The Clown is Back: Progress thread

[johnrando]

Nice. GL!

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[BADCLOWN]

Finally got around to updating this. We just got back from Denver for a 10 day hiking/vacation trip and we are all settled back in. My indy installed the morimoto fogs (haven't had a chance to use them at night yet), 135i rear calipers, redbox pads, stop tech M3 rotors, 2 front diff bushings (lemforder), 1 rear diff bushing (OEM BMW), 135i wear sensor. Finally, he had some assistance from a BMW programming wizard for the cluster work. This guy (now mid 20s in age) when he was in high school, "hacked" his school computer system and advanced the clocks like 15 seconds per minute or something to that extent so school would let out early every day haha, kinda funny story. But this guy is a wiz when it comes to programming across all of the BMW platforms.

After the work was done, I had a 4 corner alignment done and the 2 front wheels rebalanced (which got rid of a mild thumping issue at 50+ miles per hour, its smooth now). Car is running great, been driving it on occasion between the 4runner.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48128024658_2f47ba39d4_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gjUGYA)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2gjUGYA) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48128024638_93104c2ce4_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gjUGYf) (https://flic.kr/p/2gjUGYf) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48128024243_5aa73daf2d_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2gjUGRr) (https://flic.kr/p/2gjUGRr) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[cakM3]

Jacob, the rear 135i calipers look awesome! What rotors did you go with to make them work?

[BADCLOWN]

Thanks Charlie, I’m honestly surprised they turned out as well as they did.

E46 M3 stoptech rotors from ECS

[WOLFN8TR]

Looking Good Jacob! [emoji106]

[johnrando]

Nice werk!

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[BADCLOWN]

Thanks guys, my favorite wheels popped up for sale locally. I really want a set of these built in either 18inch or stepped 18 ——-> 19 inch.

https://cincinnati.craigslist.org/wto/d/cincinnati-bbs-rs2/6916006043.html

[BADCLOWN]

Well, due to my shoulder injury swapping the 135 wheels on for storage won’t be happening so the car is going into winter storage rocking the CH wheels unfortunately. Gonna have to have the Gf wash it in the coming days and then drive it to its resting spot


I have a very sick ZHP steering wheel project in the works and will update this thread when I can.

Other than this project the only other parts I may try to acquire over winter are H&R front and rear sway bars.

[BADCLOWN]

Winter project has been completed, just working on an install date. Intrigued to see how I like the end result, will post pictures once installed.

[johnrando]

:thumbsup

[BADCLOWN]

Alrighty:

So, forum member C00KIE M0NSTER approached me months ago about needing a car to model an E46 steering wheel for his new carbon fiber business. To my surprise, he is based out of Cincinnati. I happily obliged as the style of his product was something I had interest in for the last year or so. He came over and test fit a wheel on my car, and while it wasn't 100% my taste (nearly all of the wheel was carbon fiber), the fit and finish seemed to be excellent. We talked for a period of time and I settled for finding a suitable wheel core ($135 shipped) and had it drop shipped to his home.

As of the past few weeks, the project has been completed and the tentative plan is for him to come over and install the wheel tomorrow morning. He's going to be taking a few pictures and video of the operation of it all for his business, I will try to post some install photos and video of it working but this is what the end result was after our conversations regarding the spec that I wanted:


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49440064591_5ccec3ddff_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ijRfJK)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2ijRfJK) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49440064611_74184edc1c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ijRfK6) (https://flic.kr/p/2ijRfK6) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49440283282_5f71eec814_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ijSnKh) (https://flic.kr/p/2ijSnKh) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49440057241_fb9f24f919_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ijRdy2) (https://flic.kr/p/2ijRdy2) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49439584558_8ab2088549_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ijNN3j) (https://flic.kr/p/2ijNN3j) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49439584463_1c65c4908f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ijNN1F) (https://flic.kr/p/2ijNN1F) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49439538533_a8808c599b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ijNymM) (https://flic.kr/p/2ijNymM) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49440238082_671065f341_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ijS9iY)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2ijS9iY) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/49440012136_f1b3d101d8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ijQZ9m)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2ijQZ9m) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/49440239367_cedb05bfb4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ijS9G8)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2ijS9G8) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr


- ZHP steering wheel core
- OBD monitoring/shift light meter integrated
- tri-color stitching
- carbon fiber center trim
- updated M logo emblem on trim
- thicker padding from 3-9 o'clock to help keep the wheel looking more round with the thickness of the new steering wheel unit

(Bottom two "pictures" are actually videos if you click them, it should open a new window to the video)


I didn't go with CF on the circumference of the wheel because I enjoy the feel of the alcantara, plus there isn't any CF on the interior..........yet. To me, the full carbon look stood out too much. I'll write up a full review of the steering wheel after I get my hands on it and let you know what my final thoughts are on the finish/operation of the wheel itself. That being said, I'm eager to see if I'll be satisfied with the end result, the pictures look amazing.

[ZHPizza]

Shift light integration on the e46....dude is gonna make some serious dollars on this one....

[ApexHitter]

That steering wheel looks fantastic! Definitely will be getting one of those. Once I finally find a ZHP....lol.

Where did you get your CF cabin filter cover from?

[BADCLOWN]

That steering wheel looks fantastic! Definitely will be getting one of those. Once I finally find a ZHP....lol.

Where did you get your CF cabin filter cover from?


I bought it from a guy in Washington DC when we lived out there for about a year. No idea on the manufacturer

[johnrando]

Nice work

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[BADCLOWN]

Well, total failure today. My car decided to be a complete and utter drama queen.

Threw a CEL driving home out of storage (later determined to be P2020 and P1515 code, if anyone knows for sure what these are let me know), car drove perfect and felt great once warmed up. Only causes I can think are condensation in the lines from sitting or old gas. Threw about 8 gallons of 93 in and drove it before returning to storage.

The obd wouldn’t send any signal to the steering wheel. We thought that the sprint booster wired to the pedal would be causing the issue so the pedal was unplugged and the car started. Still wouldn’t send signal to the steering wheel. The port itself has power because autozone was able to read the CEL codes.

No idea what the issue is at this point. The steering wheel works flawlessly when temporarily hooked up to a battery and the obd reader plugged into his alfa. Kinda bummed out at how much the car misbehaved today and his wasted time coming over.

[johnrando]

Wow, bummer. No idea, but always start with the battery if old... a 'low' one causes the strangest problems.

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[BADCLOWN]

the battery is actually only maybe 2-2.5 years old. I had to replace the battery while we were in Washington DC/Herndon. While in storage its been on a CTEK charger.

[az3579]

Cars don't like to sit. If you drive it the issues should clear up.

[BADCLOWN]

I'm not concerned with the CELs, I know if they are cleared they more than likely wont come back.

[az3579]

That works too

[BADCLOWN]

Got the car out of storage two days ago. Washed and vacuumed the car out and took it for a drive to autozone to drop off some used oil (did an oil and filter change on the GFs R55 Clubman S today).

