The Story of SKETCHI - 05 ZHP Sedan

[ELCID86]

Gut verk.

[squashman702]

Hear anything from ECS about the exhaust yet? I haven't.

[Vas]

Hear anything from ECS about the exhaust yet? I haven't.
Still says shipment of 5/21. Product inbound

[johnrando]

Yup, nice werk.

[Vas]

Fingers crossed that ecstuning sends me a bmw performance exhaust.

[Vas]

One more mod complete now.

Face plate with the rear foglight button. Both inner taillights are coded to turn on with it.

Before:

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/14/642b010ba129b751aa79af0f1b78bcfc.jpg

After:

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/14/6f12edcec7adad1b45ee64484994cf59.jpg

[ELCID86]

It'll come in handy in the VA hills I'm sure.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[Vas]

Here is a shot of them off and turned on.

I like them.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/14/9f0ed412b464a2ab54fa9c91b88ac430.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/14/c97621599ef1ac70b75063f976ff012e.jpg

[fredo]

Well done. I like the results.

[Vas]

Thanks ☺

[Pip]

Looks great!

[danewilson77]

+1

[Vas]

Fingers crossed that ECStuning will ship the BMW performance Exhaust this Thursday 5/21.

[Vas]

No luck on the exhaust yet. ECS tuning pushed the ship date to early June.

[Vas]

My vote. PSS unless you want adjustability.

This is what I decided to go with.

Bought the OE parts needed for the install besides the rear shocks mounts. Those will be bought this friday with the reinforcement plates.

Now trying to find the cheapest place to order the Bilstein PSS system from. Any suggestions?

[jakksfor20]

You won't be disappointed. My PSS is being swapped to the wife's ZHP. It is softer than Bilstein Sport/H&R combo, even lowered where it's at, but still trackable.


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[Vas]

You won't be disappointed. My PSS is being swapped to the wife's ZHP. It is softer than Bilstein Sport/H&R combo, even lowered where it's at, but still trackable.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

What are you using for rear shock mounts? The Bilstein/H&R combo was my other choice but I prefer coilovers.

[jakksfor20]

I think I put in HD ones along with the reinforcement plates.


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[Vas]

Glad to know. Need to do some research

[Whammy]

Vas, I did this on my ZHP when I re-did my suspension:

http://www.turnermotorsport.com/p-11799-3-series-strutshock-mount-kit-e46-not-m3-not-xi.aspx

Edit: This kit made it a lot easier then getting the individual parts (which is what I did on my 325i when it got the PSS9s).

[Vas]

Vas, I did this on my ZHP when I re-did my suspension:

http://www.turnermotorsport.com/p-11799-3-series-strutshock-mount-kit-e46-not-m3-not-xi.aspx

Edit: This kit made it a lot easier then getting the individual parts (which is what I did on my 325i when it got the PSS9s).

Awesome. Thanks man :)

[Vas]

So I reached out to ecstuning about my order for the bmw performance exhaust. They wrote back promptly stating orders like yours takes priority over new orders placed after yours. Best to keep your order open because it looks like you are first in line for this exhaust when they are received.

Fingers crossed.

[Vas]

This stuff arrived today from bmw. Getting exciting.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/29/473a4c850e5372333ccadd0d09314c95.jpg

[danewilson77]

This stuff arrived today from bmw. Getting exciting.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/29/473a4c850e5372333ccadd0d09314c95.jpg
Love days like that. Haven't had one in a while.

[Vas]

Yeah can't wait till I order the coilovers for it.

[Vas]

Hoping to close the deal on some Turner Motorsports Rear Camber arms this friday.

[Whammy]

Hoping to close the deal on some Turner Motorsports Rear Camber arms this friday.

Are you sure you need them?

[Vas]

Are you sure you need them?
I'm pretty sure. Currently I can't even get the negative 2 degrees of camber with the stock arms. They are set at -1.5. And when I lower it I got feeling they will be needed.

[Vas]

Passenger side airbag recall is set for June 17th.

[Whammy]

I'm pretty sure. Currently I can't even get the negative 2 degrees of camber with the stock arms. They are set at -1.5. And when I lower it I got feeling they will be needed.

K.


Passenger side airbag recall is set for June 17th.

Cool. Mine is set for the 12th.

[Vas]

K.



Cool. Mine is set for the 12th.
Took about an hour to do it on my other zhp. But I took a loaner for the day and drove around in a 428i gran coupe.

[ELCID86]

Took about an hour to do it on my other zhp. But I took a loaner for the day and drove around in a 428i gran coupe.

And you like it?


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[Vas]

I liked the hatchback part of the car. Soo much space.

But overall I was impressed with the power train.

[Vas]

Sketchi is at the dealership for the airbag recall. Loaner is a 2015 428i vert.

