. So I wasn’t able to get the rear tire far enough from a curb while cornering hard. Usually in an NA engine it’s a given. When I push throttle hard, the rear goes wide by a small amount but not if you have turbo lag throttle response. LOL

[Hornung418]

Hey Y'all, been a super long time since I stopped by. I sincerely hope everyone is making it through 2020 without issue.

For the uninitiated, I'm in a 2017 Golf Sportwagon w/ 4motion (AWD) which came with a 1.8L turbo charged engine and a 6 speed manual transmission. From the factory the car was rated at 180hp/199ft-lbs.

Well here she is on the dyno yesterday and as the sheet suggests it's making over 400hp and 375ft-lbs at the wheels! I was absolutely floored that my little engine was making bigger numbers than the GTIs and Golf RS that showed up that day. Granted, I have a lot of supporting modifications to make this happen, but a lot of the cars yesterday had similar set-ups.

Hope Y'all are well!

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201207/af30ba873b2938a24e57fefeab4d52b4.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201207/8a83cdd179116e8dec7b6dece73eb3c1.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201207/b0b7eea828c4bb22943be900cb00a72e.jpg

https://youtu.be/THrJSn7WQd8

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[Will]

Great numbers! What kind of mods?

[Hornung418]

Great numbers! What kind of mods?Thanks!

It has almost $20k in parts and labor. I have a little list of mods for anyone interested.

United Motorsport tuned with ProFlex enabled.
Precision Raceworks 925cc Multi Port Injection kit (So I have 4 direct injectors and 4 port injectors; the latter handles the majority of fueling needs)
525lph Walbro LPFP
Nik's big ass intake pictured below; a 3.5inch aluminum intake with a 9"x6" filter
DBV2 V1 Journal Bearing hybrid turbo
IE FDS Intercooler; mounts in the stock location sandwiched between the AC condenser and the radiator
Revo 3" Catted Downpipe
AWE Track Exhaust
Black Forest Industries stage 1 engine and trans mounts
034 Pendulum mount inserts
APR spherical pendulum arm
South Bend Stage 2 Endurance SMF clutch kit
CTS Turbo Short shifter
Porsche 996 front brake calipers
Mercedes C320 sport rotors
Neuspeed RSE10s 18x8 et45
Michelin PS4S 225/40/18

That's it performance wise.

I have GTI interior and want a new GTI steering wheel since the stock one is torn to bits (Base model quality leather)https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201208/990dc3660680f5fc1fed3195de45cc57.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201208/7e6df192f1827bc759e006205b8e4d3b.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201208/cbdb24e706c50e1bd1e86a4e0044d620.jpg

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[BMWCurves]

“That’s it”


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[Will]

^ hahahaha.

Nicely done with the mods, glad you didn't skimp on stopping power!

[t.er]

That's definitely one badass wagon!

[cakM3]

Thanks!

It has almost $20k in parts and labor. I have a little list of mods for anyone interested.

United Motorsport tuned with ProFlex enabled.
Precision Raceworks 925cc Multi Port Injection kit (So I have 4 direct injectors and 4 port injectors; the latter handles the majority of fueling needs)
525lph Walbro LPFP
Nik's big ass intake pictured below; a 3.5inch aluminum intake with a 9"x6" filter
DBV2 V1 Journal Bearing hybrid turbo
IE FDS Intercooler; mounts in the stock location sandwiched between the AC condenser and the radiator
Revo 3" Catted Downpipe
AWE Track Exhaust
Black Forest Industries stage 1 engine and trans mounts
034 Pendulum mount inserts
APR spherical pendulum arm
South Bend Stage 2 Endurance SMF clutch kit
CTS Turbo Short shifter
Porsche 996 front brake calipers
Mercedes C320 sport rotors
Neuspeed RSE10s 18x8 et45
Michelin PS4S 225/40/18

That's it performance wise.

I have GTI interior and want a new GTI steering wheel since the stock one is torn to bits (Base model quality leather)https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201208/990dc3660680f5fc1fed3195de45cc57.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201208/7e6df192f1827bc759e006205b8e4d3b.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201208/cbdb24e706c50e1bd1e86a4e0044d620.jpg

that is awesome Justin! Love everything you have done to your wagon! Amazing work! :thumbsup

[Hornung418]

Thanks for the love y'all!

If we every make it out of Quarantine, I hope to be at the next family gathering! I miss all my ZHP friends!

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[zhpnsnv]

Thanks for the love y'all!

If we every make it out of Quarantine, I hope to be at the next family gathering! I miss all my ZHP friends!

Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using TapatalkWell crap, do what I did: Sportwagen and ZHP!!!

Happy to hear all is well, and I'll have to get some VW advice from you. Mine is an '18 4motion, manual, bone stock.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201210/031d7372e3a3828bf5a0edf2d4823691.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201210/6b1c50b336b95f5f7fd9e54a0c95c95b.jpg

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[Hornung418]

Well crap, do what I did: Sportwagen and ZHP!!!

Happy to hear all is well, and I'll have to get some VW advice from you. Mine is an '18 4motion, manual, bone stock.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201210/031d7372e3a3828bf5a0edf2d4823691.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201210/6b1c50b336b95f5f7fd9e54a0c95c95b.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 5 using TapatalkOhhhh, great choice! And a lovely color! My buddy Nikolas has the nicest Sportwagon, his build was featured on Vortex. Here is his thread:
https://www.golfmk7.com/forums/index.php?threads/niks-2019-golf-sportwagen-4motion.372786/

If I had known there would be a LCI in 2018, I would have waited three more months to buy one! The rear end can be swapped with Golf R Variant diffuser and quad tips and that makes the biggest difference of the overall look of the car.

You can upgrade the front brakes to GTI 312mm by just changing the carrier and rotors, caliper and pads are the same. That will get rid of the intense brake bite.

And the best bang for your buck is getting a stage 1 tune. Absolutely wakes the car up and my clutch lasted nearly 40k miles before it started slipping in 5-6 and eventually 4th before I needed to upgrade. But honestly the clutch in the mk7 is garbage and everyone will tell you South Bend Clutch to fix it.

I've been thinking about flipping an e46 á la Sreten, but I need to unload the dead weight of a 944 in my garage. :/

Let's chat soon!

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[zhpnsnv]

Excellent tutelage, thank you!

Yes, I like the look of your car, especially at the rear, much better than my FAKE exhaust tips. If it weren't for the 6 year/72k warranty they put on the 18s, I'd have bought a CPO '17. That, and they were unobtanium at the time.

Back to what I did for my ZHP today...

Today got another quote to fix my rusty rear arches/fenders. 174k miles and was always on winter duty, so it's not great. Two quotes to PROPERLY fix it at reputable shops nearby: $4500 and $4400.

Big time OUCH on a car that's probably only worth about that much, but also sentimental value of a lifetime keeper is to be considered.

Undecided on what I want to do, but I do know I'm not getting rid of this car again.

mb

[alexandre]

Today got another quote to fix my rusty rear arches/fenders. 174k miles and was always on winter duty, so it's not great. Two quotes to PROPERLY fix it at reputable shops nearby: $4500 and $4400.

Big time OUCH on a car that's probably only worth about that much, but also sentimental value of a lifetime keeper is to be considered.

I've all but given up on rust on mine after the same findings. I've got the rear arches/fenders and the little part between the trunk and the bumper that are all bubbly (and some perforation in a few parts). Really too bad that BMW fixed their rust issues only on the E90 and after.

Plan is to get a modern-ish wagon (F31 or GSW, or a V60 Polestar if the prices go down and I can find one) as a daily once my ZHP disintegrates. Probably makes the most sense given my heavy winter driving patterns (and space for only one car)

[t.er]

... yeah, and this is why I can't bring myself to winter mine after all the rust was repaired. But even sitting in the garage, things still corrode a bit. I've noticed some bolts that I've replaced start accumulating a bit of surface rust, and they were installed after I stopped wintering my car

[alexandre]

... yeah, and this is why I can't bring myself to winter mine after all the rust was repaired. But even sitting in the garage, things still corrode a bit. I've noticed some bolts that I've replaced start accumulating a bit of surface rust, and they were installed after I stopped wintering my car

Doubt there's any solution to this other than running a dehumidifier in the garage or moving to Arizona...

[zhpnsnv]

Thanks for the perspectives, guys.

I took the car OFF of winter duty in 2018 and that's when it seems like the problem escalated quickly while sitting in a garage for those months. Like so many things in life, there was a window when I could have been more aware, more prepared, and handled it for much less $$$.


Plan is to get a modern-ish wagon (F31 or GSW, or a V60 Polestar if the prices go down and I can find one) as a daily once my ZHP disintegrates. Probably makes the most sense given my heavy winter driving patterns (and space for only one car)

A vote for the GSW! I really enjoy it, and it seems like you can't go wrong with the manual 6-speed or the DSG. If you want to make it handle better, that's easily done, and the power ceiling is very high. It's got (to me) e46 proportions, sizing and feel. And, just like the ZHP, it has red tach/speedo needles! It's not without its issues; it's not built to feel like a GTI or a Golf R, but that suits me fine for a daily when the ZHP is in the garage whenever I need it.

[alexandre]

Thanks for the perspectives, guys.

I took the car OFF of winter duty in 2018 and that's when it seems like the problem escalated quickly while sitting in a garage for those months. Like so many things in life, there was a window when I could have been more aware, more prepared, and handled it for much less $$$.

I had the same issue. I drove the car in east coast winters from 2012 to 2016, no rust issues visible at all. I moved to the west coast for 3 years (no salt and barely any winter exposure in that time, and I had dry underground parking in a condo tower) and that's where it developed.

I think the oxydation happens internally and by the time you see it on the paint, it's already way too late... Sorta have to address it before you even see it.


A vote for the GSW! I really enjoy it, and it seems like you can't go wrong with the manual 6-speed or the DSG. If you want to make it handle better, that's easily done, and the power ceiling is very high. It's got (to me) e46 proportions, sizing and feel. And, just like the ZHP, it has red tach/speedo needles! It's not without its issues; it's not built to feel like a GTI or a Golf R, but that suits me fine for a daily when the ZHP is in the garage whenever I need it.

Definitely looks like a great car. I saw a low-mileage 2015 TDI 6MT pop up locally a few weeks ago, was gone in an instant. Maybe I should've jumped on it...

[t.er]

I think the oxydation happens internally and by the time you see it on the paint, it's already way too late... Sorta have to address it before you even see it.



Exactly this. Once a year I get under the car and in the wheel wells and put my face right up to everything. The result was finding this:

https://i.imgur.com/HbqUtFSl.png

Which turned into this showing the true affected area:

https://i.imgur.com/8SkjCQhl.png

Then this after the repair with POR15 and touch-up paint. Luckily I didn't have to sand past the bend to the outside surface which would've made it look ugly:

https://i.imgur.com/MAmG51Zl.png

Very subtle damage and I wouldn't have noticed had I not inspected it. Caught it just in time before it becomes not-a-DIY repair in order to make it look good

[zhpnsnv]

Great catch and save.

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[Galapolis]

... yeah, and this is why I can't bring myself to winter mine after all the rust was repaired. But even sitting in the garage, things still corrode a bit. I've noticed some bolts that I've replaced start accumulating a bit of surface rust, and they were installed after I stopped wintering my car

Come join us in rust-free NC:santa1

On topic: Did an oil change today and used the Liqui Moly cleaning stuff. Not sure if it makes a difference but I figured it can't hurt. Inspired by t.er I also set my front sway bar to max stiff and what do you know, it eliminated the understeer I had. I also reattached my rear sway bar and used some hose clamps to hopefully keep in place until I can get it my welding guy who will weld some plates on the ends so that the end links won't come off anymore. He'll also fix up the crack that I have.

[johnrando]

Great catch and save.

Sent from my Pixel 5 using TapatalkGood to see you so active again round here.

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[zhpnsnv]

Good to see you so active again round here.

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:keith

[zhpnsnv]

Had a post cat o2 sensor replaced. I'm game to do the pre cat sensors but no thanks on the others. SES light gone. Got it buttoned up in the garage before this snow storm starts.