Short list of things to do for spring so far:

- schedule the recall work (going to call tomorrow to see if I can get in tomorrow or Tuesday)
- contact BAV sound about getting a replacement speaker. When I bought the used set, I was told it was all in working order but after install there is a mid in the passenger front door that is blown.
- oil/filter change
- add some weather stripping to the rear tail lights

[fredo]

Must be nice to drive the car after all this time. How is your recovery going ?

[BADCLOWN]

Must be nice to drive the car after all this time. How is your recovery going ?

Yeah, feels good to get back in the saddle.

Recovery is good, I started back to work mid February after begging my ortho surgeon. It was healed up enough that he felt mostly ok with it. Since being back at work it’s been alright, the bone supposedly won’t fully grow back together until the end of this year. I wake up every morning with stiffness and some soreness but once I get some grease in it it’s fine. Scar healed up fairly well but it’s VERY noticeable and the plate the inserted is VERY noticeable under the skin. I’m hoping the stiffness and soreness will eventually subside later this year. My 85 pound female German shepherd stepped on my shoulder on accident two weeks ago and it caused pretty moderate pain for about 3-5 minutes. I’m hoping that goes away as well with time. I had to fight a guy at work last week who had a felony warrant for his arrest and with the assistance of another deputy we got him cuffed. Didn’t feel any soreness after that incident but if I took a direct impact on it I don’t think it would bode well.

Appreciate you asking!

[johnrando]

Wow. Glad you are healing up. Good to get the car going.

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[ZHPizza]

Damn dude that recovery sounds rough. Glad you survived the boredom of not working + physically unable to work on the car!

[BADCLOWN]

Damn dude that recovery sounds rough. Glad you survived the boredom of not working + physically unable to work on the car!

2 weeks after surgery I started legit losing track of what day it was. Knew it was time to go back to work at that point. Worked light duty at the front desk for 3 months before I had the itch to start back

[BADCLOWN]

Recall done, view from the waiting area:

https://flic.kr/p/2iMUFUo

[ZHPizza]

pic no do

[BADCLOWN]

Yeah, I have no idea how to post pictures from Flickr on my phone. Insanely aggravating, thanks photobucket!

[BADCLOWN]

Anyone have a recommendation for a good set of headlight halos? I’ll pay a premium for build quality

[ZHP_Brandon]

Anyone have a recommendation for a good set of headlight halos? I’ll pay a premium for build quality

Seems to be a trend on IG atm, what style were you looking for? I’ve seen the E9X style where the angel eyes have a “3D effect” & then there’s the traditional style E46 angel eyes that come in 3 variants. LED, LED “cotton” angel eyes, and then cotton “switch back” angel eyes that glow yellow when the blinker is in use.


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[cakM3]

Jacob, if you want the best looking angel eyes for your sick ride then Umnitza Orion V4 LED Angel Eyes is the way to go. I have used these on my ZHP and M3 and won't use anything else. They really accent the looks of the BMW and with your car would look absolutely sick!


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48810895676_911c813a4a_k.jpg


Here is the link:

https://www.umnitza.com/angel-eyes-by-umnitza/bmw-angel-eyes/3-series/orion-v4-led-angel-eyes-for-bmw-e39-e46-x5-z3-e36-e65-e38.html

[WOLFN8TR]

Jacob, if you want the best looking angel eyes for your sick ride then Umnitza Orion V4 LED Angel Eyes is the way to go.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48810895676_911c813a4a_k.jpg

Here is the link:
https://www.umnitza.com/angel-eyes-by-umnitza/bmw-angel-eyes/3-series/orion-v4-led-angel-eyes-for-bmw-e39-e46-x5-z3-e36-e65-e38.html

I approve of this recommendation. [emoji1690]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200429/a119403c2b6c49787ca87cfb66a1590f.jpg

[BADCLOWN]

Looking for something more traditional that fits the car, unless they make halos that you can change to any of 100 different colors with my cell phone lol

Charlie: I’ll look into those, thanks.

At this point I’m looking for whatever small little mods I haven’t done yet because the looming two big mods are a built set of RS2 wheels or a supercharger

[sillieidiot]

I personally think the EAS Aurora's were the best angels for the E46. But they are NLA. Followed by WeissLicht (also NLA) For the Orions, the quality of the ring/kit is very good. But I'm turned off by the 6500K-7000K color of the LEDs. I prefer the 5500K-6000K ones.

You could probably get a set you like off Amazon. Most of the SMD LED rings with 120 LEDs are copies of my original design. I was contracted by some vendor in Australia to design some for them, then they sent it to China (which I told him it would be a mistake) and then I saw them pop up everywhere :rofl

I would stay away from the COB LED ones though. Although they have a more uniform look, they are very bad with heat, so they are more likely to fail often.

[ZHP_Brandon]

Looking for something more traditional that fits the car, unless they make halos that you can change to any of 100 different colors with my cell phone lol

Charlie: I’ll look into those, thanks.

At this point I’m looking for whatever small little mods I haven’t done yet because the looming two big mods are a built set of RS2 wheels or a supercharger

I’ve heard good things about Morimotos RGB angel eyes, I personally used angeleyeguy’s angel eyes on Instagram, I bought the cotton led’s & the normal led ones. I love them.

Great quality & fit with no issues besides moving the sliding bracket on the xenon projector to the middle when reinstalling the black bezel, which is just a trial and error thing when reinstalling.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200429/54c0b932bcdbdeb5b5ddeb55c6fa00d9.jpg

Here’s a while back when I had blacked out housings, cotton angel eyes & Lamin-X yellow film on my headlights and fogs.


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[BADCLOWN]

regarding a CSL brake rotor upgrade in the front: does anyone know if I need any other components swapped out besides the carrier bracket and the rotor itself? do I need different dust shields or anything?



In unrelated news: scheduling with my indy for installing Umnitza V4s and a full oil change service

[BADCLOWN]

a few of these super clean e30s that have been floating around as of late had me reminiscing. I need to get some similar pictures taken with the ZHP/mask:


http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7136/7019179565_4f6c17d682_c.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7088/6885334170_3e26032639_c.jpg

[johnrando]

For sure. Always loved that pic.

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[BADCLOWN]

0w40 Mobil1 synthetic oil change w/ filter and angel eye install done.

The 6k is bright, matches the fogs just right but it looks like the headlights might be 5500k? Can anyone confirm this?

[sillieidiot]

like OE bulbs? OE bulbs are 4300K. if you got CBI then its probably 5500Kish

[BADCLOWN]

I honestly don't know what CBI stands for. the halo rings are 6k and my fogs look to be the same. id like to get some 6k white bulbs to get everything up to par

[sillieidiot]

I honestly don't know what CBI stands for. the halo rings are 6k and my fogs look to be the same. id like to get some 6k white bulbs to get everything up to par

oh it's like one of the more popular HID bulbs. Osram Cool Blue Intense (CBI). I have it, I like it. That's about as blue as I would go. 6000K bulbs would match everything and look nicer, but then you lose some light output. Signs and reflective surfaces will light up more though. But, if you're dead set on 6000K still, the Osram Cool Blue Advance (CBA) would be up your alley. I'm sure if you've never changed out your OE bulbs, then any of these bulbs will be way brighter.

