The Story of SKETCHI - 05 ZHP Sedan

[az3579]

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

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There are folks who do that all the time, specifically car enthusiasts who moved from a state where there were no inspections/emissions to one that does, though that is only one example.

One example comes to mind. One of my neighbors has an older car, Florida tags, that's been sitting in their driveway (being used regularly), for months on end. I talked to her one day; she said she moved. I commented on the plate and she said she's not going to bother until it's necessary. I'm sure having it in Florida is far cheaper because taxes here are very expensive, and we get emissions every two years. Not sure what Florida gets in that regard...

[danewilson77]

There are folks who do that all the time, specifically car enthusiasts who moved from a state where there were no inspections/emissions to one that does, though that is only one example.

One example comes to mind. One of my neighbors has an older car, Florida tags, that's been sitting in their driveway (being used regularly), for months on end. I talked to her one day; she said she moved. I commented on the plate and she said she's not going to bother until it's necessary. I'm sure having it in Florida is far cheaper because taxes here are very expensive, and we get emissions every two years. Not sure what Florida gets in that regard...
Typically it's 90 days I believe for registration, license, and insurance.

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[az3579]

Typically it's 90 days I believe for registration, license, and insurance.

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:dunno
I've never moved before, so I don't know what they can and can't get away with.

[danewilson77]

:dunno
I've never moved before, so I don't know what they can and can't get away with.
You can get away with it for a while. When/if you get pulled over, the Officer will typically ask you how long you've lived/been in the state, etc....

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[Vas]

Pulled the trigger today on a used set of Style 103 wheels with winter tires. Pick-up this weekend.

17x8 et47
225/45/17 tires.

[fredo]

That's a nice style:

21967

[Vas]

Pictures from the seller.

Thanks Daniel for the assist.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/12/fd76d71f018b516c29fa499f23ca8cdd.jpg

[MackDiva]

How much did you pay, if you don't mind my asking?

[Vas]

How much did you pay, if you don't mind my asking?

Pick up price of $350.

[BMWCurves]

Hot damn, that's a great price for wheels and tires.

[ELCID86]

Hot damn, that's a great price for wheels and tires.

+1 nice pickup.


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[Vas]

Hot damn, that's a great price for wheels and tires.
We shall see. The seller said two tires are at 40% and two are at 90% so my guess is that they were not rotated.

I'm hoping to have the wife drive on them this winter and get a new set next year that are not run flat tires.

[ELCID86]

90%-ers on the rear of course.


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[bimmergofast]

Nice pick up, those should look sweet!

[johnrando]

Good get

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[Vas]

Thanks guys.

[rkneeshaw]

Cool style, I haven't seen those before. Killer deal.

[Vas]

Picking up the new wheels tonight.

On another note, the car feels more planted now on the interstate. Doing 70+mph and the front end is not thrown around as it did before

[Vas]

Got the wheels. What an event.

Downside. Ses is back on. Got a feeling I need to purchase a maf sensor.

[derbo]

Vas,

Wht as the code you are getting for the SES?

[Vas]

Vas,

Wht as the code you are getting for the SES?
I will scan the car today again but last time it was for the air meter. Don't recall the exact code though.

[Vas]

Decided to test fit the new winter wheels on the front today. Glad to have them clear the front brakes.

What do you think?

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/18/1ecb27ded87d9cf4da63541da68e4ee8.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/18/c6f4bb057e1b56137dabd5643385ad3b.jpg

[BMWCurves]

I really like them, they're definitely unique.

[ELCID86]

They look great (and a lot better than I thought they would).


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[derbo]

good enough for winter wheels! :D

[Hornung418]

Wheels designed by Georgia O'Keefe... Not a fan, but it works for winter and the price was right!

[ELCID86]

Wheels designed by Georgia O'Keefe... Not a fan, but it works for winter and the price was right!

Well it is Vika's car!


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[Hornung418]

Well it is Vika's car!


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Truuu

[Vas]

Truuu
This.

Two tires are almost brand new and 2 are worn-out but not close to the wear bars yet. Probably can get another season or two out of them.

I will clean them up and have them road force balanced.

Vika is excited to drive on legit set of winter tires and I feel much better knowing that it's not summer tires.

However she said 17s look tiny.

[az3579]

However she said 17s look tiny.

They look perfect in size to me. :dunno

There are some wheels in 17" that look too small, but OE wheels are usually not those wheels. I have 68's for the winter and they look perfect for size. If I had BBS CH's in 17", however, they'd look way too small to me.

[Vas]

They look perfect in size to me. :dunno

There are some wheels in 17" that look too small, but OE wheels are usually not those wheels. I have 68's for the winter and they look perfect for size. If I had BBS CH's in 17", however, they'd look way too small to me.
I think 17s are great for a winter option.

[derbo]

I think 17s are great for a winter option.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/18/130e16ae36dab1a177bb3d89df01367f.jpg

17s look good to me. [emoji6]


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[BMWCurves]

You and Stephen make me seriously consider 17s over 18s for when I get my Arc-8s

[az3579]

You and Stephen make me seriously consider 17s over 18s for when I get my Arc-8s

ARC-8's are one of the few wheels that look just right in 17" for E46.

[NoVAphotog]

ARC-8's are one of the few wheels that look just right in 17" for E46.
+1

Agreed. Plus other bonuses as well...

Sent from an HTC One

[slater]

+1

Agreed. Plus other bonuses as well...

Sent from an HTC One

yep. the 17's are about 17lbs each. i do like the way they look on the front of the car, but they look funny on the rear for some reason. the 18's look much better to me.

but i like the M68's on the car, like BP has for winter use. they look great... i want a set.

peter

[NoVAphotog]

yep. the 17's are about 17lbs each. i do like the way they look on the front of the car, but they look funny on the rear for some reason. the 18's look much better to me.

but i like the M68's on the car, like BP has for winter use. they look great... i want a set.

peter

22109

Still love the 44's...but ugh snow...

[Vas]

Vika sent me a pic and said the ses light turned off.

But the light turned on after she got went to a gas station and got a full tank of gas.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/19/899f2cc2c7c22e2d2924adc0833f82f6.jpg

[slater]

22109

Still love the 44's...but ugh snow...

haha. yep. had a few flakes here yesterday! it was 24ºF here last night. nuts. supposed to be 55ºF this afternoon...

peter

[Vas]

So the SES could be related to the EVAP system. The gas cap was already replaced when the light came on for "check gas cap". Used an OE BMW cap.