[NoVAphotog]

2015 428i vert.

Trade in time? Wife would like a vert?

[Vas]

Trade in time? Wife would like a vert?
She always wanted a vert. Got a feeling she will like this loaner besides it being an automatic

[fredo]

I have a 335i vert on my "wish" list.

[Vas]

Dealer called and said the recall is done. No other issues with the car.

I will pick it up tomorrow.

[Vas]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/17/d24893b627d0e57c94844f9f722a6a9e.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/17/cbb659f99aaafcd84cd9e3dd59ff9a1e.jpg

[Vas]

Top down

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/17/f6480387dc2804b249003b4ff600dfb5.jpg

And Vika taking it for a spin

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/17/171b3357b7c256d9d31cac471924d173.jpg

[BMWCurves]

That second photo looks straight out of a BMW ad.

[san]

That second photo looks straight out of a BMW ad.

+1


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[Vas]

Picked up the car this morning from the dealer and saw this in the parking lot.

Alpine white, tan interior and step.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/18/829846739f0b75f9973bfabcb305921f.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/18/7de09db6078c2f98b5e20a39664a0601.jpg

[johnrando]

Seriously, great shot. Look how happy she is. A vert is DEF in your future. :)

[Vas]

Seriously, great shot. Look how happy she is. A vert is DEF in your future. :)

When we first started looking for a car for her, she wanted a vert or a coupe. Might have to start looking again for one.

[Vas]

Sketchi rolled over to 130k today.

[ELCID86]

She's a youngster.


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[johnrando]

Yup

sent from mobile device

[Whammy]

^:werd:

[Vas]

Nothing new yet to report. Kinda got side tracked with the other car.

Still got that bmw performance exhaust on order from ecstuning

[Whammy]

You mean it's not in your possession?

[Vas]

Nope. They keep pushing back the date for it. Last time I spoke to them they said it was due to transit time from Germany and it being on a boat.

Current ship date is 7/10

[Vas]

Expected ship date is today for the BMW Performance Exhaust according to ECS tuning.

[Vas]

Ship date is now this friday 7/17. Been over 2 months since I placed the order.

[NoVAphotog]

Ship date is now this friday 7/17. Been over 2 months since I placed the order.

lol

What do you think is going on?

[Vas]

lol

What do you think is going on?

Last I heard was that they were on the container coming from Germany. We shall see what happens this friday.

[Vas]

Got an email from ECS tuning again stating that the exhaust is being transferred to their warehouse for shipment tomorrow.

[Vas]

No more exhaust order :(

[Newjack]

Got an email from ECS tuning again stating that the exhaust is being transferred to their warehouse for shipment tomorrow.
Classic ECS.

Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk

[Vas]

Classic ECS.

Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk

Yeah 2 months later lol. Called me to say the 60 units they had bought are no longer being sold to them.

[Johnmadd]

That's BS!

[Vas]

That's BS!
Yeah kinda pisssed off at them. Oh well. Guess it's not meant to be.

[ELCID86]

What the heck. How can that be with all the updates, etc.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Johnmadd]

What the heck. How can that be with all the updates, etc.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.
Zackly

[Vas]

I was actually really looking forward to it as well.

[az3579]

Classic ECS.

Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk


Yeah 2 months later lol. Called me to say the 60 units they had bought are no longer being sold to them.


Yeah kinda pisssed off at them. Oh well. Guess it's not meant to be.
There is no reason to be getting pissed at ECS. This is BMW's fault, not ECS'.

sent from my Droid Turbo

[Vas]

It would have been fine if they didn't drag it out for 3 months.

[az3579]

It would have been fine if they didn't drag it out for 3 months.
Once again, not their fault. BMW pulled the plug at the last second. No way to know BMW was going to do that.

sent from my Droid Turbo

[Vas]

I think they placed an order for the amount that bmw NA was able to get and hoped they would deliver.

Don't promise and sell something that you can't get. They should have at least informed me that there is a possibility that I might not get one. Or cancelled my order the first time when it was delayed. Or even said it was on backorder.

All they told me was the product was inbound meaning that they had one or multiple units.

[danewilson77]

:facepalm

:caseyshrug

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[Vas]

I got something up my sleeve though for it.

[Hornung418]

Time for a 3" Bimmerworld spec e46 exhaust...

[Vas]

Ha wishful thinking. I just want something a bit more pronounced.

[QC_ZHP]

Whats the plan?

[Vas]

Rogue Engineering Rear Shock Mounts purchased.

[BMWCurves]

Rogue Engineering Rear Shock Mounts purchased.

Nice! I got mine (haven't installed yet) and thought they were a bit steep in price. On the other hand if I never have to worry about the body mushrooming, then I think it's worth every penny. Plus easier to remove shocks afterwards.