CBI: https://www.theretrofitsource.com/d2s-osram-xenarc-66240-cbi-B-66240CBI?quantity=1
CBA: https://www.theretrofitsource.com/d2s-osram-xenarc-66240-cba-B-66240CBA?quantity=1

Although I wouldn't pay any attention to the pictures of the cutoffs on the wall. It's on some projectors with modified cutoff shields probably spaced out to get the huge color band. Also the wall is probably white to make it look even brighter lol

[BADCLOWN]

Ah, thanks for the explanation/info/recommendations Sir. Gonna spend some time tonight during work reviewing what you posted!

[BADCLOWN]

Well, I think the 2020 season will end this Sunday. I had planned to try and hit one more C&C but with my work/off duty work schedules I haven't been able to. Gonna strip the CHs off and throw the spacers/135s on and then wash the car to prep for storage.

I located a really nice set of used BBS RS2 RS714 wheels in Norway (have intentions to get a set built) but getting a shipping quote that makes it worth the purchase is proving hard to come by. If I cant lock these wheels down, I'm going to look hard at getting the VF supercharger purchased this winter. I am at a point with the car where big purchases are what is left since all the "little" mods have been done.

I'll throw some boring pics up of the wheel swap Sunday, I was hoping to take the CHs off and throw them up for sale with the RS714 purchase but every day that passes its more and more of a lost cause.

[BADCLOWN]

Dropped some all seasons off at Tire Discounters to have put on the GF's stock Clubman S wheels so I can get those put on tomorrow and take her Mini GP wheels off for winter.

Came home and knocked out the wheel swap on the ZHP. The car rides pretty well on 19s but feels like a dream on the 18s haha. Brakes are still pretty clean, wiped them down before putting the stock wheels back on. Took a quick drive to run an errand and came back. All is well, will probably wash it in the coming days and then throw it in storage at a facility that's roughly 2 miles away.


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50523539708_f59f4b983f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jYAm9d)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jYAm9d) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50524259141_177410eb9f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jYE31e)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jYE31e) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50524432047_67f25c5aa1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jYEVpn)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jYEVpn) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50523539618_d9e9817760_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jYAm7E)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jYAm7E) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50523539693_dd17da75fd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2jYAm8X) (https://flic.kr/p/2jYAm8X) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[fredo]

I like the last pic.

[Will]

Looks great. I really like the contrast of silver wheels. Damn, nice job with the polish, too. That front fender looks so shiny and reflective.

[t.er]

I wish my brakes looked that good...

[BADCLOWN]

Thanks guys, I actually haven’t washed the car in probably 2 months haha. It will get polished again next spring.

Tentative wants for winter purchases this year are:

- 6k osram headlight bulbs
- VF charger kit
- 345x28 ZCP front rotors and new carrier brackets

I’ve located and saved a link for the caliper carrier brackets, but finding a nice aftermarket ZCP rotor set at a reasonable price hasn’t been found. I’ve wanted to get larger front rotors to fill out the 19s since I had the rear brakes replaced with the BMWP stuff and M3 rear rotors.

[Galapolis]

In case you need another opportunity for RSII RS714s, it might be worth contacting this seller:

https://www.ebay-kleinanzeigen.de/s-anzeige/bbs-rs-ii-bbs-rs-714/1528874851-223-3873

Since it's in Germany the shipping will definitely not exceed about 300€.

[BADCLOWN]

Man, I would love to but I have no idea how to contact the guy. I hit the “translate” button on my safari and don’t see where I can contact the Guy via email

Edit: figured some things out, the guy actually replied to me via email and stated he would only ship within Germany. Bummer

[John in VA]

Edit: figured some things out, the guy actually replied to me via email and stated he would only ship within Germany. Bummer
Maybe Sreten can help you.

[Galapolis]

Maybe Sreten can help you.

^

Shipping wheels within Germany is only about 60€. Still seems like a good deal.

[BADCLOWN]

I’ll message him and see if he’s interested at all

[johnrando]

Car def looks grt!

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[BADCLOWN]

Well, when I started my search for some RS714 wheels I had my cousin post a WTB on a international wheel forum on facebook (I haven't had facebook for over 15 years, only social media I have is Instagram) with the info for the specific type of wheels I was looking for. A guy out of Norway ended up contacting my cousin and he forwarded me the seller's info. From 10/16/20 until a week ago, we were able to finalize a deal and work out the shipping logistics. Between ebay, various Instagram wheel groups, searching google and international ebay sites I was only ever able to locate 2 sets. One sold super quick and the other guy wouldn't ship outside Europe.

These wheels are all original and had tires on them originally but were removed for shipping purposes. The seller is a BMW enthusiast and found/bought two sets of these (he's building out the other set he bought custom measurements for his E92). My plan is to do the same with these. My plan is to upconvert these to 19 inch and HOPEFULLY fit a 9F and 10R. No idea on the finish yet but I am leaning towards a black dominant theme (possibly black lips/barrels, polished hardware, polished windows with black faces) but other options may be on the table.

Wheels are supposed to show up via DHL on Friday. I have no idea when I will get these sent out to be built, but as of now I will disassemble as the faces are all that's needed to make the custom set. I am tentatively planning to use ewheelworks (ewheelworks.us) out of North Carolina. The guy builds custom AC schnitzer/BBS/other wheel sets for BMWs and is a BMW enthusiast/owner himself. I have the coin to send them out now but priorities are focused on acquiring or building our first house. The itch to pull the trigger is strong though haha. My BBS CHs and tires (3-4 seasons on them, maybe 2000 miles max and that's a gross over-estimate) will go up for sale at some point too. I've wanted to rock a set of these for 10-12 years going all the way back to my Imola Yellow VW GTI 20th anniversary.


BBS RS2 RS714, 18x8.5 ET38 5x120

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50641537148_62f668d096_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2ka27EQ)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2ka27EQ) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[BMWCurves]

Nice! I hope they make the trek safely, can't wait to see them cleaned up and on your car.

[fredo]

Congrats, that's a good find.

[Galapolis]

Let us know how that NC company works out, I've been thinking about getting some custom barrels for my Style 78s to make them a little wider. Would be convenient if there is a shop that can do it in my state.

[BADCLOWN]

Let us know how that NC company works out, I've been thinking about getting some custom barrels for my Style 78s to make them a little wider. Would be convenient if there is a shop that can do it in my state.


if you have Instagram, check out their page (they are building their website, IG is where they seem to do most of their advertising for their work and it appears to be very high quality) for photos of their past and current wheel builds. Their shop is in Mocksville, I don't know where that is in relation to Raleigh. They widen a lot of OE multipiece BMW wheels too.

