Charlie's ///M Project Thread

[ELCID86]

I always put my trim fasteners in vertical and then twist them horizontal so they keep my trim pieces firmly in place.
That's the way, uh, huh, uh huh...



Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Sockethead]

I always put my trim fasteners in vertical and then twist them horizontal so they keep my trim pieces firmly in place. Especially with my Bimmian cell phone mount installed, this is more a mandatory thing....otherwise the trim pieces would tend to come out loose over time.
Hmm I'm going to have to check mine. I can never get the piece above the radio to stay flush no matter what. also there is a little tab in the center of that piece that is supposed engage above the radio... it never stays in on mine...

[johnrando]

Not to kill Charlies thread, but my new one doesn't sit as flush as my old one. And, thanks Charlie, I twist mine to horizontal as well. Just wanted to make sure.

[cakM3]

Not to kill Charlies thread, but my new one doesn't sit as flush as my old one. And, thanks Charlie, I twist mine to horizontal as well. Just wanted to make sure.

Not a problem John :thumbsup So far while driving on these "wonderful" roads up here in New England..... my trim pieces have stayed put, nothing loose. The Bimmian cell phone holder is still mounted solidly. Can't be happier with the install on both cars.... just wish the damned state would address the road issues...I shell out enough $$$$ in taxes - would love to see my tax dollars put to good use for a change....

[Sockethead]

.... just wish the damned state would address the road issues...I shell out enough $$$$ in taxes - would love to see my tax dollars put to good use for a change....
said everyone on the east coast....

[cakM3]

said everyone on the east coast....

I know.....:(

[cakM3]

Thanks to Gary, I will be getting this oil filter housing cap for my ///M soon ;)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/722/20745504686_f64ed4c3b5_b.jpg

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5644/20150802083_c0b4476fa4_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/610/20745504676_435eb341a8_b.jpg

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5714/20149179124_bbeaa8c8ef_b.jpg


Damn!!! That cap looks good :drool :drool :drool

[Sockethead]

nice bling:)

[WOLFN8TR]

Bling Bling....:eyetwitch

[cakM3]

I like to think of them as finishing touches ;)

[cakM3]

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/610/20745504676_435eb341a8_b.jpg

all the little things.... ;)

[BADCLOWN]

How much did that thing run? Nice piece for sure.

[cakM3]

How much did that thing run? Nice piece for sure.

Not posting price/cost here in my thread. Sent you PM :thumbsup

[TheFinanceGuy]

With as finished at the cap looks, its a shame they only used a standard bolt to hold the top on.
I wonder if a different fastener could be found to complete the look better. I'll look around :dunno

[BADCLOWN]

Very true, it does ruin the look a bit. A "topper" would help complete/keep the look so much better

[az3579]

The bolt is perfect. It's meant to be used, so anything fancy looking would quickly end up looking ruined by the time a tool is finished with it.

[cakM3]

The bolt is perfect. It's meant to be used, so anything fancy looking would quickly end up looking ruined by the time a tool is finished with it.

Totally agree with Botond here! :thumbsup


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[cakM3]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/04/32cdacc0c49993963b486aaec871c431.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/04/3fd47b0d6a87c1dc56d60f1e81891b92.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/04/f63e064fb4362242f4eb36ff1190586f.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/04/7e0f586d48418e0d50037f424d5fd4cb.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/04/cf27d9965aad186761b8ca2d12728cb6.jpg

Looks like I have some unexpected maintenance/repairs ahead of me this month....had my ///M towed back to my garage...


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[3ZHPGUY]

That doesn't look like a good thing!


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[Pip]

Did you need to take off the bumper to get on the truck?

[cakM3]

That doesn't look like a good thing!

When smoke started pouring out of my engine bay, that was my initial thought. I shut down my engine right away and opened up my hood to investigate... then I noticed something leaking from underneath my engine. I was a little nervous at this point and a lot of things began racing thru my mind. Fortunately I had another ///M friend with me when this happened. I checked out the fluid that was leaking and noticed it was not engine oil (thank god!!!) Then I realized it was my power steering fluid leaking.... went thru the power steering issue with my ZHP earlier this year... got my car towed home and immediately put it on jack stands and verified where the source of my problem is.... high pressure power steering hose failed.



Did you need to take off the bumper to get on the truck?

Sean I took off the front bumper because my ///M is that low... I didn't want to have any damage to my carbon fiber lip spoiler so it was easier to take it off and then get my car put on the flat bed. Now that I have everything apart, I'll be taking out my headlight assemblies as well and swapping out my Bosh lens for the ZKW lens. By the time everything is complete my ///M will have restored power steering hoses and brighter light output :)


Seems 2015 is the year of power steering issues at Charrie's Garage! :p

[rkneeshaw]

you know, even though you got problems with her right now, you got to admit, that is one beautiful freaking M3 specimen on that truck bed.

[WOLFN8TR]

When I first seen these pictures I thought you wrecked the ///M! Man I can't even tell you how I felt. Luckily it was you that removed the front bumper, I thought you hit something. Sorry to hear about the hose blowing but at least it wasn't worse and you are OK! :thumbsup

[ELCID86]

Reminds me Colin needs new PS hoses installed. Glad you and the car are ok.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[cakM3]

you know, even though you got problems with her right now, you got to admit, that is one beautiful freaking M3 specimen on that truck bed.

Oh, I agree... at first I was like oh shit!!! But then I realized what else I could be working on while recovering the power steering issue... so I am actually looking forward to working on the ///M for a change ;) In 5 years of ownership, this is the second time the ///M has had to be placed on the truck bed for towing services... I would rather tow either of my BMWs than risk causing more damage to them :thumbsup


When I first seen these pictures I thought you wrecked the ///M! Man I can't even tell you how I felt. Luckily it was you that removed the front bumper, I thought you hit something. Sorry to hear about the hose blowing but at least it wasn't worse and you are OK! :thumbsup

Reminds me Colin needs new PS hoses installed. Glad you and the car are ok.

Thanks guys! :thumbsup

[UdubBadger]

Oh no


GoingHAM mobile

[cakM3]

Oh no


GoingHAM mobile

Thanks Seth! While I'm at it I will finally install my IAT sensor. :thumbsup


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[slater]

Oh, I agree... at first I was like oh shit!!! But then I realized what else I could be working on while recovering the power steering issue... so I am actually looking forward to working on the ///M for a change ;)

great attitude, charlie! :cheers

onward and upward! :)

peter

[cakM3]

great attitude, charlie! :cheers

onward and upward! :)

peter

Thanks Peter! Today I will start by taking out my Gruppe M CAI, then I will be working on the headlight assembly removal. Then I can look into where I will mount my IAT sensor....thinking on the driver's side brake vent. I want to get the IAT relocation complete today then I can spend the rest of the weekend working on my ZKW lens retrofit to my M3 headlight assemblies. I have done enough headlight assembly surgeries that doing them won't be too bad :)

[danewilson77]

you know, even though you got problems with her right now, you got to admit, that is one beautiful freaking M3 specimen on that truck bed.
:hashbrowns

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[brettbimmer]

Whew, just catching up on the flatbed photos which are always frigthening. Glad that it is just a power steering hose failure!!!