[Vas]

Nice! I got mine (haven't installed yet) and thought they were a bit steep in price. On the other hand if I never have to worry about the body mushrooming, then I think it's worth every penny. Plus easier to remove shocks afterwards.

Yeah they are kinda on the high price. But I am hoping they last and don't have to get replaced again.

[Vas]

Rear shocks mounts arrived from Rogue Engineering. They look pretty beefy

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/24/b12ed49e626d6dcfd9743348b647e86b.jpg

[ELCID86]

Easy install. I'm sure you won't have any problems.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Maybe after vacation I will install them. Build quality is nice though.

[Vas]

Installed a new full set of BMW OE wheel center caps. These are the new updated design which are a dome shape instead of the flat caps.

Old caps

20960

New caps

20961

[BMWCurves]

I like the new ones. Seem more updated.

[ELCID86]

The new ones with chrome band definitely look better.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Thanks guys.

[Vas]

Finally got my hands on something I wanted for the car. Should be here Wednesday.

[BMWCurves]

BMW Performance exhaust?

[Whammy]

Finally got my hands on something I wanted for the car. Should be here Wednesday.

Waaat's dis fool?

[Vas]

Lol

[Vas]

Waaat's dis fool?
Well I finally was able to get a bmw performance exhaust. Even if it is not louder, at least it looks nice. And I can check off another item from the bmw performance catalog.


Soo far I have the bmw performance short shifter and now the exhaust. Next up will be the bmw performance brake rotors.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/05/60c6c1414c8ee49e33dbbb19e9c988f1.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/05/5e690c34be5463f9cf7cf8cf0db8b691.jpg

[Johnmadd]

Well I finally was able to get a bmw performance exhaust. Even if it is not louder, at least it looks nice. And I can check off another item from the bmw performance catalog.


Soo far I have the bmw performance short shifter and now the exhaust. Next up will be the bmw performance brake rotors.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/05/60c6c1414c8ee49e33dbbb19e9c988f1.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/05/5e690c34be5463f9cf7cf8cf0db8b691.jpg

I like your table :)

[Vas]

Installing the exhaust now.

[Whammy]

lucky bastard.

[Vas]

Well finished up the install. Cutting the pipes was kinda a pain in the butt. I tried to use a reciprocating saw and there wasn't enough space to fully cut through the pipe especially with the rear end being up on jackstands. Also the rear axle is pretty close to the exhaust. Ended up getting it done though.

It got dark so I wasn't able to get pics. As far as sound, it's more deep and pronounced. Is it worth the retail price? I don't think so but at the price I got it for it's worth the sound and the look.

[Vas]

Picture of the factory zhp exhaust.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/07/534eb86306cdb35a4ee0e1951542b21f.jpg

[BADCLOWN]

Do those diff bushings result in any excess vibration? I had poly motor mounts on my old ZHP that were installed by the PO and it wasn't the most pleasurable. I will be doing bushings all over the car (suspension when the coils go on) and everywhere else and would prefer poly if it doesn't ruin the comfortability of the driving

[slater]

Do those diff bushings result in any excess vibration? I had poly motor mounts on my old ZHP that were installed by the PO and it wasn't the most pleasurable. I will be doing bushings all over the car (suspension when the coils go on) and everywhere else and would prefer poly if it doesn't ruin the comfortability of the driving

poly, like rubber bushings and spherical bearings, has its' place. for a motor mount i would do a harder durometer rubber, like the OE M3 mounts. poly would exhibit too much vibration. same goes for trans mounts, although it's typically not as pronounced.

for suspension you want spherical in the multi-axis joints, poly or harder durometer rubber in the single-axis joints.

peter

[BADCLOWN]

yeah, the OE M3 mounts were going to be a for sure for the motor/trans. i read one review just now about these mounts in another AKG thread...........doesnt seem to be ideal if you enjoy the quiet comfortability of your ZHP without feeling and hearing more of the drivetrain

[Vas]

Maybe I should adjust it? What do you guys think ?

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/07/0e81b84a0d9d798473bd1458e1a0ea68.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/07/c6cfde20c1355649903c4732d7b33071.jpg

[Vas]

Do those diff bushings result in any excess vibration? I had poly motor mounts on my old ZHP that were installed by the PO and it wasn't the most pleasurable. I will be doing bushings all over the car (suspension when the coils go on) and everywhere else and would prefer poly if it doesn't ruin the comfortability of the driving
Honestly I am not sure. I had the Poly Trans mounts and disliked them. So i went with the m3 engine and Trans mounts instead.

Based on what people say, these diff mounts should be similar or close enough to the stock rubber. Guess i will install them and find out.

[Johnmadd]

Maybe try a little up on the left and a little down on the right, maybe just a little twist with the tension released. :dunno looks nice.