[johnrando]

Can't wait to see. And, those BBS's are beauts!

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[John in VA]

If the shop is Ehrlich Wheel Works in Mocksville you're in good hands. He's been at The Vintage, the classic BMW gathering held near Asheville in the spring, a number of times. Nice work!

[BADCLOWN]

That is the company I would be referring to

[BADCLOWN]

Well, winter wasn’t very productive in terms of what I wanted to purchase for a spring install. I’m sending my wood trim and spare ZHP steering wheel trim out to oCarbon next week for work. I plan on purchasing a garbino style CF lip that Charlie shared with me in the coming weeks. Only other plan is putting in a new ZHP knob and maybe doing a center console refresh.


That VF charger purchase is still lurking in the back of my brain, might have a screw it moment early summer.......

[cakM3]

Well, winter wasn’t very productive in terms of what I wanted to purchase for a spring install. I’m sending my wood trim and spare ZHP steering wheel trim out to oCarbon next week for work. I plan on purchasing a garbino style CF lip that Charlie shared with me in the coming weeks.

Jacob, I'm working on possibly, however remote, to get the genuine Garbino lip from Japan for my ZHP. There will be more to follow up if it happens...


Only other plan is putting in a new ZHP knob and maybe doing a center console refresh.

The new ZHP shift knob will look and feel great! I did the center console refresh not too long ago. Love mine! I'm sure it will look great in your amazing looking ZHP! :cool


That VF charger purchase is still lurking in the back of my brain, might have a screw it moment early summer.......

This would be awesome to see!!! :thumbsup

[BADCLOWN]

Pulled the car out of winter storage today for its spring cleaning and other small projects. washed the car and then sealed the paint using chemical bros sealer. worked in sections letting it set for 10ish minutes before removing with microfiber clothes. I'm letting the car sit over night and then I'm going to use a ceramic wax tomorrow to finish up. Vacuumed the interior and rear spare well out. then I removed the rear tail lights, stripped the old weather seals off of them, and installed new ones. the ones that came on them were starting to let light moisture in. I added a few extra strips of dynamat to the spare area and then finished off the day by wet sanding and polishing the stock rear exhaust tips (800-5000 grit then polishing compound). It's definitely a love hate relationship when it comes to cleaning black cars and the upkeep they require, but the results of the work show. I think clean, well taken care of black paint looks better than most other colors.

I've got a LOT of interior carbon fiber coming in the next few weeks. Once that arrives, I'll be taking the car to my indy for an oil/filter change along with having all those CF bits installed. Finish everything off with a brand new OE weighted ZHP shift knob. I actually have Saturdays off until at least the first week of July at work so I'll be able to go to C&C regularly which I'm pretty jazzed about.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51105311112_9365e61a7f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kS15vE)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kS15vE) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51105311107_3f05ee7d6f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kS15vz)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kS15vz) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51105882131_ec687db40a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kS41fP)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kS41fP) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51105311182_6dd4a457ae_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kS15wS)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kS15wS) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51105882046_bfd3e41e0f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kS41em)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kS41em) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51105622944_a2b72a1dd2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kS2Fd5)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kS2Fd5) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51105622919_76e158520a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kS2FcD)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kS2FcD) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51106659230_2b048fc1da_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kS7Zg5)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kS7Zg5) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[cakM3]

Damn.... that paint looks so good Jacob. Amazing job!!! :thumbsup

[BADCLOWN]

Got an update from Matt @ oCarbon. He's baking the pieces and then trimming/sanding/polishing all this week. Should be completed by next week. Whats not shown because he is still working on it is the steering wheel trim. Big thanks to ZHPizza for passing along this 8pc wood interior trim many many months ago that he had laying around. All I paid was the price of shipping and he sent them out as he didn't need them anymore.


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51113145535_9483787498_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSGepV)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSGepV) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51112115674_d41c8da594_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSAXgG)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSAXgG) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51112364396_84d4ae2ab4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSCed1)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSCed1) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51112364391_cd67272359_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSCecV)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSCecV) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51112270983_19e094c4a0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSBKrr)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSBKrr) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51112270978_9b2ebeb235_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSBKrm)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSBKrm) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51112115659_1476f7dcbe_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSAXgr) (https://flic.kr/p/2kSAXgr) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51111796507_b5d8855fa5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSzjoP)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSzjoP) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51111796502_e49644395f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSzjoJ)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSzjoJ) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51111796492_1cde04f0c3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSzjoy)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSzjoy) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[WOLFN8TR]

Wow those look Great!!

[cakM3]

Got an update from Matt @ oCarbon. He's baking the pieces and then trimming/sanding/polishing all this week. Should be completed by next week. Whats not shown because he is still working on it is the steering wheel trim. Big thanks to ZHPizza for passing along this 8pc wood interior trim many many months ago that he had laying around. All I paid was the price of shipping and he sent them out as he didn't need them anymore.


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51113145535_9483787498_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSGepV)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSGepV) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51112115674_d41c8da594_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSAXgG)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSAXgG) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51112364396_84d4ae2ab4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSCed1)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSCed1) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51112364391_cd67272359_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSCecV)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSCecV) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51112270983_19e094c4a0_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSBKrr)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSBKrr) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51112270978_9b2ebeb235_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSBKrm)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSBKrm) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51112115659_1476f7dcbe_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSAXgr) (https://flic.kr/p/2kSAXgr) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51111796507_b5d8855fa5_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSzjoP)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSzjoP) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51111796502_e49644395f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSzjoJ)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSzjoJ) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51111796492_1cde04f0c3_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kSzjoy)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kSzjoy) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

:drool :drool :drool

[johnrando]

+1!

Sent from my SM-G988U using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

Took the 135s off and threw the CHs back on today. Polished the lugs before installing the CHs. Then moved on to adding in the metal “ram air” style piece that goes behind the kidneys that Charlie linked a while back (2 minute install). Went and checked the tire pressures for the inaugural drive and threw half a tank of fresh 93 octane in.

Hoping the clouds clear out tomorrow morning so my first C&C of the year is a good turn out/fun.

[cakM3]

Those carbon fiber interior trim pieces will look pretty good with those carbon fiber seat backs in your car Jacob [emoji41][emoji1417]


Sent from my iPhone 11 Pro Max using Tapatalk Pro

[BADCLOWN]

Mobil1 5w40 synthetic oil and filter change today, nothing exciting.

Now continuing to impatiently wait for all the interior CF to show up.

[cakM3]

Mobil1 5w40 synthetic oil and filter change today, nothing exciting.

Now continuing to impatiently wait for all the interior CF to show up.