[UdubBadger]

Yeah you have to have that attitude with this car... Or else you'll go insane


GoingHAM mobile

[WOLFN8TR]

Yeah you have to have that attitude with this car... Or else you'll go insane

That's how I drive it!

Charlie you have a mis quote in post #2277.

[cakM3]

Yeah you have to have that attitude with this car... Or else you'll go insane


GoingHAM mobile

+1 :thumbsup

[BADCLOWN]

Damn your car is low

[cakM3]

Damn your car is low

I love it that way :thumbsup

[BMWCurves]

Late to the incident, but glad you're okay and the issue isn't anything too major. Always a bummer when it has to be towed, but you've got the right attitude: what else can I do while I wait, be proactive!

[cakM3]

Late to the incident, but glad you're okay and the issue isn't anything too major. Always a bummer when it has to be towed, but you've got the right attitude: what else can I do while I wait, be proactive!

Thanks William! :thumbsup Right now I am working on the IAT relocation and a friend of mine is coming over in his ///M so I will help him detail his hood.... then tonight a jump in the jacuzzi is in order with a nice cool beverage ;)

[Johnmadd]

Haha, had me skeered at one moment, glad all is good now.

[cakM3]

Haha, had me skeered at one moment, glad all is good now.


It will be John, thanks! Today I relocated my IAT sensor down to my brake duct and got it connected so all I have to do now is remove my headlight assemblies tomorrow for the ZKW lens retrofit. This is something that I needed to do for quite some time. Not that I'm happy my power steering hose failed, but I am glad to be getting other things completed on the ///M :)

[az3579]

you know, even though you got problems with her right now, you got to admit, that is one beautiful freaking M3 specimen on that truck bed.


Truck bed? No. Platform for viewing pleasure? Yes.
The M3 doesn't need to stroll down the runway for a good showing. The runway runs for it.

[cakM3]

:biggrin

Thanks Botond!!


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[rkneeshaw]

Platform for viewing pleasure? Yes.
The M3 doesn't need to stroll down the runway for a good showing. The runway runs for it.

lol exactly!

[cakM3]

I finally got my IAT sensor installed and connected this weekend... Here are a few pics where I have my sensor mounted...

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5829/21003521398_4706793327_k.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/615/21003521138_8bbeb76b98_k.jpg

I felt this was the perfect location (inside the driver's side brake duct just behind the air intake hole) for the sensor to get exposed to intake air without having to worry about heat soak issues...

The wiring was very simple to do and where I had to do some splicing on wire#3, I soldered the wires together and then used liquid electrical tape to seal the connection... then once the electrical tape has dried, I will tape everything before sealing that connector off again...

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5805/21003521968_19b7a097a5_k.jpg

This one was taken from my iPhone showing just where the AIT wiring harness is routed from the brake duct.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/06/48a0a9907a4756c044b3af964ff1ecf1.jpg

Now off to remove my headlight assemblies :)

[cakM3]

Just finished up with my IAT relocation mod.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/06/637212bcd55210b3ac62dab3f7f2dcdb.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/06/a09a7e63055c24a97db407aa1fb5bec5.jpg

Routed the IAT harness and secured it with some tie wraps...
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/06/4c59edcfcc91044e543d8f594687c23f.jpg

Now to grab some lunch before removing my headlight assemblies...




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[cakM3]

Today I finally took out the Bosch lens from my headlight assemblies in my ///M and installed my ZKW lens.

Once I replace the power steering hoses, including the one that failed, I will do the fun part of aiming my headlights. Looking forward to the brighter light beams...:)

Hate headlight washers though... Reconnecting the passenger side hose to the headlight is a real bitch...I kept telling myself to be patient....finally got the hose reconnected to the washer jet after dropping the plastic retainer clip three times... good thing I had my front bumper pulled off!!

Anyway here are a few pics from today's lens transplant...
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/07/2b03dfaaf0b5e44d50758cd796f7bde3.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/07/a89918fe2b83f355a1681a2901d7686f.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/07/30b319e1d83b6a55251bd14d592b6209.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/07/d4a0899533cd650765eeb7d6b7ef737a.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/07/763fe962a5c63263ff00fe75007415dc.jpg

Been wanting to do this since last year after rebuilding Patrick's ZHP headlight assemblies but never got around to doing it. Once I started working on my headlight assemblies today, it took me like 20 minutes per side to do the actual swap out of the lens. Doing this is getting easy ;)


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[cakM3]

I also reapplied these styrofoam spacers onto my kevlar bar. When I took off my front bumper cover a few pieces came off the kevlar bar so I grabbed them so that I could reapply them with glue when I got home :)

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/07/5bb1313c135a6d34b6f7d38ca3c85643.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/07/1fb0f41e57a714bd1c4d25c45bbad236.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/07/99d96bf75f7f08a3965bc6dae26da038.jpg

They won't be coming off...


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[WOLFN8TR]

Good job Charlie! Looks so much better! :thumbup

[cakM3]

Good job Charlie! Looks so much better! :thumbup

Thanks Gary! :)

[NoVAphotog]

Very nice, Charlie! Taking advantage of the long weekend the best way possible! :thumbsup

[cakM3]

My new oil filter cap came in the mail this afternoon!! :roundel

I will be polishing this part just like what Gary did for his. This cap is quality!!! :thumbsup


http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/08/0b80984d3ee330616f5d317e7d34647c.jpg

In the background is my new copy of Roundel magazine ;)
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/08/e5e142f0fb9338714483285f178fb5e0.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/08/a2a725a2194703906908f2ebb5ade2ba.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/08/b1947f8e6fed9901a414b5176ba06c4e.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/08/53f328bb1e317acc7c8cb225a7a52141.jpg


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[Jconlin16]

That thing looks sweet! I'm guessing they don't sell an m54 oil filter cap?

[cakM3]

That thing looks sweet! I'm guessing they don't sell an m54 oil filter cap?

not that I know of or I would have this on my ZHP as well :)

[cakM3]

I polished my new part just like Gary did for his and this is how it turned out.... a real piece of art if you ask me. :roundel

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5631/21231127036_0444a96061_o.png

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/659/21070506119_163d76413d_o.png

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/642/20636249163_6c4eac9e2b_o.png

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5693/21070505609_273887300f_o.png

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/689/21070505879_5823f602aa_o.png

This is exactly what I have been looking for for quite some time... I can't thank Gary enough for the heads up!! :thumbsup

By the time I finished polishing this part, I had to have it installed on the ///M only to realize I will need a new oil filter retaining nut to keep everything looking nice.... it was fairly dark outside and so I ended up using a flash to capture these pics...

