Charrie's ZHP project

[cakM3]

I wish it had the facelift lines and grills, but still looks good.

Stuart texted me and said this hood does have the facelift lines to the windshield but pre facelift grills.

No worries...I'll have my friend mod the hood to accept the facelift grills when I drop off the hood at his body shop. Once complete it should look perfect :thumbsup


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD

[Sockethead]

Are you going to paint it? Kpro is asking....

[cakM3]

Are you going to paint it? Kpro is asking....

Rob, the plan is to paint the whole hood Imola Red and leave the power dome area such that you can see a hint of carbon fiber underneith the very light Imola Red paint with the whole area surrounding the power dome faded evenly into the rest of the hood. Anyway that's my vision....should look sweet when complete. :thumbsup

[kakashi169]

omggggg do want!!!!! I want that CF hood too...Good find! Keep us posted!

[johnrando]

BTW, when did the title become "Charrie's ZHP project". Who is Charrie? :biggrin

[danewilson77]

Changed on OP's request.

Samsung Galaxy S5...

[cakM3]

BTW, when did the title become "Charrie's ZHP project". Who is Charrie? :biggrin

I am Charrie Rando :biggrin

I asked Dane to change my thread name....courdn't herp it ;)

[ELCID86]

I am Charrie ...

Nice to meet you!

[cakM3]

Nice to meet you!

The pleasure is all mine :thumbsup

[cakM3]

I'm at Banchwerks in Providence, RI this morning. Today my ZHP is getting fitted with new Powerflex RTABs :)

Looking forward to seeing how bad the old ones are...

Had my rear subframes checked and everything looks perfect :thumbsup

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/nuqabu6u.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/udupa9ab.jpg

Looks like I will be dropping my rear subframe to replace all the bushings and adding an additional rear subframe support this year. After that, the rear subframe should be bulletproof. :) My ZHP is one very lucky car ;)

[danewilson77]

You already have lsd Charrie?

Samsung Galaxy S5...

[cakM3]

You already have lsd Charrie?

Samsung Galaxy S5...

Yes sir! I purchased Rob's TMS 3.46 LSD :)

[danewilson77]

Ok

Samsung Galaxy S5...

[cakM3]

Here's a pic of one of the old RTABs

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/y6azenat.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/y4e4ymar.jpg

[Vas]

Were those still original factory bushings? If they are what is the mileage on your car?

[cakM3]

Were those still original factory bushings? If they are what is the mileage on your car?

Vas, afaik they are OE.

The first RTAB was taken out and you could see the amount of corrosion to the aluminum surround on the OE RTAB bushing. It was bad...

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/yzavu3yg.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/uqasame2.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/a5u6agu2.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/8yse7a2e.jpg

I knew they were bad but didn't realize they were this bad! Mileage is 156,600 at time of replacement.

I like how the powerflex busings look when installed :thumbsup

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/y9umahuj.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/dudu6y4a.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/18/8yby8uge.jpg

[johnrando]

Very nice Charrie.

[Avetiso]

Looks good Chuck!

[derbo]

That old bushing looks terrible! Good thing you changed those bad boys out.

[cakM3]

Thanks everyone! Yeah....my ZHP feers much better with new RTABs but I still have some more things to sort out before "Charrie" is happy ;)

Making good progress for my trusty daily driver! :thumbsup

[cakM3]

I washed my ZHP today and will leave it in the garage this week until I'm finished giving her a "proper detail"

Also took off my euro side mirrors so I can send them to a friend who's in the middle of installing OEM M3 side mirrors on his Black ZHP :thumbsup

[Whammy]

Okay....here's the first of several mods I plan to do to my ZHP in the upcoming years leading to my daughter's graduation from college....;) This mod will be done sometime during the 2014 Summer season....:)

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/vusehutu_zps182520de.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/ScreenShot2014-03-16at74156PM_zpsf99f7b76.png

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/ScreenShot2014-03-16at74211PM_zps7cd63861.png

never thought I would be putting this boot lid on my ZHP but thanks to Tony this will be happening :thumbsup Right now my body shop guy is slammed with other projects/jobs so he won't get to my boot lid until sometime this summer which is fine by me...

Then I have this mod I'm looking at doing sometime during June/July time frame...I wasn't planning to do this but Derek showed me that this is possible. Now I'm back to placing 135i rear calipers as one of many mods I want to do for my ZHP :) Doing this will complete my Performance Brake BBK upgrade and I will now be that much closer to my perfect ZHP :thumbsup

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP%20BBK/DSC02370_zpsb78b238a.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP%20BBK/DSC02362_zpsc61af321.jpg

Things that are needed to make this mod happen are:

-A set of BMW performance rear calipers (or 135i rear calipers) - will source from ECS Tuning
-A set of e46 M3 rear discs - will source BMW Performance rotors from ECS Tuning
-A set of brake lines that are slightly longer than the standard ones
-A set of OEM ///M3 dust covers to replace the 330i dust covers.

That's it for now my friends...;) Trust me....there are more in store for my trusty daily driver machine ;)


This post makes me extremely jealous!

[ELCID86]

This post makes me extremely jealous!
Oh that's a constant with Charlie's posts!

[cakM3]

This post makes me extremely jealous!


Oh that's a constant with Charlie's posts!

you guys.... :danehappy

[cakM3]

It looks like I will be taking my ZHP to this year's reunion meet since my ///M won't be ready...

I plan to have both control arms replaced with brand new ZHP control arms, have a 4-wheel alignment performed and then do an oil change to get the car ready for the upcoming trip down...my car should feel great after everything...:)

[danewilson77]

It looks like I will be taking my ZHP to this year's reunion meet since my ///M won't be ready...

I plan to have both control arms replaced with brand new ZHP control arms, have a 4-wheel alignment performed and then do an oil change to get the car ready for the upcoming trip down...my car should feel great after everything...:)

Right. Because it feels shitty right now?

:rofl

[derbo]

I'm still waiting on Charlie to do the rear 135i calipers :)

[cakM3]

Right. Because it feels shitty right now?

:rofl

The ///M requires an alignment atm because of strut changes a few weeks ago but I'm replacing RTABs on the ///M as well (and it needs it) so there's no need to do the alignment until after I have the RTABs replaced. Since I can't get my car in the shop until the week after the reunion meet, I am forced to leave the ///M home this time...the ride is okay but I'm not good with taking the ///M all the way down to Jersey and back knowing that I have to get an alignment on it...

[cakM3]

I'm still waiting on Charlie to do the rear 135i calipers :)

Dammit Derek.....okay I will look into doing this and soon...I already have my Performance cross-drilled rotors for the ///M....all I need are the calipers and longer stainless steel braided lines....

[az3579]

BTW, when did the title become "Charrie's ZHP project". Who is Charrie? :biggrin


Right. Because it feels shitty right now?

:rofl

His car is never up to his standards, Dane... this is normal fair with Charlie. :rofl
I keep trying to convince him that his car is fine for the track, but he insists that it's "not ready yet". His car's in better shape than mine, and mine is just fine for the track. lol

The good thing about this is that he overmaintains his car, just like everyone should. For this, I wub Charrie.

[cakM3]

:danehappy

[kakashi169]

I, as well, am waiting for Charlie to do his rear BBK system. =)

[cakM3]

I, as well, am waiting for Charlie to do his rear BBK system. =)

In time Daniel :) I have lots going on between both cars atm....

Received my new Euro side mirrors for my ZHP in the mail this afternoon

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/26/6ysy3evy.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/26/3eza8esa.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/26/jyravu3y.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/26/ezapaqe4.jpg

Got them plugged in and mounted shortly after getting the box opened ;)

[WOLFN8TR]

Nice, you will love them! I can't believe how bad the RTAB's were, dam! Charlie do the Powerflex ones have to be pressed in? Where did you buy them?

[az3579]

Nice, you will love them! I can't believe how bad the RTAB's were, dam! Charlie do the Powerflex ones have to be pressed in? Where did you buy them?