[Vas]

Maybe try a little up on the left and a little down on the right, maybe just a little twist with the tension released. :dunno looks nice.
Think I will give it a try.

[BADCLOWN]

yup, definitely needs to be centered (moving it more towards the driver side)

[Vas]

yup, definitely needs to be centered (moving it more towards the driver side)
Man that's kinda difficult.

[Johnmadd]

In my suggestion, my idea was to get it center by trying to kind of twist it. Sometimes that's the issue.

[Vas]

I'll give it a try. Maybe loosen the two clamps and try to twist it when it's not on the hangers. I tried to align it last night. But it was in the dark.

[Vas]

Well this is the best I could get it
But I think I will order two exhaust hangers. This muffer is lighter then the factory one and those hangers are 10 year old rubber

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/08/97bf1766ba2fb66bb8f65b97edf194bf.jpg

[Johnmadd]

That good. :thumbsup

[Vas]

That good. :thumbsup
Thanks man.

[Vas]

I changed my mind on the Poly diff bushings and decided to go with the factory oe rubber ones.

[BMWCurves]

I changed my mind on the Poly diff bushings and decided to go with the factory oe rubber ones.

I doubt you'll be in any way disappointed with your decision. As I said elsewhere, I plan to replace most bushings with M3 rubber (where possible) and even if they're only as good as stock, they'll perform well, be comfortable, and minimize NVH.

[Vas]

I doubt you'll be in any way disappointed with your decision. As I said elsewhere, I plan to replace most bushings with M3 rubber (where possible) and even if they're only as good as stock, they'll perform well, be comfortable, and minimize NVH.

Yeah. I mean I am replacing a broken part already so it can only be better then what it is now. And as much as I like the idea of Poly and its benefits, I do not want any additional noise or vibrations.

Plus the factory rubber bushings or even the M3 stuff will fit correctly and you will know how long it will last.

[Vas]

After the replacement of diff bushings, this is next on the list.

Part number for Z4M OE BMW trailing arm bushings - 33326770817 (Requires 2)
Part number for set of Z4M OE BMW FCAB - 31107838575 (Requires 1)
Part number for Turner Motorsports Rear Trailing Arm Limiter Kit - TSU9990001 (Requires 1)

[Whammy]

Vas, if you have not ordered already, I would suggest the vorshlag limiters. I've run them on my e46 I've had and they are not as expensive as Turner.

http://www.vorshlag.com/product_info.php?cPath=0_1_8_29&products_id=59

[Vas]

Well thanks.

[BMWCurves]

Vas, if you have not ordered already, I would suggest the vorshlag limiters. I've run them on my e46 I've had and they are not as expensive as Turner.

http://www.vorshlag.com/product_info.php?cPath=0_1_8_29&products_id=59

Those are the ones I plan on getting once I get around to ordering M3 RTABs

[Vas]

Rubber diff bushings arrived.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/12/70d52ead3784e985bf3224e1b5279811.jpg

[Vas]

Purchased Z4M OE BMW trailing arm bushings for the car today.

[Vas]

Well this is a first. Wife says that a light came on the cluster to check gas cap.

She said it came on after she got a full tank of gas. Maybe the seal on the cap is bad and not holding pressure ?

[BCS_ZHP]

Vas, look at the rubber seal on the cap. If you see any small cracks, even though the rubber is still pliable, replace it. And I believe there's a spare used one in my garage that you're welcome to.

[Vas]

I will take a look at it today. Probably still the original gas cap

[ELCID86]

I got this a few weeks back. New cap didn't help. I'm stumped.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

I bought a new gas cap just because it was cheap.

If that does not fix it, then I will look at the purge valve and the hoses that connect to it. It's right under the Intake manifold and can be reached with the removal of the airbox.

And while I am in there I will tackle the ccv system. Replace it with the cold weather version before this winter.

[Vas]

Shawn, take a look here

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?13365-I-already-checked-the-freakin-gas-cap

[ELCID86]

Thanks


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Washed the car this evening after not touching it for a while.

Parts should be arriving this week. Just need time to install everything.

[Vas]

First up are OE bmw trailing arm bushings from a Z4M

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/24/bc67014ed4ce006441401d3a3c46c914.jpg

[ELCID86]

^i want a blow by blow on the DIY.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

^i want a blow by blow on the DIY.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.
Need to rent the tool first though for the rtab.

But I did rent the two tools for the diff bushings. Should be here in a couple of days so maybe this weekend I will tackle this job.

[ELCID86]

Rent from where?


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

From the mafia of course.