According to this document on page 18-20, http://www.bmwmotorsports.org/BMW_docs/m54x5.pdf there could be a leak that was detected from the DM-TL.

My theory is that when the gas tank was filled to the top and the ignition turned on, the car did a tank leak test. It failed so the ses came on. Now according to the document and the pre-conditions, the car now has about 85% fuel in the system so the tank leak test was done again. The original issue that turned on the ses is no longer present so the ses is turned off.

I will scan the car and see what the code is for. Maybe there is a stored code for the leak diagnosis pump or the purge valve.

[Vas]

Well I was wrong. Only code in the system. Currently not present.

Any guesses?

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/19/3777db397c713bc84ae95581401567a7.jpg

[rkneeshaw]

I'm not sure exactly what that is, but, I was getting that same code when one of my O2 sensors was fouled and acting up. It didnt throw any other codes other than an occasional Mass Air code, but when I used bytelogger to datalog the car it was clear my bank 2 pre-cat O2 voltages where out of wack (the voltages would deviate quite significantly between bank 1 and 2). Fresh O2 sensors and its been clean ever since.

No telling if that is related to your issue at all, but just thought I'd share.

[Vas]

I have not touched the O2 sensors yet. They are probably the original ones in there still.

Wonder if there is a vaccum leak somewhere in the intake path. Maybe the car is telling me to put the factory OE rubber intake boots back in and get rid of the STETT boots. And take a look at the f-connector plus the hoses.

[ELCID86]

I'm betting vacuum somewhere.
I'm getting these and can't find them.

22168

22169


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[ELCID86]

I'm betting vacuum somewhere.
I'm getting these and can't find them.

22168

22169

Don't you love "very small"...
Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.




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[Vas]

Shawn, maybe we should somehow smoke test the cars to see where the leaks are?

This weekend I will take apart the intake and replace the boots with new OE ones. As much as I like the look of the Stett Performance boots, fitment is just off with the AFE Intake.

[Vas]

I'm not sure exactly what that is, but, I was getting that same code when one of my O2 sensors was fouled and acting up. It didnt throw any other codes other than an occasional Mass Air code, but when I used bytelogger to datalog the car it was clear my bank 2 pre-cat O2 voltages where out of wack (the voltages would deviate quite significantly between bank 1 and 2). Fresh O2 sensors and its been clean ever since.

No telling if that is related to your issue at all, but just thought I'd share.
You replaced both pre-cat O2 sensors? At what Mileage ?

[rkneeshaw]

You replaced both pre-cat O2 sensors? At what Mileage ?

110k. I fouled one because of a coolant leak in the ESS manifold (long story), so that wasn't due to mileage. But I believe Bosch says they have a service life of 100k miles. I haven't had this code come back at all ever since I replaced them.

[Vas]

110k. I fouled one because of a coolant leak in the ESS manifold (long story), so that wasn't due to mileage. But I believe Bosch says they have a service life of 100k miles. I haven't had this code come back at all ever since I replaced them.
Thanks. Guess it's time to replace them.

[ELCID86]

Shawn, maybe we should somehow smoke test the cars to see where the leaks are?

This weekend I will take apart the intake and replace the boots with new OE ones. As much as I like the look of the Stett Performance boots, fitment is just off with the AFE Intake.

I'm game.


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[slater]

Shawn, maybe we should somehow smoke test the cars to see where the leaks are?

This weekend I will take apart the intake and replace the boots with new OE ones. As much as I like the look of the Stett Performance boots, fitment is just off with the AFE Intake.

agreed. fitment was terrible for me too. just the upper boot.



110k. I fouled one because of a coolant leak in the ESS manifold (long story), so that wasn't due to mileage. But I believe Bosch says they have a service life of 100k miles. I haven't had this code come back at all ever since I replaced them.

yep, i read 100K miles too. i just replaced both of my pre-cat O2's, i'm at around 141K miles.



I'm game.

curious to see what your results are. and LOL at the 'very small leak' on the scanner!! :)

peter

[Vas]

Is it worth replacing the post cat sensors as well or only do those when a code is thrown for them? They only monitor the efficiency of the cats correct?

[slater]

Is it worth replacing the post cat sensors as well or only do those when a code is thrown for them? They only monitor the efficiency of the cats correct?

i believe so, yes.

peter

[Vas]

OE boots arrived today. Factory intake box is on it's way

[Vas]

Mann Intake,cabin and oil filter order from Amazon using the zhpmafia store.

[danewilson77]

Mann Intake,cabin and oil filter order from Amazon using the zhpmafia store.
Thanks!

Enjoy.

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[Vas]

Removed the STETT performance boots and installed new OE bmw boots.


http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/24/7c875237ac1faa52eda1746ce7763224.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/24/5d4a481d87eb6a8e3ca2b952d467679f.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/24/6575d1221bc672c35f76bf5aad8b800e.jpg

[rkneeshaw]

Well I was wrong. Only code in the system. Currently not present.

Any guesses?

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/19/3777db397c713bc84ae95581401567a7.jpg

Vas, I have to eat my words, this code came back on me today. It only shows up when I've been driving for probably a couple hours at like 85mph on the freeway. I think in my case it has to do with my TS2 kit and the ESS tune.

So, sorry I mislead you. Maybe in your case its as simple as cleaning the MAF sensor?

[Vas]

Vas, I have to eat my words, this code came back on me today. It only shows up when I've been driving for probably a couple hours at like 85mph on the freeway. I think in my case it has to do with my TS2 kit and the ESS tune.

So, sorry I mislead you. Maybe in your case its as simple as cleaning the MAF sensor?
Hmm similar situation here though. Code comes up when driven at a certain period of time at a certain speed.

Best way to clean the maf? I can do that when the stock intake is installed next week

[az3579]

You can't clean hot film MAFs, which is what we have. Replacement is our o ly option.

Trust me, I've researched this extensively because I didn't want to shell out the money for a new MAF. End result: new MAF. :(

sent from my Droid Turbo

[Vas]

You can't clean hot film MAFs, which is what we have. Replacement is our o ly option.

Trust me, I've researched this extensively because I didn't want to shell out the money for a new MAF. End result: new MAF. :(

sent from my Droid Turbo
You went with OE or oem?