He has already had them. He's the reason I installed mine a while ago!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Avetiso]

Looking good, Charlie.

"Arnold smoking a cigar in the Red Square; your argument is invalid." -Galaxy S5

[cakM3]

I can't believe how bad the RTAB's were, dam! Charlie do the Powerflex ones have to be pressed in? Where did you buy them?

Gary, the Powerflex bushings come in two parts (inboard half and outboard half). They are a tight fit but can be mounted on the rear trailing arm then inserted into the housing before they are mounted onto the car. Car handles so much better now :thumbsup

The Powerflex bushings were purchased by the Indy shop I had my RTABs replaced at. I love these bushings :)


Nice, you will love them!
I removed my old Euro side mirror glass and sent them to Rob so he could finish his OEM M3 side mirror retrofit. I figured this was a great excuse to get myself brand new ones for my ZHP ;) Love these Euro side mirrors!


Looking good, Charlie.

"Arnold smoking a cigar in the Red Square; your argument is invalid." -Galaxy S5

Thanks Dario! :thumbsup

[WOLFN8TR]

Cool, thanks for the info Charlie. Will look into doing this when I install my Koni rear shocks.

[cakM3]

Cool, thanks for the info Charlie. Will look into doing this when I install my Koni rear shocks.

I think you'll be glad you did Gary :thumbsup

[cakM3]

I'll be swapping out my 6th Gen ULF module for something much more current but in a TCU format. I will end up losing voice command for my navigation but that's okay since I rarely use this feature...:)

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/TCU_zps2f3e155a.jpg

Adding this will allow my iPhone 5s to pair allowing me "hands free" in the ZHP :thumbsup Can't thank Derek enough for this!!! This will happen in the Mid-May time frame...

[kakashi169]

Damn, nice OEM mods. Take a video of how it is after please.

Cheers

[cakM3]

Damn, nice OEM mods. Take a video of how it is after please.

Cheers

Sure....no problem Daniel :thumbsup

[derbo]

I, as well, am waiting for Charlie to do his rear BBK system. =)

Me too. ZCP Rotors + 135i Calipers completes the BMWP look

[cakM3]

Me too. ZCP Rotors + 135i Calipers completes the BMWP look

It will be done this summer :)

[derbo]

Can't come soon enough!

[cakM3]

Can't come soon enough!

Derek...when I get started on this project you will be the first to know :) I'll text you pictures :thumbsup

[cakM3]

I took delivery of Derek's TCU module today after returning from the Reunion meet...

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/05/a9e4yzyz.jpg

I placed both modules side by side so you can see the physical differences between the ULF and TCU modules...

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/05/yse5eryb.jpg

The smaller module to the left is the ULF module...working on the swap :) My thanks to Derek for sending this :thumbsup

I will be paying it forward and giving my ULF module to Chadd44 who I know will enjoy using this :thumbsup

[cakM3]

Successfully paired my iPhone 5s to my new BMW TCU Bluetooth installed in my ZHP.

I'm glad I got ahold of Derek first and got his TCU...:)

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/05/9yqevy2u.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/05/aguzatyt.jpg

Phone book loads much quicker with this TCU :thumbsup

[derbo]

I'm glad you got it to work with your 5s! You will be enjoy it more than I ever will. Glad it went to a good place.

[cakM3]

I'm glad you got it to work with your 5s! You will be enjoy it more than I ever will. Glad it went to a good place.

As you said Derek...your TCU went to a great home ;)

Derek, I got a line on the 135i rear calipers from Chad44 who will be painting them Phoenix Yellow so I can mount them on my ZHP....this will be happening soon my friend....

[derbo]

ABOUT TIME. jk. Hopefully it's not too painful and your car won't be down for too long.

Looks like you will need M3 Rotors, longer brake lines and possibly M3 Parking Brake Shoes?

[cakM3]

ABOUT TIME. jk. Hopefully it's not too painful and your car won't be down for too long.

Looks like you will need M3 Rotors, longer brake lines and possibly M3 Parking Brake Shoes?

Derek, I already have the performance cross-drilled M3 rotors and longer stainless steel brake lines...not sure about the M3 parking brake shoes (great point!). I will be souring new M3 parking brake shoes and then do the install at Chad's house when he's ready :thumbsup Stay tuned for updates! :biggrin

[derbo]

Where is Chad btw? I haven't seen him on the forums much.


The brake shoes are different but not by much. It's thicker contact patch to the hub vs the 330i being thinner.

[Tnhl1989]

He is busy with engineering school at WPI. I'm sure his wife has him on a chain if he starts going through the forums again. :)

[johnrando]

Nice werk Charrie.

[cakM3]

Nice werk Charrie.

Thanks John :)

[328ioc]

He is busy with engineering school at WPI. I'm sure his wife has him on a chain if he starts going through the forums again. :)

Lol This. I have talked to him a fair amount lately he seems super busy.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

Lol This. I have talked to him a fair amount lately he seems super busy.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

He has a busy schedule with lot's of projects lined up :thumbsup

[cakM3]

Today I got a good coat of Pinnacle Soverign wax put on...
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/11/ene6u9ar.jpg

To get these results
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/11/a3u2epe4.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/11/py6aqy5e.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/11/hunu6ury.jpg

And got my engine bay cleaned out
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/11/y4ygeqyd.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/11/9y3y6yjy.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/11/gugyna6u.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/11/adejarap.jpg

Got a little sun but all in all it was a great day :thumbsup

BP hung out all day and helped me replace a few sun shade clips on both of my cars...
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/11/ugaduhah.jpg

He even got a good much needed detail done on Wobz! ;) Those BBS CH wheels look so good on his car :drool

[johnrando]

Looks good. What did you use on the c/f diffuser?

[cakM3]

Looks good. What did you use on the c/f diffuser?

John I used my Pinnacle Soverign wax on it :thumbsup The stuff is like magic... always brings out an awesome depth and shine :)

[spoonerDee]

Nothing like a good waxing. Finally got to wax Christine a few weeks ago and I'm still enjoying the results. She gets covered in dust and pollen then it rains takes it all off and the water beads nicely. MmmmmMMmm Beads.

[cakM3]

Nothing like a good waxing. Finally got to wax Christine a few weeks ago and I'm still enjoying the results. She gets covered in dust and pollen then it rains takes it all off and the water beads nicely. MmmmmMMmm Beads.

Very nice Keith! :thumbsup

BP stopped over again today so he could work on my damaged Style 135....all in all it was a great day :thumbsup

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/Library2/ScreenShot2014-05-25at93022PM_zps2aebc8e7.png

Then BP looked at the rain clouds and blew it off - - - like a bauce! ;)
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ScreenShot2014-05-25at93011PM_zpsac237451.png

[330i ZHP]

why is this thread called "Charrie's"?

[danewilson77]

why is this thread called "Charrie's"?

He requested it be changed. No offense meant. Maybe Charlie can explain.

The friendliest forum on the planet.

[cakM3]

He requested it be changed. No offense meant. Maybe Charlie can explain.

The friendliest forum on the planet.

As Dane said, I requested my project thread name to be changed more from a humor aspect. If anyone is offended then by all means feel free to PM me and I will contact the moderators and have my project thread name changed. :thumbsup

It's supposed to be all in fun ;)

Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD

[330i ZHP]

no problems here - was just curious

[cakM3]

no problems here - was just curious

No worries Stuart :thumbsup


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD

[JupiterBMW]

He is busy with engineering school at WPI. I'm sure his wife has him on a chain if he starts going through the forums again. :)

He should be allowed on the mafia as much as she's on Facebook... That would give him plenty of posting time... :shift

Car looks great Chuck!


iPhone 5S. Tapatalk Pro. BOOM

[cakM3]

He should be allowed on the mafia as much as she's on Facebook... That would give him plenty of posting time... :shift

Car looks great Chuck!


iPhone 5S. Tapatalk Pro. BOOM

Thanks Jon! :thumbsup

Chad also has a few projects going on....one of which I'm keeping an eye on because he's working on the complete 135i BBK solution for the ZHP. So between his several projects (car and home) and school, he's got his hands full. He does lurk from time to time on the forums when he has additional free time...