Thread here.

http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?t=13607

[Whammy]

First up are OE bmw trailing arm bushings from a Z4M

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/24/bc67014ed4ce006441401d3a3c46c914.jpg

A couple of tips if I may good sir. When using the tool, take your time in pushing the bushing out. Sometimes the bushing is stubborn and you do not want to wreck the tool. Also, some have had good luck freezing the new bushings prior to install. I remember not doing that however compressing the bushings and getting the bushing was a fun exercise. Your choice on what to do.

Lastly, take pictures/pay good attention to how the existing bushing sits. If you do not line up the bushing correctly, a rear alignment (which you will need) will be difficult and the shop will have to correct it. I know because this happened to me.

It's not a hard DIY but time consuming IMO.


^i want a blow by blow on the DIY.
Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

Shawn, ask and you shall receive! ;)

http://www.bmw330ci.net/maintenance/rtab.php
http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=678004

[Vas]

A couple of tips if I may good sir. When using the tool, take your time in pushing the bushing out. Sometimes the bushing is stubborn and you do not want to wreck the tool. Also, some have had good luck freezing the new bushings prior to install. I remember not doing that however compressing the bushings and getting the bushing was a fun exercise. Your choice on what to do.

Lastly, take pictures/pay good attention to how the existing bushing sits. If you do not line up the bushing correctly, a rear alignment (which you will need) will be difficult and the shop will have to correct it. I know because this happened to me.

It's not a hard DIY but time consuming IMO.



Shawn, ask and you shall receive! ;)

http://www.bmw330ci.net/maintenance/rtab.php
http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=678004
Thanks for the tips. Should be interesting to tackle the replacement.

[Vas]

Exciting news. Going to install a new OE gas cap this evening. Whoop Whoop

[ELCID86]

Exciting news. Going to install a new OE gas cap this evening. Whoop Whoop

DIY? :rofl


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Old cap and new cap. Totally different design. Both are OE BMW parts. What gives ?

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/26/e67f3776203e4dea8008d3be835f0fde.jpg

[az3579]

Old cap and new cap. Totally different design. Both are OE BMW parts. What gives ?

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/26/e67f3776203e4dea8008d3be835f0fde.jpg

Part designs get better as time goes on. :)

[ELCID86]

Newer is better :dunno

Gas cap light?

Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

New cap doesn't say bmw on it. Just made in Austria and a message for idiots to make sure it clicks.

Will confirm about light tomorrow.

[BADCLOWN]

i replaced my gas cap on my grey ZHP due to the attachment to keep it from falling breaking off and because why not?

i got the exact same cap. felt different/clicked different but worked all the same.

[Vas]

Well good to know.

Wife says no more check gas cap light. Going to see if it comes on next time the tank is filled full

[Vas]

Cleaned the interior today. Then took of the gas pedal to see why it clicks when you barely touch it. Looks like the rod with the ball that moves the pedal is worn out slightly so everyone you barely touch the pedal,it clicks.

Need to source a new pedal Assembly

[Vas]

Old picture of the car with the center plate and amber lights.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/05/45a824117ca96187df1c190d5d82f4fa.jpg

[Whammy]

:drool




:eeps

[Vas]

Being in the passenger seat of a zhp is an interesting experience.

Windows down the bmw performance exhaust does sound nice.

[Vas]

Tools have arrived for the diff bushing replacement. Time to get to work.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/10/2888adc15934541226146989b496931d.jpg

[Vas]

Pics of the two tools needed to get the job done.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/10/d4818a7873133edf4ee60f915b72a294.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/10/30062209f8e12cad14b64cc54e667a0f.jpg

[NoVAphotog]

Godspeed.

[Vas]

Godspeed.

I think I got this. Just need to find the torx for the bolts holding the axles to the diff. Don't recall the size or if I even have one.

[Johnmadd]

Did you rent or buy the tools?

[Vas]

Did you rent or buy the tools?
Rented them. It was cheap.

[ELCID86]

Get her done.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Just need a free weekend.

[Whammy]

Pics of the two tools needed to get the job done.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/10/d4818a7873133edf4ee60f915b72a294.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/10/30062209f8e12cad14b64cc54e667a0f.jpg

I remember those tools! Good luck!

[Vas]

I remember those tools! Good luck!
Did you do them yourself? It seems pretty straight forward

[Whammy]

A buddy of mine who is a mechanic on the side and I tackled it. It is just make the bushing goes in evenly.

[Vas]

Going to tackle this job first thing tomorrow. :)

[ELCID86]

Good luck. We are all routing for you!


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Found the e12 torx socket in my tool box. Yay.

[Johnmadd]

Found the e12 torx socket in my tool box. Yay.

Lol, I know that feeling.

[Vas]

Rear diff is out. Removing old bushings now. They are destroyed.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/12/444046ddc95ff8d004d15cadadd583c8.jpg

[ELCID86]

Go get em!


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[BMWCurves]

Nice work, good luck swapping out the bushings! Jealous you have a shop to work in!