[az3579]

You went with OE or oem?

OE.

[ELCID86]

BP=OE. ;-)


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[johnrando]

Why did you remove the Stett?

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[Vas]

Why did you remove the Stett?

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Went back to the factory boots and factory intake. Figured to sell everything together as a package.

Got tired of hearing the wife's car sounds like a noisy vacuum cleaner

[az3579]

Went back to the factory boots and factory intake. Figured to sell everything together as a package.

Got tired of hearing the wife's car sounds like a noisy vacuum cleaner
The intake boot makes absolutely zero sound difference...

sent from my Droid Turbo

[danewilson77]

The intake boot makes absolutely zero sound difference...

sent from my Droid Turbo
Yep. Tube is tube. Flow may be smoother if anything.

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[az3579]

Yep. Tube is tube. Flow may be smoother if anything.

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At least you got the result you were looking for by getting rid of the intake.

sent from my Droid Turbo

[Vas]

The intake boot makes absolutely zero sound difference...

sent from my Droid Turbo
I know that. But I sold the boots and intake as one since boots were modified to fit the intake.

In the end, I'm satisfied with the stock setup.

[az3579]

I know that. But I sold the boots and intake as one since boots were modified to fit the intake.

In the end, I'm satisfied with the stock setup.

Smart move.

[rkneeshaw]

Hmm similar situation here though. Code comes up when driven at a certain period of time at a certain speed.

Oh really? Hmm. After further discussions I've had with others I dont think this is an ESS tune issue either... so I'm back to thinking its a hardware issue of some kind, and MAF is the prime suspect at this point.


You can't clean hot film MAFs, which is what we have. Replacement is our o ly option.

Trust me, I've researched this extensively because I didn't want to shell out the money for a new MAF. End result: new MAF. :(

BP that's interesting, I didn't know that! I "cleaned" mine with MAF cleaner spray when I installed the TS2 kit just as preventative maintenance.... I wonder if that turned into consequential maintenance....

[az3579]

Oh really? Hmm. After further discussions I've had with others I dont think this is an ESS tune issue either... so I'm back to thinking its a hardware issue of some kind, and MAF is the prime suspect at this point.



BP that's interesting, I didn't know that! I "cleaned" mine with MAF cleaner spray when I installed the TS2 kit just as preventative maintenance.... I wonder if that turned into consequential maintenance....
The problem with hot film MAFs like ours is that attempting to clean them could very potentially make them worse due to the film being damaged by the cleaner. At the very best, any improvements would be very temporary, not taking into account any potential damage caused.

A hot-wire MAF such as the ones in the E36, on the other hand, are perfectly safe to clean.

sent from my Droid Turbo

[johnrando]

Did a family member buy the boots?

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[Vas]

Did a family member buy the boots?

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Yup. I sold the intake and boots to the same person. Gave them a good deal

[rkneeshaw]

Hey Vas, I think I found the source of my MAF code... my intake boot had slipped off the throttle body and was letting in a little bit of unmetered air. Surely that is the source of my issue. I guess I'll know next time I take a road trip.

[Vas]

Hey Vas, I think I found the source of my MAF code... my intake boot had slipped off the throttle body and was letting in a little bit of unmetered air. Surely that is the source of my issue. I guess I'll know next time I take a road trip.

Hmm good to know. Do you have the factory intake boots that have the lip on the inside to sit on the throttle body?

[rkneeshaw]

Nope, I have the ESS intake boot that came with the TS2 kit. It just slips on and is held by a worm drive/screw clamp, which of course needs to be tightened correctly and sufficiently :facepalm

[Vas]

Nope, I have the ESS intake boot that came with the TS2 kit. It just slips on and is held by a worm drive/screw clamp, which of course needs to be tightened correctly and sufficiently :facepalm
Ah. Well that makes sense.

[Vas]

Installed the factory intake with a Mann air filter and mann cabin filter today.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/10/31/8a0f5f07a54a136ce0f7f2068dab60f1.jpg

[Vas]

Next up is the front wheel bearing. Drivers side is starting to get really noisy and the passenger side is probably not far behind. Do I go with OE BMW units or aftermarket ones?

Still baffles me that I am having to basically rebuild everything on this car from the ground up. I get that parts wear out and things go bad but also feel like the previous owner just drove the car hard and tracked it.

[az3579]

Still baffles me that I am having to basically rebuild everything on this car from the ground up. I get that parts wear out and things go bad but also feel like the previous owner just drove the car hard and tracked it.

I'm sorry man, that's not fair. A well maintained car that's tracked is always better off than a regularly driven non-maintained one (probably the case for your car while the PO owned it). Your car has some miles on it; it's not like the failures it has had are abnormal. Some cars have more parts that fail than others, it's just a simple fact of life.

[Vas]

So far no ses light after new boots and factory intake. Need to put more miles on the car and take it on a road trip. However before that I need to replace both front wheel bearings.

[ELCID86]

So far no ses light after new boots and factory intake. Need to put more miles on the car and take it on a road trip. However before that I need to replace both front wheel bearings.

Come this way!


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Vas]

Come this way!


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.
Spring time for new suspension.

[rkneeshaw]

So no more 28DD code?

Mine came back today, on the highway again for another 3 hour roadtrip. And I checked my intake boot and its on tight. no vacuum leaks that I can find. I wonder if I damaged my MAF when I cleaned it this last spring. My car is also running very rich at WOT, which could be my tune and my M3 fuel pump, or it could be MAF related too...

[Vas]

No code yet. But the wife has not put on that many miles or long trips on the car. Real test will be around the holidays I hope. But the check engine light is not on.

Also I did an oil change today on the car. Had about 800 miles till it was due but did not want to end up doing it during winter.

Mileage on the car is 134,263

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/11/07/aea613982d215b96f15ab43c7ed69f85.jpg

[rkneeshaw]

No code yet. But the wife has not put on that many miles or long trips on the car. Real test will be around the holidays I hope. But the check engine light is not on.

Also I did an oil change today on the car. Had about 800 miles till it was due but did not want to end up doing it during winter.

Mileage on the car is 134,263

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/11/07/aea613982d215b96f15ab43c7ed69f85.jpg

Looks exactly like my oil change days! :)

I've seen that 28DD start as a shadow code. I think it only throws an actual SES light after its been triggered a couple times or something.