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[t.er]

Spent the last couple days fabricating my corner scale pads w/ integrated grease plates. This has been pretty tiring with lots of cutting, grinding, and welding. But should be worth it in the end, this should complete my full DIY alignment and corner balance setup!

https://i.imgur.com/OufLhOQl.png

https://i.imgur.com/0UDkKxCl.png

https://i.imgur.com/X5eE6jgl.png

[Overboost]

Come join us in rust-free NC:santa1

On topic: Did an oil change today and used the Liqui Moly cleaning stuff. Not sure if it makes a difference but I figured it can't hurt. Inspired by t.er I also set my front sway bar to max stiff and what do you know, it eliminated the understeer I had. I also reattached my rear sway bar and used some hose clamps to hopefully keep in place until I can get it my welding guy who will weld some plates on the ends so that the end links won't come off anymore. He'll also fix up the crack that I have.My guess is reconnecting the rear bar helped your understeer. Tightening the front bar would increase understeer. Remember, soft is grip.

[johnrando]

Spent the last couple days fabricating my corner scale pads w/ integrated grease plates. This has been pretty tiring with lots of cutting, grinding, and welding. But should be worth it in the end, this should complete my full DIY alignment and corner balance setup!

https://i.imgur.com/OufLhOQl.png

https://i.imgur.com/0UDkKxCl.png

https://i.imgur.com/X5eE6jgl.pngThat is awesome.

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[iya_e46]

for the past weeks I've done..

- installed supersprint performance exhaust + tuned resonator (in progress)
- replaced my driver side mirror (not working for 3yrs lol)
- updated my interior led light to ziza (old one was too bright)
- deleted arm rest
- tune up / ignition coils / ofhg / vcg and oil change
- installed oem roof rack base
- installed the retrofitsource led fog lights (pricey but worth it)
- installed oem alarm + siren (finally after years in the trunk)
- euro coded
- replaced oem zhp steering rack
- oem short shift kit (in progress)
- installed hella supertone horn

[papa_g]

some awesome projects going on here lately :santa1

[Will]

I wiped down the leather with some Leatherique Pristine Clean. Just a maintenance wipe down to keep it moisturized, not a deep soak / feed.

[johnrando]

for the past weeks I've done..

- installed supersprint performance exhaust + tuned resonator (in progress)
- replaced my driver side mirror (not working for 3yrs lol)
- updated my interior led light to ziza (old one was too bright)
- deleted arm rest
- tune up / ignition coils / ofhg / vcg and oil change
- installed oem roof rack base
- installed the retrofitsource led fog lights (pricey but worth it)
- installed oem alarm + siren (finally after years in the trunk)
- euro coded
- replaced oem zhp steering rack
- oem short shift kit (in progress)
- installed hella supertone hornGreat list. Why the horn?

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[iya_e46]

Great list. Why the horn?

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my oem suddenly stopped working and decided just get a replacement

[dpark]

Well, I started to hear a metal on metal "clunk" when going over speed bumps (mainly on "unloading" the suspension). Turns out 3 of the 4 motor mount bolts literally sheared off. So now I have 4 new bolts, new engine mounts, and my wallet is $800 lighter :(

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201221/727f5a106c25074c6083e4c24d9b76d8.jpg

[RUS_ZHP]

Spent the last couple days fabricating my corner scale pads w/ integrated grease plates. This has been pretty tiring with lots of cutting, grinding, and welding. But should be worth it in the end, this should complete my full DIY alignment and corner balance setup!

https://i.imgur.com/OufLhOQl.png

https://i.imgur.com/0UDkKxCl.png

https://i.imgur.com/X5eE6jgl.pngDamn! This is some nerdy things and I like it!

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[RUS_ZHP]

Haven't being checking here for a while.
I hope that everyone is safe and well.

Decided to test further test my 3d printed part. I have no paint and decided to use this thing. I have it install for several month on my car. Now just want to see how it can survive harsh winter chemicals and this paint. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201222/67c3465d774da3dd98c50628b09a691a.jpg

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[BMWCurves]

Well, I started to hear a metal on metal "clunk" when going over speed bumps (mainly on "unloading" the suspension). Turns out 3 of the 4 motor mount bolts literally sheared off. So now I have 4 new bolts, new engine mounts, and my wallet is $800 lighter :(

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201221/727f5a106c25074c6083e4c24d9b76d8.jpg

That's a huge bummer...I wonder how that even happens.

[dpark]

That's a huge bummer...I wonder how that even happens.

I have no clue, and my Indy repair shop had no clue either. I am also surprised how skinny the bolts are. The appear to be 8mm. And just 4 of them to hold down a 3.0L engine? I think the engine bolts on my 86 Acura Integra were more robust.

I am just lucky the bolts sheared of with enough material OUTSIDE of the block so they were able to unscrew the bolt. If they would have had to drill out the block to remove the bolt, it would have been a lot more expensive.

If you look at the top bolt in the photo, the head of the bolt was literally torn off. Lucky the engine just didn't fall out of the car. As it was, the mechanic said the engine was resting on the steering rack!

Car does run a heckuva lot smoother now though :)


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[cakM3]

I did the arm rest delete mod to my ZHP today...

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201222/e61a83400ec884e3c65139fcc03b7a21.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201222/9f8b7141a66c22226c20aaa0598ae5be.jpg

I like this better...


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[Will]

I have no clue, and my Indy repair shop had no clue either. I am also surprised how skinny the bolts are. The appear to be 8mm. And just 4 of them to hold down a 3.0L engine? I think the engine bolts on my 86 Acura Integra were more robust.

I am just lucky the bolts sheared of with enough material OUTSIDE of the block so they were able to unscrew the bolt. If they would have had to drill out the block to remove the bolt, it would have been a lot more expensive.

If you look at the top bolt in the photo, the head of the bolt was literally torn off. Lucky the engine just didn't fall out of the car. As it was, the mechanic said the engine was resting on the steering rack!

Car does run a heckuva lot smoother now though :)


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Lol.

Strange how the bolts sheered. I wonder if they were loose to begin with.


As for what I did today: replaced my front control arms. I thought they needed to be changed based on some odd behavior I was feeling with ride. Turns out the original control arms were fine. The ball joints were fine. I need to really diagnose better before I start ordering parts. At least I have new FCA and FCAB now. Lemforder.

[dpark]

Lol.

Strange how the bolts sheered. I wonder if they were loose to begin with.


As for what I did today: replaced my front control arms. I thought they needed to be changed based on some odd behavior I was feeling with ride. Turns out the original control arms were fine. The ball joints were fine. I need to really diagnose better before I start ordering parts. At least I have new FCA and FCAB now. Lemforder.

Well I am the OG owner and nothing should have been done to engine mounts before, to the best of my memory. Strange to happen after 16 years.


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[Chaplian]

Well I am the OG owner and nothing should have been done to engine mounts before, to the best of my memory. Strange to happen after 16 years.


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Wonder if the engine mounts failed quite a while ago and caused them to fail from fatigue?

Doesn’t really look like it from the side profile, but I’m on a phone. Can you post a pic of the cross sections of the broken bolts?


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[johnrando]

Crazy, re engine mounts. Charlie, looks great. Welcome back Rus.

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[dpark]

Wonder if the engine mounts failed quite a while ago and caused them to fail from fatigue?

Doesn’t really look like it from the side profile, but I’m on a phone. Can you post a pic of the cross sections of the broken bolts?


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Here are photos of two of the three broken bolts. The second photo is the top of the threaded part of the bolt where it meets the head. The head of the bolt was not found. The third broken bolt looks the same as the first photo.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201223/2f7409241d66012ce3fff774f01960b2.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201223/e34f69c412ba58b4778d15feacff53e0.jpg


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[t.er]

That is awesome.

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Damn! This is some nerdy things and I like it!

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Thanks Rus and JR! I got a chance to test the bearings out with some scrap plate, they are indeed very slippery - the bearings are rated to 225 kg each and there are 9 at each corner, so I have no concerns about tire bind when doing toe alignments. I didn't have a chance to fab the actual grease plates before the break, so I'll do that early next year.


Here are photos of two of the three broken bolts. The second photo is the top of the threaded part of the bolt where it meets the head. The head of the bolt was not found. The third broken bolt looks the same as the first photo.

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Hmmmm a bit hard for me to tell but the bolt on the left in the first pic could potentially be due to fatigue fracture? Perhaps one of them let go, which would induce extra bending moment on the mount on the other side. Just a hypothesis.

Either way, engine mounts going bad at our cars' age and mileage is not unusual, especially the one on the RH side by the exhaust manifold. When I did them on my car, that side was noticeably worse than the other.


Lol.

Strange how the bolts sheered. I wonder if they were loose to begin with.


As for what I did today: replaced my front control arms. I thought they needed to be changed based on some odd behavior I was feeling with ride. Turns out the original control arms were fine. The ball joints were fine. I need to really diagnose better before I start ordering parts. At least I have new FCA and FCAB now. Lemforder.

Huh, what are your symptoms?

[cakM3]

Here are photos of two of the three broken bolts. The second photo is the top of the threaded part of the bolt where it meets the head. The head of the bolt was not found. The third broken bolt looks the same as the first photo.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201223/2f7409241d66012ce3fff774f01960b2.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201223/e34f69c412ba58b4778d15feacff53e0.jpg

That's an eye opener!! What a bummer....

[Will]

...
As for what I did today: replaced my front control arms. I thought they needed to be changed based on some odd behavior I was feeling with ride. Turns out the original control arms were fine. The ball joints were fine. I need to really diagnose better before I start ordering parts. At least I have new FCA and FCAB now. Lemforder.


...

Huh, what are your symptoms?

I correct my earlier statement, the front end feels noticeably smoother and "tighter."

I thought nothing was wrong with the original FCA because the boots were intact and the ball joints seemed to move smoothly without noticeable slop. And nothing seemed noticeably different in the drive around the block. Quite disappointed, I posted my initial impressions.


I took the car for an extended drive last night, including highway, and the front end feels much more smooth. This was especially noticeable when driving over on expansion joints, cracks, and other broken pavement. I guess the wear and tear on the ball joint wasn't very pronounced, but quite real. Now I'm wondering if I should just order some new rear control arm outer ball joints just to match.

[t.er]

I correct my earlier statement, the front end feels noticeably smoother and "tighter."

I thought nothing was wrong with the original FCA because the boots were intact and the ball joints seemed to move smoothly without noticeable slop. And nothing seemed noticeably different in the drive around the block. Quite disappointed, I posted my initial impressions.


I took the car for an extended drive last night, including highway, and the front end feels much more smooth. This was especially noticeable when driving over on expansion joints, cracks, and other broken pavement. I guess the wear and tear on the ball joint wasn't very pronounced, but quite real. Now I'm wondering if I should just order some new rear control arm outer ball joints just to match.

Good to hear the car feels better - yeah converting that rear outer bushing to a ball joint is on my to-do list but has been there for like 3-4 years. Just haven't had a need to do so

[cakM3]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201223/36186c1f422f4cdec2f51fb3fa985753.jpg

Took my ZHP out for a quick ride today just to see if I made a mistake doing the arm rest delete on her recently... after I pulled back into my driveway I decided I did the right thing deleting my worn arm rest. I like the car much better this way. I will soon sort the remaining pieces to completely freshen up the center console[emoji41]


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[ZHPizza]

Only downside to the armrest delete that I've noticed is that passengers don't have anywhere to put their arm so they just kind of awkwardly hang it in their lap.

Those nerds can pound sand though. Armrest delete is awesome for driving.

[cakM3]

Those nerds can pound sand though. Armrest delete is awesome for driving.

[emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]

[emoji1417]


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[BMWCurves]

Only downside to the armrest delete that I've noticed is that passengers don't have anywhere to put their arm so they just kind of awkwardly hang it in their lap.

Those nerds can pound sand though. Armrest delete is awesome for driving.

Why do you y'all delete the arm rest? Are you bumping it while shifting, like a bunch of neanderthals?

[Rovert]

Why do you y'all delete the arm rest? Are you bumping it while shifting, like a bunch of neanderthals?

I’d think that bodies with greater presence of the interior will find sharing the same space to be annoying.

Others probably have extra long arms or have improper seating position resulting in flailing about the cabin to shift.

That’s all my theory though. I have never had an issue. [emoji23][emoji2371]

[t.er]

Why do you y'all delete the arm rest? Are you bumping it while shifting, like a bunch of neanderthals?

Unlike orientation of the key in the ignition, we can agree on this one. I've actually never driven my car with the armrest up, even when autox'ing or on track. Plus it'd feel weird not having somewhere to put my right elbow when cruising on the highway. And I need the extra storage, it's a good place to keep my phone charger!

[cakM3]

Why do you y'all delete the arm rest? Are you bumping it while shifting, like a bunch of neanderthals?