[Vas]

Just wrapped up the job. Took me roughly 3 hours.

Pics below.

Old bushings removed. Mileage is 131k. They were toast.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/12/5b7b3253109ccb5744fb14362e4db3e4.jpg

Big bushing was the worst of all 3
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/12/817403957c3d45484776bda99ef43fa9.jpg

Here it is removed

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/12/f4f2b1dcc72403e4895089655708f1e4.jpg

And the new one installed

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/12/a031a0e38b9c91295e474fd89d9df8a3.jpg

[Vas]

One of the small ones started to tear

Picture of the old bushings in the subframe

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/12/f591d820a59b21434173c146af28a1de.jpg

One small one removed

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/12/d24b1e49911f1752c873ceeb59d6c241.jpg

Both new rears installed

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/12/1b19900fe10143a229cdbc20b5551371.jpg

Everything back in

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/12/95b2aa168afa14519fe5a50b84102aaa.jpg

[Vas]

Overall it is not a bad job. Thought it was going to be worse.

Renting or buying the tools is the only way to do this. Don't even think about trying to figure out how to do it without them.

I opted to remove the bmw performance exhaust but that was because I didn't want to hit it. Other wise the exhaust can stay on.

After driving the car, it's soo quite. No more clunking. No noises. Getting on and off the gas there is no more thump or clunk.

I'm satisfied.

[Johnmadd]

Good work Vas. :thumbsup

[Vas]

Good work Vas. :thumbsup
Thanks. Feels good to fix something.

[ELCID86]

Congrats! I need to do that and motor and tranny mounts... Hint, hint.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[fredo]

Well done. I bet you saved lots of money.

[Johnmadd]

Congrats! I need to do that and motor and tranny mounts... Hint, hint.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.
+1

[Vas]

Well done. I bet you saved lots of money.
Dealership said $1900 and it takes 7 hours lol.

[rkneeshaw]

Nice, that's got to be a good feeling.

I felt the same way about the tools when I did the rear bushings (RTABs, upper and lower rear outer rear control arm bushings), made it soooo easy. Totally worth it.

[Vas]

Nice, that's got to be a good feeling.

I felt the same way about the tools when I did the rear bushings (RTABs, upper and lower rear outer rear control arm bushings), made it soooo easy. Totally worth it.
Did you rent the or buy the tools for the rtab and control arm bushings? They are next on my list.

[BMWCurves]

Overall it is not a bad job. Thought it was going to be worse.

Renting or buying the tools is the only way to do this. Don't even think about trying to figure out how to do it without them.

I opted to remove the bmw performance exhaust but that was because I didn't want to hit it. Other wise the exhaust can stay on.

After driving the car, it's soo quite. No more clunking. No noises. Getting on and off the gas there is no more thump or clunk.

I'm satisfied.

I need dis.

Nice work :thumbsup

[ELCID86]

+1

Maybe we should meet up in River City or H'burg...


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

I would be down for a maintenance day. Stil got the cooling system to tackle as well as a suspension rebuild and the ccv system

[ELCID86]

I would be down for a maintenance day. Stil got the cooling system to tackle as well as a suspension rebuild and the ccv system

Maybe next month when I can get around a bit better (and drive a clutch...).


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Maybe next month when I can get around a bit better (and drive a clutch...).


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

Hope that leg gets better. Get well :)

[Johnmadd]

Maybe we should meet up in River City or H'burg...


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.


I would be down for a maintenance day. Stil got the cooling system to tackle as well as a suspension rebuild and the ccv system

Down also! Who's got the garage :biggrin

[NoVAphotog]

I would be down for a maintenance day. Stil got the cooling system to tackle as well as a suspension rebuild and the ccv system
I'm in as well, maybe a maintenance day slash weekend instead of a cruise this year? Or both!

I think there was someone on fb in Richmond who said they had a space... :dunno

Sent from an HTC One

[Vas]

I'm in as well, maybe a maintenance day slash weekend instead of a cruise this year? Or both!

I think there was someone on fb in Richmond who said they had a space... :dunno

Sent from an HTC One
Good idea 👍

[Whammy]

Well done Vas!

[Vas]

Well done Vas!
Thanks. Went alot smoother then i expected.

No rust on the underbody and no cracks where the subframe is bolted. Mileage to date is 131,942

[BADCLOWN]

sounds fairly straight forward. i hate when i start hearing noises in cars both past and present that I've owned. always a little sigh of relief and makes you feel more comfortable in the car again when those go away.

[johnrando]

Yup, great work.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Vas]

Note to self: Replace drivers side window regulator. Wife says window is crunching and is slow to come back up.

[Dr Dynamite]

Note to self: Replace drivers side window regulator. Wife says window is crunching and is slow to come back up.
My passenger side is doing that too! It started a couple days ago. Did u fix it yet?