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/754/20645949514_cb0528fa47_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/681/20645950934_9b6155a6ed_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/637/21268661435_c6f4881fca_b.jpg

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5760/20647504413_f903981ce9_b.jpg

You can see the reflections from the flash of my DSLR onto my airbox... this part is shiny! Dremel is your friend... ;)

[Technoman]

That looks awesome!!

For the M54, there are options. There is this from ECS: http://www.ecstuning.com/News/BMW_E85_Z4_25i_30i_ECS_Billet_Aluminum_Oil_Filter_ Housing_2003_2004_2005_2006/ES2738405/

This one from VAC has ports on it: https://store.vacmotorsports.com/vac-billet-oil-filter-lid-wsensor-ports-bmw-m54-p1776.aspx

But perhaps the nicest looking one is this one from China at an astonishingly low price: http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Adapter-Cover-Cap-for-Oil-Filter-Housing-323-E36-323i-328i-E39-523i-528i-E46-328/101287_32249133184.html

[WOLFN8TR]

Shinny!! Looks so good on the engine. :drool

How long did it take you to polish it?

[cakM3]

Shinny!! Looks so good on the engine. :drool

How long did it take you to polish it?

Gary, I'd say about a half hour. I was taking my time when I polished my cap :)


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[TheFinanceGuy]

Fantastic updates Charlie!

[cakM3]

Fantastic updates Charlie!

Thanks Patrick! I will have my ///M back up soon enough :)

[johnrando]

Sweet!

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[cakM3]

Maintenance/repairs are about to commence....


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[WOLFN8TR]

Get er done! [emoji106]

[cakM3]

Get er done! [emoji106]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/18/53f158c255cdf37fe7c336fed4eaae23.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/18/621b1d3d8e205c1383b0f936414b406c.jpg

Got the parts....will be doing this in the morning then planning to road test my ///M in the afternoon [emoji41]


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[ELCID86]

Are you just doing the high pressure hose?


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[cakM3]

Are you just doing the high pressure hose?


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

Right now I'm just doing the high pressure hose....the low pressure hoses are still in good shape. In Spring when it gets warmer, I will complete the replacement of all hoses in my power steering system. Right now I just want to get the ///M back on the road before the season ends....I have put around 2k miles all year on her this year....

[ELCID86]

Right now I'm just doing the high pressure hose....the low pressure hoses are still in good shape. In Spring when it gets warmer, I will complete the replacement of all hoses in my power steering system. Right now I just want to get the ///M back on the road before the season ends....I have put around 2k miles all year on her this year....

Good deal. I need to do at least low pressure hoses on Colin's car soon.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[anandoc]

Goodluck with the maintenance work tomorrow morning!

BTW, you might want to remove the picture of the invoice (or blur out the details) - it has your name and full address. Identity theft and all that...

[cakM3]

on it, thanks :thumbsup

I got this maintenance...

[cakM3]

Mission accomplished! New part installed...
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/19/744415a68c4e3182094e37ea6cc62052.jpg


Old part
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/19/80c2f4d1cf9b0dcdc71dec44e311bb7e.jpg

You can see where the hose failed
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/19/393f0378d6d8ccb85ecc47b3c9adae19.jpg

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[WOLFN8TR]

Today I finally took out the Bosch lens from my headlight assemblies in my ///M and installed my ZKW lens.

Anyway here are a few pics from today's lens transplant...
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/07/2b03dfaaf0b5e44d50758cd796f7bde3.jpg


Good job on the PS hose replacement!

Charlie where did you get the ZKW lenses from?

One of these?

http://www.morimotohid.com/all-products/zkw-r-clear-lenses.html

http://www.theretrofitsource.com/components/lenses/zkw-r-clear-lenses.html#.Vf2qULQmjp7

[cakM3]

Good job on the PS hose replacement!

Thanks Gary! Once I got into doing the replacement I realized how easy doing this maintenance really is! I had a lot of time so I took it easy and took plenty of time doing this job. Tomorrow I will have my M3 fully put back together and it will be road-worthy again. :) Since my Hamann fog covers broke for some reason, I took them off and am staying with the OEM look. I installed my OEM M3 fog covers (taken from my ZHP) and will stay with that look for the time being....just going for a slightly different look...;)


Charlie where did you get the ZKW lenses from?

One of these?

http://www.morimotohid.com/all-products/zkw-r-clear-lenses.html

http://www.theretrofitsource.com/components/lenses/zkw-r-clear-lenses.html#.Vf2qULQmjp7

Sent you text Gary. As for which one to go with I don't think you can go wrong going with any of these. When I initially looked at both I was going to go with the retrofit source lenses but I think the morimoto ones are just as good. If anything, send both of them an email and see what they have to say :thumbsup

[ELCID86]

Charlie do you end up loosing all the PS fluid? Special tools needed?


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[cakM3]

Charlie do you end up loosing all the PS fluid? Special tools needed?


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

For the ///M the high pressure power steering hose helped lose pretty much all of my fluid levels which is why I opted to have my ///M towed the day that hose failed. Ended up being a smart move on my part so I didn't ruin my power steering pump or steering rack.

As for tools Shawn, all I needed to swap my hose was a 19mm socket for the steering rack banjo bolt, a 22mm socket for the power steering banjo bolt, and an 8mm socket for the support bracket at the loop end of the high pressure power steering hose (no special tools needed for this job). This hose is different from the high pressure power steering hose on my ZHP. fittings are very different. I can say that connecting the high pressure power steering hose on the ///M was so much easier than it was for the ZHP due to the difference in connectors.... I will have to find a picture showing the differences. The one on the ZHP does not use banjo bolts on the power steering pump. They "press" in which I find is harder than using banjo bolts.

[cakM3]

Tonight I aimed my headlights and am impressed by just how bright my AL headlight assemblies are using ZKW lenses vice the Bosch lenses they came with.... I like the sharper light projection the ZKW lenses provide :thumbsup

This is with low beams selected...
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5641/21541560472_cc69100322_b.jpg

This is with high beams selected....
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5730/20931640673_b75b206e0e_b.jpg

...now that's what I call bright, aircraft style!! :thumbsup ;)

[cakM3]

tomorrow I will change out steering wheels and install Rando's perforated leather steering wheel on the ///M....

[cakM3]

I changed out steering wheels this morning so I can start the process of cleaning my alcantara steering wheels...