Can't wait to see your cockpit when you have those carbon fiber trim pieces installed. Your ZHP will look absolutely stunning Jacob! :cool

[BADCLOWN]

Spent a portion of yesterday installing carbon fiber seat backs into the car. Purchased these off a chinese vendor on eBay and the quality/finish is excellent. If anyone is considering buying these, haggle the price with them. I ended up saving myself $250 dollars and still got their free shipping, it took roughly a month for them to come in due to clearing chinese customs.

Today I installed the interior trim from Matt @ oCarbon. This took some time as well but the quality is excellent. I am still waiting on the steering wheel trim as he stated that has been taking more time to get finished. I also installed a new OEM ZHP weighted shift knob since the other one was showing its age and the top emblem had bubbles in it.


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51178299315_7c2c80160c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kYsamX)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kYsamX) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51177207436_23a1cdb0cc_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kYmyMs)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kYmyMs) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51178299020_48a9773282_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kYsagS)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kYsagS) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51177885872_8b70361f2f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kYq3sC)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kYq3sC) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51177885917_13b4c7ca0b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kYq3tp)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kYq3tp) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51179365069_db1439e104_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kYxCb2)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kYxCb2) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51177886067_8c38b7ae44_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kYq3vZ)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kYq3vZ) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51178570326_e869ae9e0f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kYtxVy)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kYtxVy) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51177885482_0f9ecf9f13_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kYq3kU)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kYq3kU) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51178790898_b05e951cbe_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2kYuFuw)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kYuFuw) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[cakM3]

I was waiting to see updates to your project thread. Love the progress being made to your ZHP Jacob :thumbsup

Looks absolutely stunning! :roundel

[JETSET303]

The CF looks great. I may have to look into those seat backs as I already did the carbon trim.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

These are the seat backs that I purchased, they actually respond very quickly to messages on eBay and are super nice

https://www.ebay.com/itm/For-BMW-E46-M3-Carbon-Fiber-1pcs-Front-Seat-Back-Trim-Covers-Addon-Bodykits-/133491450037?_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286

[JETSET303]

These are the seat backs that I purchased, they actually respond very quickly to messages on eBay and are super nice

https://www.ebay.com/itm/For-BMW-E46-M3-Carbon-Fiber-1pcs-Front-Seat-Back-Trim-Covers-Addon-Bodykits-/133491450037?_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286

Danke Herr Clown


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[fredo]

Well done. Your alcantara interior looks great.

[BADCLOWN]

Well done. Your alcantara interior looks great.

Thanks Fredo, car was in great shape when I got it, just maintaining at this point

[johnrando]

Looks great!

Sent from my SM-G998U using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

I ordered (2) new OEM steering wheel badges for the ZHP steering wheel trim around a week ago through ECS. Whats amazing is that they haven't even shipped yet. They aren't expected to ship until today or tomorrow due to them outsourcing it. I might actually be fed up with using ECS for stuff after this, I don't feel like I should have to wait that long for an order, especially since ECS is in OH and considered "close" to me. Ive ordered stuff from them in the past and gotten it in two days.

As a result, I subsequently ordered a brand new OEM hood insulation and plastic fasteners from FCP Euro yesterday. Guarantee I get that stuff before the ECS order.

[John in VA]

They probably have to get the dealer items from a local BMW source, same as FCP or BluntTech. I've always been able to find better pricing than ECS / Pelican / Turner so have never used them. I get little stuff like this from the local dealer - no shipping charges from their US or European warehouse.

[BADCLOWN]

Heading to my indy tomorrow to have him pull my airbag and install my oCarbon CF trim. My new M badge from ECS finally came in for that trim so im going to try and get that installed later today. Additionally, I'll be installing brand new OEM hood insulation and clips from FCPEuro on Friday then doing a full detail in preparation for a local car show. My cousin is coming up from Lexington in his 1995 VW Corrado VR6 that he imported (RHD and 2.9L motor) to show as well.

[BADCLOWN]

When I went up to my indy's house yesterday to have the steering wheel trim installed, he had a spare ZHP sport steering wheel (alcantara) that was GIVEN to him by a customer of his. That customer swapped to a leather steering wheel and didn't want it. I bought it off my indy for $100 (steering wheel trim included, no airbag) which seemed about market value. Im going to send it to Coby for a rewrap in factory alcantara, tri-color stitching, yellow stripe, thicker foam added. Ill then send the steering wheel trim to oCarbon and have the same treatment done. That way I'll have a second wheel to try out the thicker padding and the yellow stripe will match the brakes and bring a little color in from the outside.




https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51224890846_1f079efe76_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2m3yXpd)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2m3yXpd) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51224182162_d2d4092233_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2m3vjJw)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2m3vjJw) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51224890871_f7821fe30d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2m3yXpD)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2m3yXpD) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51225102063_dbd020447b_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2m3A3bT)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2m3A3bT) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51225960525_bee7745dd9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2m3ErnX)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2m3ErnX) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[t.er]

he had a spare ZHP sport steering wheel (alcantara) that was GIVEN to him by a customer of his


daaaaaaaaaang lucky

to be fair my corner scales were free from my lab at school lol

[BADCLOWN]

daaaaaaaaaang lucky

to be fair my corner scales were free from my lab at school lol


Yep, easy money for him. He wanted me to pay him 60 for it, even though He got it for free, I like being fair about stuff so the sale deserved some more cash

[BADCLOWN]

Does anyone know what needs to be bought (LEDs) and the process needed to get the rear door open indicators programmed on the M cluster for our cars?

[Vas]

Reach out to kassel performance

Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

Reach out to kassel performance

Sent from my Pixel 4 XL using Tapatalk

I sent them a message on IG, if anyone else knows please let me know

[BADCLOWN]

No serious updates as of recently.

waiting to hear back from Charlie after he contacted 1-2 people regarding warm up/shift light programming for the M3 cluster swaps.

I have a friend who owns/operates a wrap company called DreamWraps in Newport, KY. Probably scheduling an appt with him to get my headlight lenses re-tinted and then have my LED "smoked" tails tinted. the ECS Tuning laminex 5% kit I had put on the brand new lenses is starting to show signs of wearing out and the tail lights don't really look all that smoked from the manufacturer. I want to get the tails done to match the rest of the car better.

[BADCLOWN]

Ordered new smoked Eagle Eye LED tail lights. My passenger side tail light would not illuminate with the headlight switch turned on but would illuminate when the brake pedal was applied. I took the tail light out and checked all the wiring/connections which appear to be okay. Going to see if a new tail light solves the issue. If so, then I'll have a set for sale with the aforementioned issue for very cheap if someone wants to buy them and try to figure the issue out. Im not skilled enough to figure the issue out and its more cost effective to buy new ones to fix the issue than bother my Indy with it/waste his time.

[cakM3]

No serious updates as of recently.

waiting to hear back from Charlie after he contacted 1-2 people regarding warm up/shift light programming for the M3 cluster swaps.