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[Vas]

My passenger side is doing that too! It started a couple days ago. Did u fix it yet?

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk
I had fixed the passenger side and now the drivers side is doing the same thing a couple months later.

[Dr Dynamite]

I had fixed the passenger side and now the drivers side is doing the same thing a couple months later.
My rear passenger side regulator just fell off haha..... no crackle or any warning came with it, it just doesn't go up and now.

What was the fix on the issue you had with the crackling?

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[Vas]

I just replaced the Regulator before it broke fully and the window would drop or not go up.

The crunchy noise is from the plastic that the cable goes through on the Regulator.

[Dr Dynamite]

Sweet thanks for the info!

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[Vas]

No problemo

[Vas]

Window regulator is done. Wife said the window won't go up all the way.

[Vas]

Purchased a driver's side left window Regulator from tischer bmw. $124 shipped.

Going to try to get the window back up and closed till the new part arrives.

[az3579]

Purchased a driver's side left window Regulator from tischer bmw. $124 shipped.

Going to try to get the window back up and closed till the new part arrives.

You should look into replacing the window guide as well. This part is liable to make regulators fail due to increased resistance as the rubber ages. The only problem is that the guide itself tends to be more expensive than the regulator. :(

[Vas]

You should look into replacing the window guide as well. This part is liable to make regulators fail due to increased resistance as the rubber ages. The only problem is that the guide itself tends to be more expensive than the regulator. :(
Hmm Maybe applying treatment to the rubber ?

[Vas]

Driver's side regulator showed up today from Tischer BMW.

[Vas]

New regulator installed this evening.

Somebody before me already replaced it once with some no name brand unit. Quality on it is just crap. Not even sure how long it lasted but probably not long.

New unit installed and the window works again. Wife is happy.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/22/b058c1de3111c800200c4cc36f878327.jpg

[Whammy]

New regulator installed this evening.

Somebody before me already replaced it once with some no name brand unit. Quality on it is just crap. Not even sure how long it lasted but probably not long.

New unit installed and the window works again. Wife is happy.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/22/b058c1de3111c800200c4cc36f878327.jpg

Happy wife happy life!

[slater]

Happy wife happy life!

ain't that the truth!

(and nice job, vas ;) )

peter

[Vas]

Thanks guys. :)

[johnrando]

Nice

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Alikessu]

very nice, thanks for sharing


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Vas]

Bought some new wiper blades for the car.

Front Evo Flat Blade Wiper Blade Set
https://www.ecstuning.com/ES256038/

[Vas]

Sketchi is getting some new suspension goodies today

[ELCID86]

Sketchi is getting some new suspension goodies today

:like


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Will post a pic later but i got a set of new genuine OE BMW Front Control arms today.

[Vas]

New OE BMW evo wiper blades installed.

Nice fit and finish. Excuse the broken faded cowl.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/30/ea952314ca265420b1a60a71e949efa0.jpg

[Vas]

Also these are waiting to be installed.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/30/3aa0c4099f5a361b8e62f4e0e8d2762f.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/30/a42a5808b186cf4f21de689bcad74733.jpg

[johnrando]

Nice

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Vas]

Wife approves of the new wiper blades. Says they are quite and really nice.

[ELCID86]

Wife approves of the new wiper blades. Says they are quite and really nice.

Happy wife...happy life...

And they are getting a good break-in this week.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Need a new windshield though. Not sure where to go. Local places here are not great

[ELCID86]

Come on over here. @$230 for Pilkington.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Installed ?

[ELCID86]

Installed ?

Yes.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Yes.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.
Any issues afterwards? Ight just follow step after you

[ELCID86]

Any issues afterwards? Ight just follow step after you

None so far. Rain and Light Sensor was my biggest worry. I made sure to test it before I left the shop. :thumbsup


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Mind sharing where you got it dome ?

[ELCID86]

Auto Glass Now
(540) 710-7101
4723 Jeff Davis Hwy
Fredericksburg VA 22408




Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Thanks shawn

[Vas]

Car rolled over to 133k. Driving back home on cruise set at 75mph and the check engine light came on.

Scanned the code and it was for air meter. Fault currently not present. Reset it so let's see if it comes back on.

[ELCID86]

Car rolled over to 133k. Driving back home on cruise set at 75mph and the check engine light came on.

Scanned the code and it was for air meter. Fault currently not present. Reset it so let's see if it comes back on.

So frustrating getting codes. I need to pull Colin's too.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Tell me about it. A new maf sensor is not cheap either.

I just got plenty of things on my plate already.

[rkneeshaw]

Car rolled over to 133k. Driving back home on cruise set at 75mph and the check engine light came on.