Rando's perforated leather steering wheel is now installed in the ///M
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/20/77639240cf0c8e70fe8d1e700486c291.jpg

My alcantara wheel sitting in the garage at the moment, will be taking it inside soon
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/20/096f044ea8016e781fccd56c29d491c2.jpg

Got my under panel for my engine back on after cleaning off all the crap...man was it dirty!!
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/20/fafa4dafd831cc9535386289df5008e0.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/20/d56cfd5220ba8f2adf0c60a0bfbc1c06.jpg

Then I topped off ATF in my power steering reservoir and reinstalled my Gruppe M CAI. Also readjusted my angel eyes on my passenger's side headlight assembly...

All I need to do is retorque my front wheels then it's road test time ;)

Repairs/mods have been completed on my ///M for the time being... :)


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[WOLFN8TR]

Nice work! :fistpump

[cakM3]

Thanks. Gary!!

I took my M3 out on a road test after completing all my repairs and installing new mods. My M3 felt and sounded great!

The car seemed to reset it's adaptation since I relocated the IAT sensor to my driver's side brake duct and had disconnected my battery to swap out steering wheels. Car felt much more responsive.

Power steering feels perfect now after I replaced the faulty high pressure power steering hose. Checked for leaks and my engine bay looks pristine with no leaks evident. My M3 is back and I'm driving it all next week :roundel

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/20/c158c6a7f700bedb115c97be6d056447.jpg

Mileage: 167,827

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[WOLFN8TR]

167K and it looks like new! [emoji106]

[cakM3]

167K and it looks like new! [emoji106]

Thanks Gary! Lots of TLC went into this car :thumbsup


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[TheFinanceGuy]

167K and it looks like new! [emoji106]

Better than new!

[cakM3]

Better than new!

That's the plan Patrick, thanks! :thumbsup

[slater]

Tonight I aimed my headlights and am impressed by just how bright my AL headlight assemblies are using ZKW lenses vice the Bosch lenses they came with.... I like the sharper light projection the ZKW lenses provide :thumbsup



hey charlie, i removed the ZKW lenses when i did the TRS retrofit in my ZHP... cut-off with the TRS lenses is OK, not awesome. should i put the ZKW lenses in there? will the output and cutoff be better?

thanks!

peter

[cakM3]

hey charlie, i removed the ZKW lenses when i did the TRS retrofit in my ZHP... cut-off with the TRS lenses is OK, not awesome. should i put the ZKW lenses in there? will the output and cutoff be better?

thanks!

peter

Peter, I thought the TRS lens were equivilant to the ZKW lens. If that's the case, I don't see any advantage. If the TRS lens are frosted then I would say hell yeah change them out for the ZKW lens. You would have to verify the lenses I'm afraid...


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[slater]

Peter, I thought the TRS lens were equivilant to the ZKW lens. If that's the case, I don't see any advantage. If the TRS lens are frosted then I would say hell yeah change them out for the ZKW lens. You would have to verify the lenses I'm afraid...


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

OK, i'll compare them. :)

thanks charlie!

peter

[cakM3]

My next project on my ///M will be to upgrade my Performance SSK with this item... ;)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/741/21600646282_edee49d2c0_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/595/21425088019_ffb0e2560b_b.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/21/54cba9a20eca12f1529b4801a484dad9.jpg


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[johnrando]

Cool

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Pip]

What brand is that Charlie?

[cakM3]

What brand is that Charlie?

When I got the part, I was told it was a UUC EVO3 SSK Sean. I couldn't pass on the price so I snagged it. All I have to do is clean it up, relube and then install. I will source the DSSR as well then make plans to have the SSK installed. :thumbsup

[cakM3]

A few pics from last Thursday's local BMW meet...
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/733/21573841878_ab7e551f47_b.jpg

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5650/21140674803_ebee310e19_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/668/21761693755_a799a63cc7_b.jpg

Yes....this is my car...


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[rkneeshaw]

like!

[WOLFN8TR]

I like #2! You can see the difference in the ZKW light upgrade you just did. :thumbsup

[cakM3]

I like #2! You can see the difference in the ZKW light upgrade you just did. :thumbsup

The lighting was amazing when I drove home from the meet Gary! Best part is that they are all OEM BMW parts :thumbsup No aftermarket anything in these headlight assemblies other than the fact I did the lens swap :)

[330i ZHP]

wow, I had a lot to catch up on - looks great

[cakM3]

wow, I had a lot to catch up on - looks great

Means a lot to me when you approve Stuart! :thumbsup Thanks! :)

[BADCLOWN]

looking extra good!

[cakM3]

looking extra good!

Thanks! :thumbsup

[johnrando]

For sure

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

:)


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[Johnmadd]

I need to figure out if the e90 retrofit headlights I bought from joop have the zkw lenses, if they don't I need to swap in mine from my burnt bowl assemblies.

[cakM3]

I need to figure out if the e90 retrofit headlights I bought from joop have the zkw lenses, if they don't I need to swap in mine from my burnt bowl assemblies.

John, you can easily tell by the pic below

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/29/2d6f06a3d30b76b29b9a237f85994e89.jpg

Lens on left is what comes with the AL headlight assemblies. They have that horizontal line and are Bosch lens.

The lens on the right are clear and polished and are ZKW lens.


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[az3579]

I need to figure out if the e90 retrofit headlights I bought from joop have the zkw lenses, if they don't I need to swap in mine from my burnt bowl assemblies.

The E90 projectors are ZKW if I remember correctly, so they should be ZKW lenses. Looking at some E90 headlight pictures, they don't have a line through them.

[Johnmadd]

John, you can easily tell by the pic below

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/09/29/2d6f06a3d30b76b29b9a237f85994e89.jpg

Lens on left is what comes with the AL headlight assemblies. They have that horizontal line and are Bosch lens.

The lens on the right are clear and polished and are ZKW lens.


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk


The E90 projectors are ZKW if I remember correctly, so they should be ZKW lenses. Looking at some E90 headlight pictures, they don't have a line through them.

Thanks for the info guys.

[cakM3]

Thanks for the info guys.

Glad to help a friend ;)


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

Updating my project thread... changed out my Bimmian cell phone holder for the Caseco Core360 cell phone mount.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/656/22441931845_80c8befaa3_b.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/619/22254228908_4b7ed877db_b.jpg
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5720/22255121929_062d7ac121_b.jpg
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5634/22254222978_211ca0858e_b.jpg

I like it. Best part is I get to keep the Bimmian cell phone mount and just change out the cell phone holders. Holds my iPhone while driving over rough patches/pot holes... Now when I get my iPhone 6S after the holidays, I won't have to worry about finding another cell phone holder. This will work perfectly with the new phone.

http://www.caseco.ca/product-category/car-mounts/ (http://www.caseco.ca/product-category/car-mounts/)

[WOLFN8TR]

Now I wish I hadn't sold my Bimmian mount! Well done Charlie! [emoji106][emoji106] I will be getting one of these bad boys and a new mount in the near future. [emoji41]

[cakM3]

Now I wish I hadn't sold my Bimmian mount! Well done Charlie! [emoji106][emoji106] I will be getting one of these bad boys and a new mount in the near future. [emoji41]

I think you will like this Gary....but I realize this is not a mount for everyone and that's okay. Since I'm the driver, this mount works for me and that's what matters ;) In my opinion, I think it will look great in your ///M :thumbsup Looks great in mine ;)

[Johnmadd]

That is very cool. :like

[cakM3]

This is the cell phone side of the mount...