I have gotten used to not having an arm rest in my M3 since I have installed an OEM CSL center console. It’s been this way for years now...

The arm rest that was in my ZHP was already in poor condition with the plastics in the inner compartment of the arm rest coming apart so when my Hazard/Door Lock switch fell thru my center console and would not stay in place I felt it was time to delete the arm rest in my car.

Having an arm rest is nice but since mine was trashed anyway, I figured I would go this route for my ZHP[emoji1] Something different [emoji1417]


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[Will]

Sounds like this is ripe for another poll!

I'm firmly in the arm-rest camp. I love that thing. To each their own - I understand getting that thing out of the way for spirited driving, though. It can occasionally get in the way for shifting.

[BMWCurves]

I have gotten used to not having an arm rest in my M3 since I have installed an OEM CSL center console. It’s been this way for years now...

The arm rest that was in my ZHP was already in poor condition with the plastics in the inner compartment of the arm rest coming apart so when my Hazard/Door Lock switch fell thru my center console and would not stay in place I felt it was time to delete the arm rest in my car.

Having an arm rest is nice but since mine was trashed anyway, I figured I would go this route for my ZHP[emoji1] Something different [emoji1417]

Completely fair.


Sounds like this is ripe for another poll!

I'm firmly in the arm-rest camp. I love that thing. To each their own - I understand getting that thing out of the way for spirited driving, though. It can occasionally get in the way for shifting.

I have never once bumped my elbow shifting or found the arm rest in the way, but I also have a relatively tall torso so I sit up high. Both of my close friends put the armrest up so they can shift properly, both are shorter than me.

[cakM3]

Sounds like this is ripe for another poll!

I'm firmly in the arm-rest camp. I love that thing. To each their own - I understand getting that thing out of the way for spirited driving, though. It can occasionally get in the way for shifting.

I too have never had any issue shifting during spirited driving in my first ZHP with the arm rest. I actually like the arm rest. Just going a different route while erasing years of neglect on my current ZHP. [emoji1417]


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[Galapolis]

Why do you y'all delete the arm rest? Are you bumping it while shifting, like a bunch of neanderthals?

Weight reduction bro

[cakM3]

Weight reduction bro

[emoji23][emoji23][emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[holyc0w]

Only downside to the armrest delete that I've noticed is that passengers don't have anywhere to put their arm so they just kind of awkwardly hang it in their lap.

Those nerds can pound sand though. Armrest delete is awesome for driving.

What is this passenger stuff. Armrest is all mine!

I find that the passenger can only get about a centimeter of armrest before it starts interfering with shifting. I can adjust, but it can throw me off if they try to hog the armrest. Should just tell them to get in the back.

[cakM3]

What is this passenger stuff. Armrest is all mine!

I find that the passenger can only get about a centimeter of armrest before it starts interfering with shifting. I can adjust, but it can throw me off if they try to hog the armrest. Should just tell them to get in the back.

or just delete the arm rest alltogether ;)

[ZHPizza]

Why do you y'all delete the arm rest? Are you bumping it while shifting, like a bunch of neanderthals?Yep, it always got in the way for me so I'd just keep it flipped up. Then it would slam down when I had to brake hard and scare the hell out of me so I ran a bungee cord across the backrests to secure it up. At this point I only kept little papers with codes n paper clips n other shit for the headunit in there since it wasn't easily accessible. Then during my first autocross the instructor was driving my car and his hand slipped off the shifter and his elbow hit the armrest and it sprung open and everything in it exploded out and I'm in the passenger seat trying to snatch little papers flying around the cabin like one of those ridiculous money machines that you got to go inside when you sold the most wrapping paper for your school fundraiser but it looks a lot easier than it really is because it turns out grabbing bits of paper out of the swirling air is fucking impossible and it was just chaos.

I've since deleted the armrest.

[BMWCurves]

Yep, it always got in the way for me so I'd just keep it flipped up. Then it would slam down when I had to brake hard and scare the hell out of me so I ran a bungee cord across the backrests to secure it up. At this point I only kept little papers with codes n paper clips n other shit for the headunit in there since it wasn't easily accessible. Then during my first autocross the instructor was driving my car and his hand slipped off the shifter and his elbow hit the armrest and it sprung open and everything in it exploded out and I'm in the passenger seat trying to snatch little papers flying around the cabin like one of those ridiculous money machines that you got to go inside when you sold the most wrapping paper for your school fundraiser but it looks a lot easier than it really is because it turns out grabbing bits of paper out of the swirling air is fucking impossible and it was just chaos.

I've since deleted the armrest.

I really don't think that's reason enough.

[Rovert]

Yep, it always got in the way for me so I'd just keep it flipped up. Then it would slam down when I had to brake hard and scare the hell out of me so I ran a bungee cord across the backrests to secure it up. At this point I only kept little papers with codes n paper clips n other shit for the headunit in there since it wasn't easily accessible. Then during my first autocross the instructor was driving my car and his hand slipped off the shifter and his elbow hit the armrest and it sprung open and everything in it exploded out and I'm in the passenger seat trying to snatch little papers flying around the cabin like one of those ridiculous money machines that you got to go inside when you sold the most wrapping paper for your school fundraiser but it looks a lot easier than it really is because it turns out grabbing bits of paper out of the swirling air is fucking impossible and it was just chaos.

I've since deleted the armrest.

I think you also deleted all your use of commas and periods.

[Rovert]

centimeter of armrest

OMG metric! This armrest has created quite a stir for you Americans. [emoji1787]

[cakM3]

OMG metric! This armrest has created quite a stir for you Americans. [emoji1787]

[emoji1787][emoji1787][emoji1787][emoji1787]


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[Reasoned1]

I love the arm rest for resting my arm.

[RUS_ZHP]

Merry Christmas dear ZHP nerds!!!!
I noticed a very active discussion about arm rest delete and would like to share my opinion.
I deleted arm rest last year on my touring and absolutely love it. On manual box my arm rest was always stayed up, except a very long highway drives. It was always on my way during the shifting, which I found very inconvenient, especially when shifting a bit faster.
I do not missing it. I would be nice to have it on the long highway drives, but you cannot have everything perfect.
One more advantage is that shorter center console frees up a significant portion of space in the rear.

On my wife's automatic zhp, arm rest is always down and very usable. I love it because it does not create any inconveniences, only pluses for me.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Merry Christmas! Def wld be weird for me w/o an armrest.

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

[PdZHP]

Had some time off, so decided to do the following for the touring since it developed a small coolant leak:

-Replaced x2 hard coolant hoses, rest of the cooling system replaced this last summer
-Replaced intake manifold gasket
-Replaced throttle body gasket
-Rebuilt the disa valve with the GAS kit

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=37599&d=1609375247

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=37600&d=1609375284

Both are now good to go for many more miles!

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=37598&d=1609375234

[KendrickC]

Had some time off, so decided to do the following for the touring since it developed a small coolant leak:

-Replaced x2 hard coolant hoses, rest of the cooling system replaced this last summer
-Replaced intake manifold gasket
-Replaced throttle body gasket
-Rebuilt the disa valve with the GAS kit

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=37599&d=1609375247

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=37600&d=1609375284

Both are now good to go for many more miles!

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=37598&d=1609375234I did the exact same thing except the disa rebuild (did ages ago).

Readjusted radiator mounting and fan as well.

Car heats up in no time now. Before it would take ten minutes or so. I suspect a blockage near the thermostat hardline area contributed to this.

Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk

[papa_g]

I did the exact same thing except the disa rebuild (did ages ago).

Readjusted radiator mounting and fan as well.

Car heats up in no time now. Before it would take ten minutes or so. I suspect a blockage near the thermostat hardline area contributed to this.

Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk

How long should it take for the M54 to heat up? Mine heats up after about 10 minutes of city driving. Is this not normal?

[3ZHP]

Replaced my power steering pump, reservoir and reservoir lines today. As assumed when it happened. I confirmed that the shaft had fractured.

Back on February 15th, we took a drive back up into Tennessee. This was pre COVID restrictions by a week or two. First stop was Jack Daniels Distillery. When I started the car to leave, the power steering was gone. Everything else was working fine but no power steering. Made a few more stops and headed home to Alabama. Due to the social restrictions and the uncertain future, I chose to leave it sit in the garage.

Just finished things up but, waiting till daylight for the test drive. All seams good so, I’m not expecting any more issues.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201231/f25a1b1f066dddc71b11f0b7e6e37e41.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201231/711fee0f6a1a09da8d1ee9a7bf7f56ed.jpg


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201231/3c28983b1f96d4b5659243b5f55a8ddb.jpg


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201231/90cbe48ca1767af4dfebc40db4237511.jpg


Sent from my iPhone Xs using Tapatalk

[t.er]

How long should it take for the M54 to heat up? Mine heats up after about 10 minutes of city driving. Is this not normal?

I personally haven't been keeping track down to the minute but mine feels like it's around 5-10 minutes for coolant. Oil takes much longer, around 15-20 minutes.


Replaced my power steering pump, reservoir and reservoir lines today. As assumed when it happened. I confirmed that the shaft had fractured.

Back on February 15th, we took a drive back up into Tennessee. This was pre COVID restrictions by a week or two. First stop was Jack Daniels Distillery. When I started the car to leave, the power steering was gone. Everything else was working fine but no power steering. Made a few more stops and headed home to Alabama. Due to the social restrictions and the uncertain future, I chose to leave it sit in the garage.

Just finished things up but, waiting till daylight for the test drive. All seams good so, I’m not expecting any more issues.

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Huh, that's an odd failure, I wonder what caused the shaft to fracture. That reminds me that one or two of my lines appear a tad sweaty, but I suspect it's coming from the crimp clamps not being super tight

[3ZHP]

I personally haven't been keeping track down to the minute but mine feels like it's around 5-10 minutes for coolant. Oil takes much longer, around 15-20 minutes.

[FONT=Verdana]

Huh, that's an odd failure, I wonder what caused the shaft to fracture. That reminds me that one or two of my lines appear a tad sweaty, but I suspect it's coming from the crimp clamps not being super tight


I’m not certain exactly what caused it but, it did happen on a restart with the wheels clocked neat lock (end of travel).

I did have an issue with that pump a few yeas prior. I had just made my way through some local switchbacks and when I made the next left, it sounded and acted like I was catching a mud flap on a knobby snow tire. It stayed like that for a while and I bought a new DD because of it. I had ordered a new pump and was ready to put it in but, before I did, I changed out some fluid with a turkey baster. I did it 2 or 3 times and the noise nearly went away. Drove it and it got better so, I returned the pump.

I did get another 3-4 or more years out of it but, it’s not a DD anymore.


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[papa_g]

someone told me the power steering pumps on our engines are prone to failure. Is this true? how many miles did your pump last?
... Also are you using that CHF in your ZHP?

[3ZHP]

someone told me the power steering pumps on our engines are prone to failure. Is this true? how many miles did your pump last?
... Also are you using that CHF in your ZHP?

The original lasted 161K. Not certain on the fluid but, it was also purchased from my BMW dealer.


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[Rovert]

I always did “regurgitation” flushes every couple years. LOL Never had an issue until the car went to heaven at 180k miles.

[3ZHP]

Today’s Test Drive![emoji106]

https://www.relive.cc/view/vNOPPRJPL2O


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[Dave1027]

Replaced the hood supports that were not reliably holding up the hood any more. I used 50sKid's YouTube on it.


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

[cakM3]

I assisted in retrofitting OEM M3 side mirrors on a good friend’s Vert today[emoji41]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210110/925a6a1e6f01e4e3b019b9add57abf20.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210110/54f5265e58cf328bcf05d36965a87d07.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210110/afcde85827e34d6419f180b0a124a43c.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210110/af1d2e21de175e12cff45e6648331433.jpg

I also helped sort out a BlueBus issue my friend had and helped set up his lit F10 shift knob. All in all a great BMW day today[emoji41]


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[papa_g]

Flying back to school tomorrow so I gave the zhp a LONG OVERDUE detailing.
Cleaned, clay barred (soooo much contamination), cleaned again, then used some chemical guys sealant.
Per the bottle, should be good for another year.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210117/3b70d2f6b7e47588b9cde3b394042950.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210117/15dd86fd1d951adb26dc01d4a0a1c817.jpg


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[Reasoned1]

You have a beautiful car.

[papa_g]

Thank you sir


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[JPMo]

I assisted in retrofitting OEM M3 side mirrors on a good friend’s Vert today

I also helped sort out a BlueBus issue my friend had and helped set up his lit F10 shift knob. All in all a great BMW day today[emoji41]

What was the bluebus issue? I want to get it but I don't want to deal with any complications and mess with the electrical.