Scanned the code and it was for air meter. Fault currently not present. Reset it so let's see if it comes back on.

I would suspect precat O2 sensors if you haven't changed them yet. I was getting this with a fouled O2 sensor, and it wasn't throwing an O2 sensor code. The O2 sensors only have a service life of 100k miles.

[Vas]

I have not touched the pre-cat sensors. They are on my list though

[bimmergofast]

100k? Guess they should be higher on my list...

[Vas]

100k? Guess they should be higher on my list...
For some reason I keep thinking you are under 100k.

[bimmergofast]

Nearly 145k now

[Vas]

Nearly 145k now
That's great. Never would have guessed it.

[bimmergofast]

When I finally get around to installing the new suspension and brakes I t will feel awesome. Right now it is starting to feel old...

On the plus side I have a working driver's window again!

[Vas]

When I finally get around to installing the new suspension and brakes I t will feel awesome. Right now it is starting to feel old...

On the plus side I have a working driver's window again!
I'm curious to see how it rides with the koni yellows.

Glad to hear your window works.

[Vas]

Going to tackle the front control arms today. Fingers crossed they are not difficult to replace.

[az3579]

Going to tackle the front control arms today. Fingers crossed they are not difficult to replace.
Doable, just very very time consuming removing the nuts on the ball joint. Literally like 1/8th turn of the wrench at a time due to the limited space.

sent from my Droid Turbo

[Vas]

Passenger side arm is out. Working on drivers side now.

Inner balljoint is dead. Ripped and no grease. Outer ball joint is loose

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/10/b0ba89c776169a42bf67caa67f080b84.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/10/3f688a876f634e7515e61ba07ef779d9.jpg

[Vas]

Both arms are out. Drivers side outer ball joint was okay and inner ball joint was loose but not ripped like the passenger side.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/10/a41488edf5f61fc0160e67c94ffef32e.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/10/b8c4e4a2b2b26a67ecf47bf9bd38b8ff.jpg

[Vas]

Wrapped up the job. Going to take it for a test drive.

[BMWCurves]

Nice work. How long are the ball joints in our control arms supposed to last?

[Johnmadd]

Good work Vas! What were your symptoms?

[Vas]

Nice work. How long are the ball joints in our control arms supposed to last?
Good question. I would guess 100k but that depends on rough condition.

These were starting to go bad at 116k and dead at 133k.

Good work Vas! What were your symptoms?

Clunking noise was one thing I noticed. Plus steering feel was still loose after new fcab and steering guibo.

[Vas]

Also rotated the tires side to side.

[az3579]

Nice work. How long are the ball joints in our control arms supposed to last?
There is no magic number, but they typically last anywhere between 80-140k depending on the roads. I have about 90-100k on mine and they're already bad. Damn CT/NY roads.

sent from my Droid Turbo

[Vas]

That's what I don't get. This car came from Texas then NC. Are the roads that bad there ?

[fredo]

Texas has fairly good roads, IMHO.

[az3579]

That's what I don't get. This car came from Texas then NC. Are the roads that bad there ?

A car's registration history doesn't tell the whole tale...
People sometimes move and don't bother changing the registration.

Also, not every suspension is the same. Some just don't last as long as others regardless of how good the roads are. Perhaps there is a particular bump that the owner went over at a speed much higher than they should have. That one bump could very well have been bad enough where it was wearing it out faster due to the speed or method used to go over said bump. Most people aren't pothole dodgers like we are.

[Vas]

A car's registration history doesn't tell the whole tale...
People sometimes move and don't bother changing the registration.

Also, not every suspension is the same. Some just don't last as long as others regardless of how good the roads are. Perhaps there is a particular bump that the owner went over at a speed much higher than they should have. That one bump could very well have been bad enough where it was wearing it out faster due to the speed or method used to go over said bump. Most people aren't pothole dodgers like we are.
Good point.

Also I drove the car today and what a significant change in the way the car rides and responds. Less sloppy and more firm plus the steering feel has improved drastically.

I can only imagine what these cars felt like when they were brand new. Must have been such a nice car.

Well next up on the list is the rest of the suspension.

[danewilson77]

A car's registration history doesn't tell the whole tale...
People sometimes move and don't bother changing the registration.

Also, not every suspension is the same. Some just don't last as long as others regardless of how good the roads are. Perhaps there is a particular bump that the owner went over at a speed much higher than they should have. That one bump could very well have been bad enough where it was wearing it out faster due to the speed or method used to go over said bump. Most people aren't pothole dodgers like we are.
How do you move and not register the car in the state you've moved to (reside)?

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[ELCID86]

How do you move and not register the car in the state you've moved to (reside)?

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

Military... :dunno


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[danewilson77]

Sure. Surprisingly, I forgot about that out. I always did.

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Nice werk

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk