Hi, I'm new and I'm interested in learning more DIY stuff about my ZHP vert

Hi everyone,

I've had my 2006 convertible 330CI with ZHP package since 2018. This is the second ZHP that I have owned. I previously had a jet black sedan. I will say that I really enjoyed the sedan, but I needed a drop top. Unfortunately, all of the BMWs that I have owned in my lifetime have been automatic, except for one 535 back in the day. The old 5 series, 5-speed had 300+K miles. I was a broke college student, bought it for $1,000, and sold it for $800, after driving it for about a year.

Fast forward to now. I really enjoy my convertible E46. I will never track my vehicles, so the heavier car, is no big deal for me. Lots of fun. Preaching to the choir.

The only thing that I want to improve on is a 6 speed manual transmission swap. I live in San Francisco, CA, so if you have a 6-speed for sale, I would love to hear from you. Also, if you know of a shop in the area that performs the swap, that would be great. I have found a mechanic in the area that has been recommended by various owners, however, he only has had 5-speeds. I'm holding on for a 6-speed.

I look forward to the knowledge that I will gain from all. I hope that I can contribute in the future.

Welcome! Verts rule.....

I DIG my vert!
About 5 vs. 6 speed, I don't know that I am all that much more in love with the extra gear. Perhaps, after ~30 years with 5 gears, when I finally got a 6 speed, I was lost a little. Got used to it now but gheesh, you are changing speed more in the city with a 6 speed. The speeds are also shorter so there is that as well. I am not sure a 5 speed is that wrong of a swap. But I will let the others chime in.
Anyway, welcome to the best BMW forum out there.

Welcome, sir ! My bucket list includes a vert. Maybe some day ... Have you considered a Sprint Booster for your AT ? They really make a difference.

Welcome! And I second that, verts rule. Look into 3 DIYs 1) sprint booster or pedal box, 2) paddle shifters, 3) Dinan STEP s/w. All 3 will improve the STEP driving experience. (I have all 3). Also, get a wind screen (comfort), and a 'shorty' antenna (looks). Enjoy! And, GL with the swap.

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

I love the 6MT, but to be honest, if I'm accelerating through the gears to get to highway speed, I often go 4th to 6th....... You're pretty much already at highway speed in 4th anyway :dunno

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by pedro2u

I love the 6MT, but to be honest, if I'm accelerating through the gears to get to highway speed, I often go 4th to 6th....... You're pretty much already at highway speed in 4th anyway :dunno

---

Haha, I do the same. I rarely use 5th, unless it's some back road where the speeds are high, but not quite highway speeds

I have ZHP vert with 6 speed. Key is the 3.46 differential. It is fun and it loves going 90+ on the highway.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Archbid

I have ZHP vert with 6 speed. Key is the 3.46 differential. It is fun and it loves going 90+ on the highway.

---

It's the key on any E46, my 3.38 completely transformed my car and is hands down the best mod I've done.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Archbid

I have ZHP vert with 6 speed. Key is the 3.46 differential. It is fun and it loves going 90+ on the highway.

---

In your case, I assume you hardly need to use 1st gear, or you're in 1st for only a few seconds?