[cakM3]

What was the bluebus issue? I want to get it but I don't want to deal with any complications and mess with the electrical.

Steve needed to extend his TCU wiring harness so that he could place his BlueBus in the location that he wanted in his trunk. He needed an additional 6 inches added to his wiring harness so when I came up to help him install his M3 side mirrors, I also brought my soldering kit/heat gun, shrink wrap and additional wires to make this happen.

One thing to note is that in the trunk the vert does not have their connections in the same area that sedan/coupes have. Once the necessary modifications to his TCU wiring harness have been done, Steve was able to place his BlueBus exactly where he wanted and had full functionality.

I have a sedan and I placed my BlueBus where the CD changer goes and have absolutely no issues regarding connections using the TCU adapter Ted supplies. No extension is necessary and everything fits in nicely. When you get your BlueBus with the TCU adapter, it will be completely plug and play. :thumbsup

[JPMo]

Steve needed to extend his TCU wiring harness so that he could place his BlueBus in the location that he wanted in his trunk. He needed an additional 6 inches added to his wiring harness so when I came up to help him install his M3 side mirrors, I also brought my soldering kit/heat gun, shring wrap and additional wires to make this happen.

One thing to note is that in the trunk the vert does not have their connections in the same area that sedan/coupes have. Once the necessary modifications to his TCU wiring harness have been done, Steve was able to place his BlueBus exactly where he wanted and had full functionality.

I have a sedan and I placed my BlueBus where the CD changer goes and have absolutely no issues regarding connections using the TCU adapter Ted supplies. No extension is necessary and everything fits in nicely. When you get your BlueBus with the TCU adapter, it will be completely plug and play. :thumbsup

Perfect! thanks

[fredo]

I got a flat tire yesterday thanks to a nail. I took the car today to a tire shop and they fixed it for $20. I know DT does that for free, but this other place is convenient: car was ready in 20 min.

[Pip]

I got a flat tire yesterday thanks to a nail. I took the car today to a tire shop and they fixed it for $20. I know DT does that for free, but this other place is convenient: car was ready in 20 min.For convenience that seems to be worth the price. I purchased tires from Costco which came with a warranty which is what I wanted. However, I drove about 30 miles before picking up a screw and it took them 3 hours to fix because of the workload. I also miss having a spare tire because I had to flatbed the car to Costco and hope they could either fix or had an extra tire. I immediately purchased a spare tire kit but it takes up a fair amount of space in the trunk.

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[Rovert]

I immediately purchased a spare tire kit but it takes up a fair amount of space in the trunk.

Yeah I took my donut spare AND jack from my ZHP when it went to Car Heaven to use on our BMWs in case anything happened on a trip. When I'm around town I leave it at home but when I leave the city, I'll pop it in the trunk for safety. I also have tire plug kit that I have used multiple successful times for myself or my friends who get a flat. As long as there is no sidewall damage I can plug it within a minute and use the compressor to set the correct tire pressure. I have not once, heard of anyone I helped or other friends who do the same, experiencing reliability/longevity issues with properly installed tire plugs. No-one races their plugged tires either, that's one thing to get properly fixed with an inside patch if it's a tire you're putting on the track which will experience a lot of heat cycling.

[Rovert]

Oh yeah, I also did to something to the car last night.....

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IQELfPU2RCmQzRXScnwd2UtT0KHkSWBSEEBjqEdYjC1pbSm-d8mp7XA5rbqq0BEOTkhdRJ0NUvufc280IulTkUH6Kg5Ha9skLr ssH3eyVP4_pIqsELPKhPzqYXn4IArPCZWQgfw5PiM=w1280-h1080

It's now a low 12/high 11 second grocery-getter if Safeway was exactly 1/4 mile from me. If stock was already pretty crazy, I don't even have words to describe what has happened now. What I'm more amazed is how the E90 suspension geometry helps just 255 wide DWS06 tires hook-up from a dig to put down nearly 600ft-lbs of torque in freezing ambient temps. #SleeperStatus

[Pip]

Oh yeah, I also did to something to the car last night.....

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IQELfPU2RCmQzRXScnwd2UtT0KHkSWBSEEBjqEdYjC1pbSm-d8mp7XA5rbqq0BEOTkhdRJ0NUvufc280IulTkUH6Kg5Ha9skLr ssH3eyVP4_pIqsELPKhPzqYXn4IArPCZWQgfw5PiM=w1280-h1080

It's now a low 12/high 11 second grocery-getter if Safeway was exactly 1/4 mile from me. If stock was already pretty crazy, I don't even have words to describe what has happened now. What I'm more amazed is how the E90 suspension geometry helps just 255 wide DWS06 tires hook-up from a dig to put down nearly 600ft-lbs of torque in freezing ambient temps. #SleeperStatusOh yea! Looking awesome [emoji41]

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[t.er]

600 ft-lbs torque is insane and that's the one thing I like about the newer turbocharged E9X. I love our old E46s but man it's hard to make good power without spending $$$ going FI or doing an engine swap

[Rovert]

600 ft-lbs torque is insane and that's the one thing I like about the newer turbocharged E9X. I love our old E46s but man it's hard to make good power without spending $$$ going FI or doing an engine swap

Keep that beauty of yours for as long as you can. I will love my ZHP for as long as my brain will remember. It's the car that allowed me to meet all of you online and become part of a community online and offline. It taught me what I can and cannot do with that car, to never be afraid of maintaining and DIYs, to further my understanding of how a car works with all its bits and pieces. The E46M does the same thing too and my E90D will continue that journey.

A turbocharger is just a means to free power that an ICE outputs as long as nothing blows up in the process. LOL. The stock M57 turbos are tuned to a max of 27 psi but I'm now running a conservative 32-34 psi max. Some of crazier tunes will pump out 42 psi which is totally bonkers. I don't feel the need to irk out every last drop but this is enough to be a great all round daily beater with 390 hp. It should easily take an E9x M3 (at least in the first mile) but I'm not out to grim reaper it because I just love the diesel for what it is. Big power with highway MPG in the high-30s.

[Will]

Damn, 600 ft-lbs.... amazing. Car looks great. Perfect sleeper.

[Galapolis]

600 ft-lbs torque is insane and that's the one thing I like about the newer turbocharged E9X. I love our old E46s but man it's hard to make good power without spending $$$ going FI or doing an engine swap

I mean a E46 330d can make some crazy power pretty easy too. And they are legal in moose land now...

[t.er]

Keep that beauty of yours for as long as you can.

That's the plan! And don't ever sell that M3 of yours, Estoril is my favourite colour on both the E36 and E46 and it's so rare to find a clean one.


I mean a E46 330d can make some crazy power pretty easy too. And they are legal in moose land now...


https://s3.amazonaws.com/pix.iemoji.com/images/emoji/apple/ios-12/256/thinking-face.png

[Rovert]

https://s3.amazonaws.com/pix.iemoji.com/images/emoji/apple/ios-12/256/thinking-face.png

Hahahahaha. That’s great. And I bet the 330d touring 6MT is available too. If you’re into those.

[BMWCurves]

Hahahahaha. That’s great. And I bet the 330d touring 6MT is available too. If you’re into those.

https://i.imgur.com/MoLH0HF.gif

[Galapolis]

https://s3.amazonaws.com/pix.iemoji.com/images/emoji/apple/ios-12/256/thinking-face.png

I'm just gonna leave this here...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JM2CQfYJr10

[cakM3]

https://i.imgur.com/MoLH0HF.gif

:dueling

[emoji1787][emoji1787][emoji1787]

[t.er]

I'm just gonna leave this here...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JM2CQfYJr10

That's insane! Yeah, after your comment I did a bit of snooping around. This car sounds like a guy driving a RB26 or 2JZ but shortshifting. Super cool!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WAxlj1V3Koc

[BMWCurves]

I really appreciate people who take the time to make these kinds of videos. I can't imagine plopping down $900+ for an exhaust or some other part without hearing what it might sound like first, even from a crappy phone video from 2009.

[cakM3]

I really appreciate people who take the time to make these kinds of videos. I can't imagine plopping down $900+ for an exhaust or some other part without hearing what it might sound like first, even from a crappy phone video from 2009.

Even then you truly can't appreciate how an exhaust sounds by listening to your computer's audio. You just can't... Hearing the exhaust in person is still the best way to determine if that exhaust is right for you. To me there's nothing better sounding than the UUC Corsa TSE3 exhaust for our cars... I heard Botond's and had to have one and got one installed on my first ZHP... I will eventually source another one for my current ZHP as well... all in good time... :cool

[BMWCurves]

Oh yeah, nothing beats hearing it person for sure. After helping Daniel put his UUC TSE3 on his car, I had to have one on mine. But YouTube videos at least give me an idea of which manufacturers I'd prefer. Like from this one, I can tell I'd prefer the Borla:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVQ0lKMzif4

[rguti153]

I used to have the tse3 on my previous car and loved the sound of it. It would crackle, burble when you let go of the gas at low speeds. Now I have the magnaflow on my current car and I give it a 7 out of 10 . Dosnt sounds bad but not a fan of the raspy sound at high ram.

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Loved my TSE3, but it was just a bit too loud in my vert.

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[BMWCurves]

Loved my TSE3, but it was just a bit too pedesterian in my vert.

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

Fixed that for you

[UdubBadger]

Absolutely NOTHING https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210127/3b526ce96869c14f246c2dda1d429869.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Rovert]

Absolutely NOTHING

I love the irony with your license plate. [emoji23][emoji23]

[UdubBadger]

:innocent

[papa_g]

Oh yeah, nothing beats hearing it person for sure. After helping Daniel put his UUC TSE3 on his car, I had to have one on mine. But YouTube videos at least give me an idea of which manufacturers I'd prefer. Like from this one, I can tell I'd prefer the Borla:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVQ0lKMzif4

love this video. This is probably my 7th time watching it. Always reaffirms my desire for a borla

[ZHPizza]

Absolutely NOTHING https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210127/3b526ce96869c14f246c2dda1d429869.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkLol perfect
love this video. This is probably my 7th time watching it. Always reaffirms my desire for a borla+1 this video did it for me too. I laid out my borla the other night to get a plan for swapping a cat into where the first resonator is. Gonna be tight if it actually works and doesn't ruin the sound.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210130/02d8618d320e1a5a4bc57b92f8a776bf.jpg

[papa_g]

That’s pretty awesome! Let us know how it goes. Are you trying to figure it out for emissions/smell reasons?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210130/05ef2e35e3c831dc23fc63e1f52b6f17.jpg

Sourced a 330 6-speed transmission from a breaker yard in Columbus, Ohio [emoji41]

I was not the one who sourced this transmission. I was there to see this [emoji57]


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[BMWCurves]

Lol perfect+1 this video did it for me too. I laid out my borla the other night to get a plan for swapping a cat into where the first resonator is. Gonna be tight if it actually works and doesn't ruin the sound.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210130/02d8618d320e1a5a4bc57b92f8a776bf.jpg

Yo nice adis

[papa_g]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210130/05ef2e35e3c831dc23fc63e1f52b6f17.jpg

Sourced a 330 6-speed transmission from a breaker yard in Columbus, Ohio [emoji41]

I was not the one who sourced this transmission. I was there to see this [emoji57]


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

Nice... i need to keep my eye out as well for the inevitable 6-speed swap

[ZHPizza]

That’s pretty awesome! Let us know how it goes. Are you trying to figure it out for emissions/smell reasons?


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkYep, I see running catless in 2021 as inconsiderate as rolling coal. Pretty selfish to knowingly poison people for 5-10hp on the street. Hoping to come up with a removable setup so I can swap it out for track events when the participants signed up to be around NOx emissions, but keep it clean when I'm puttering through town next to kids on the sidewalk.
Yo nice adishttps://media0.giphy.com/media/Pnb9qoZDWBuUYKwImN/giphy.gif?cid=349c9dd7lhygov9918x1jpn6yx735z35pejr 404izx0gq3r0&rid=giphy.gif

[papa_g]

That sounds like a dope plan. And if it doesn’t negatively affect sound, I would probably be interested in emulating something like this in the future. Are you going to try to implement the O2 sensors at all?


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[ZHPizza]

That sounds like a dope plan. And if it doesn’t negatively affect sound, I would probably be interested in emulating something like this in the future. Are you going to try to implement the O2 sensors at all?


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkI spent a lot of time and money trying to make the right series of standoffs for the secondary O2 sensors to work but the super sensitive MS45.1 just couldn't be fooled. Ended up removing them completely and will have them coded out.

I found some clamps that fit perfectly today so the next step is finding/fabbing some sections of 2" 304ss with a 75° bend.

[stephenkirsh]

I’ve added to the stable. A track friend was selling his Z4M. It’s a car I’ve ridden in and watched him build. It is what I was looking for, and in my price range. With only 1800 sold in North America, opportunities like this don’t happen. So I had to get it.

Bad news, the ZHP will be out of the garage. But I’ll be selling my 95 NA Miata. I’ll miss that car. It’s so good.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210202/2c86d8b81a634ef0848ac68912a05fe6.jpg

[BMWCurves]

Nice pick up!

[t.er]

Agreed, that's a very nice pickup, those cars are quickly rising in price!

[fredo]

Congrats on the Z4M. :roundel

[johnrando]

Fixed that for you:)

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[Will]

Congrats on the pick up, it looks fantastic. More pics?

[papa_g]

looks clean! cograts!

[cakM3]

I did a thing with my ZHP today....

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210206/e6315c2c70c2e1ae5a87331080972e7d.png

Botond had a part in this today...
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210206/5b2c5d97d812f875ccad9d654adccc12.png

He was my co-driver...

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210206/f9bf3d6d6aff3c2516c87cda63a7be99.png



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[BADCLOWN]

You drove it? Lol

[papa_g]

You drove it? Lol

Through a tunnel?


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[BADCLOWN]

Through a tunnel?


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In the dark?

[cakM3]

I took my ZHP out on a 900 mile round trip road trip this weekend to help a good friend of mine out.

I slapped on new Michelin Pilot Sport AS4 tires, got brand new regular length lug nuts and mounted my Style 135 wheels back on and made the trip on Friday and finishing it sometime today.

It was a long drive for sure but enjoyable. I’m really enjoying being back in another ZHP. [emoji41]


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[Will]

I'm fighting an uphill battle against the rodents... Took my m3 out for a drive tonight and opened my hood to see the mess they left. I keep dryer sheets and bars of Irish Spring soap in the engine compartment as a deterrent. Prior to tonight we were at a detente.

They used to remove (read: carry away) the pieces of soap when I used 1/3 - 1/2 bar, but this was the first time they moved whole bars.

Apparently they ate an orange and then took a piss and a dump on my s54. Bastards.

Any ideas are welcome.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/ACtC-3eRyljHFZJU-h-1mf2tmGymNpuHU_2yzWFs5qPf14sjeswmqMZMPHS2EQ4yHkjZc 7QBDw-H4eCLhe5XrYRExzd2fU8AT-oW-RT1Ir33t9bm_fvFDp2vJwNAI-HuS08FtAyHS832tswM9hYXqPzSwO3e=w536-h714-no?authuser=0

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/ACtC-3d9m0vsxkct-2P7ZurAyEr74vI24skmi0oa3h7TriVWg7okCIJ00Rxg_jPg5xf tUJ7xWQGZXc1jRg1KIWsRg8_vLuJ7bWtfM7Hs3Nd8wc4eRy7Ej Gz-sTPGlCFjezeXXA0Kc119X1S4mAYKvv65jgeq=w536-h714-no?authuser=0

[t.er]

I'm fighting an uphill battle against the rodents... Took my m3 out for a drive tonight and opened my hood to see the mess they left. I keep dryer sheets and bars of Irish Spring soap in the engine compartment as a deterrent. Prior to tonight we were at a detente.

They used to remove (read: carry away) the pieces of soap when I used 1/3 - 1/2 bar, but this was the first time they moved whole bars.

Apparently they ate an orange and then took a piss and a dump on my s54. Bastards.

Any ideas are welcome.





Oh no... sorry to hear. On the upside, with our cars as old as they are, at least the rats aren't interested in the wiring harness insulation like the newer cars, where its soy-based. That's quite a costly repair!

If you're parked in a garage, have you tried one of those frequency emitters? My parents have one plugged into the outlet in our garage, though I read somewhere a long time ago that those don't do much.

[Will]

I'm thankful we don't have soy-based insulated wires... my cars would be done. Unfortunately I'm parked in the driveway, so all I can do wash away any feces and urine and reposition / replace the soap weekly. I saw some youtube videos about that ultrasonic deterrent, and it didn't do anything.

My neighbor has two cats, I need them to step up their hunting game.

[Rovert]

Time for a kiddie fence all around the car. Except for rodents! Electrify it too!

[t.er]

Hmmm. You could try placing some sticky rat traps under the hood. Even if they escape they quickly learn not to go there as it tears off some of their fur. My dad laid one of those traps down in the basement - didn't catch one but the trap was quite hairy in the morning lol. And no more evidence of rats being around

[Galapolis]

If you keep the engine pegged at 8k rpm all night, shouldn't that create cooked rodents?

[cakM3]

I'm fighting an uphill battle against the rodents... Took my m3 out for a drive tonight and opened my hood to see the mess they left. I keep dryer sheets and bars of Irish Spring soap in the engine compartment as a deterrent. Prior to tonight we were at a detente.

They used to remove (read: carry away) the pieces of soap when I used 1/3 - 1/2 bar, but this was the first time they moved whole bars.

Apparently they ate an orange and then took a piss and a dump on my s54. Bastards.

Any ideas are welcome.

I have heard that mothballs are good at keeping rodents away. Lay them around the car on the ground and a few in the engine compartment.

[papa_g]

a cat(s)?

[Will]

Time for a kiddie fence all around the car. Except for rodents! Electrify it too!

LOL, that'd be great. But knowing my neighborhood the HOA would be sending me threatening letters again in no time!


Hmmm. You could try placing some sticky rat traps under the hood. Even if they escape they quickly learn not to go there as it tears off some of their fur. My dad laid one of those traps down in the basement - didn't catch one but the trap was quite hairy in the morning lol. And no more evidence of rats being around

I'll look into this. Might as well add another layer of deterrent.


If you keep the engine pegged at 8k rpm all night, shouldn't that create cooked rodents?

Lol. I don't think I can afford that kind of fuel mileage. And if anything, they might like the warmth.


I have heard that mothballs are good at keeping rodents away. Lay them around the car on the ground and a few in the engine compartment.

I'll get some moth balls and lay them around, maybe even add a snap trap by the inside of the tires where they climb up. Seems like the noxious smells (e.g. dryer sheets, peppermint oil, Irish Spring soap, etc) are one layer of deterrent.


a cat(s)?

Neighbor has two that he'll let out, but I think they've been kept indoors at night recently since their last kitty got eaten by a coyote. I don't want to keep cats as I'm allergic.

Thanks for the suggestions, fellas. I'll keep y'all posted.


Based on the teeth marks on the soap bars, and as a reminder from my project thread, it seems like I'm dealing with big ones again... ugh. disgusting.

From my project thread:

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fTLiNLSDDuZMsrFYDOfrRcvGDlXDaDtGJ1YDuFvudq4gNdFBzO gX3GteL-7eCOhIsqmn8Lj9rmYjV_YUP-WJwkvF0jMQBGbNaBW4GemlBSImeR8EozVIlrpcyaBOYMH9apSB zaOkRl0Nm3tqpm0k4Zbl1i-OzANKxXmhgYY2gybmqjP3JVADmQwEaZq3uMBm8lLN09oSJeXVo M0GgmiqrCJ7R4KUvGYSRRhFP0Q83DNidg0qsr893qCr0LGzZgx NXg9L8gmhk5yRH7L7bsFXBevniglT7H-9tSUGUqsnRzISxO6lRFg6yY8yfhw0UIofhwLDWu73C_u3wolKd NoUAMT3L7mtiuPs0p_g00tBKxyKGam4OrSg6Tjdwp8BPW5dWrF 3V0rVqCMfrwgU_8iHEIyTTGeOP_4d0_AxrpFpeJTQFmqp3Sc73 eQ4GvESyCP9mgtWGYcvf6lJg8WwanWZRRzTkiA3LH4sEnPiQKK 7LV8hvn20obYS4vXedRwHdEcxpBqquB8ATfp9E3ClT-SI7bKR3VjojfwkmFc8nfwWeDYqDPRDydSMA93nEm3MPYFd80Nf W3yzpSTpQw4DqGwX4qt61AB2FAJxX3IFlZrhOBuBXbtw8PSBKj 8GsT7UaEecMBAbTgBAasHQa08i1NYSp843ZIUJ-0k=w480-h640-no

[BMWCurves]

Yeah...I never had great luck with any of those (soap, dryer sheets, moth balls) with preventing mice taking up winter shelter in my car when I stored my car. That said, I never had any issue with them (as far as I know) of chewing through wiring despite their residence.

[Thatguy_JZ]

I replaced the rubber body plugs under the back seat carpet.... Since mine were missing. That was great to find out. Gonna pull the front fender liners halfway out and clean all the debris out from between there at the fender/door junction. Also have a new driver's door seal to install and gonna play with my supersprint brackets to mount my exhaust more straight.



Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[wstr75]

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Drop-In-The-Bucket-Mouse-Trap-Multiple-Catch-Sm-Rodent-Trap-Single-Trap/124324200841?hash=item1cf24cc189:g:3WIAAOSwDJZfUR7 Q

I recently bought this type of trap for use in my pole barn. I know from work at our company, when we leave buckets with water and cooking oil on the floor in our R&D area, mice try to get to cooking oil, fall in and we later find them in the water layer. We don't smell them because the floating oil layer seals gases from percolating out of the bucket.

The ones I bought look more like these in this link: https://www.ebay.com/itm/Walk-The-Plank-Mouse-Trap-Rodent-Bucket-Trap-Rat-Auto-Reset-Mice-Catcher-Humane/312714064635?hash=item48cf35f2fb:g:XjkAAOSwum9dO3q z

[cakM3]

I purchased a carbon fiber thing for my ZHP tonight....... :drevil

[rguti153]

I purchased a carbon fiber thing for my ZHP tonight....... :drevilN that is ?

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

[t.er]

Picked up a Brey Krause seat mount off Peter at Speed Academy. It came complete with the sedan power rails, E30 window switch, and clip-in lap belt mounts!

https://i.imgur.com/fevHOCVl.png

This was used in their E46 drift build a couple years back. It was pretty cool meeting with him, a really nice guy and we talked about their current and upcoming projects for 20 minutes.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC-rgzpXgfw

[cakM3]

N that is ?

this :drevil

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210208/07397e1b5f55e2f7174587f71f337b45.jpg

[johnrando]

Beauty!

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

[bimmerteknik]

Received and installed the new shifter for the track car,
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210219/b9064dd6c0d9c7c436adddc2f4cbfee7.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210219/f912bef8cf5ff9081a6d34e1d87c2747.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210219/67785a44544843ee1cd41ee86056d0a3.jpg


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[BMWCurves]

B I G

S H I F T E R

E N E R G Y

[papa_g]

Took my zhp out on errands yesterday after having it sit for a month. The battery tender was a good investment. Now I think I have a leak in my rear driver side tire, so I’ll be taking that in to get it patched today


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[cakM3]

I de-iced my ZHP today…..


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[t.er]

Checking Kijiji daily has once again proved fruitful. Some guy was selling a square set of 8.5" wide style 68s for dirt cheap, they were listed today and I picked them up a few hours later:

https://i.imgur.com/ftCZRS5l.png

https://i.imgur.com/9TG92ohl.png

No need to fuss around with buying 2 staggered sets to make my own square set. Tires are shot, might have some fun sliding around with them before swapping on & flipping my 245 RS4s, which were on an 8" wide rim before

[Galapolis]

Nice, great find. I have gone through 3 sets of Style 68s and they are amazing wheels (when they don't bend or crack, hence the 3 sets). You should notice an immediate improvement when mounting 245s on those. Can you send us a lot of pics once you do? I've looked before and there are literally no good pics of people running 68s square with 245/40s all around on lowered suspension.

Also checking Craigslist every single day for months is how I found my Style 78 composites for cheap, it's a good habit if you are into great deals.

[t.er]

Nice, great find. I have gone through 3 sets of Style 68s and they are amazing wheels (when they don't bend or crack, hence the 3 sets). You should notice an immediate improvement when mounting 245s on those. Can you send us a lot of pics once you do? I've looked before and there are literally no good pics of people running 68s square with 245/40s all around on lowered suspension.

Also checking Craigslist every single day for months is how I found my Style 78 composites for cheap, it's a good habit if you are into great deals.

Geez 3 sets?! Yeah the ones I bought don't look the greatest, but I did visually check for bends and used soapy water for cracks, and everything checked out. The price is to the point where I should be able to come out even once I sell my crappy ASA rims, but we'll see. I'll definitely grab pics once I get them on.

Still keeping my eye out for a decent bucket seat, also checking FB marketplace and Kijiji and have notifications set up for certain key words, but if it comes down to it I'll pony up for a new Corbeau in the spring

[cakM3]

Sourced new Bilstein PSS-10s from FCP Euro for blauzed tonight. :drevil

[cakM3]

While checking on side skirt part numbers for our MTEC II package, I purchased a few bottles of BMW Wheel Cleaner and ordered the passenger side skirt (p/n: 51-71-8-211-944) for my ZHP today ;)

[joeybananaz18]

Tapatalk giving me issues with the size but I refinished my console and attachments. Slightly textured but looks a lot better than it did. Now on the look out for a black armrest and rear compartment with the slider thingee top.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210301/432d691401e229ef8b6891ddd68092ef.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[papa_g]

What did you use to refinish the center console?


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[joeybananaz18]

Good sanding and about 3-4 coats of plasti dip


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[thinkpad240]

Put some touch up paint on 2 of my 135 wheels.

[roddykar]

Anyone ever heard about/have experience with reupholstering their interior and door cards? Been looking for natural brown or cinnamon full set (for coupe) for quite a while, and as you may expect, it's been a tough ride. Seen quite a bit more sedan and convertible sets, though. Thinking at this point if it's worth it in cost for me to just have them professionally done.

[John in VA]

Anyone ever heard about/have experience with reupholstering their interior and door cards? Been looking for natural brown or cinnamon full set (for coupe) for quite a while, and as you may expect, it's been a tough ride. Seen quite a bit more sedan and convertible sets, though. Thinking at this point if it's worth it in cost for me to just have them professionally done.
Have you considered having the items dyed professionally?
I recall there is an upholstery place in/near San Diego - Jim's - that does good work. They did some great work with some friends' E28s.

[joeybananaz18]

Have you considered having the items dyed professionally?
I recall there is an upholstery place in/near San Diego - Jim's - that does good work. They did some great work with some friends' E28s.

From what ive read the montana leather is so crappy it doesn't even hold dye like leatherique all that well. I would love cinnamon in my OG but it just wouldn't work, plus ive got the beige dash. With that said if you come across black nappa (it being a higher quality) from an M3, you may be able to more easily dye that to cinnamon on your own. Hers a thread from e90post where it was done on an e92 with dakota leather.
https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=777877&page=2

[roddykar]

Have you considered having the items dyed professionally?
I recall there is an upholstery place in/near San Diego - Jim's - that does good work. They did some great work with some friends' E28s.
Hmm I haven’t really. No. I will check out Jim’s, though! Thanks.

Edit: Going there today to get a quote and see colors.


From what ive read the montana leather is so crappy it doesn't even hold dye like leatherique all that well.
Dye is probably not for me I guess. But those shots look excellent. I’m curious how they start to look in a few years, even with proper care.

Looking for something more permanent I’d say, since I’d be holding onto the car for as long as possible.

[roddykar]

Update: Jim's auto reup quoted me $2800. Haven't checked anywhere else, but that does seem a bit on the higher end, maybe I'm wrong. Lady over the phone asked me to come down so they can take a look, give me a quote and go over colors. I got there and a guy came outside and quickly said $2800. I was fishing for information like; Is there any warranty? How long does it take? What kind of leather? He seemed like he really wasn't in the mood to talk. Not a good vibe at all.

[joeybananaz18]

Update: Jim's auto reup quoted me $2800. Haven't checked anywhere else, but that does seem a bit on the higher end, maybe I'm wrong. Lady over the phone asked me to come down so they can take a look, give me a quote and go over colors. I got there and a guy came outside and quickly said $2800. I was fishing for information like; Is there any warranty? How long does it take? What kind of leather? He seemed like he really wasn't in the mood to talk. Not a good vibe at all.

Honestly you could probably save 1K just sourcing an OEM cinnamon interior

[roddykar]

Couldn't agree more. If I can find it....

[John in VA]

Couldn't agree more. If I can find it....
Rare, & 15 years old by now!

[3ZHP]

3ZHP’s sleeping away from home tonight. Getting airbag recall III done tomorrow!

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210311/91f869c1e875411471c2318459ca77c8.jpg


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[fredo]

3ZHP’s sleeping away from home tonight. Getting airbag recall III done tomorrow!

Sent from my iPhone Xs using Tapatalk

Sounds good. Did u grab a loaner ?

[3ZHP]

Sounds good. Did u grab a loaner ?

No, it’s relatively close so, we took two cars.


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[BMWCurves]

Recall III?...

[3ZHP]

Recall III?...

Yup, third airbag recall I’ve had done on it!


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[san]

I got 6 different letters about the recall in my mail in the last one week!
I have an appt scheduled for April since it’s tucked away for the winter.


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[pedro2u]

interesting, a 3rd recall? Nothing in my mailbox.....

I just checked on https://my.bmwusa.com/safety-and-emission-recalls and none of my 3 cars show any open recalls. Wondering, since you guys got notification letters, if your cars show up there as having open recalls?

[3ZHP]

interesting, a 3rd recall? Nothing in my mailbox.....

I just checked on https://my.bmwusa.com/safety-and-emission-recalls and none of my 3 cars show any open recalls. Wondering, since you guys got notification letters, if your cars show up there as having open recalls?

First, September 14 14V-428 Front Pas
Second, July 14 15V-318 Front Driver
Third, February 20 20V-018 Passenger


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[Galapolis]

interesting, a 3rd recall? Nothing in my mailbox.....

I just checked on https://my.bmwusa.com/safety-and-emission-recalls and none of my 3 cars show any open recalls. Wondering, since you guys got notification letters, if your cars show up there as having open recalls?

I got another letter a couple days ago and my car does show an open recall.

37765

[BADCLOWN]

A 3rd recall, seriously?

[pedro2u]

First, September 14 14V-428 Front Pas
Second, July 14 15V-318 Front Driver
Third, February 20 20V-018 Passenger


Sent from my iPhone Xs using Tapatalk

but that 3rd recall notice came out a year ago (and at that time I created this thread http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?22780-Another-Airbag-Recall/page2)

So are people just now getting that same recall notification a year later, or maybe never took it in to get it performed?

[joeybananaz18]

but that 3rd recall notice came out a year ago (and at that time I created this thread http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?22780-Another-Airbag-Recall/page2)

So are people just now getting that same recall notification a year later, or maybe never took it in to get it performed?

I had gotten mine just before the start of covid. I slipped it into my work bag, investigates at work, came home on a Friday and just didn’t go back. I was cleaning out a closet and found it at the bottom of my bag. I just called the number that was on there and they confirmed the recall was still open. Getting a new windshield put on today with safelight and I may call my dealer to do that and a state inspection.


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[pedro2u]

I had gotten mine just before the start of covid. I slipped it into my work bag, investigates at work, came home on a Friday and just didn’t go back. I was cleaning out a closet and found it at the bottom of my bag. I just called the number that was on there and they confirmed the recall was still open. Getting a new windshield put on today with safelight and I may call my dealer to do that and a state inspection.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Off topic here, but my wife and I passed through Katonah last weekend on our way to JFK after visiting one of my daughters in Newtown CT. Stopped at Terra Rustica in Briarcliff Manor for a fantastic meal. I highly recommend it! My wife grew up in Croton and knows your area very well! Beautiful place to call home

[3ZHP]

but that 3rd recall notice came out a year ago (and at that time I created this thread http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?22780-Another-Airbag-Recall/page2)

So are people just now getting that same recall notification a year later, or maybe never took it in to get it performed?

Yeh, my power steering pump took a crap on me last February and with COVID I didn’t need the ZHP. I just put a new Power steering pump + over Christmas. Still on the same tank of gas for the year so, I though I’d get it out of the way.


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[cakM3]

I sourced another pair of OEM M3 side mirrors but this time for my ZHP. I will be picking them up tomorrow :) Once my CSL bootlid is delivered I will have the bootlid painted in Mystic Blue and also paint out my M3 side mirrors to match. :cool

[Fenrir]

I sourced another pair of OEM M3 side mirrors but this time for my ZHP. I will be picking them up tomorrow :) Once my CSL bootlid is delivered I will have the bootlid painted in Mystic Blue and also paint out my M3 side mirrors to match. :coolThat's gonna look goooooooood [emoji1786]

Sent from my moto z4 using Tapatalk

[3ZHP]

Let’s see if this works.

From yesterday’s airbag recall and PERFORM BMW MULTIPOINT INSPECTION. ADJUST TIRE
PRESSURE & TOP OFF FLUIDS. Video


http://www.mkvwa38.com/p/EbA1KC.html


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[cakM3]

I took my ZHP on a 200 mile road trip to get parts for it today. Always good to catch up with my friend at his shop[emoji1419]


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[t.er]

Let’s see if this works.

From yesterday’s airbag recall and PERFORM BMW MULTIPOINT INSPECTION. ADJUST TIRE
PRESSURE & TOP OFF FLUIDS. Video


http://www.mkvwa38.com/p/EbA1KC.html


Sent from my iPhone Xs using Tapatalk

Wow, very cool that the dealer is providing a video inspection. I haven't seen that before

[YoitsTmac]

Where are people buying their M3 mirrors. And are people getting genuine or is there a good aftermarket? I want my mirrors to fold in when I lock and if I get that feature, might as well get M3 style.

[cakM3]

Where are people buying their M3 mirrors. And are people getting genuine or is there a good aftermarket? I want my mirrors to fold in when I lock and if I get that feature, might as well get M3 style.

M3 style side mirrors are basically M5 side mirrors. They don't look right mounted on E46. To me they look like Dumbo ears...

Only way to go is to get OEM M3 side mirrors to mount on E46. For coupes and verts they are direct bolt ons. For sedan and touring you have to modify the mirror base plates so that they line up properly. There is the Rogue Engineering DIY for this.

In either case you still need to transfer the mirror motors from your ZHP into the OEM M3 mirror housings. This does take some work and there are DIYs posted in this forum. I have one that I will be updating when I do my mirrors...

I have done this modification several times with my recent retrofit on Steve's Imola Vert ZHP. Once I get my M3 mirrors painted and base plates modded, I will transplant the mirror motors from my ZHP into the M3 mirror housings then plug everything in... there is more work you have to do on Tourings and Sedans but when completed it is well worth all the work to get them installed. At least to me it is.

The OEM M3 side mirrors look perfect mounted on any E46 :cool

https://live.staticflickr.com/5466/18055749362_05e2dce4a1_5k.jpg

https://live.staticflickr.com/8762/17872843929_429e7ea67f_5k.jpg

https://live.staticflickr.com/7780/17871397400_d4e4bafbb2_5k.jpg

I have a friend who parts wrecked M3's and sells salvageable parts. I get my parts from him when I need them.

[John in VA]

Only way to go is to get OEM M3 side mirrors to mount on E46. For coupes and verts they are direct bolt ons. For sedan and touring you have to modify the mirror base plates so that they line up properly. There is the Rogue Engineering DIY for this.

In either case you still need to transfer the mirror motors from your ZHP into the OEM M3 mirror housings. This does take some work and there are DIYs posted in this forum. I have one that I will be updating when I do my mirrors.
So the fit to the coupes is more straight forward, but I'd have to transfer the ZHP motors to the M3 housing if I wanted to do this to my coupe? Making sure I understood you. Thanks!

[cakM3]

That is correct. You will have to modify the M3 mirror housings using baseplates that Sergy 3D prints in order to mount the ZHP mirror motors on to. I did the modification to Steve's (sna77) ZHP vert recently and Steve observed me doing the surgery to his mirrors. He can chime in on how difficult the whole process was :thumbsup

Don't mistake the mirror motor baseplates from the actual M3 Mirror baseplates. They are very different... ;)

[YoitsTmac]

Sorry I'm a little confused. I'll do some research too. I have an E46 coupe, so M3 mirrors will bolt right on. Are you saying you can put the M3 mirror skin over my existing mirror internals?

[cakM3]

Sorry I'm a little confused. I'll do some research too. I have an E46 coupe, so M3 mirrors will bolt right on. Are you saying you can put the M3 mirror skin over my existing mirror internals?