Just updating this post in your thread... I gave you the info and who to contact to make this complete for your ZHP :thumbsup

[330i ZHP]

Not the dreaded taillight ground issue?

[BADCLOWN]

I've had the recalls done ages ago

[BH93]

Is the carbon fiber trim pieces in your interior a wrap?
Have you also done the door card pieces for front and rear?

Which vendor or site did you source from? Looks very sharp.

[BADCLOWN]

It is not a wrap, I used a company called oCarbon. The trim is actually an 8pc wood trim sent for sedan that he does overlay work on. That is is standard 2x2 weave but the guy does all kinds of colors and patterns.

[BH93]

It is not a wrap, I used a company called oCarbon. The trim is actually an 8pc wood trim sent for sedan that he does overlay work on. That is is standard 2x2 weave but the guy does all kinds of colors and patterns.

Thank you. I didn't see E46 products on the page, but I sent them an email.

[BADCLOWN]

Matt is usually very quick to respond back, nice guy, and the final product is really good

[BADCLOWN]

replaced my Eagle Eye smoked LED tail lights with a brand new set. The passenger side red section wouldn't light up when the DRL/headlight positions were on BUT when the brakes were applied it would light up. New tail lights fixed the issue. Also installed LED reverse lights.

Sending my cluster out to a guy Charlie used to have my M3 cluster red line LEDs adjusted for the ZHP motor. After that, the warm up/shift light module will be installed on Nov 4th.

[johnrando]

[emoji1360]

Sent from my SM-G998U using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

Sending my cluster out to a guy Charlie used to have my M3 cluster red line LEDs adjusted for the ZHP motor. After that, the warm up/shift light module will be installed on Nov 4th.

Looking forward to seeing everything finished Jacob[emoji41]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[BADCLOWN]

Got the module installed by my indy yesterday, works perfectly. Also had my headlights and tail lights retinted by my friend that owns DreamWraps (done previous work for my 4runner). You can see the in progress wrap picture that shows just how "strawberry" red the smoked Eagle Eyes are.


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51657648274_83f048dfd9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mGNX7b)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mGNX7b) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51656977406_488181817f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mGKvFu)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mGKvFu) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51657842915_616846e6f4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mGPWY4)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mGPWY4) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51657199763_569255ed6f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2mGLDMe)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mGLDMe) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[cakM3]

Got the module installed by my indy yesterday, works perfectly.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51657648274_83f048dfd9_c.jpg

Nice to see everything worked out on your M3 gauge cluster Jacob :thumbsup Looks good! :cool

[BADCLOWN]

I appreciate it and thank you again for finding the guy to purchase the module from

[cakM3]

I appreciate it and thank you again for finding the guy to purchase the module from

You can now enjoy your M3 gauge cluster as it is now fully functional :thumbsup

[johnrando]

Looks great!!!

Sent from my SM-G998U using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

Took the ZHP on its first long drive of the year. Came down to Louisville today to golf with my brothers and then I have an interview tomorrow. Drove down with the 135s on and averaged 27.9MPG at 85mph. Absolutely gorgeous weather to enjoy the first drive of the year.

[BADCLOWN]

Osram DS2 6k bulbs swapped in today. Now all the front end lighting is the same brightness/temp/color whatever you want to call it

[johnrando]

Small thing but big, nice.

Sent from my SM-F926U1 using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

Small thing but big, nice.

Sent from my SM-F926U1 using Tapatalk

Yeah, I actually get a lot of enjoyment out of small stuff like that. Plus, it brought the front end lighting up to speed since the halos and fogs are both 6k.

[BADCLOWN]

Washed, threw a coat of meguiars paste wax on the car, swapped the CHs on in anticipation for a trip to Helen, GA for Alpine VolksFair this weekend (Thurs-Sat).

I'll try to post some pics from the weekend when we get back. This will be the first long trip I've taken with the car since I bought it in NC.

[cakM3]

Washed, threw a coat of meguiars paste wax on the car, swapped the CHs on in anticipation for a trip to Helen, GA for Alpine VolksFair this weekend (Thurs-Sat).

I'll try to post some pics from the weekend when we get back. This will be the first long trip I've taken with the car since I bought it in NC.

Should be an enjoyable trip Jacob! Enjoy it :thumbsup

[BADCLOWN]

Alright, some small overdue updates:

1. Went to Helen, GA with some guys for Alpine Volksfair. Its a VAG oriented show in a town modeled after towns in Germany. Very cool places, great vibes, great food. Been 12-15 years since I have been and it was great to go back. ZHP performed flawlessly minus my left front brake rotor overheating in the mountains. It is the BMWP 330i sized rotor. I plan to upgrade to CSL rotors, new pads, and new lines this year. I believe the small diameter of the rotor coupled with the larger 6 piston caliper is causing the issue. The only two photos I have of the car are when we arrived and when we left. I drove down with my cousin who owns the purple RHD Corrado he imported from Germany two years ago and another friend who owns the green (same paint code on the Chargers/Challengers) Corrado (it has a full TDI swap). To my surprise, there were a fair amount of BMWs (lots of E36 and E46 M3s, an 850i, an imola ZHP sedan, and some newer body M cars) there, most of them had a fair amount of aggressive "stance". Tried to give the ole "BMW" hey what's up wave, literally got ZERO returned, mostly younger drivers/owners so I never got the chance to engage in conversation with anyone while there which was fine. They didn't seem too interested either.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52180621924_a77fc6aa90_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2nv2jXf)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nv2jXf) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52180621969_952cb75474_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2nv2jY2)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nv2jY2) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

They were busting my balls all weekend about the ZHP not being an M3, and subsequently got me a matching plate as part of the joke at the end of the week:

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52180377693_1db23b622f_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2nv15mn)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nv15mn) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr



2. While on my honeymoon this past week, I ordered some OEM 50th Anniversary BMW Motorsport roundels for the hood and trunk. They can be ordered through the dealer but due to excellent customer service and wanting them asap: I went through iND. VERY quick to email responses back and shipping was also equally quick. We got back in town last night around midnight and the first thing I did when I woke up was install them.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52180373588_63d3bb3e47_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2nv148A)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nv148A) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52180367681_4ab0d15537_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2nv12nK)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nv12nK) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr





No other major updates to report back. Ive been talking back and forth occasionally with my indy about options to beef the car up. As Ive talked about before, I would love to supercharge the car, but I am leaning towards doing a full S54 swap now. My indy just had a baby not too long ago and is winding down other client's work and plans to only take on larger scale projects (like motor swaps). He said he would be more than happy and willing to perform the swap and was interested in the idea of buying a wrecked car off Copart or any other route. We both figured that would be the best option in terms of getting everything needed. Additionally, if the interior was desirable (red or black leather) and other wanted parts weren't damaged then the car could be parted out for the other items for money and then scrape the rest for cash.

If you all know of anyone selling a full/complete S54 swap, connect us as I would love to chat with them.