I've bit the bullet and ordered a new MAF. Found a VDO (OE) from eeuroports for $259. These suckers are like $400 from BMW.

[Vas]

Looks exactly like my oil change days! :)

I've seen that 28DD start as a shadow code. I think it only throws an actual SES light after its been triggered a couple times or something.

I've bit the bullet and ordered a new MAF. Found a VDO (OE) from eeuroports for $259. These suckers are like $400 from BMW.
Let me know if the maf sensor fixes it. I got a feeling that they throw funky codes when they begin to fail.

[squashman702]

Next up is the front wheel bearing. Drivers side is starting to get really noisy and the passenger side is probably not far behind. Do I go with OE BMW units or aftermarket ones?

Still baffles me that I am having to basically rebuild everything on this car from the ground up. I get that parts wear out and things go bad but also feel like the previous owner just drove the car hard and tracked it.

Autozone sells some that have Koyo bearings, which I believe are the same as what BMW uses.

[Vas]

Autozone sells some that have Koyo bearings, which I believe are the same as what BMW uses.
I think I'm doing good the oe bmw or fag hubs

[squashman702]

I think I'm doing good the oe bmw or fag hubs

The autozone bearings I did over the winter had KOYO on one, and F.A.G on the other.

[Vas]

The autozone bearings I did over the winter had KOYO on one, and F.A.G on the other.
That's interesting

[Vas]

Took the wife and her car on a small road trip.

Still need to install the front wheel hubs with new bearings. They are super noisy

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/11/28/413ba0df9b94b41bae0e0e0c645dd345.jpg

[danewilson77]

:drool

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[Vas]

Washed the car over the weekend.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/07/2d1c3197d1b5d058f2496bae7d124e8d.jpg

[Vas]

Browsing eBay I found a brand new OE bmw hydraulic tensioner assembly. Decided to purchase it since it was a really good price for a factory part.

Still got a box of cooling system stuff to install.

[Vas]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20151224/a6e17c75c73ce8180e249e56b4fe002a.jpg

[ELCID86]

Whoa. A little project planned?

[Vas]

Whoa. A little project planned?
A tiny one. Lol

[Just_George]

Interesting...no new tensioners while you're in there?

[ELCID86]

Interesting...no new tensioners while you're in there?

I was wondering that too Dave.


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46f member

[Vas]

Interesting...no new tensioners while you're in there?

Still need to get the G.A.S radiator cap, pulleys (water pump and power steering),tensioners and probably the radiator.

Sounds like overkill.

[Whammy]

Nice updates Vas!! I have the G.A.S cap and love it!

[Vas]

Nice updates Vas!! I have the G.A.S cap and love it!
I had one but gifted it lol.

Merry Christmas BTW

[Vas]

Washed it today

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20151227/1534d16f1a249f87eb39cf88cb729184.jpg

[Vas]

Mileage at the start of 2016 is 135,830k.

[Sockethead]

That's about where I'm at...

[Vas]

That's about where I'm at...
Going to guess that it will end up at 147k at the end of the year.

[Sockethead]

It will probably be March before I drive my car again. lots to do on it and twins to take care of.... I don't think I'll even hit 10k this year

[Vas]

It will probably be March before I drive my car again. lots to do on it and twins to take care of.... I don't think I'll even hit 10k this year
If I had a garage, I would do the same. Soo much stuff to install but winter is a killer.

[az3579]

It will probably be March before I drive my car again. lots to do on it and twins to take care of.... I don't think I'll even hit 10k this year
I was under the impression that you don't really drive your car anymore. Thought you drive the F30 or whatever you replaced the F30 with... What is in the stable currently? 135, ZHP... MDX still around?

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[Vas]

Warm day today so put the winter setup on the Sketchi. Calm before the storm it feels like.

However there is a clearance issue with the rear. The wheel weights that are currently on the wheels are rubbing against the brake calipers. The wheels themselves clear though.

Wonder if they make thinner weights otherwise I'm not sure what to do

Pic of them on the car

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160102/6c8f6546254f35c62728e158fd3cc2f5.jpg

[az3579]

Try putting on spacers. That should push the weights away from the calipers.

Sent from my LG V10 on Tapatalk

[Vas]

Not sure if that will help. Plus I do not have any spaces to even give it a try.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160102/50e648b048290872ed4227957b12b944.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160102/c4358d05bc405a56957d7df78909b849.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160102/f19957023fb7f51010a7c012f0a2092d.jpg

[Sockethead]

doesn't look like they are rubbing much... I'd hit it with the grinder

[Sockethead]

I was under the impression that you don't really drive your car anymore. Thought you drive the F30 or whatever you replaced the F30 with... What is in the stable currently? 135, ZHP... MDX still around?


Kristen traded the f30 for an X1 3.5 X-drive M Sport. They offered her a lease deal that she couldn't refuse... MDX is still around. It's the kid hauler and my winter car.
Once I get the Bilstiens off my car, I may want to drive it more. Also I have a clunk in the rear that I have to sort out. Hopefully it's not the dreaded subframe

[Vas]

doesn't look like they are rubbing much... I'd hit it with the grinder
The caliper or the weight?

[Sockethead]

the weights... what's the worst that can happen... need to get it rebalanced...?

[Vas]

I pulled off the weights for now. Will go have the full set balanced and see if they have thinner weights.

[fredo]

Hope that's an easy fix.

[Vas]

Hope that's an easy fix.
Same here.

[Vas]

Perfect timing for putting on the winter setup. There was some snow on the ground today.

Peace of mind though knowing that the wife is not driving on summer tires this winter. Also the rear tires will need to get replaced in the spring. 13,000 miles on them and they are at the wear bars.

[fredo]

Only 13,000 miles on the rears ! What's the brand ?

[Vas]

Only 13,000 miles on the rears ! What's the brand ?

Continental pro contact dw. It looks like they were over-inflated however I know the tire pressure was set at 36psi. Front tires are set at 34psi.

Center is worn down but the shoulders are still decent.

[fredo]

My car came with four Conti DW tires. The rear tires matched your description 100%.

[Vas]

My car came with four Conti DW tires. The rear tires matched your description 100%.

My guess is that the 255 section width is not ideal for a 8.5" wide rim. So the center of the tire bulges out similar to when it is over-inflated.