Also added this to my rear window...only sticker there :)
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/26/upapy6a6.jpg

[spoonerDee]

I am offended by the name change. I find it disrespectful, degrading, immature and just our right racist! I demand compensation say in the form of refinished style 68's :shifty :)

[cakM3]

I am offended by the name change. I find it disrespectful, degrading, immature and just our right racist! I demand compensation say in the form of refinished style 68's :shifty :)

I got a laugh after reading your post Keith because I know you find amusement in this as well :)

[spoonerDee]

I got a laugh after reading your post Keith because I know you find amusement in this as well :)

I find no humor in the topic fine sir, you will be hearing from my lawyer's! :rofl

[cakM3]

I find no humor in the topic fine sir, you will be hearing from my lawyer's! :rofl

Um.....yeah......riiiieeeeggghhhttttt....


Sent from my iPhone 5s using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

Put a fresh coat of sealer on my ZHP after rinsing off the pollin...

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/10/uzadunyb.jpg

Damn my car looked good! :thumbsup

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/10/tujy4uve.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/10/tuvyna9e.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/10/ede5u3ap.jpg

[mbeckel]

Put a fresh coat of sealer on my ZHP after rinsing off the pollin...

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/10/uzadunyb.jpg

Damn my car looked good! :thumbsup

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/10/tujy4uve.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/10/tuvyna9e.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/10/ede5u3ap.jpg

Purrdy

Sent from in the bushes

[johnrando]

Sure does/is.

[cakM3]

Purrdy

Sent from in the bushes


Sure does/is.

Thanks guys! :thumbsup

[cakM3]

I had an issue with my passenger angel eye night controller box and Umnitza came through and warranted my part. They have been awesome throughout :thumbsup

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/14/yrepaju5.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/14/aty2e7a5.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/14/5e4ydaqu.jpg

I sent them email the other day and Today the part arrived. Very fast service!

Guess I'll be swapping out boxes as well tonight ;)

[johnrando]

Good on them.

[cakM3]

Good on them.

They've been an awesome company from my experience John :thumbsup I'll be buying something else from them in the future... that's for sure :)

[kakashi169]

nice charlie! hows the rear BBK setup coming along? I am still waiting for pictures. haha =D

[cakM3]

nice charlie! hows the rear BBK setup coming along? I am still waiting for pictures. haha =D

Daniel, it's on hold at the moment as I'm addressing some things on the ///M atm.... I will get back to my rear 135i caliper project probably by September.....

[derbo]

Daniel, it's on hold at the moment as I'm addressing some things on the ///M atm.... I will get back to my rear 135i caliper project probably by September.....

Waiting to see the awesome results of this! :)

[cakM3]

I received an unpleasant surprise from my "trusty" ZHP today while leaving work.....As I started my car to leave, I immediately noticed I had completely lost power steering. I did all the usual checks.... belts, fluid level, and even leaks.... everything looked in order. So after texting Derek and BP I came to the obvious conclusion that my power steering pump was the most likely candidate for the failed component. Both Derek and BP also mentioned this...

I decided to make the 27 mile drive home and didn't have any further issues other than having to use much more force to turn my steering wheel...good driving exercise I guess ;)

When I got home I did a search and found David's (Mtnman) thread regarding this very same issue. The symptoms David mentioned in his thread is exactly what I had with my ZHP today....I guess over time the Luk LF-20 power steering pump impeller shaft inside the power steering pump shears off. This will be confirmed over the weekend when I take off the serpentine belt and check for play on the pump impeller shaft.

As much as I would also like to replace my power steering hoses I have discovered, while replacing my radiator recently, that I too have the very same issue David had with his ZHP when he replaced his power steering pump (see pic below)....

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/BadPSHoses_zps19380caf.png

Since his reinforcements (Kyle and Ryan) couldn't help remove his hoses, I figure I won't attempt taking off the power steering hose on my ZHP for fear of breaking something....and leave the ones on my car alone for the time being...:facepalm Guess I have more research to do regarding removing broken power steering hoses...

Anyway here's a link to David's power steering pump DIY thread :thumbsup
http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?2019-Power-Steering-Pump-and-Reservoir-Replacement-doityourself (http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?2019-Power-Steering-Pump-and-Reservoir-Replacement-doityourself)

[Avetiso]

Sorry to hear. It's just mileage. No amount of maintainence could keep it from happening.

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

[derbo]

Might have to invest in a Dremel.

http://i.imgur.com/9oFvXybl.jpg

[cakM3]

Sorry to hear. It's just mileage. No amount of maintainence could keep it from happening.

Sent from my SM-G900T using Tapatalk

Yeah, I figured that as well...I look at this as part of BMW ownership. Not upset at all...just looking at this as another item to take care of maintenance-wise ;) Appreciate your words Dario! :thumbsup


Might have to invest in a Dremel.

http://i.imgur.com/9oFvXybl.jpg

Seriously??? That's what I have to do to get this hose off.....I do have a dremel...:biggrin

[derbo]

Hey, if the other ways don't work, this is a great and quick solution. You weren't looking to keep it anyways :)

[cakM3]

Hey, if the other ways don't work, this is a great and quick solution. You weren't looking to keep it anyways :)

Agreed! Just didn't think about using a dremel to the old hose....very effective I must say! :thumbsup

[johnrando]

GL with the fix Charlie.

[cakM3]

GL with the fix Charlie.

No worries John.... I'll get my ZHP fixed :thumbsup

[alexandre]

Not looking forward to this happening to me as I do a lot of downtown driving. Knowing my luck it's probably gonna go out in a -15F mid January snow storm haha. Are you driving it in the meantime or is the M assuming DD duties?

[cakM3]

?.. Are you driving it in the meantime or is the M assuming DD duties?

Since the weather is going to be good over the next few days, I'll be using my ///M for DD duties until I replace my power steering pump on the ZHP :)

I know.... not much sympathy there since I get to take my ///M out for daily driving.....some people have tougher choices regarding which cars they will take to work ;)

Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD

[alexandre]

Hehe... Indeed. I get to take the bus when my car is MIA :shifty

[Rovert]

^ and train. Haha

[Sockethead]

Seriously??? That's what I have to do to get this hose off.....I do have a dremel...:biggrin

I had to use a cut off wheel to get one of the PS hoses off the X5. It wasn't pretty but was very effective after trying, for well over an hour, every trick I could think of including trying to use the proper tool for removing those kind of hoses... if I had to do it again, I'd just use the cut off wheel in the first place

[derbo]

I had to use a cut off wheel to get one of the PS hoses off the X5. It wasn't pretty but was very effective after trying, for well over an hour, every trick I could think of including trying to use the proper tool for removing those kind of hoses... if I had to do it again, I'd just use the cut off wheel in the first place

Agreed.

sent from Moto X Dev Edition

[cakM3]

Today I updated my LCM faceplate, thanks to Derek :thumbsup

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/18/ja2ubyzu.jpg

So now all I have to do is get a new rain sensor windshield installed then I can complete my auto rain sensor/headlight retrofit...something I have wanted to do for my ZHP since the first day of ownership ;)

The old LCM faceplate
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/18/7u2uhe7a.jpg

Will be going to Dane so he can swap out his faceplate :)

[330i ZHP]

nice

[cakM3]

nice

Thanks Stuart!


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD

[derbo]

is Dane giving up Auto for this?

[cakM3]

is Dane giving up Auto for this?

to answer your question, yes....

[danewilson77]

I never use auto headlights. Scared they won't go off. I like them on, when I want them on.

[cakM3]

I never use auto headlights. Scared they won't go off. I like them on, when I want them on.

gee....that thought never had occurred to me Dane....good point....

[danewilson77]

For the same reasons, I only operate my sunroof and rear windows on very rare, special occasions. I never change my climate control settings. I never adjust the seat positions. I use the perfect amount of tranny/brakes when I slow/downshift (neutral/clutch out when stopped). And I levitate when I drive. :)

The friendliest forum on the planet.

[Sockethead]

I wish I had that discipline. I figure if its going to break... It's going to break

[derbo]

I never use auto headlights. Scared they won't go off. I like them on, when I want them on.

What do you mean they wont go off?

[danewilson77]

What do you mean they wont go off?

Same logic applies to keyhole delete.

The friendliest forum on the planet.

[Hornung418]

I still don't get the auto lights? It comes on and it turns off with ignition off? Nothing to freak out about...

Sent from my GS3.

[JupiterBMW]

Even non-auto lights will turn off when the car is shut off... But hey, everyone has their preference with their cars. Personally, I have an auto faceplate in my '03 (no auto lights) but I sometimes leave the switch in the auto-position, which makes the lights act like DRL anyway, on all the time when the car is on...

I'm with Rob on this one. Its a great car, but its just a car. If and when something manages to break, I'll just go buy another one.

[Pip]

I never use auto headlights. Scared they won't go off. I like them on, when I want them on.

I just don't like that they turn on when pulling into my garage for 10 seconds before shutting off the car.

[johnrando]

Same here. I don't use 'auto' lights as I don't want mine firing on and off every time I go into my garage thus potentially reducing their life span for no reason. Btw, good stuff Charlie.

[cakM3]

Same here. I don't use 'auto' lights as I don't want mine firing on and off every time I go into my garage thus potentially reducing their life span for no reason. Btw, good stuff Charlie.

One of the main reasons why I don't use auto on my ///M... thanks John! :thumbsup

[cakM3]

I was talking to a good friend of mine this afternoon and it looks like I managed to source a brand new UUC EVO3 SSK w/ DSSR for my ZHP. ;)

[Avetiso]

I was talking to a good friend of mine this afternoon and it looks like I managed to source a brand new UUC EVO3 SSK w/ DSSR for my ZHP. ;)
Nice!

[ELCID86]

I was talking to a good friend of mine this afternoon and it looks like I managed to source a brand new UUC EVO3 SSK w/ DSSR for my ZHP. ;)

I need your friends! Congrats.

[cakM3]

Nice!


I need your friends! Congrats.

Thanks guys! :)

[johnrando]

Lol, nice.

[cakM3]

Lol, nice.

You know me John....if it's not one then I'm working on the other.....never stops. ;)

[Sockethead]

Are you putting that in yourself?

[cakM3]

Are you putting that in yourself?

Rob, you have PM sir :thumbsup

[derbo]

I need your friends! Congrats.

I know I would be broke if I had his friends :P

[ELCID86]

I know I would be broke if I had his friends :P

So true!

[cakM3]

:biggrin

[cakM3]

The power steering pump went in yesterday and of course I had to break my power steering pump pulley but fortunately Ridgefield BMW was open and they had one on hand.

BP gave me a ride and we picked up the new pulley and I got a military discount (40% off) for the part :thumbsup

I should have gotten new hoses and will be doing that next... :facepalm

[ELCID86]

^wow, they take care of military. That's great. Glad you got it sorted out.

[danewilson77]

That's insane.

The friendliest forum on the planet.

[derbo]

40%, that is awesome!

[Sockethead]

The power steering pump went in yesterday and of course I had to break my power steering pump pulley but fortunately Ridgefield BMW was open and they had one on hand.

BP gave me a ride and we picked up the new pulley and I got a military discount (40% off) for the part :thumbsup

I should have gotten new hoses and will be doing that next... :facepalm

It's good that it broke now, they are crappy plastic. when I removed mine it was full of micro fractures around the bolt holes...it would have exploded eventually.

And how many times did I tell you to replace the hoses? lol

[cakM3]

It's good that it broke now, they are crappy plastic. when I removed mine it was full of micro fractures around the bolt holes...it would have exploded eventually.

And how many times did I tell you to replace the hoses? lol

Yeah I know Rob!!! I just didn't feel like dealing with the broken connector (the one you showed me that you dremmeled).... after spending all day working on this (due to getting a replacement pulley I broke, and additional tools from Harbor Freight), I was just glad to have the pump replaced. I can say after doing the pump, this job is easy to do :) At least next time I can do this from the comfort of my garage with immediate access to my dealer, which has parts open on Saturdays :biggrin

I figure if I replace hoses then I will do all of them. I have enough ATF on hand for sure :thumbsup

When I get ready to replace my hoses I may be face timing you... just be forewarned ;)

[az3579]

Damn good thing there's a Harbor Freight 5 minutes from my house. :biggrin

[cakM3]

Damn good thing there's a Harbor Freight 5 minutes from my house. :biggrin

Too bad the stupid dealer that was also close to your house didn't have their parts department open......luckily there was another that took care of me :) Thanks for your help BP...it was nice to hang with you at your place. :thumbsup

[johnrando]

Nice Charrie, esp. 40% off. Mafia helping mafia, :thumbup BP!

[cakM3]

Thanks John! :)

[cakM3]

It now looks like the ZHP will be getting a proper SSK since I just sealed the deal on a brand new never used UUC EVO3 w/ DSSR. Very pleased with all the items I have been getting so far :)

After I install this I know my ZHP will be even more fun to drive :biggrin

[cakM3]

Seems like it's been awhile since I have updated my ZHP project thread so here are some pics I took after working all day cleaning and detailing my ZHP....all I can say is that my car really needed some detailing "TLC" today :)

Here are some exterior shots I took using my Nikon D800 this afternoon ;)
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6061_zps004c131a.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6111_zpsd84a5318.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6088_zpsd0bc44fe.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6130_zps89bbacb7.jpg

Yes I know wheels are dirty....I'll get around to cleaning them later....perhaps next weekend :)
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6136_zps16c67e3c.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6149_zps7d4bd142.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6146_zpsff44cf92.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6123_zps55105e8f.jpg

Some interior shots of my trusty daily driver :)
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6092_zpsaf9f6edb.jpg

Love my silver cube trim!
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6096_zps0d07bd77.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6174_zpsa368dc85.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6168_zpsfbd3f70c.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6108_zpsfc8ff958.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6153_zps8f7a155c.jpg

My Euro LCM faceplate with rear fog switch. Love having them!!!
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6155_zpsd7dfa2ee.jpg

Every ZHP should have these :thumbsup
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6152_zps57cc2f29.jpg

Also love my Coby wrapped alcantara steering wheel....so happy Mike gave me a good deal on mine :thumbsup Really appreciate what you did for me Mike! I will be back again :)
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/ZHP/_DSC6102_zps06f361e3.jpg

[brettbimmer]

Looks fantastic Charlie!

Sent from my pineapple under the sea.

[cakM3]

Thanks Brett! :)

[WOLFN8TR]

Nice and Clean. :coolpic

[cakM3]

Appreciate it Gary! Thanks :)

[OtterEffect]

:drool Awesome pictures! I love your car's stance.

[NoVAphotog]

Love these Charlie! Car looks awesome...thinking it may need to get the top spot for the next meetup, but it's got some tough "///M" competition! :p

[cakM3]

Love these Charlie! Car looks awesome...thinking it may need to get the top spot for the next meetup, but it's got some tough "///M" competition! :p

Thanks Daniel!... I too have my ///M for that ;)


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD

[johnrando]

So freaking purdy! Clean your headlight lenses. :)

[cakM3]

So freaking purdy! Clean your headlight lenses. :)

Believe it or not John, that's not dirt on my headlight lenses....that's rock chips. I need to replace my lenses....

[Hornung418]

Looks very shiny! Not too keen on those pedals however. And what on earth happened to the front diffuser?? Did I miss something posted earlier about it? That was my favorite thing about your car!

[cakM3]

Looks very shiny! Not too keen on those pedals however. And what on earth happened to the front diffuser?? Did I miss something posted earlier about it? That was my favorite thing about your car!

Justin....the New England winters happened to my Arqray lip. It will go this winter "as is" then replaced with a brand new carbon fiber Arqray lip next season :)

Yeah...that Arqray lip is one of my favorite items as well...don't worry Justin! I'll get that squared away again ;)

[Hornung418]

Yay!

Sent from my GS3.

[cakM3]

Yay!

Sent from my GS3.

Thanks Justin! BTW....what's going on with your search for a replacement car? You got anything in your sights yet?

[Hornung418]

Thanks Justin! BTW....what's going on with your search for a replacement car? You got anything in your sights yet?

Maybe... ;)

Sent from my GS3.

[cakM3]

Maybe... ;)

Sent from my GS3.

Damn!!! I hate the suspense.....

[kakashi169]

This car is legendary status. I really love the mods on it Charlie. Please keep me posted about those rear performance brakes. I want to see them happen!

[cakM3]

This car is legendary status. I really love the mods on it Charlie. Please keep me posted about those rear performance brakes. I want to see them happen!

Damn Daniel! I never thought of my ZHP as being legendary status but thank you! :biggrin I will work on sourcing 135i rear calipers and working my magic making them work on my ZHP :thumbsup Already have the OEM M3 cross drilled rotors for the mod ;)

Daniel, I regard your car as one of the cleanest sedans I have seen in a very long time. Everything you have done has been spot on. All BMW performance upgrades....you sir have an awesome BMW! :thumbsup

[cakM3]

An opportunity to buy an OEM perforated leather steering wheel presented itself and I jumped on it. I will be using this steering wheel on the ZHP during the winter months. Yes, I already have one (the one I purchased from Rando) and that steering wheel will be reserved exclusively for my ///M :) Now both cars will have the option of having either alcantara or perforated leather whenever I want :biggrin

[johnrando]

Very nice here too! :)

[kakashi169]

Damn, I want a ZHP alcanatara wheel too.

Hows the rear callipers coming along charlie? Any progress?

[cakM3]

Very nice here too! :)

Thanks John! :thumbsup


Damn, I want a ZHP alcanatara wheel too.

Hows the rear callipers coming along charlie? Any progress?

Haven't started my rear caliper mod just yet Daniel. Have a few things I need to address first before going back to car modding....I'll update my project thread when that time comes however...:thumbsup

[cakM3]

Seems I have a few things to address on the ZHP if I want to take it out on a road trip next season...

- address my diff bushings
- change out my windshield
- change out or delete my damaged arqray lip
- install stainless steel brake lines
- address a few dents on the car...
- do the clutch cdv
- change out bootlids
- new set of pilot super sports

Might have to stop some mods on the ///M (for the time being) so that I can get these items completed on the ZHP...

Got the power steering hoses replaced today and it feels great driving my ZHP again...:)

[johnrando]

Good list. Git er done!

[TheFinanceGuy]

I didn't know you had such a list! I smell an imola workshop day soon.

[cakM3]

I didn't know you had such a list! I smell an imola workshop day soon.

Yeah Patrick, I have a list of things I want/need to do for my ZHP....:)

[Sockethead]

Seems I have a few things to address on the ZHP if I want to take it out on a road trip next season...

- address my diff bushings
- change out my windshield
- change out or delete my damaged arqray lip
- install stainless steel brake lines
- address a few dents on the car...
- do the clutch cdv
- change out bootlids
- new set of pilot super sports


You haven't done that yet? nono
Wasn't it like last fall when I pointed that out to you?

Had I known your CDV was still in there, I would of yanked that for you while I was under there swapping your diff, my friend...

[cakM3]

You haven't done that yet? nono
Wasn't it like last fall when I pointed that out to you?

Yeah Rob....This is something I still need to do but am looking at doing the entire rear subframe bushings as well since I will already be there...it costs money so I have been addressing other things first as well as taking care of my daughter's needs...the bushings will be changed out before June....;)


Had I known your CDV was still in there, I would of yanked that for you while I was under there swapping your diff, my friend...

Yeah, it's something I haven't really thought about. It will be done before June as well...:)

[Sockethead]

yea I'm definitely hearing the money thing... I'm finally driving my car again after breaking another wheel in the way back from Bimmerfest at the beginning of August. Just couldn't afford new wheels....

[az3579]

Had I known your CDV was still in there, I would of yanked that for you while I was under there swapping your diff, my friend...

I really can't say I noticed any difference with it out...
Mine has the gutted one, so effectively a CDV delete. I sense no difference driving my car versus Charlie's car the same way. :dunno

[Sockethead]

I didn't really notice a difference with my first bimmer but I did with the ZHP...

[NoVAphotog]

I didn't really notice a difference with my first bimmer but I did with the ZHP...

Yeah, I noticed it on mine as well. Mostly in traffic and around town, with spirited driving I don't think it was as big of a deal. But between 1 & 2 feels a lot smoother with it out...been driving manual cars since I started driving, I don't need a valve to help me...

[cakM3]

Yeah, I noticed it on mine as well. Mostly in traffic and around town, with spirited driving I don't think it was as big of a deal. But between 1 & 2 feels a lot smoother with it out...been driving manual cars since I started driving, I don't need a valve to help me...

I feel the same way Daniel....just need to get around to deleting my CDV.

[Sockethead]

Lol, I think we all feel that way!

[NoVAphotog]

I feel the same way Daniel....just need to get around to deleting my CDV.

:thumbup Don't forget to bleed the clutch...we didn't with mine since it was quick and we figured it'd be fine. I'm not sure, and it could be placebo, but I need to do this soon...I don't know what the "symptoms" of air in the clutch line feel like though...but some shifts feel "airy" no pun intended and sloppy, almost like how it felt with the CDV installed, like a lag type effect.

[Sockethead]

yea.... you need to bleed it...

[cakM3]

I think I will be doing the CDV delete on the ZHP real soon.......and yeah I won't forget to bleed the clutch. :)

[ELCID86]

I think I will be doing the CDV delete on the ZHP real soon.......and yeah I won't forget to bleed the clutch. :)

If you're quick enough, I don't think it needed. But, better safe,,,?

I think you will like the difference.

[danewilson77]

I've never bled my clutch.

No flame suit required!

[cakM3]

If you're quick enough, I don't think it needed. But, better safe,,,?

I think you will like the difference.

Shawn, I have the CDV delete on the ///M and do feel the difference. For some reason, I have never gotten around to doing this on the ZHP....that will change soon :)

[NoVAphotog]

I've never bled my clutch.

No flame suit required!
Isn't it a good thing to do?

[cakM3]

Isn't it a good thing to do?

Daniel, there's no harm in bleeding your clutch after doing the CDV delete but there are people who are "really good" at working on their cars (no sarcasm) and are able to do the CDV delete w/o leaking brake fluid so there's no loss of brake fluid requiring bleeding of the clutch. I'm not one of those people unfortunately...

[danewilson77]

Isn't it a good thing to do?


Daniel, there's no harm in bleeding your clutch after doing the CDV delete but there are people who are "really good" at working on their cars (no sarcasm) and are able to do the CDV delete w/o leaking brake fluid so there's no loss of brake fluid requiring bleeding of the clutch. I'm not one of those people unfortunately...
+1


No flame suit required!

[NoVAphotog]

Gotcha.

[cakM3]

Got the airbag recall done yesterday on my ZHP.....no damage on my interior trim and even got my car hand-washed and vacuumed while the dealer had it...:) Even though the dealer arranged to give me transportation while they had my ZHP (no BMWs available)...I decided to take out the ///M so I could enjoy driving it with my new Sprint Booster mod... all in all a great day :thumbsup

[Sockethead]

Damn. I got the recall notice but they said they were out of airbags...,

[cakM3]

Damn. I got the recall notice but they said they were out of airbags...,

Guess I got lucky Rob....

[cakM3]

With my ///M project thread updated, well....sorta.... I'm getting my ZHP project thread updated as well mostly to keep things straight as I go into the 2014/2015 winter season.....



My ZHP at time of purchase - May 2011:

2003 BMW 330i ZHP
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Imola Red with Alcantara Interior
ZKW Bi-Xenon Headlights
LCM s/w ver 3.56
Alcantara Steering Wheel
Alcantara interior
BMW Performance Shift Knob vice ZHP shift knob
Silver Cube Trim - original worn pieces
BMW Factory 6-disc CD changer
Rear subframe reinforced
35% window tint
Navi Firmware s/w vers. 4-1/01
105,952 miles





Car as it currently sits - November 2014:


- ZKW Bi-Xenon (w/ retrofitted OEM AL M3 Bi-Xenon projector assemblies) Headlights
- OEM BMW Performance Cross-Drilled Rotors @ 114,300 miles
- OEM BMW Performance BBK @ 114,300 miles
- OEM BMW Performance CF Strut Bar @ 118,700 miles
- OEM BMW Performance Grills
- OEM BMW ///M3 side mirror retrofit to sedan @ 120,824 miles
- OEM BMW Bluetooth retrofit
- OEM BMW Factory alarm retrofit
- OEM BMW "Improved" E-9x Homelink/Compass AutoDim (flush clown-nose) Mirror retrofit
- OEM BMW Aux Input retrofit
- OEM BMW Sharkfin retrofit
- OEM BMW ///M3 arm rest with black Nappa Leather
- OEM BMW lit ZHP shift knob retrofit - deadlysns special
- OEM BMW LCM s/w vers 4.0 recoded and installed; one touch-triple blink enabled @ 125,887 miles
- OEM BMW Silver Cube Trim brand new - for a total cost of $725.53 yeah, I'm crazy enough to do this
- OEM BMW Performance SSK @ 128,063 miles
- OEM BMW Euro LCM Faceplate swap w/ current installed LCM
- OEM BMW First Aid Kit retrofit
- MTec II carbon fiber rear diffuser - seasonal use only
- Euro LCM Auto faceplate w/ rear fogs (BP programmed my rear fogs)
- TPMS (RPA) aktiv @ 138,888 miles
- BC Racing "BR-series" coilovers
- Coby alcantara wheel rewrap (black alcantara w/ red stitching)
- New ZKW headlight lens with laminate cover
- Eagle Eye LED smoked Tail Lights from JLevi SW
- Clear smoked corners
- Clear side markers
- Gominigo tow hook front license plate holder
- SIRIUS Satellite Starmate 4 Radio integration
- Gruppe M carbon fiber CAI
- Shark Injector
- 6000k D2S lighting
- HID fog retrofit w/ 6000k 9006 bulbs
- New FCABs
- UUC SS brake lines @ 114,300 miles
- Pinstripe delete.:biggrin
- Valentine V1 Radar Detector hardwire
- LED rear license plate lights
- LED 6000k Angel Eyes w/ remote
- Blacked out "glossy"rear badge
- Monochromed roundels (Black/Frozen Grey) and ///M badges
- Carbon Fiber Arqray front lip spoiler
- Navi Firmware s/w vers. 4-1/02
- New DISA @ 116,518 miles
- New upper and lower intake boots @116,518 miles
- ///M oil cap
- ///M-deadpedal
- ///M aluminum pedals
- White LED sidemarkers
- Water Pump thread Cap
- Turner Motorsports 10mm Front / Macht Schnell 10mm Rear Spacers
- Carbon Fiber engine covers
- DICE Silverline Duo iPod integration (6-disc CD changer deleted)
- Sprint Booster w/ Sport Button mod - I'd say the first one on the East Coast to do this ;)
- MTec II Carbon Fiber rear diffuser (summer use only)
- UUC TSE3 Corsa exhaust
- Brake Force Display - Stage 3 activated @ 138,888 miles
- ditched the OE arm rest for an ///M arm rest in black nappa leather
- 3.46 TMS LSD


Wheel Set:
- OEM Style 135s staggered 225/255 Michelin Pilot Super Sports - Summer Set
- OEM Style 68s staggered with 225/245 Blizzacks LM60s - current winter set


146,888 miles


Future upgrades/mods/maintenance ideas:
- Retrofitting full AL headlight assemblies w/ ZKW lenses
- CSL Bootlid for sedan (going to body shop for paint soon)
- BMW 135i Performance rear calipers retrofit w/ E46 M3 Performance cross drilled rotors
- Factory front seat Lumbar Support (thanks M3 donor seats)
- Factory front driver's seat cover replacement
- CDV Delete at my next oil change
- Front Driver's side fender and door replacement - removing dents/damage to the OE panels from previous owners :facepalm



Mileage driven in the first year of ownership: 19,935 :thumbsup:



Maintenance performed: since purchasing this beauty...
- BMW Performance cross-drilled rotors (front and back) @ 114,300 miles
- BMW Performance BBKs @ 114,300 miles
- new upper and lower intake boots @116,518 miles
- new DISA @ 116,518 miles
- BMW Performance CF Strut bar @ 118,700 miles
- cooling system refresh (done!) @ 120,500 miles
- new ignition coils, VCG, and plugs (done!) @ 121,500 miles
- VANOS seals replacement and anti-rattle kit installed (done!) @ 121,500 miles
- INSP II performed @ 125,000 miles
- updated LCM module w/ s/w v4.0 recoded and installed @ 125,887 miles (one touch-triple blink enabled)
- OFHG replaced @ 126,250 miles
- BMW Performace SSK @ 128,063 miles
- new Voltage Regulator for alternator @ 131,060 miles
- new NAPA battery @ 132,115 miles
- new fuel pump @ 135,230 miles
- new O2 sensors (yep!!! all 4 of them) @ 135,230 miles
- BC Racing "BR-series" coilovers @ 137,550 miles
- TMS 3.46 LSD @ 148,700 miles
- Cooling system overhaul @ 154,000 miles
- Diff oil refreshed @ 158,540 miles
- PowerFlex RTABS were installed @ Banchwerks, RI. 160,000 miles
- new Power Steering pump (Luk LF-20) replaced @ 161,280 miles
- new Power Steeering low pressure hoses replaced @ 162,050 miles




Outstanding Preventive Maintenance Actions to complete:
- new tranny oil (will be done in conjunction with next oil change)
- CDV delete (at next oil change)
- INSP II checklist (most will be done via DIY)
- new ZHP control arms/FCABs (sometime in 2015 season)
- new GUIBO and center line bearing (preventive maintenance)
- new rear wheel bearings (preventive maintenance)
- replace alternator with one by matching VIN (sometime during 2015 season)

[az3579]

Nice list.

FYI, wheel bearings don't need to be done preventatively. When they go bad, they can still be driven on for quite a while, it's just noise that you hear at that point. I'd say get your money's worth and ride them 'till they need replacing.

[slater]

charlie, i am about to pick up some E46 M3 seats (power, lumbar, heat, bolster adjustment)..... would you be interested in my ZHP seats? they are black leather and in good shape, and have power, lumbar, heat. wouyld save you the trouble of dissecting the M3 seats, unless of course you WANT to. :)

peter

[cakM3]

Nice list.

FYI, wheel bearings don't need to be done preventatively. When they go bad, they can still be driven on for quite a while, it's just noise that you hear at that point. I'd say get your money's worth and ride them 'till they need replacing.

BP, I've had wheel bearings go bad when I had my 323i many years ago....this would be more of a preventive mainenance measure and you know how my OCD is...;) I'll probably do this as well as the CLB and GUIBO replacement sometime during the upcoming 2015 season...:)



charlie, i am about to pick up some E46 M3 seats (power, lumbar, heat, bolster adjustment)..... would you be interested in my ZHP seats? they are black leather and in good shape, and have power, lumbar, heat. wouyld save you the trouble of dissecting the M3 seats, unless of course you WANT to. :)

peter

Dannnng Peter! If you were within driving distance I would seriously consider your offer. At the moment, I don't have any more disposable income until sometime after the holidays to even consider your offer at the present moment...send me a PM and we can discuss this futher offline :thumbsup

[cakM3]

I feel Peter twisting my arms regarding his seats and I like it ;)

[derbo]

You should just do it and save the trouble Charlie.

[cakM3]

You should just do it and save the trouble Charlie.

:biggrin

[az3579]

Charrie,
I'm confused; why do you need those seats?? I thought you like the alcantara seats you have now. Is it the lumbar you want to retrofit?

[derbo]

Charrie,
I'm confused; why do you need those seats?? I thought you like the alcantara seats you have now. Is it the lumbar you want to retrofit?

He doesn't. Lol

[cakM3]

Charrie,
I'm confused; why do you need those seats?? I thought you like the alcantara seats you have now. Is it the lumbar you want to retrofit?

I'll tell you later.....




I'm working on something........

[Tnhl1989]

Alcantara m3 seats.... Maybe? lol

[az3579]

Alcantara m3 seats.... Maybe? lol

Most definitely not his plan.


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[cakM3]

I will finally be completing one project that I started about 3 1/2 years ago on my ZHP. We all know the issues associated with ZKW headlights. Unfortunately BMW will not address this issue unless you're willing to purchase a new set of ZKW headlights (not an option) or a new set of AL headlights.

Initially, I chose to rebuild my ZKW headlights and ended up with what I call vers 1.0 ZKW/Al headlights. Over time I have improved how to rebuild these headlights and rebuilt BPs and then Channing's headlights.

Looking back, my headlights were not built with the "quality" I put into rebuilding BP's and Channing's headlights so I was left with a strong desire to revisit my headlights.

That realization became a reality for me when Tony (TWong1200) provided me the opportunity to buy his headlights. Today his AL headlights along with a fresh set of ZKW lenses arrived to my place and I now have another project that, this time, I will complete on a very permanent basis :)

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Tony's package after I took delivery of it...

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My AL headlight assemblies resting on my counter

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My spare ZKW headlight trim inserted into my AL headlights (silver doesn't look as good as black on Imola Red)

and my spare ZKW lenses
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I will have to swap my angel eyes from my old headlight assemblies into these AL headlight assemblies then the swap will begin. Looking forward to putting this issue finally to rest.....;)

Thanks again Tony! :thumbsup

[johnrando]

Nice. Git 'er done.

[cakM3]

Thanks John :) Yeah, that's the plan ;)

[TWong1200]

Awesome, Charlie. Glad that they went to a Mafia member!

[cakM3]

Awesome, Charlie. Glad that they went to a Mafia member!

That makes both of us Tony ;) :thumbsup

[brettbimmer]

"I can see clearly now!" Great to hear Charlie!

[cakM3]

"I can see clearly now!" Great to hear Charlie!

Thanks Brett! Yeah, this time my headlights will be 100% perfect. Can't wait for the weekend to come...;)

[ELCID86]

The man with the plan.


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[Johnmadd]

My question is what you have you discovered along the way to improve the retrofit?

[cakM3]

My question is what you have you discovered along the way to improve the retrofit?

John, from the time I initially modded my ZKW headlights to when I recently did Channing's... I changed where and how I trimmed the projector mounts and instead of using three screws to securely mount the projectors, I used 4. There were issues on my passenger's side headlight assembly to begin with and the only way to correct them was to get a new headlight assembly anyway. (Botond was also there when I modded Channing's headlights. You can also ask him how I did the retrofit :))

So with that said, when I saw Tony's set for sale.... I had to jump on them. As it stands my headlights (regarding how the projector operates) function well but I can't fully adjust how the projectors are pointed (headlight assembly issue) and I have put up with this minor inconvenience for awhile now.

At least now by the weekend I will have perfectly functional headlights. ;)

[Johnmadd]

Thanks for the explanation Charlie.

[brettbimmer]

John, from the time I initially modded my ZKW headlights to when I recently did Channing's... I changed where and how I trimmed the projector mounts and instead of using three screws to securely mount the projectors, I used 4. There were issues on my passenger's side headlight assembly to begin with and the only way to correct them was to get a new headlight assembly anyway. (Botond was also there when I modded Channing's headlights. You can also ask him how I did the retrofit :))

So with that said, when I saw Tony's set for sale.... I had to jump on them. As it stands my headlights (regarding how the projector operates) function well but I can't fully adjust how the projectors are pointed (headlight assembly issue) and I have put up with this minor inconvenience for awhile now.

At least now by the weekend I will have perfectly functional headlights. ;)

And here I was hoping that you had figured out a way to harness the power of the sun & hide it inside an E46! :foottap:swiss

[cakM3]

The man with the plan.


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Thanks Shawn! :thumbsup


Thanks for the explanation Charlie.

No worries John :)


And here I was hoping that you had figured out a way to harness the power of the sun & hide it inside an E46! :foottap:swiss

I have Brett ;) If Channing ever comes online you can ask him ;) The first night he drove his ZHP in the night he was blown away by the amount of lighting his "modded" headlights now has :biggrin

[brettbimmer]

^Excellent! Actually Johnmadd & I are both running a similar setup that Joop had created with the E90 bowl swap so they are pretty good, but it is always interesting to see what path we all prefer for a good fix here as there seem to be several good options. Look forward to the results, version 2.0.

[cakM3]

Brett, I prefer the AL route because of the OEM bulb retainer rings. That's why I went this route but in the end the goal is to have "proper" lighting since ZKW cheated out on their projector bowls :facepalm


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[cakM3]

This weekend is the weekend I will commence finishing my ZHPs winter preps....

I started out by swapping wheel sets and now have my "winters" mounted. Today I swapped out the Bosch lens for my ZKW lenses in my AL headlight assemblies :) popping off the auto leveler in the AL headlight assemblies is alittle tougher than popping these buggers iff in the ZKW headlight assemblies because of room...its alittle bit tighter in the AL headlight assemblies
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Once the inner mount is taken out, the rest is just as easy to take apart as the ZKW assemblies were with one exception....
16610

Swapping the lenses with the AL projectors is way easier ;) :thumbsup

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Just take this part off the projector assembly and pop off the lens :)
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Reassembly is just the reverse but well worth the effort for superior lighting :)
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I have to say the ZKW lens has amazing clarity!
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This is the finished product
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Time to grab lunch then the fun part begins! Swapping out headlight assemblies then angel eyes :thumbsup

[illirep]

Are you installing these for the winter or just replacing them in general?

[cakM3]

Are you installing these for the winter or just replacing them in general?

I will be installing them not because of winter ....

[illirep]

Ok. Was thinking that was a little overboard...lol.

[johnrando]

Good stuff.

[cakM3]

Okay folks! The AL headlight assembly swap is now complete. Tony was kind enough to supply the ZKW lens so I swapped them in before transferring over my Orion V4 angel eyes.

With my AL headlight assemblies complete, I installed them taking out my problematic ZKW headlight assemblies that I inherited from the previous owner. Now my headlights are issue-free and my OCD is now satisfied for the day ;)

These are pics of my AL headlight assemblies as I was doing the required OP Test upon successful installation...
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Yes the angel eyes on my inner light needs adjustment....I took care of that after taking these pics...
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All I need now is dark so I can properly aim my headlights, then I can call this done :thumbsup

Thanks again Tony for providing me this opportunity and for contributing to my ZHP project thread :biggrin I can now take my ///M out for a much needed joy ride!

I got this little souvenir from installingmy new headlights today ;)
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Small price to pay :)

[TWong1200]

Looks awesome, Charlie! Glad I could contribute!

[cakM3]

Looks awesome, Charlie! Glad I could contribute!

Glad I can finally put closure on these :)

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Got perfect lighting again :)

[WOLFN8TR]

Very Nice! :applause

[rguti153]

The flicker must be sex , I miss my fxr projectors .

[JupiterBMW]

Nicely done Charlie... I had the same setup in my ZHP and it absolutely is the perfect solution. Enjoy them!