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/745/22431608262_6d7c8fb7dc_b.jpg
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5832/22455807861_88a8acb6a6_b.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/781/22444889295_689347a167_b.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/720/22418908396_c60534e1a6_b.jpg

[Johnmadd]

You could even use this with a cover. John want :biggrin

[WOLFN8TR]

You could even use this with a cover. John want :biggrin

Me too so I ordered one and a Bimmian bracket only. [emoji2][emoji106]

[ELCID86]

You could even use this with a cover. John want :biggrin

+1. I wonder if it will "stick" to the phone thru a cover? And you still have the Bimmian mount to the dash?


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[Johnmadd]

+1. I wonder if it will "stick" to the phone thru a cover? And you still have the Bimmian mount to the dash?


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

I believe you would adhere the washer to your case instead of the phone. I use bumper cases on my phones so there is no back.

[ELCID86]

I thought the "washer" was a magnet?


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[cakM3]

I thought the "washer" was a magnet?


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jbgNPD_-60


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RsFmqkHLrrs

[Johnmadd]

That first video is nice, I hope Charlie can confirm that it doesn't affect the phone with the magnitisum down the line.

[ELCID86]

3M adhesive. Thanks.


Thumbs, iPhone, TaT.

[cakM3]

This will be my M3's next upgrade project thanks to Rando :thumbsup Looking back I have had many wonderful upgrade opportunities thanks to a few awesome forum members here.... you guys know who you are!!! My sincere thanks for all your help :biggrin

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5818/22605326618_7e1dfa940f_h.jpg

Rando will be getting this for his Valentine One :)
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5656/23050232931_1d57c5da78_b.jpg

[johnrando]

:thumbup

[kakashi169]

Love the work Charlie, can you PM me the part number for that side cup holder in the foot well? I am interested in that item.

[NoVAphotog]

Love the work Charlie, can you PM me the part number for that side cup holder in the foot well? I am interested in that item.

:thumbsup

Charlie can clarify, but i'm pretty sure that is one of these:

http://www.ultimatecupholders.com/

[johnrando]

It is, I have one.

[cakM3]

It is, I have one.

+1

[330i ZHP]

Will it hold a super big gulp

[cakM3]

Will it hold a super big gulp

I will not confirm that....


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD

[johnrando]

:)

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

My ultimate cup holder serves one purpose in my ///M.... it holds my Starbucks travel mug and does this quite well :thumbsup

[cakM3]

Updating my mod list.....



My ///M as it stands going into the 2016 season:


- Laminex 50% smoke film for corner and tail lights
- 35% ceramic window tint
- OEM Black full Interior Retrofit (dash, rear deck, seats, carpeting and interior plastics)
- OEM CSL Interior Door Panels
- OEM CSL Door Handles
- OEM CSL Bootlid
- OEM BMW Performance Short Shift Kit
- BMW Performance Carbon Fiber Strut Brace
- OEM BMW Factory alarm retrofit
- OEM BMW TCU 13th Gen upgrade/retrofit
- OEM LCM s/w vers 4.5 coded/installed; one touch-triple blink enabled
- OEM Oval rear view auto-dim mirror modded to work with BMW assist
- OEM F10 ///M5 lit shift knob retrofit
- ///M oil cap
- OEM E92 LED license plate lights
- OEM BMW First Aid Kit
- OEM BMW Windshield @ 150,000 mi
- OEM BMW ALU TECH interior trim - ZCP option only
- OEM BMW Titan Shadow interior trim - spare set
- Sprint Booster ... yes ...
- Tekarbon 1x1 Carbon Fiber CSL rear diffuser panel
- 365Autosports one-piece CSL carbon fiber lip spoiler (ICONZ style)
- Scorza Carbon Fiber CSL center console w/ proper functioning mirror control switch installed
- BC Racing "BR series" coilovers
- Authentic Gruppe M Carbon Kevlar CAI
- Afe smooth Intake elbow
- ///M aluminum pedals
- Color matched corner reflectors
- White LED side markers
- CDV delete
- Monochrome ///M badges
- Monochrome BMW Roundels (TiAg/White)
- Valentine V1 hardwire
- Eurosport Design Stainless Steel double-walled exhaust tips
- SIRIUS Satellite Starmate 4 Radio integration
- HID 6000k lighting (D2S and 9006)
- Wheel stud conversion (75mm studs)
- Brake Force Display (BFD) Stage 3 coded in
- Stereo upgrade from stock HK - Rockford Fosgate speakers/amp & Alpine speakers/QuartMB amp subwoofer - Thanks Kyle!!!
- Rear window switch mod to allow one-touch close feature - thanks Kyle!!!
- Smoked side markers - thanks Kyle!!!
- Fenders rolled (Done when I attended the 3rd reunion meet, thanks Dane!!!)
- Carbon Fiber e-Brake handle - thanks Ryan!!!
- ZKW lens swap from the OE Bosch lens


Wheel Sets (yes, I have three complete wheel sets for my ///M):
- ARC8 18" hypersilver wheels w/ Hankook Ventus V12s 245/275s (summer ///M wheels) 18X9.5 ET22 and 18x10.5 ET27
- 19" BBS CH wheels w/ Falken 452's 245/275s (summer use only) 19X8.5 ET20 (CH14) and 19X10 ET20 (CH17)
- Rear OEM 18's (Style 67s) w/ Hankook Ventus V12s 265 square


Upcoming 2016 season maintenance / mods...


- Toyo Proxes T1 Sport 245/35 ZR19/275/30 ZR19 tires for BBS CH wheel set
- Hankook Ventus V12 275/30 ZR18 tires for ARC-8 rear wheels
- Full oil change (engine, tranny, diff) before taking her out for the 2016 season
- EVO III SSK w/ DSSR install
- New rear BMW Performance Euro cross-drilled rotors
- Rebuilt calipers painted in black
- Alpine PXA-H100 DSP integration into my Intravee II setup (DSP integration into stereo system)
- StealthOne integration into Navigation for Valentine One
- OEM CSL headers (poss 2016 season)



Deleted Mods:

1) OEM BMW 6-disc CD changer - Deleted stored in closet

2) AutoCarbon Carbon Fiber full interior trim - Deleted - sent to Kyle (Static667)

3) Scorza Carbon Fiber CSL Bootlid - Deleted - sold to Sean


Just went over 170,250 miles


I updated my list to keep everything straight going into the 2016 season. From here I can start looking at priorities mods with my daily driver taking priority obviously... More to come....