[derbo]

I would put a 5-10mm spacer to push the rim out more so it doesn't hit those weights. That's my suggestion.

[Vas]

I would put a 5-10mm spacer to push the rim out more so it doesn't hit those weights. That's my suggestion.
Can I use stock bolts with a 5mm spacer ?

[derbo]

Can I use stock bolts with a 5mm spacer ?

I don't think it's enough. I can't remember off the top of my head.


-Sent from Mobile

[derbo]

Oh yea also. My friend had the same issue on his GTI clearing his TTRS brakes. He put the weights on the rim spokes to balance. Haha


-Sent from Mobile

[Vas]

I don't think it's enough. I can't remember off the top of my head.


-Sent from Mobile


Oh yea also. My friend had the same issue on his GTI clearing his TTRS brakes. He put the weights on the rim spokes to balance. Haha


-Sent from Mobile

I was actually thinking if that is possible. Going to have them road force balanced this friday. Will report back.

[az3579]

I was actually thinking if that is possible. Going to have them road force balanced this friday. Will report back.
This is what I did with my Ronal LS wheels on my E30. The clowns put the weights on the lip... What nerve! I had them re-do it. They couldn't be put in the usual place due to my BBK, so I had them place the weights on the backside of the spokes.

Sent from my LG V10 on Tapatalk

[Johnmadd]

This is what I did with my Ronal LS wheels on my E30. The clowns put the weights on the lip... What nerve! I had them re-do it. They couldn't be put in the usual place due to my BBK, so I had them place the weights on the backside of the spokes.

Sent from my LG V10 on Tapatalk

:facepalm

[ELCID86]

Oh yea also. My friend had the same issue on his GTI clearing his TTRS brakes. He put the weights on the rim spokes to balance. Haha


-Sent from Mobile

Put em on the outside! This is the South... ;-)


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46f member

[derbo]

Put em on the outside! This is the South... ;-)


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46f member

Haha. Yea


-Sent from Mobile

[Vas]

Factory bmw tool to install front wheel hubs/bearings arrived today. Also got z4m fcab that need to get pressed into the factory lolipops

[Vas]

Pictured is the tool and the hub/bearing assembly. The OE bmw hubs have FAG bearings inside them.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160107/6dccf6aa46558944b8de7ba56a333971.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160107/61d24a6e2ed29f06fc928536af0435cc.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160107/6f8b1b33380fa3111b8f7a3146d7bd9e.jpg

[Vas]

Also I got new nuts and seals for both sides.

Need to see if I have a big enough socket for that nut

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160107/93cc0185c2eda8e93d86d704c03a46e5.jpg

[Sockethead]

I like seeing this... this is something all of us will have to do sooner or later if we're going to keep our cars forever :)

[Johnmadd]

Fag bearings and new nuts, that sounds scary lol.

[Johnmadd]

For real though, new bearings make a car ride like new. What's your impression Vas?

[danewilson77]

Also I got new nuts and seals for both sides.

Need to see if I have a big enough socket for that nut

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160107/93cc0185c2eda8e93d86d704c03a46e5.jpg
And a 400 ft-lb torque wrench.

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[Vas]

I like seeing this... this is something all of us will have to do sooner or later if we're going to keep our cars forever :)
That is the idea here. Hoping to keep it for a long time. Currently it has almost 136k which is nothing crazy compared to other members.

Fag bearings and new nuts, that sounds scary lol.
Lol. That cracked me up.

For real though, new bearings make a car ride like new. What's your impression Vas?
Wish I could tell you but I have not installed them yet. Hoping to get to it soon since the drivers side is really noisy. Wife even complained about the noise and majority of the time she has her music on. Lol

Maybe next weekend I will knock out both sides.

[az3579]

For real though, new bearings make a car ride like new. What's your impression Vas?
I cant say I agree. The only difference is no more bearing noise if you have the noise to begin with.

My car rolls the same as it did when it had 75k on it. Only one bearing replaced due to noise.

Nothing wrong with replacing it, of course. New is always nice.

Sent from my LG V10 on Tapatalk

[Vas]

Bought some z4m fcab and got them pressed into some spare housings.

Parts bin is getting way too big.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160107/1550f0f2544b53acba6f6b37232cc695.jpg

[ELCID86]

Bought some z4m fcab and got them pressed into some spare housings.

Parts bin is getting way too big.



When's the install?


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46f member

[Vas]

When's the install?


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46f member
Good question.

Got these to install and z4m rtab.

[ELCID86]

Good question.

Got these to install and z4m rtab.

Suppose to be warm this weekend...


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46f member

[Sockethead]

and rainy here :(

[Vas]

Took the car today to get the winter setup road force balanced.

The car rides soo much better now and no more issue with the fitment on the rear. The weights they had were slimmer.

No bent wheels and they barely took any weight to get them balanced

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160108/1bb731c9fa6ede86e087ba9900fb92d1.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160108/f5830fb62502afcc6e3e92214543529e.jpg

[fredo]

That sounds great. I may try that someday.

[Sockethead]

great! I like those wheels... always good to know that used wheels are strait and true.

[Vas]

I had my fingers crossed they wouldn't be bent.

Curious how the car will be in the snow since is the first set of winters tires. But it's nice knowing the wife is not driving on summers all through winter. Always made me cringe.

[johnrando]

Cool. Gl

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Vas]

Thinking I will do the front wheel hubs this weekend.

[ELCID86]

Thinking I will do the front wheel hubs this weekend.

Talk is cheap. :ducking

[Vas]

Talk is cheap. :ducking
No luck finding a socket locally. Guess it will be put off until I get one online.

[ELCID86]

What size was it?


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46fanatic

[Vas]

46mm.

[ELCID86]

Just saw that on FB. Amazon!

23717


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46fanatic

[Vas]

Think that might be my best bet. Thanks

[Vas]

Got everything lined up I think. Decent weather as well to attempt the replacement of the front hubs tomorrow

[Whammy]

Talk is cheap. :ducking

ROFL.

[Vas]

Shawn got jokes.

[Vas]

So wrapped up the job. Did both sides on the front. Everything went smooth and job was simple. Did not have to have to use a puller to remove the hubs. They just slid off by hand. Inner race was left on the spindle but I tapped it and it slid off.

Upon inspection, the hubs were replaced before with Timken brand that have Koyo bearings in them. These are sold at Auto zone. They were loose, dry and noisy. Not sure when they were installed mileage wise but they are crap.

Replaced them with OE hubs that have FAG bearings in them. Perfect fitment and they are quite and tight. Love how factory parts fit.

I did use the bmw install tool which made installing them soo simple.

Various Pictures below of the job

[Vas]

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160130/21d798a1463c3088b7e3319c5be8e541.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160130/5e97fd20d9c5f57e817dda39e9fb0f00.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160130/14cddc6700aaced5c91ee856837cb54e.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160130/53c26a5d544294b5b5e233c6fb2f1763.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160130/0703ee2b6d704d46c533c3e639892b52.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160130/967c57842666e2c0ba85b438e5f68c69.jpg

[Lorenzo]

Looks great. Nice work!

[Whammy]

Well done #slowclap

[BMWCurves]

Good work, how long did it take you to do?

[Vas]

Looks great. Nice work!
Thanks

Well done #slowclap
Thanks

Good work, how long did it take you to do?
A little bit more then 1 hour for both sides.

[Sockethead]

Looks good. I like new parts :) Nothing like having the right tools for the job. lucky that the inner race just tapped off, eh?
Did you stake the nuts? It doesn't look like you did in those pics....

[Vas]

Looks good. I like new parts :) Nothing like having the right tools for the job. lucky that the inner race just tapped off, eh?
Did you stake the nuts? It doesn't look like you did in those pics....
Yeah I got lucky with the inner race on both sides.

And yup I did stake the nuts after I made them tight.

Going to drive the car tomorrow. Hoping it will be quite and no more humming noise.

[Sockethead]

I have a humming noise, been wondering if it's bearings...what was the nature of the hum?

[Vas]

I have a humming noise, been wondering if it's bearings...what was the nature of the hum?
Most likely from the bearing being dry inside. When I spun the hub by hand, it sounded dry and spun really easily. New one is quite and tight.

Both sides were like this.

[johnrando]

Nice werk

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Vas]

Well good news. Everything is quite and no more humming noise from the front end.

Bad news. Car is super dirty

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160131/9866816cbe77b03aca973a26d4fd7a52.jpg

[Johnmadd]

Good job. Smoother too?

[Vas]

Good job. Smoother too?
Yes. No shimmy or vibrations even with the run flat tires.

Feels like a brand new zhp besides the dead shocks.

[Sockethead]

Excellent!

[ELCID86]

Yes. No shimmy or vibrations even with the run flat tires.

Feels like a brand new zhp besides the dead shocks.

Let's go for a drive soon! (I need to get you this box too if you still want it ).


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46fanatic

[Vas]

Let's go for a drive soon! (I need to get you this box too if you still want it ).


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46fanatic
I do want the box.

Drive sounds good.

[ELCID86]

I do want the box.

Drive sounds good.

It's safe (so far--had to discard a few other items to keep Kim happy...)


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46fanatic

[Vas]

It's safe (so far--had to discard a few other items to keep Kim happy...)


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46fanatic
Thanks alot for keeping it safe.

[Vas]

Picked up a full set of stainless steel rotor screws from a member here.


http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160206/fb081df88fd3cd5f726e4789f6f9ebd0.jpg

[Whammy]

^Win.

[NoVAphotog]

Picked up a full set of stainless steel rotor screws from a member here.


http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160206/fb081df88fd3cd5f726e4789f6f9ebd0.jpg

Don't we not really need those?


Sent from my iPhone 6S using Tapatalk

[ELCID86]

They aren't necessarily mandatory. Evidently there for holding things in place during factory build. It does seem a bit odd to drill them out and not replace them (but that's what I did).


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46fanatic

[Vas]

All depends on your ocd. Plus they are soo shiny and chrome.

[BMWCurves]

All depends on your ocd. Plus they are soo shiny and chrome.

1. "you will ride eternal, shiny and chrome" (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhm-4kDBhio&t=44s)
2. Nice acquisition
3. Agreed, I bought and used new ones even though they apparently aren't necessary.

[johnrando]

All depends on your ocd. Plus they are soo shiny and chrome.
:like

[WOLFN8TR]

Picked up a full set of stainless steel rotor screws from a member here.


http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160206/fb081df88fd3cd5f726e4789f6f9ebd0.jpg

Bling is always a good Mod!! [emoji106][emoji106]

[Vas]

Thanks guys.

[ELCID86]

Bling is always a good Mod!! [emoji106][emoji106]

Even if only you know it's there!


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46fanatic

[Vas]

Even if only you know it's there!


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46fanatic
Pretty much.

Looking at brake rotors and pads now.

Thinking of brembo blank rotors and either stoptech or hawk 5.0 pads.

[danewilson77]

They aren't necessarily mandatory. Evidently there for holding things in place during factory build. It does seem a bit odd to drill them out and not replace them (but that's what I did).


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46fanatic
My fronts are gone. They make putting your wheels back on easier though.

I just use this now.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160208/8ce7b22890f66ba2df93b8d3950eb78f.jpg

Sent from an S6 Edge

[Sockethead]

A good coating of antisieze and you'll never have a problem with them again

[Vas]

A good coating of antisieze and you'll never have a problem with them again
That's the plan. Just need to decide on rotors and pads

[Vas]

Well cooling system is going on right now.

Warm day today so I opened the hood and noticed the upper radiator hose has ballooned. It got soo big that it's touching the oil filter housing assembly. On the brink of exploding.

Pics to follow.

[ELCID86]

Well cooling system is going on right now.

Warm day today so I opened the hood and noticed the upper radiator hose has ballooned. It got soo big that it's touching the oil filter housing assembly. On the brink of exploding.

Pics to follow.

At least V didn't get stranded somewhere.


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - an e46fanatic

[Vas]

Yeah that is very true. And it would have been a kick in the pants since I had almost everything. Only thing I didn't touch was the radiator, water pump pulley/power steering pulley and belts.

Radiator I think I will leave for a bit but I need to order the belts/pulleys.

Pics below of the carnage.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160221/29909bc0adb5c8f9934ab1efc602520b.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160221/b81462f3ed487499db41380485fff167.jpg

The swole hose

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160221/e7fcdba077a304d708bc7a39784950b9.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160221/b8ff2acbc13c7fbb7d333334bf9391b6.jpg

But I got everything installed and bled and then it got dark.

[bimmergofast]

Good save!

[Vas]

So the kit that was installed by the Previous Owner was this one.

https://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Engine/Cooling/Refresh_Kit/ES2063861/

I would recommend to avoid it since the quality of the parts in it are not soo great

Spend a little bit more and go with OE bmw parts. That's what I did and suggest.

[johnrando]

Good save!
+1

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Vas]

Checked the coolant level today and added a little to the system. Bled it again just to be sure.

Ordered a g.a.s 1.2 bar coolant cap as well.

[san]

Checked the coolant level today and added a little to the system. Bled it again just to be sure.

Ordered a g.a.s 1.2 bar coolant cap as well.

What is the purpose of the GAS coolant cap??


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[BMWCurves]

Checked the coolant level today and added a little to the system. Bled it again just to be sure.

Ordered a g.a.s 1.2 bar coolant cap as well.

I plan to get one when I order a DISA rebuild kit from G.A.S. since ordering the two offer a discount.

You can also pick up a cap for cheaper from some newer BMW and they're rated to 1.2 or 1.3 bar, right? I can't remember which model specifically though.


What is the purpose of the GAS coolant cap??

Someone else can be more definitive but our car's expansion tank cap is rated to 2.0 bar. Some speculate that is too high and pressure buildup in the cooling system results in premature wear of cooling system components. By swapping to a lower pressure cap, 1.2 bar in this case, it'll alleviate some stress on the cooling system.

You can read more about G.A.S.'s explanation here: https://www.germanautosolutions.com/bmw_solutions/cooling_system/12_bar_coolant_cap/product_bmw_12_bar_cap.php

[Vas]

I already did the disa rebuild using their kit. Otherwise getting the cap and disa kit saves you $10.

You can use a cap from other bmw models that have a 1.2 bar pressure but the g.a.s cap is a nice metal cap.

The science behind is to lower the pressure from 2.0 bar to 1.2 bar like the newer cars. Less pressure results in longer lasting cooling system components while keeping the system in normal condition.

[BMWCurves]

Agreed, the G.A.S. is a nice looking cap. Going red or black?

[Vas]

Agreed, the G.A.S. is a nice looking cap. Going red or black?
Just a black one.

[Johnmadd]

The other cap is from a e30.

[Sockethead]

I wonder how the black anodizing holds up... the last black anodized part I installed under the hood turned purple after a while....

[Vas]

I wonder how the black anodizing holds up... the last black anodized part I installed under the hood turned purple after a while....
Yeah. Guess I'll find out

[Vas]

Soon. Very soon. Missed it last year but not this time.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160224/4474f355eba14fe5c377489120e650cb.jpg

[Sockethead]

Cool! I'm really happy with my switch from the Bilsteins back to the Konis.

[BMWCurves]

Nice, you won't regret it. I love mine at 3/4 turn from soft on all corners.

I feel like there are 3-4 people waiting for this sale.

[Vas]

Yeah cannot wait. Hopefully a full set will be about $500 from race consulting agency again.

I am still missing the dust sleeves and bumpstops. Are those needed to be replaced?

[bimmergofast]

You'll love them. I went ahead and replaced the sleeves & bump stops as long as I had the whole thing apart, they are cheap.

[BMWCurves]

Yeah cannot wait. Hopefully a full set will be about $500 from race consulting agency again.

I am still missing the dust sleeves and bumpstops. Are those needed to be replaced?

I don't think you have to. I did just because they were cheap and I was already in there. The ones I pulled out with 50k miles and 10 years old were in decent shape and could have left them in.

[Vas]

If they are cheap, might as well.

The rear just has the plastic sleeve and the bumpstops goes into it right? What about the front?

[BMWCurves]

Yup, the rear bump stop is shoved into a narrower neck of the dust boot and just sits at the top of the connecting rod of the shock against the rear shock mount, sort of like the image below:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/BMW/techarticles/101-Projects-62-Rear-Shock-Mounts/Pic5-01.jpg

The front strut assembly is the same: the bump stop seats in the dust boot inside the spring over the strut connecting rod, and basically rests against the spring perch:

http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t166/TheAndrew87/Strutchange012.jpg

[Sockethead]

Are you lowered?

[Vas]

William, thanks for the explanation. So 2 front bump stops, 2 rear bumpstops, 2 rear dust shields and 2 front dust shields. And just reuse the metal hardware right? Do the koni shocks come with new upper nuts?

Not lowered yet. Was thinking of Sport Springs from H&R. Bumpstops need to be trimmed then?

[Sockethead]

Yes, I believe it's about an inch off the front ones only

[BMWCurves]

William, thanks for the explanation. So 2 front bump stops, 2 rear bumpstops, 2 rear dust shields and 2 front dust shields. And just reuse the metal hardware right? Do the koni shocks come with new upper nuts?

Not lowered yet. Was thinking of Sport Springs from H&R. Bumpstops need to be trimmed then?

Yup! I didn't replace the upper spring perch since it seemed to be in good shape. I did replace the front strut mount, but I don't know how necessary that is. I used the same springs. Yes, the Konis came with new upper nuts.

My total list of replaced parts during my suspension refresh were as follows (mind you, this is for a coupe but I believe they're all the same part numbers):

Koni Sport (Yellows) struts (8741-1390RSPORT [front right], 8741-1390LSPORT [front left]) and shocks [2x 8040-1271SPORT])
Rogue Engineering rear shock mounts (RSM) (no part number)
Strut tower reinforcement plates (2x) (51717036781)
Front strut mount (2x) (31336752735) (FCP Euro)
Front spring pads (2x) (Upper: 31331091867, Lower: 31331096664)
Rear spring pads (2x) (Upper: 33531136385, Lower: 33531094518)
Bump stops (2x) (Front: 31306757046, Rear: 33506757047)
Dust boots (2x) (Front: 31331094749, Rear: 33521136283)
Z4M Front Control Arm Bushing (FCAB) (Left: 31107836862, Right: 31107836863)
Z4M Rear Trailing Arm Bushing (RTAB) (2x) (33326770817)
Hex bolt w/ washer for FCABs (4x) (33306760652)
Locking nuts for strut mounts (6x) (31316769731)


Yes, I believe it's about an inch off the front ones only

I remember there's a separate part number listed on RealOEM for "lowered" cars: 33531138109. I'm not sure what is considered "lowered" by BMW, but there you go. You could look into that.

[Vas]

Thanks for assist guys :)

[Sockethead]

I replaced my strut mounts. They seemed to be ok on the car but when I got them off, they were pretty rough. I'm at about 136k.
The instructions that come with the H&R springs tell you how much to cut off. :)

[Vas]

I replaced my strut mounts. They seemed to be ok on the car but when I got them off, they were pretty rough. I'm at about 136k.
The instructions that come with the H&R springs tell you how much to cut off. :)

Very close mileage then.

This is what I have already bought over the winter.

Rogue Engineering rear shock mounts
Strut tower reinforcement plates
Front strut mounts
Upper and Lower Front spring pads
Upper and Lower Rear spring pads
Z4M Front Control Arm Bushings
Z4M Rear Trailing Arm Bushings

Almost there to refresh the suspension in the spring.

[Sockethead]

Are you going to put RTAB limiters in?

[Vas]

Are you going to put RTAB limiters in?
Not sure.

Will they be beneficial?

[BMWCurves]

Not sure.

Will they be beneficial?

People say they are. People say they aren't. I have them. I couldn't say if they helped or not because I only had the original old RTABs without them which were worn so it's not a good comparison. That said, I like the way the car feels currently with them in.

[Sockethead]

With the wheel off the ground, take a pry bar and pry in between the RTAB and its housing. When you see how it flexes you'll understand what the limiters do. I was really surprised when I did this myself...

[Vas]

I'll do some research and see what limiters are out there. Might as well do it now and get everything aligned once.

Expansion tank cap also arrived today. Will install it tomorrow when the engine is cold and check coolant level.

[BMWCurves]

I'll do some research and see what limiters are out there. Might as well do it now and get everything aligned once.

Expansion tank cap also arrived today. Will install it tomorrow when the engine is cold and check coolant level.

I have Vorshlag. Derik (sp? Derbo) has Turners I think.

[slater]

People say they are. People say they aren't. I have them. I couldn't say if they helped or not because I only had the original old RTABs without them which were worn so it's not a good comparison. That said, I like the way the car feels currently with them in.


With the wheel off the ground, take a pry bar and pry in between the RTAB and its housing. When you see how it flexes you'll understand what the limiters do. I was really surprised when I did this myself...

yes. however, they do indeed limit the RTAB movement - horizontally. they do nothing for vertical movement (i see it as slop in this location). when the wheel moves up and down in its arc, that bushing has to twist - and when the limiters - or poly RTABs - are installed, they stop this twisting, which, as you can imagine, causes binding and is not great for ultimate grip. the OE bushing by itself is not great either, because while it allows correct twisting, it also allows horizontal and vertical movement.

i think everyone knows what i recommend here. :) sorry, i get OCD about this stuff....

:cheers

[Vas]

As much as I would like to get something else then then z4m rtab, I think it would be overkill.

Personally I think they will do the job and if the limiters make the bushings last longer, that's a good thing as well.

In the end, my wife drives the car and it is just a sporty daily driver.

[slater]

As much as I would like to get something else then then z4m rtab, I think it would be overkill.

Personally I think they will do the job and if the limiters make the bushings last longer, that's a good thing as well.

In the end, my wife drives the car and it is just a sporty daily driver.

yep. it's your car, man. :) enjoy it, inferior RTABs and all. :) (haha)

[bimmergofast]

I have the ECS limiters, did the z4 RTABs at the same time. All I can say is the combination did really tighten up the rear suspension, but my original bushings were completely shot.

[Vas]

Pretty sure that is the case here. Every part of the suspension feels old.

In other news, new cap.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160225/812b11a9db8dbc88f2a8833ebbb72372.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160225/a8068bbc0cb0a4cdfb8ef6a16bcdad6b.jpg

[Vas]

Took the car on a small road trip today. Runs great and no leaks from the cooling system.

Car is still on winter tires and today was 70 degrees. Not the best combo with the sloppy suspension.

[Jconlin16]

Took the car on a small road trip today. Runs great and no leaks from the cooling system.

Car is still on winter tires and today was 70 degrees. Not the best combo with the sloppy suspension.

No leaks has to feel good! Man, 70 degrees with winter tires still on!? I can't wait to take mine off when the temps hit 40+ here lol

[Vas]

No leaks has to feel good! Man, 70 degrees with winter tires still on!? I can't wait to take mine off when the temps hit 40+ here lol

I am itching to remove them as well. But the weather has been up and down this winter and probably will have another snow fall in march.

[slater]

No leaks has to feel good! Man, 70 degrees with winter tires still on!? I can't wait to take mine off when the temps hit 40+ here lol

same here, LOL!!



I am itching to remove them as well. But the weather has been up and down this winter and probably will have another snow fall in march.

easy enough to swap back on if you need to, vas - plus, winter tires wear very quickly on hot pavement.

[Vas]

same here, LOL!!




easy enough to swap back on if you need to, vas - plus, winter tires wear very quickly on hot pavement.

Good point.

On another note, what do you guys think about the ecs tuning version of the caliper guide bolts?
https://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Braking/Caliper/ES2918637/

Price is very attractive compared to the OE units which are almost $20 a piece.
https://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E46-330i-M54_3.0L/Braking/Caliper/ES59451/

[BMWCurves]

Did one of yours break? I imagine the ECS ones are fine, but have no experience with them.

[Vas]

Just collecting parts to overhaul the front brakes.

[BMWCurves]

Just collecting parts to overhaul the front brakes.

Ah. I just reused mine, but then again, the car only had 53k miles.

[ELCID86]

I am itching to remove them as well. But the weather has been up and down this winter and probably will have another snow fall in march.

Yep

24714


---
"ZHP is a garbage option anyway- just some cosmetic upgrades with a different cam and diff to claw back some of the performance lost fitting those hideous and heavy wheels. Any 330 with a 3.46 diff will smoke a ZHP every time. The whole Mafia thing reeks of childish behavior." - anonymous

[Vas]

Exactly. What the crap

[Vas]

Koni sale is live and I cannot make my mind up on what to get.

Just the Koni Yellow Shocks or the Koni Yellow Kit which is the sport shocks and the H&R sport springs? Difference in cost is roughly $100.

[Johnmadd]

Get the sport setup.