[cakM3]

Very Nice! :applause


The flicker must be sex , I miss my fxr projectors .


Nicely done Charlie... I had the same setup in my ZHP and it absolutely is the perfect solution. Enjoy them!

Thanks everyone! Yeah, it's nice to have a set of headlights w/o any issues associated with them :) @ Jon, these are slightly different from the ones you retrofitted to your ZHP. These actually have D2S plastic retainer rings that hold the D2S bulbs in place. iirc, yours had some sort of wire that held your D2S bulbs in place, right? Other than that, both operate the same way providing exceptional OEM lighting :)

[mbeckel]

How long did it take for you to swap out

[cakM3]

How long did it take for you to swap out

About an hour to do everything and I was taking my time. ;) I had to remove/replace my CAI and disconnect/reconnect my angel eyes....

The actual removal/replacement of headlight assemblies would take me less than a half hour to do. The additional half hour was removing/replacing my angel eyes from my old headlight assemblies to my new ones. If I still had my headlight washer system hooked up then it would have taken me a few hours to do. There's hardly any room to get your hands underneath the headlights to disconnect the headlight washers from the hoses connected to them.....that part is a real bitch to do. Something I'm not looking forward to doing with my ///M (want to change out lenses for ZKW lenses).

[mbeckel]

About an hour to do everything and I was taking my time. ;) I had to remove/replace my CAI and disconnect/reconnect my angel eyes....

The actual removal/replacement of headlight assemblies would take me less than a half hour to do. The additional half hour was removing/replacing my angel eyes from my old headlight assemblies to my new ones.
Dang. That looks awesome as well. This makes me want to do the AL conversion, the ZKW lights are not nearly as good

[alexandre]

Good job! I really wonder how they compare to the FX-R retrofit though.

[cakM3]

Dang. That looks awesome as well. This makes me want to do the AL conversion, the ZKW lights are not nearly as good


Good job! I really wonder how they compare to the FX-R retrofit though.

Thanks guys. I can say that when you swap out the Bosch lens for ZKWs in the AL headlight assemblies, you will have superior lighting compared to the ZKW headlight assemblies. I'd imagine that the ZKW's lit just as bright when brand new but eventually those who opted for new ZKW headlight assemblies will eventually have issues again since they have plastic projector bowls. Not a permanent fix to a messed up solution in my opinion.

I wanted something easy to do and have it permanent, thus I went with the most obvious choice for me. AL Headlight assemblies. As much as I have taken apart these headlight assemblies, I have become very familiar with how to retrofit these headlights so swapping in the ZKW lenses seemed an obvious choice once I sourced a perfect set of AL headlights from Tony. As others have said....the key is allowing enough time to do everything and have it done right. :)

I'm sure if I were to compare what I now have to someone who has an FX-R setup the FX-Rs will be brighter, but there's much more modding that needs to be done compared to working with AL projectors that I didn't want to go that route. To be perfectly honest, what I have now is perfectly fine with me :biggrin I now know how Channing felt after I rebuilt his headlights a few weekends ago. As I drove in to work this morning during torrental downpours, I could see my light beams go out way in front of my car. This is something I have never seen during my ZHP ownership until now.




Yeah.....I'm happy ;)

[JupiterBMW]

@ Jon, these are slightly different from the ones you retrofitted to your ZHP. These actually have D2S plastic retainer rings that hold the D2S bulbs in place. iirc, yours had some sort of wire that held your D2S bulbs in place, right? Other than that, both operate the same way providing exceptional OEM lighting :)

No, I had the same setup. The original E90/ZKW retrofit was what you speak of, but I got rid of those. I had true AL lights (the ones that use the plastic retainer you speak of) with the ZKW inner lens in my zhp. The same setup you have now.

[cakM3]

No, I had the same setup.

Awesome!!! I like this setup much better :thumbsup


The original E90/ZKW retrofit was what you speak of, but I got rid of those. I had true AL lights (the ones that use the plastic retainer you speak of) with the ZKW inner lens in my zhp. The same setup you have now.

Jon, to be honest, I couldn't be happier with this setup....so easy to set up and use :)

[JupiterBMW]

Exactly. And all OEM at this point

[cakM3]

Exactly. And all OEM at this point

Agreed! :thumbsup Nothing beats OEM :)


Damn Jon!!! I keep looking at your sig and I will start wanting an X5///M! ;)

[jiggz]

Agreed! :thumbsup Nothing beats OEM :)




I would absolutely agree with this 99.9% of the time - I typically frown upon stuff from China, eBay, most vendor sites, etc.

However in this case, I think the FX-r projectors are quite a bit better than the AL's, which I had in my E46 325i. Though I have not seen AL projectors with the ZKW lens?

[cakM3]

I would absolutely agree with this 99.9% of the time - I typically frown upon stuff from China, eBay, most vendor sites, etc.

However in this case, I think the FX-r projectors are quite a bit better than the AL's, which I had in my E46 325i. Though I have not seen AL projectors with the ZKW lens?

Not disputing this but given the ease to swap in ZKW lenses into the AL headlight assemblies, I find this solution best suits my needs ;)

[Vas]

However in this case, I think the FX-r projectors are quite a bit better than the AL's, which I had in my E46 325i. Though I have not seen AL projectors with the ZKW lens?

I had a set of FX-r projectors that had the color mod done to them. Far superior then the zkw and the AL lights. But if you want to retain OEM parts, then AL with the clear lens is the way to go. It just gets expensive compared to the $425 for the fx-r retrofit.

[ELCID86]

Nice work per usual Charlie!


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[cakM3]

I had a set of FX-r projectors that had the color mod done to them. Far superior then the zkw and the AL lights. But if you want to retain OEM parts, then AL with the clear lens is the way to go. It just gets expensive compared to the $425 for the fx-r retrofit.

Yeah Vas, I agree the light output from FX-Rs are far superior from AL lights but I was looking for more OEM using the ZKW lens so I went this route. I will be doing the same thing to my ///M soon ;)


Nice work per usual Charlie!


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Thanks Shawn!

[az3579]

I had a set of FX-r projectors that had the color mod done to them. Far superior then the zkw and the AL lights. But if you want to retain OEM parts, then AL with the clear lens is the way to go. It just gets expensive compared to the $425 for the fx-r retrofit.

What is this color mod you speak of??
I have a set of FX-R 1.0's ready to go in soon which is why I ask. :)


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[ELCID86]

What is this color mod you speak of??
I have a set of FX-R 1.0's ready to go in soon which is why I ask. :)


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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsqzJgFCeyo ?? Not sure how he got the car in his bedroom.

[cakM3]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsqzJgFCeyo ?? Not sure how he got the car in his bedroom.

not my thing...............

[az3579]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsqzJgFCeyo ?? Not sure how he got the car in his bedroom.

That's friggin' cool as hell. Might just do that.
His car isn't in his bedroom :p

[cakM3]

His car isn't in his bedroom :p

No but your car is! :p

[rguti153]

The shield in the fxr projector it has a thin cut with a blade . When light goes through that very thin cut . It makes that rainbow effect . So when the light flikers is looks colorful . But ppl might mistaken for a cop with lights or ambulance from far away . I had the fxr projectors in my old car . They r bitchin nice . Once u see that flicker coming from far away ull be like wtf is that coming at me lol . The AL n zkw nothing compare . The light output on the fxr r very wide but the AL go further out if I remember correctly .

[Vas]

The color flicker is just awesome.

[rguti153]

Agree Vas ......

[ELCID86]

No but your car is! :p

:rofl


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[ELCID86]

The color flicker is just awesome.

I wonder if it causes issues for oncoming drivers?


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[cakM3]

I wonder if it causes issues for oncoming drivers?


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I'd imagine it would initially be a distraction, but I'm sure it does look cool.....

[johnrando]

Glad you got that done Charlie

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[cakM3]

Glad you got that done Charlie

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Me too John :)

[rguti153]

http://youtu.be/GqVhmGw4jjc