[Sockethead]

Hey Charlie I ran across this on YouTube... thought you might enjoy it :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXnRyO38_rQ

[cakM3]

Hey Charlie I ran across this on YouTube... thought you might enjoy it :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXnRyO38_rQ

Thanks for the inspirational video Rob! :thumbsup

[rguti153]

F no !!!! Never

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[ELCID86]

Wow. I had no idea the whole interior had to be removed.


---
"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

[cakM3]

F no !!!! Never

You won't have to worry about this since there are no carbon fiber roof panels for sedans... only coupes.


Wow. I had no idea the whole interior had to be removed.

That's why it's so expensive to do this Shawn... once I have everything sorted out regarding my current projects/maintenance I will get to this on my M3. I think when I do this I will take out my CSL door cards and put them away before taking the ///M to the body shop for surgery...

[BMWCurves]

Wow. I had no idea the whole interior had to be removed.


---
"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

Me neither. Yeesh. Great time to do other maintenance though while you have the whole thing apart. Love the white exterior with red interior on that car though :drool

[ELCID86]

Yeah like have sound dreading installed (if not already).


---
"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

[rguti153]

I mean it looks so good when on , but damn so much work

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

I mean it looks so good when on , but damn so much work.

X2...That's unbelievable just how much work. Looks Great indeed.

[cakM3]

X2...That's unbelievable just how much work. Looks Great indeed.

I knew what I was in for when I purchased my Challenge CSL carbon fiber roof panel. I just need to free up money to get it installed.... still many more parts to source and then save for labor... but maintenance has to come first...

[johnrando]

Where wld u get the CSL intake from?

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

Where wld u get the CSL intake from?

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

When I'm ready I will get mine from here...

http://forum.s14power.com/index.php?threads/carbon-airbox-and-alpha-n-gb-2015-s14-s50-s54-s65.7481/ (http://forum.s14power.com/index.php?threads/carbon-airbox-and-alpha-n-gb-2015-s14-s50-s54-s65.7481/)

[johnrando]

Wow, thx.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[derbo]

mmm CSL intake mani.

I'm just going to leave Kalim's engine bay here. :drool

http://i.imgur.com/fFKewFg.jpg

[BMWCurves]

Want.

[WOLFN8TR]

Motorsports Concepts Carbon Fiber Airbox $2000 obo

http://www.m3forum.net/m3forum/showthread.php?t=536773

[Pip]

Love Kalim's car. CSL intake will be awesome Charlie. I would get a 5150 called on me if I bought one

[cakM3]

I appreciate it Derek ;) Kalim's car is one of my favorites and I think I will use this wonderful picture you put in my project thread to keep motivating me towards getting a CSL intake someday... ;) Thanks!

Nice Sean! ;)

[Vas]

mmm CSL intake mani.

I'm just going to leave Kalim's engine bay here. :drool

http://i.imgur.com/fFKewFg.jpg
Goals

[derbo]

Love Kalim's car. CSL intake will be awesome Charlie. I would get a 5150 called on me if I bought one

Agreed. Kalim is one of the most knowledgable (and nice) e46 guys I know.


-Sent from Mobile

[johnrando]

Gary, link didn't work for me

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

Gary, link didn't work for me

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

Yeah.....link is broken - didn't work for me either John.

[RUS_ZHP]

When I'm ready I will get mine from here...

http://forum.s14power.com/index.php?threads/carbon-airbox-and-alpha-n-gb-2015-s14-s50-s54-s65.7481/ (http://forum.s14power.com/index.php?threads/carbon-airbox-and-alpha-n-gb-2015-s14-s50-s54-s65.7481/)
Wow! That's interesting

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[RUS_ZHP]

mmm CSL intake mani.

I'm just going to leave Kalim's engine bay here. :drool

http://i.imgur.com/fFKewFg.jpg
Damn

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

Gary, link didn't work for me


Yeah.....link is broken - didn't work for me either John.

Motorsports Concepts Carbon Fiber Airbox $2000 obo

http://www.m3forum.net/m3forum/showthread.php?t=536773

[UdubBadger]

Whoa


GoingHAM mobile

[BADCLOWN]

S54 in a ZHP?

[derbo]

S54 in a ZHP?

Kali's car is a 325i auto that was converted to an s54 manual sedan. The nickname of it is "332i." It's been setup to be smog legal in California and he is the guy that will pretty much help me when I go that route. Back to Charlie's intake, one thing Kalim and wing from performance tech talk about a lot is the idle hunt that occurs on the alpha tunes that are used with the CSL mani


Sent from Mobile

[ZHP_Brandon]

Kali's car is a 325i auto that was converted to an s54 manual sedan. The nickname of it is "332i." It's been setup to be smog legal in California and he is the guy that will pretty much help me when I go that route. Back to Charlie's intake, one thing Kalim and wing from performance tech talk about a lot is the idle hunt that occurs on the alpha tunes that are used with the CSL mani


Sent from Mobile

His car is the car that ApexRacing uses for the advertising of the Arc-8 face on Non-M cars, the car is beautiful


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

Since I have been doing stuff for my ZHP as of late, I decided it was time to pick up a new subwoofer amp for my ///M... soon it will be boom boom time for the ///M! Some of you heard my stereo at a reunion meet ;) It will be just as awesome when complete. I also need to integrate my Alpine PXA-H100 Digital Signal Processor into the stereo sometime this winter...

[cakM3]

My ///M is now properly washed and cleaned up, fluids checked, filled and put away for the winter :)
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1535/24454956449_0e77178078_b.jpg

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1567/24455081849_3f4ced51f3_b.jpg

This is right before I connected the battery tender to the battery terminals in the rear and put on my BMW car cover... Nice to have my ///M tucked away for a few weeks :thumbsup


Sent from my iPhone6S using Tapatalk

[BMWCurves]

Looks great, Charlie

[johnrando]

Goodnight!

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

Looks great, Charlie


Goodnight!


Thanks guys! ;) :thumbsup

[WOLFN8TR]

Looks good, don't forget to close the trunk! [emoji6]

[cakM3]

Looks good, don't forget to close the trunk! [emoji6]

CSL bootlid was closed but I pressed it shut, thanks for the reminder Gary! car is buttoned up for the winter season now. I'm happy because she's perfectly clean and under her car cover :thumbsup

[Sockethead]

My car cover is an old comforter...

[Johnmadd]

Since I have been doing stuff for my ZHP as of late, I decided it was time to pick up a new subwoofer amp for my ///M... soon it will be boom boom time for the ///M! Some of you heard my stereo at a reunion meet ;) It will be just as awesome when complete. I also need to integrate my Alpine PXA-H100 Digital Signal Processor into the stereo sometime this winter...