Edit: XXXXXXXXX (corrected my original post)

To help answer your question take a look at this DIY

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?9723-Retrofit-OEM-M3-side-mirrors-doityourself

This is not an easy DIY to undertake and sometimes require several read overs. In this DIY hopefully it will answer your question or at least help clear things up just a little...

I will be refreshing this DIY when I begin the process of modding my OEM M3 side mirrors so that I can, once again, install them on my ZHP. The process of transferring the OE mirror motors w/ ribbon cabling into the M3 side mirror housings are the same for all cars.

If you're still unclear send me a PM :thumbsup

[Pip]

I drove the car after 5 weeks away from home. It was only a short trip to the grocery store before starting the week but it felt nice. I also finally received the 12mm spacers I've been waiting on since November. I'm looking forward to improving the stance ever so slightly.

[YoitsTmac]

Edit: XXXXXXXXX (corrected my original post)

To help answer your question take a look at this DIY

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?9723-Retrofit-OEM-M3-side-mirrors-doityourself

This is not an easy DIY to undertake and sometimes require several read overs. In this DIY hopefully it will answer your question or at least help clear things up just a little...

I will be refreshing this DIY when I begin the process of modding my OEM M3 side mirrors so that I can, once again, install them on my ZHP. The process of transferring the OE mirror motors w/ ribbon cabling into the M3 side mirror housings are the same for all cars.

If you're still unclear send me a PM :thumbsup

Thanks for the info! Bookmarking it for when I get there. I have an 01' so I think I'm going to do some M-Tech bumpers instead. I think it'd give me a bigger smile when I look at the car :) (not the car in my sig, need to update that)

[cakM3]

Thanks for the info! Bookmarking it for when I get there. I have an 01' so I think I'm going to do some M-Tech bumpers instead. I think it'd give me a bigger smile when I look at the car :) (not the car in my sig, need to update that)

Feel free to pick my brains if you ever want to take this on. I have done many M3 side mirror retrofits and there are a few members here who can vouge for my work ;)

The MTECH II bumpers are a good visual upgrade but when doing them I also recommend getting the MTEC II side skirts to complete the look :thumbsup

[roddykar]

Anyone think this is repairable without, like..a full re-dye after repair?
(Thanks for bearing with the angle, it’s all I have to work with right now)

37781

[cakM3]

I would take the car to a good upholstery shop and have the seat redone in the right leather. They should be able to match the leather or whatever material that is in in your car.

The driver’s seat in my car isn’t nearly as bad but eventually I will drop my car off to get my seat redone at an upholstery shop…


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[YoitsTmac]

How do people here feel about car wraps? I've been pricing out the M-Tech bumpers but paint will be at least $500 over two bumpers. I mean for that money, I'm almost 1/4 into the cost of a vehicle wrap. Seems worthwhile to save at that point?

[roddykar]

Paint > wrap. Almost made the mistake of wrapping my car atop super aged paint. Wraps just aren’t built to last for a long time without concise maintenance and can look even worse on top of aged paint/coat. If you plan on keeping that car for a while, I’d reconsider. 1/4th $ is still 3/4ths saved. But just my opinion!


I would take the car to a good upholstery shop and have the seat redone in the right leather. They should be able to match the leather or whatever material that is in in your car.

The driver’s seat in my car isn’t nearly as bad but eventually I will drop my car off to get my seat redone at an upholstery shop…
It’s natural brown. Interesting, so you think they can get it dead on? I worry it’ll look off from the other seats that have naturally aged

[John in VA]

I've been pricing out the M-Tech bumpers but paint will be at least $500 over two bumpers.
That's cheap compared to prices in the Wash DC area.

[Vas]

That's cheap compared to prices in the Wash DC area.If you are willing to make a trip 2 hours south of dc my paint guy is around $250 per panel to refinish and paint a panel

Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

[YoitsTmac]

Paint > wrap. Almost made the mistake of wrapping my car atop super aged paint. Wraps just aren’t built to last for a long time without concise maintenance and can look even worse on top of aged paint/coat. If you plan on keeping that car for a while, I’d reconsider. 1/4th $ is still 3/4ths saved. But just my opinion!
Thanks for your input - that's a good way of thinking of it. I am a little skeptical of $250 per bumper. I drove an hour each way to Umnitza to check out a bumper they had freshly painted. Little to no orange peel, strong shine, but the shine was a little "dull". As I revisit the photo, it appears there are a couple divots where dust likely hit during clear (see attached). As I left, they told me this is a "stage 1" paint, which is "good for 99% of people."

Then have a stage 2, which they say is $500 per bumper. $500/ea seems high. Feels like a poor upsell and makes me question the quality at each price point. They said they use more clear and a higher quality paint with the tier 2. So now I'm thinking, well is the tier 1 quality poor enough to chip or fade early? I may call some local people or ask my CCA chapter.37792

[cakM3]

Picking up a new MTEC II passenger side skirt to replace the broken standard BMW side skirt one of the previous owner had installed…

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210318/931df52301e6406d31497b4e8ec394b6.jpg

When I originally ordered my replacement side skirt the wrong part arrived (non MTEC II side skirt) so I had the dealer order the right part which shipped from Germany. It will be nice to have the right part installed[emoji1417]


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[Will]

I got a set of OE windshield wipers (the frames). My car had a set of the "evo" blade-type wipers and always had a golfball to baseball sized spot that wouldn't wipe which was directly in front of the driver. I changed them to the Michelin wipers from Costco and the problem got worse. The baseball sized un-wiped spot turned into a grapefruit sized un-wiped spot.

I swapped my OE wiper frames from the m3 onto the zhp and voila, no un-wiped spots. Decision was made to go to the OE frames (with the wind deflector over the driver's side).

[BMWCurves]

Glad that solved your problem! I have the OE euro/evo wipers and they work great minus a tiny little 1 cm or so section that's basically covered by the gauge cluster anyways so it's not missed.

[Will]

Glad that solved your problem! I have the OE euro/evo wipers and they work great minus a tiny little 1 cm or so section that's basically covered by the gauge cluster anyways so it's not missed.

Thanks! Yeah, it was really annoying to have that unswept area in direct line of sight of the driver.

[BADCLOWN]

Picked the GFs mini clubman S up after my Indy had his computer whiz code out her passenger side occupancy sensor. Been trying various cheap solutions which didn’t work out and I wasn’t going to pay the $1400 mini was asking for the part. Coding worked like a charm, so glad I don’t have to see the FOUR DIFFERENT warning lights lit up.

Dropping her summer wheels (Mini GP) off at tire discounters tomorrow to have wheel speed sensors installed and then rebalanced. I’ll then mount them on the car this weekend since the weather has thankfully turned.

[Will]

^ glad to hear that pesky passenger occupancy sensor is resolved.

[johnrando]

Nice to have that done

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[YoitsTmac]

Boy, this week has been wild. 3 weeks after the first time, I find my E46 so dead it wouldn't even unlock. Got a jump, drove for an hour, and had Oreilley's run a test and it came back with a faulty voltage regulator. Ordered it on FCP with 3-day shipping. And to mitigate the issue, I leave the negative terminal unplugged when parked.

Fast forward to yesterday and I go to fire it up, and it would immediately start, and then die out as if it was out of gas. I've had this issue come up every 3 months or so and I fix it by getting out, locking it, unlocking it, and getting back in, but that didn't do it this time. Fuel filter is a year old, and it has a fresh fuel pump relay, I heard it priming. Bunch of troubleshooting led me nowhere. Pulled out PA Soft and get a shadow code for crankshaft sensor - seems valid enough. I clear the shadow in case it's been lingering there and it comes up again about three attempted starts later. Couldn't find a live readout in INPA to verify. Another FCP Order and 1 day shipping now

Fast forward to today, and I'm removing the alternator to expedite this entire process. I have only been under the hood of my e46 to top off oil over the 1.5 years. I remove the alternator and find a POOL of oil. It's in the crevices of the side of the block. It's on the engine arm. It's on the rack. I previously thought my OPG was leaking, but its way up the block. VANOS line is new, CCV is dry, and it's leaking to the front of the pan too - dripping down around all the pulleys, so it looks like OFHG. Since the alternator is out, I figure I'll just do it. I start my first full time job on Monday, so now there's no time for any day shipping, nor is it cost effective on a gasket like that. Dealer wants $18 for it. This'll be their only change to take my money.

An eventful week so far, to say the least.

[cakM3]

Boy, this week has been wild. 3 weeks after the first time, I find my E46 so dead it wouldn't even unlock. Got a jump, drove for an hour, and had Oreilley's run a test and it came back with a faulty voltage regulator. Ordered it on FCP with 3-day shipping. And to mitigate the issue, I leave the negative terminal unplugged when parked.

Fast forward to yesterday and I go to fire it up, and it would immediately start, and then die out as if it was out of gas. I've had this issue come up every 3 months or so and I fix it by getting out, locking it, unlocking it, and getting back in, but that didn't do it this time. Fuel filter is a year old, and it has a fresh fuel pump relay, I heard it priming. Bunch of troubleshooting led me nowhere. Pulled out PA Soft and get a shadow code for crankshaft sensor - seems valid enough. I clear the shadow in case it's been lingering there and it comes up again about three attempted starts later. Couldn't find a live readout in INPA to verify. Another FCP Order and 1 day shipping now

Fast forward to today, and I'm removing the alternator to expedite this entire process. I have only been under the hood of my e46 to top off oil over the 1.5 years. I remove the alternator and find a POOL of oil. It's in the crevices of the side of the block. It's on the engine arm. It's on the rack. I previously thought my OPG was leaking, but its way up the block. VANOS line is new, CCV is dry, and it's leaking to the front of the pan too - dripping down around all the pulleys, so it looks like OFHG. Since the alternator is out, I figure I'll just do it. I start my first full time job on Monday, so now there's no time for any day shipping, nor is it cost effective on a gasket like that. Dealer wants $18 for it. This'll be their only change to take my money.

An eventful week so far, to say the least.

I can sympathize :) I am in the process of replacing my intake boot and what a PITA that has been! While everything is out I am seeing oil on my alternator which means I too will be cleaning out that area of my engine compartment and replacing my OFHG as well as getting a brand new alternator. Replacing the crankshaft position sensor is on my list of things to do but in my case it is preventive maintenance. I had one go out on my Audi which left me stranded on a very busy intersection during rush hour... not fun....

I also want to get a few more things done like new fuel pump/filter and new clutch slave cylinder and CDV delete...

Ordering parts from FCP is awesome though :thumbsup

[YoitsTmac]

There's something comforting knowing I'm not along, hah :). Old intake boots can be a real pain to remove. That's what I replaced last time I was under the hood! Also a brand new alternator fiscally sounds just as painful, at least its right at the front and only a couple bolts! FCP is the best, I paid $45 over two orders to have a bunch of things arrive in 1-2 days. ECS would want my arm, liver and one lung in exchange for expedited shipping! Also, FCP seems to have the lowest prices around too...not sure how they do it but I'm about as close to a customer for life as I can get. Mild sadness because my clutch is on backorder in the event I need to warranty it, but I sent them the particles of my first clutch in a ziplock back and they processed my replacement! Truly a testament.

Good luck with the Crankshaft position sensor! I tried to prep the car today but called it quits with the crankshaft sensor. I couldn't squeeze my hand past that big, cylindrical, black reservoir that seemingly is just above it. I had to pick up a swivel joint and hope that gets me the room I need to move that black reservoir. Additionally, I suspect a decent argument could be made for replacing it from below. I don't know if anyone gets this way, but I was just adamant that I wasn't going to raise the car. Just no. Maybe it's because the rest of the work I'm doing is also from the top, but if you have a quick jack I'd see if you can get it from below!

[cakM3]

There's something comforting knowing I'm not along, hah :). Old intake boots can be a real pain to remove. That's what I replaced last time I was under the hood! Also a brand new alternator fiscally sounds just as painful, at least its right at the front and only a couple bolts! FCP is the best, I paid $45 over two orders to have a bunch of things arrive in 1-2 days. ECS would want my arm, liver and one lung in exchange for expedited shipping! Also, FCP seems to have the lowest prices around too...not sure how they do it but I'm about as close to a customer for life as I can get. Mild sadness because my clutch is on backorder in the event I need to warranty it, but I sent them the particles of my first clutch in a ziplock back and they processed my replacement! Truly a testament.