[cakM3]

that carbon fiber rear diffuser sure looks good..... I need to have one again.....

[YoitsTmac]

No other major updates to report back. Ive been talking back and forth occasionally with my indy about options to beef the car up. As Ive talked about before, I would love to supercharge the car, but I am leaning towards doing a full S54 swap now. My indy just had a baby not too long ago and is winding down other client's work and plans to only take on larger scale projects (like motor swaps). He said he would be more than happy and willing to perform the swap and was interested in the idea of buying a wrecked car off Copart or any other route. We both figured that would be the best option in terms of getting everything needed. Additionally, if the interior was desirable (red or black leather) and other wanted parts weren't damaged then the car could be parted out for the other items for money and then scrape the rest for cash.

If you all know of anyone selling a full/complete S54 swap, connect us as I would love to chat with them.

I have a hookup I use for all E46 M3 parts. PM me for his info. I'll trade you his info for a link to the heritage roundels because I could only find their F80 fitment ones for sale. :)

Kind of a toss up on if you need an entire car for an S54 swap. I'm not entirely sure a non-M trans will work, but otherwise all you need is the motor, a few cooling system bits, a small wiring adjustment and DME if I'm not mistaken...

[Will]

I'm really liking the retro Motorsport Roundels. I'll have to look into it.

The car looks great, especially how deep that paint looks in the hood roundel shot.

Perhaps PM George Hill (here or on nam3forums) for the s54 swap.

[BADCLOWN]

Probably going to be swapping my Xtrons headunit out for a new one. If anyone is interested in purchasing its in perfect shape and I’ll sell it for relatively cheap

[Vas]

What's the new model that is out now?

Sent from my Pixel 6 Pro using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

I’m probably going to get the same style unit (9 inch face, touch, no dials) like the xtrons I currently have but eonon has a very similar unit with wireless Apple CarPlay. My current unit is wired only, this would eliminate the need for a cell phone mount. After doing research, I couldn’t find a cell phone mount that was aesthetically pleasing and not “in the way”

[BMWCurves]

I’m probably going to get the same style unit (9 inch face, touch, no dials) like the xtrons I currently have but eonon has a very similar unit with wireless Apple CarPlay. My current unit is wired only, this would eliminate the need for a cell phone mount. After doing research, I couldn’t find a cell phone mount that was aesthetically pleasing and not “in the way”

Interested to hear how you like the Eonon unit - my Xtrons is a couple of years old and is getting very sluggish despite a factory reset.

[BADCLOWN]

I had an eonon unit prior to this xtrons and liked it

[BADCLOWN]

Dusted the car off and rolled it over to the weekly C&C saturday meet up and then ran some quick errands before spending most of the day on the T4R

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52397980849_718dd5acf1_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2nQembV)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nQembV) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[BADCLOWN]

Small update:

Ordered the below listed stuff to get my front brakes situation resolved. I don’t think there was enough rotor real estate to handle the 6 piston calipers so I’m upgrading them.

- Zimmerman cross drilled CSL rotors 345x28
- new 135i RedBox pads
- new wheel speed sensor
- Reboot engineering caliper carrier brackets
- racegerman extended brake lines and Turner brake lines (which ever ones work for the application because I don’t really know)

[BADCLOWN]

Everything got installed, only hiccup was wiring the halos to the LCM so they turn on in position 2 AND 3. they were previously wired to only be on when the headlights were on. through trial and error by my mechanic, it was found that with my LED tails and the halos running through the LCM wiring in some form or fashion (the LED tails apparently draw some sort of power all the time, even when the car is off) was resulting in weird issues where the amber indicator/side markers in front would act weird and not function properly. so, they are wired back the way they were before to only be on in the headlights on position. if I ran some standard tail lights then they could be wired for position 2.

sorry, not the most scientific explanation but its the best I can do haha. slightly disappointed but it is what it is.

heading to Helen, GA for Alpine VolksFair May 16th-21st next week with some friends. Theres usually a decent BMW turn out but its primarily a VAG show (Audi/VW/Porsche)

[sillieidiot]

Yeah it's weird that those tail lights are drawing power when the car is off.

But if you don't mind a little wiring and coding, you can still get them to turn on position 2 if you just wire them up with the euro option of city lights. Although, they turn off in position 3 so you'd have to still tap it to the lows too.

[BADCLOWN]

Yeah: I have no idea how to do any of that.

I’m a pretty simple guy when it comes to working on cars: oil changes and checking fluids haha.

[BADCLOWN]

well, I got the car cleaned up for the first time in 6-7 months prior to taking off on our trip. It's the first time I've had any car ceramic coated and while its not the heavy duty stuff that lasts 4-5-6 years, it is very impressive. I have to use a ceramic spray for "maintenance" on it after washing it and it was great for cleaning the car during the trip.

We drove down to Helen, GA for Alpine Volksfair (VW/Audi/Porsche) show Wednesday thru Sunday renting a cabin out. I would say roughly 45-55 BMWs showed up, mostly F and G body cars. Due to being "outcasts", there was an unofficial BMW meet about 35 minutes outside of town in the mountains that was a great time. All in all, the ZHP did REALLY well (same as last year), averaging 30mpg for the entire trip carrying luggage, a full size 18x8F OE front spare, and two humans.

Made the trek down with my cousin who drives a Bramble Red (OE color name from VW, even though its a great shade of purple) 1995 VW Corrado VR6 RHD he imported and a mutual friend who drove his freshly repainted Audi S6 wagon that he manual swapped. This picture was at one of the many mountainous state parks/tourist spots. My car did not enjoy the VERY steep and aggressive 1500ft+ inclined drive to get to the top so that's why the hood is popped to let her cool down a little.

I also discovered that a rattle I have been having for 3-4 years (or more) that I THOUGHT was a blown bavsound speaker was in fact two broken door panel clips. The parts didn't come in before the trip but I just replaced them and the rattle is gone.



https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52920080574_01f01ae538_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2oCnffj)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2oCnffj) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52920308910_9a976d1f4a_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2oCoq89)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2oCoq89) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52920080629_1d33c389d4_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2oCnfgg)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2oCnfgg) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[fredo]

^ That sounds like a GREAT trip. Thank you for sharing!

[RUS_ZHP]

^ That sounds like a GREAT trip. Thank you for sharing!+1! Sounds like an amazing drive. I am close to those roads and shoud check them out at some point.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

+1! Sounds like an amazing drive. I am close to those roads and shoud check them out at some point.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk


It was enjoyable once I could offload the weight. When it’s just me and my wife in the car the rear doesn’t rub nearly as much. And dips or acceleration in the twisties/dips/turns/etc. resulted in heavy rubbing.

It’s gorgeous up there though. One of the few reasons we go back every year now

[cakM3]

It was enjoyable once I could offload the weight. When it’s just me and my wife in the car the rear doesn’t rub nearly as much. And dips or acceleration in the twisties/dips/turns/etc. resulted in heavy rubbing.

Jacob, have you rolled your rear fenders? If not doing so so should reduce the rubbing.

[BADCLOWN]

Jacob, have you rolled your rear fenders? If not doing so so should reduce the rubbing.

I’ve never personally rolled fenders on prior vehicles. Mine are not done currently, I’d love to get them done whenever the time (and money) comes along to have my custom set of BBS RS2s built.

Without weight in the car, it doesn’t rub hardly ever so it’s never been a concern. My MAIN concern has always been damaging the fenders during a roll. I’m not knowledgable nor mechanically inclined enough to trust myself to ever do it. Would rather pay someone to have them done correctly without having to worry.

[johnrando]

Great trip! Rolling can be a DIY as you know, but cheap to pay an experienced person and not have to sweat it. :)

Sent from my SM-F936U1 using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

absolutely ZERO updates on this thing recently other than it rolled 113k miles. Ive been back and forth on what to do next 537 times, but I think I have hammered it down to what makes sense the most and that's supercharging the car. I will be going with the VF kit but when that purchase will happen, who knows. I have a few thousand saved currently so maybe towards the end of the year. I would probably do some parts replacements/refreshes as well associated with the drive line.

Been working on getting ready for our first kid to show up (soft due date of July 4th, but I think he's going to come a few weeks (maybe 2) early as he's huge)


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53761713077_f9b195a0e8_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pUJQgx)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2pUJQgx) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53761713037_b4269f4fe2_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pUJQfR)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2pUJQfR) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53761722257_0a3d587f9c_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pUJSZP)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2pUJSZP) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53762955609_4a64b4d387_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pURcCv)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2pURcCv) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr


Here's the wife and I middle of May in the mountains just outside Helen, GA when we were attending Alpine Volksfair (trip we have made the last 3 years now).


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53763087085_fcdac8891e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2pURSHk)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2pURSHk) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr

[fredo]

Car looks great. And congrats on the baby!

[cakM3]

Congrats on your baby Jacob! :thumbsup

[Vas]

Congrats [emoji122]

[BADCLOWN]

Thank you guys very much, going to be a life adjustment for sure.

[danewilson77]

Congrats homey. Love those pictures on the wall.

[BADCLOWN]

Thanks, the wife found them on Etsy. She originally wanted to do a “woodland animals” theme but then randomly changed her mind and very much likes the stuff she found better. I’m not complaining either lol

[BADCLOWN]

General inquiry with the mafia members here:

I am probably going to pull the trigger on a supercharger this fall/winter and slate it for a spring install time. I keep bouncing back and forth about it, if I dont pull the trigger I dont know that I ever will. I plan on purchasing new Dinan coilpacks to be installed at the same time. Are there any other "while you're in there" parts that may be beneficial to replace or address while doing this install?

[CoastalJay]

General inquiry with the mafia members here:

I am probably going to pull the trigger on a supercharger this fall/winter and slate it for a spring install time. I keep bouncing back and forth about it, if I dont pull the trigger I dont know that I ever will. I plan on purchasing new Dinan coilpacks to be installed at the same time. Are there any other "while you're in there" parts that may be beneficial to replace or address while doing this install?

Meth injection would be beneficial to keep temps down, prevent unwanted detonation and provide some extra safety for your motor. It may be overkill if you?re not planning on throwing tons of boost at it, but it doesn?t hurt regardless.

Which blower are you going for?

Congrats on the kid!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

The only one commercially available is the VF kit. I had a VF SC VR6 GTI when I was younger and loved their kit.

Meth isn’t in the plans as I only plan on running the 6-7psi the VF tune provides, it gets the HP up to 340 which is around 100hp more than stock.

Thank you as well regarding the spawn, it’s been fun so far.

[jdauria]

The only one commercially available is the VF kit. I had a VF SC VR6 GTI when I was younger and loved their kit.

Meth isn’t in the plans as I only plan on running the 6-7psi the VF tune provides, it gets the HP up to 340 which is around 100hp more than stock.

Thank you as well regarding the spawn, it’s been fun so far.

ESS site still showcases Gen 1 for M54, but sometimes they never take that stuff down. Infinitas won't ship to States?

[BADCLOWN]

I thought ESS was no longer in production via some other posts I have read around this site.

Never heard of Infinitas either, I’ll have to do the googley thing.

EDIT: after doing the googles, I realized that the infinitas kit is the same one I’ve seen on eBay, just never looked at it. I’d rather buy local (US) from a known (to me) company

[jdauria]

I thought ESS was no longer in production via some other posts I have read around this site.

Never heard of Infinitas either, I’ll have to do the googley thing.

EDIT: after doing the googles, I realized that the infinitas kit is the same one I’ve seen on eBay, just never looked at it. I’d rather buy local (US) from a known (to me) company

Could always give ESS a call and see if they still have kits. Infinitas was recently used by Sreten on M539 Restorations - he boosted his E39 530i Wagon

[BADCLOWN]

Minor update: installed euro blue tint side mirror glass to replace the factory originals that started to degrade years ago (long overdue for replacement)

[John in VA]

Minor update: installed euro blue tint side mirror glass to replace the factory originals that started to degrade years ago (long overdue for replacement)
Where did you source your mirror glass?

[BADCLOWN]

Where did you source your mirror glass?

I didn’t look around too much, ECS is where I got mine. They are close to where I live so shipping is usually fast.

[BADCLOWN]

finally took the car off the ctek charger/out from under the cover of winter storage and washed it yesterday in order to go to C&C this morning, my son "helped" me out haha.

leaving C&C today I had a guy approach me asking if I had thought about selling the car. I said that I have given it mild thought in the past. His response was "I'm interested name your price". He proceeded to text me his number and said he would reach out after the holiday weekend. While the idea of selling it (at the price I would personally want and feel that it is very much worth) is enticing, generally speaking I would have a hard time selling to someone who doesn't appreciate this car for what it is/what's been done to it. This guy gives me those vibes. It felt really good to drive the car again today, still feel like I have unfinished business with the car as it relates to mods I would like to accomplish.

At the same time, I have been kind of jonesing for a wagon in my life. Especially since my son was born. Id have to sell my 4runner and ZHP to get what I want which is an Audi RS6 wagon (thanks BMW for not giving us the new M3 wagon). My brother works for Audi so I know he could find me a nice CPO. The problem is I think I would miss my 4runner too much even though the wagon can accomplish (most) of what my 4runner does and ALL of what my ZHP generally provides me. Specifically Id miss the nuances of what the ZHP provides for sure.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54542375748_3beb2b80d2_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2r6HW5L)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2r6HW5L) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54542478985_d22233b8f8_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2r6JsLH) (https://flic.kr/p/2r6JsLH) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54541260147_09f66cd62b_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2r6Cdsg) (https://flic.kr/p/2r6Cdsg) by Jacob G. (https://www.flickr.com/photos/26648701@N07/), on Flickr