Mmmmmm.... I need boom in my zhp. What setup are you going with?

[cakM3]

Mmmmmm.... I need boom in my zhp. What setup are you going with?

John, this is my subwoofer setup. Kyle set all of this up when he did my stereo upgrade. Kyle knows how to set up a kick ass aftermarket stereo :thumbsup

Alpine SWR-10D2 subwoofer speaker
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1538/24197474703_f6dc57be9b_b.jpg
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1631/24824314575_62564ec191_b.jpg

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_45524_Alpine-Type-R-SWR-10D2.html (http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_45524_Alpine-Type-R-SWR-10D2.html)



Ground Shaker SQP 1 10 - 10" Single Slot Ported/Vented Pro Subwoofer Enclosure
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1692/24706457692_0cbf4bc498_b.jpg

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_62682_Ground-Shaker-SQP-1-10.html (http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_62682_Ground-Shaker-SQP-1-10.html)

they're discontinued but you can get them here: http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/400963633135?ul_noapp=true&chn=ps&lpid=82 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/400963633135?ul_noapp=true&chn=ps&lpid=82)


MB Quart RM1000.1 - 1000W Single Channel Monoblock Reference MYKRO Series Hybrid Class D Car Power Amplifier
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1632/24176108254_ff0eec3048_b.jpg

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_67887_MB-Quart-RM1000.1.html (http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_67887_MB-Quart-RM1000.1.html)


When Kyle was setting up the sound levels we were parked approximately 40 feet away from his house and his mom came out and startled both of us and had come out to tell us that my stereo was making her pictures rattle against the wall. This was 40 feet away. I was really impressed by the bass then. Love the sound of this stereo!

[Johnmadd]

Nice boom Charlie! That speaker is awesome. I have completely wired my e30 with boom but have been less aggressive on the zhp.

[cakM3]

Nice boom Charlie! That speaker is awesome. I have completely wired my e30 with boom but have been less aggressive on the zhp.

John, there's nothing more satisfying then when a punk pulls up alongside and starts jamming to his crap noise with distortion.... all I have to do is turn up my music and pump up the bass.... the music from my stereo is clean and I have hard deep punches from solid bass and can no longer hear unnecessary noise coming from his car and he is looking at me :) Very satisfying to say the least.....


There were a few people who have heard this setup at a reunion meet a few years back when we had it at Dane's house....I think you were there as well!

[Johnmadd]

I hear ya... no pun intended. :)

[cakM3]

;)

[johnrando]

Yup, it's def a kick azz system

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

Yup, it's def a kick azz system

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

there is a trade-off to having an awesome sounding stereo system but my ///M is a fun "weekend" car so the trade-off doesn't bother me too much :thumbsup

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1482/24808207566_9c37fc2b1c_h.jpg

[330i ZHP]

Charlie did something go wrong with sub?

[cakM3]

Charlie did something go wrong with sub?

there's a short somewhere in the amp. Every time I try to hook it back to the stereo system I blow the 4 30amp fuses on the amp

[BADCLOWN]

Those alpine R subs are the only ones I will ever buy. Love them, had'em in a few cars.

[cakM3]

Those alpine R subs are the only ones I will ever buy. Love them, had'em in a few cars.

yeah, they put out an impressive deep bass and punch! :thumbsup

[BADCLOWN]

I've always gone with 10 inch subs because of that exact reason, put that in the right box and they hit hard

[cakM3]

I've always gone with 10 inch subs because of that exact reason, put that in the right box and they hit hard

exactly! :thumbsup There are a few members here who have heard my setup in person... all were impressed with the sound output and quality. Kyle is the "car stereo whisperer" ;)

[cakM3]

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160209/31881d0c9f8dadb5df573f1f4b74ff7a.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160209/ae13cf3848bb4607340cb2face70f3ac.jpg

My replacement amp for my M3's subwoofer arrived this afternoon :) I have all winter to install this :)


Sent from my iPhone6S using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

It is nice to get a head start on Spring and get this cleaned up.... lots of patience and light brushing to get the alcantara prepped before using Sonax Alcantara cleaner.... on the wheel but the results are awesome!

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1528/24755707120_73e76f39b0_b.jpg

[WOLFN8TR]

Looking Good!

[cakM3]

Thanks Gary!

[BADCLOWN]

Did you get extra padding in your wheels?

[cakM3]

Did you get extra padding in your wheels?

Not sure about the history of this wheel other than I got this from illirep (Bill) a few years ago. Perhaps Bill can chime in regarding the wheel. When I compare this wheel to my ZHP's steering wheel they look to be the same exact diameter (thickness) Jacob.

[BADCLOWN]

Could just be the puffy factor of being clean, I've heard you can get extra padding on wheels from Coby if you desire.

[az3579]

Not sure about the history of this wheel other than I got this from illirep (Bill) a few years ago. Perhaps Bill can chime in regarding the wheel. When I compare this wheel to my ZHP's steering wheel they look to be the same exact diameter (thickness) Jacob.

Bill buys new wheels, so the wheel you have isn't padded any more than any of the M-Sport wheels sold by a dealer.

[poke08]

Out of curiosity, will the ZHP Performance rotors fit an M3 with stock calipers?

[cakM3]

Jon the answer is no. The ZHP Performance rotors are (325x25) and the M3 Performance rotors are (325x28). Different rotors.

[poke08]

Jon the answer is no. The ZHP Performance rotors are (325x25) and the M3 Performance rotors are (325x28). Different rotors.

Ahh, gotcha. The M is due for rear rotors and the thought crossed my mind.

[az3579]

Out of curiosity, will the ZHP Performance rotors fit an M3 with stock calipers?

They are the same diameter, only not as thick, so they should fit. I wouldn't run down the pads too close to the wear limit though because I'm not sure if the pistons would reach maximum extension due to the thinner rotor. Putting those rotors on is also technically a downgrade for the M3...

[cakM3]

I would stay with the thicker rotors that the M3 uses myself :thumbsup

[cakM3]

My inline subwoofer fuses arrived in the mail this afternoon so I will install them in the morning and get my M3 stereo system fully restored :thumbsup

It will be nice to hear solid deep bass again ;)


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[Ssparrow]

Nice! I need to get myself a sub and amp ASAP! Did you do the install yourself? I've been researching doing a sub for about a week now and I haven't found much about which wires to tap into and whatnot

[cakM3]

Nice! I need to get myself a sub and amp ASAP! Did you do the install yourself? I've been researching doing a sub for about a week now and I haven't found much about which wires to tap into and whatnot

I personally did not do the install on my "upgraded" stereo system. Kyle (Static667) did the install/upgrade for me. He will know the details of where to make all the necessary connections...