Good luck with the Crankshaft position sensor! I tried to prep the car today but called it quits with the crankshaft sensor. I couldn't squeeze my hand past that big, cylindrical, black reservoir that seemingly is just above it. I had to pick up a swivel joint and hope that gets me the room I need to move that black reservoir. Additionally, I suspect a decent argument could be made for replacing it from below. I don't know if anyone gets this way, but I was just adamant that I wasn't going to raise the car. Just no. Maybe it's because the rest of the work I'm doing is also from the top, but if you have a quick jack I'd see if you can get it from below!

At this point in my life there are some things I will still tackle but the crankshaft position sensor is not one of those items. I will take my ZHP to an indy shop near me and have them do the crankshaft position sensor, clutch slave cylinder (also doing the CDV delete) replacements and also have them completely flush out my brake system again just to make sure the fluid is perfectly clean. The last time I did a brake system flush the fluid looked like engine oil, it was that bad... Some people should not be allowed to have nice cars because they ruin them... just saying....

Yes, I agree with everything you are saying about FCP Euro. Those guys are the best and I love that they offer lifetime warranty on everything they sell which is why I got my Bilstein PSS-10s from them :cool

[Will]

New battery for the m3. I went with a Everstart AGM from Walmart, $169.77 (link (https://www.walmart.com/ip/EverStart-Platinum-AGM-Battery-Group-Size-H7-12-Volt-850-CCA/40685088)). The regular lead acid version was $149, so I thought why not and splurged on the AGM.

Last battery was from 2015, and was the lead acid version from Walmart. Never had a problem with it.

[3ZHP]

Spring clean up day! Clear sky’s under a tornado watch.

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[cakM3]

Very nice Guy!! [emoji41]


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[fredo]

I like the one with "Tate Services" in the background. Perhaps you can post it here:

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?1352-Official-IMOLA-RED-Thread-(BMW-330-ZHP)-coupes-sedans-and-convertibles

[YoitsTmac]

I won’t spam the chat about this issue anymore but finally got the E46 up and running no thanks to FCP, I’m a little peeved and they’ll get a call from me Monday. I ended up calling a shop not even 2 miles away from me called West Bay Bavarian. My friend constantly hits up North Bay Bavarian for parts and help with small things, and I was ready to see if my location would extend the same love. And sure enough they do. And they don’t sell genuine, they sell OE brands. He let me pick my brand, got me pricing, and got all my parts to me within 2-3 hours. I’m spoiled. So I picked up my OFHG, VANOS crushies, and a vacuum cap (to delete the exhaust canister) for under $13. I felt spoiled.

So I throw the exhaust canister off my balcony just to feel something and do the OFHG, armed with a bottle of degreaser, a water jet, and a roll of “shop paper towels” that didn’t pick up grease as it advertised. I ended up using all but 3 squares cleaning up all the oil. I was finishing the job by tightening the VANOS line. Of course I’m using a pipe wrench because I’m a post college graduate in the middle of a pandemic, so half my life is in a storage unit in SoCal, and the other half is in the SF Bay (home), and of course my 19mm and oil filter tool are in SoCal because “I’ll be back by the time I need these,” is what I told myself about 11 months ago. So by using the wrong tool and tightening a little blind, I tighten the bolt right through the oil pressure sensor. That’s about on brand. And West Bay Bavarian had just closed.

Woke up early Friday and drove to fedex, happy to see my FCP order that was guaranteed to be delivered that day, is there. I get there right when they open with my tracking, and am told I won’t get my package because “it’s been delayed” and “unless [I] want to spend $5,000 getting it, the package stays [at fedex] until Monday”. No problem, I start my first post college job Monday which is why I paid expedited shipping, because I have to drive to my job. And now I have this pressure sensor issue. So I call my knight in shining armor at West Bay and of course he’ll have my oil pressure sensor AND the voltage regulator I desperately need to get back in the road, by noon. I did pay a considerable premium but again, I start my job on Monday, the car is apart, I just wanted it done. The rest is history - I got my parts, swapped the voltage regulator, bought a 24mm wrench for the oil pressure sensor so I would take rinse repeat my error, turned it over and she fired right up :). Which could not have had better timing, since I needed to run be at a clients just 30 minutes after that first crank. Made it just in time.

Alright that’s my last update. Just wanted to share my absolute roller coaster. Except for the crank sensor, everything I ordered at FCP will be returned. A little bit of a bummer

[John in VA]

Glad you got it sorted, but as you said there is a pandemic & mail has been slowed since last summer. It's nice to be able to plan ahead & order parts from afar. In cases of emergencies you have to bite the bullet & by local. I ordered some stuff from FCP on Mon, got word on Fri that my order had shipped & received it the next day/Sat. I'm on the east coast so it's an easy trip with their free shipping.

[cakM3]

Woke up early Friday and drove to fedex, happy to see my FCP order that was guaranteed to be delivered that day, is there.

I get there right when they open with my tracking, and am told I won’t get my package because “it’s been delayed” and “unless [I] want to spend $5,000 getting it, the package stays [at fedex] until Monday”.

I don't see how this is FCP Euro's fault. To me reading this it seems to be a FEDEX issue. To me there's nothing more aggravating than knowing your package is there on site yet these asshats tell you that you can't pick it up earlier. This is crap. It sucks that you had to go thru all this just to get your car running again. I know I would not be happy with the overall experience. Glad to see you got your car sorted though...

[az3579]

Yeah, FedEx absolutely blows. I've had bad experiences with them, which I haven't had with UPS. Hell, even USPS has a better track record for me. Sucks that FCP, as awesome as they are, uses them. Lucky to live 15 minutes from them so don't have to deal with FedEx.

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[YoitsTmac]

Glad you got it sorted, but as you said there is a pandemic & mail has been slowed since last summer. It's nice to be able to plan ahead & order parts from afar. In cases of emergencies you have to bite the bullet & by local. I ordered some stuff from FCP on Mon, got word on Fri that my order had shipped & received it the next day/Sat. I'm on the east coast so it's an easy trip with their free shipping.

This is true. I'm not sure anyone else is in the SF Bay, but I've been really lucky with mail. My buddy in LA sent me a wedding invite and I got it before his friends in OC. However mail is handled up here is really well. We get everything really early in comparison to my friends over the state and country. I ordered on Monday with 3-day shipping, thought that would be good. I've had under 10 late packages in my life. I digress, peace was restored in the end.


I don't see how this is FCP Euro's fault. To me reading this it seems to be a FEDEX issue. To me there's nothing more aggravating than knowing your package is there on site yet these asshats tell you that you can't pick it up earlier. This is crap. It sucks that you had to go thru all this just to get your car running again. I know I would not be happy with the overall experience. Glad to see you got your car sorted though...

It's not directly FCP Euro's fault, but even my confirmation email says "guaranteed by 3/26". FedEx is 100% the issue, but I'm still going to request a refund. FedEx didn't deliver to FCP, which in turns means they didn't deliver to me. I'm lucky I have a local dealer, and even luckier I have a shop that will supply me OE parts at comparable prices. If they don't feel confident in the order arriving at the time they state, they shouldn't quote it. I'm sure what has happened to me happens to a very small percentage of their packages. Perhaps I feel a bit more emotional about this package since it had what I needed to fix my car to get to my first "real" job. I don't know what I would have done if West Bay Bavarian didn't come through for me - my dealer is usually takes 24 hours to get parts.


Yeah, FedEx absolutely blows. I've had bad experiences with them, which I haven't had with UPS. Hell, even USPS has a better track record for me. Sucks that FCP, as awesome as they are, uses them. Lucky to live 15 minutes from them so don't have to deal with FedEx.
FedEx is truly the worst. I later discovered they pack their packages the worst (forget the logistical reason) and don't let their workers unionize, and are treated measurably worse. When I sell things I almost exclusively ship with USPS. When I have to use UPS, they have been pretty good to me. Although I know my shipping experiences (lack of delays, good UPS experience, few lost packages) is unique

[Will]

That sounds frustrating, but glad you got your car up and running again.

[t.er]

Don't worry, if you paid extra to have a guarantee on delivery date with FCP and it's late, you'll definitely get a gift card. That happened to my friend and IIRC they comp'd him $50 or so

[YoitsTmac]

Don't worry, if you paid extra to have a guarantee on delivery date with FCP and it's late, you'll definitely get a gift card. That happened to my friend and IIRC they comp'd him $50 or so

I think my order was too small for any additional comp. They refunded my shipping which is all I wanted - that feels fair. I am sadly returning the majority of the parts though. Cool GoKart photo. I had my first day at work and my boss is really big into racing. He highly suggested getting I get into carting.

[t.er]

I think my order was too small for any additional comp. They refunded my shipping which is all I wanted - that feels fair. I am sadly returning the majority of the parts though. Cool GoKart photo. I had my first day at work and my boss is really big into racing. He highly suggested getting I get into carting.

Thanks! Actually I do wish I got into karting, that's just me in my school's FSAE car, was on the team all of my undergrad. Tons of fun and by far the best car I've ever driven... unfortunately it's been about a couple years since I last drove one of those, now that undergrad is done

[YoitsTmac]

Thanks! Actually I do wish I got into karting, that's just me in my school's FSAE car, was on the team all of my undergrad. Tons of fun and by far the best car I've ever driven... unfortunately it's been about a couple years since I last drove one of those, now that undergrad is done

What are you studying? School car still looks pretty serious. I'm sure that thing pulled some nasty G's.

[t.er]

What are you studying? School car still looks pretty serious. I'm sure that thing pulled some nasty G's.

Mechanical Engineering - definitely the highlight of my time in uni. You learn so much beyond what's taught in class, and learn niche topics not covered such as how to tune an engine or a deep dive on suspension and vehicle dynamics.

Our car below can pull up to nearly 2Gs in cornering:

https://i.imgur.com/ODARZkFl.jpg

Some of the top cars in Europe have full-time Master's students working on them and the engineering is on a whole other level. For example I know one team made their brake rotor rings out of aluminium (which has horrible thermal and wear characteristics) but they developed some special coating to make it work, all in the name of reducing unsprung mass.

The on-board footage of some of their cars literally looks sped up:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcIN4nzXdZ8

[t.er]

Oh, and my front ARB reinforcement plates are hot off the waterjet. I'll update my thread on this once I verify it actually fits:

https://i.imgur.com/mGi23qQl.png

[Vas]

Genuine bmw trunk Roundel and inner euro lights replaced with new parts. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210401/4ebf81eb3dc1498b2ac1af670994e23d.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

[John in VA]

Genuine bmw trunk Roundel and inner euro lights replaced with new parts.
How do they differ from USA parts? Thanks!

[Vas]

How do they differ from USA parts? Thanks!The euro lights are clear and the usa are amber.

Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

Genuine bmw trunk Roundel and inner euro lights replaced with new parts. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210401/4ebf81eb3dc1498b2ac1af670994e23d.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

Where did you source the euro lights?


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[Vas]

Where did you source the euro lights?


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk ProeBay. They are ULO brand which are made in Germany.

Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

[ELCID86]

Genuine bmw trunk Roundel and inner euro lights replaced with new parts.

Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

Nicely refurbished rear end.

[Will]

Genuine bmw trunk Roundel and inner euro lights replaced with new parts. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210401/4ebf81eb3dc1498b2ac1af670994e23d.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

That's some good shine and reflection. I always find it amazing how clear (rather than amber) signal lenses update a car's look.

[YoitsTmac]

Mechanical Engineering - definitely the highlight of my time in uni. You learn so much beyond what's taught in class, and learn niche topics not covered such as how to tune an engine or a deep dive on suspension and vehicle dynamics.

Our car below can pull up to nearly 2Gs in cornering:

https://i.imgur.com/ODARZkFl.jpg

Some of the top cars in Europe have full-time Master's students working on them and the engineering is on a whole other level. For example I know one team made their brake rotor rings out of aluminium (which has horrible thermal and wear characteristics) but they developed some special coating to make it work, all in the name of reducing unsprung mass.

The on-board footage of some of their cars literally looks sped up:

That looks so fast, absolutely insane. That's got to be like triple the speed you can get in a typical car when it comes to cornering speed (and likely acceleration speed). That just solidifies that I have to do karting this summer. I've been offered to drive people's fast and track cars but I would never feel comfortable driving someone else's car as fast as I drive my own, so I can only imagine what that must feel like.


Oh, and my front ARB reinforcement plates are hot off the waterjet. I'll update my thread on this once I verify it actually fits:
This looks really similar to what Morehead Speed Works sells (https://www.moreheadspeedworks.com/product/e46-z4-front-anti-roll-bar-reinforcements/).