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[cakM3]

I went ahead and inserted the missing 40 amp missing inline positive fuse in my stereo system and then hooked everything back up. Tested my car and I now have a fully restored car stereo system with bass! I played a few songs just to make sure I had control of my subwoofer and everything worked as expected. On to my next mod.....;)

[Ssparrow]

I personally did not do the install on my "upgraded" stereo system. Kyle (Static667) did the install/upgrade for me. He will know the details of where to make all the necessary connections...


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Good stuff, thanks for the tip!

[cakM3]

Good stuff, thanks for the tip!

No problem! Kyle did an awesome job setting my M3 up! :thumbsup

[johnrando]

Glad ur back on action w/that, a sub makes such a big diff

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[cakM3]

Glad ur back on action w/that, a sub makes such a big diff

You're right John! I almost forgot what an experience it was having my sub... glad I finally got around to fixing this :)

[BMWCurves]

There's no substitute for good bass. Glad you got it all hooked up and working again!

I drove my father's 540i today that had the basic sound system. I forgot how terrible that system is, maybe 100 Watts. No subwoofer to speak of that didn't pop beyond 20% volume.

[cakM3]

There's no substitute for good bass. Glad you got it all hooked up and working again!

Been putting up with this for way too long. I agree...there's no substitute for good bass :thumbsup


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[Sockethead]

That's one thing the MDX has over the BMW. Good Bass/sound system. I wish BMW would put more effort into that. I'll have to see what kind of job I get in SC. If I'm not an IT road warrior, I'm going to add a sub

[cakM3]

That's one thing the MDX has over the BMW. Good Bass/sound system. I wish BMW would put more effort into that. I'll have to see what kind of job I get in SC. If I'm not an IT road warrior, I'm going to add a sub

Get in touch with with Kyle, he is awesome! :thumbsup


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[Sockethead]

I will when the time comes;) It's pretty low on the priority list right now though...

[cakM3]

I will when the time comes;) It's pretty low on the priority list right now though...

Understood Rob :thumbsup


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[cakM3]

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1477/25322332235_74f5712679_b.jpg

Just purchased a set of these tonight. CREE 6000k LED fogs that I will be modding to replace the HID fogs I currently have. :roundel

[cakM3]

All this work has been put in the ///M over the past few years. Converted the OE grey interior to all black using OEM parts...Botond was there to witness this event...

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/M3/ScreenShot2013-12-28at91705PM_zpsddd52952.png

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/M3/ScreenShot2013-12-28at91717PM_zps0474cc88.png

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/M3/ScreenShot2013-12-28at91732PM_zps05951ba4.png

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/M3/ScreenShot2013-12-28at91742PM_zps1ceb7c73.png


Installed OEM CSL door panels...

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/585/23016187684_6b107116c4_b.jpg

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5802/23618278066_bcc46a69e8_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/748/23348662820_4083f4630b_b.jpg


Installed a Scorza CSL Center Console and rerouted the door mirror switch controls to it...

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5726/23016188514_87e33d5e36_b.jpg


Swapped out my Scorza CSL carbon fiber bootlid in favor of an OEM CSL bootlid ;)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/528/20387734485_66f9e288f3_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/517/20379151432_b0f7b9a8ef_b.jpg


and did a bunch more fun mods.... all of this got noticed by one of the co-founders of Broke-East and my M3 got an invite to their huge Spring 2016 meet where I will be parked at their Broke East booth at their event. :) Quite a complement to my "work in progress" :thumbsup

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1496/25460675465_ab6fb804c4_b.jpg

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1677/24833543533_70c77f6ea8_b.jpg

Just got my email today confirming my invite and spot. :thumbsup Feels nice that I am recognized by local enthusiasts that they want to have my car at their local meets. Looking forward to spending some time with many people and share ideas :thumbsup

[johnrando]

Awesome!

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[cakM3]

Awesome!

Thanks John! I feel the same way :)

[UdubBadger]

Very cool


GoingHAM mobile

[cakM3]

I will need a new headliner cover panel then I can insert the homelink module in it. The new panel will have the sunroof switch delete in it [emoji41]

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160303/89c8dc5fb26a6410bfe2c1e9f7ae309a.jpg

This is the module I will get from Chris.[emoji5]


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[WOLFN8TR]

Dam Charlie those pictures of your M3 gutted is crazy!!! [emoji51]

[cakM3]

Dam Charlie those pictures of your M3 gutted is crazy!!! [emoji51]

That's how much I really hate the E46 Grey interior Gary... I find it ugly. Grey carpeting, grey seats, solid grey door panels, grey/black two tone dash, grey center console.... just too damned much in grey, no thanks! Not my cup of tea.....

I prefer the all black interior with some OEM CSL touches inside much more :thumbsup You'll see!

[WOLFN8TR]

I agree....

[BADCLOWN]

The grey interior really ruins a lot of very nice E46 M cars. I agree with Charlie: it's god awful.

[cakM3]

The grey interior really ruins a lot of very nice E46 M cars. I agree with Charlie: it's god awful.

Going forward if I happen to see an E46 ///M with every option I want with ultra low mileage but has that awful grey interior, I will pass. I would rather have a car with some mileage on it but well taken care of than a car with an interior I can't stand to be in...

[BADCLOWN]

Agreed. I'm very picky on interiors. My main gripe is the "volkswagenized" interiors that are a 50/50 spilt between a black bottom/tan top. All black/dark interiors look so much better.

[cakM3]

Agreed. I'm very picky on interiors. My main gripe is the "volkswagenized" interiors that are a 50/50 spilt between a black bottom/tan top. All black/dark interiors look so much better.

:like

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/747/23276398769_68661b9639_b.jpg

[fw_fw]

Grey is not *THAT* bad.....now beige on the other hand.....

[az3579]

Grey is not *THAT* bad.....now beige on the other hand.....
Grey and beige are in exactly the same boat. Way too much grey. Way too much beige. They should have two toned those interiors like they did with Natural Brown.

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[cakM3]

Grey and beige are in exactly the same boat. Way too much grey. Way too much beige. They should have two toned those interiors like they did with Natural Brown.

This!

[fw_fw]

They should have two toned those interiors like they did with Natural Brown.



Agree with that, but still like Grey better than Beige any day of the week. FWIW, you can use black mats with the grey to help offset it, got some black cocomats on order myself.. Yes, I do wish I had the solid black myself, but grey I can live with, beige....NEVER!!!!

[cakM3]

No grey or beige in any car I own....

[fw_fw]

No grey or beige in any car I own....

This is the first non-black interior in a BMW for me....yes, I wish it were all black inside, but at the price I got mine I couldn't pass her up.....

[cakM3]

I have to go to work today but good thing is that my LED fogs are going to be waiting for me when I get home this afternoon [emoji41][emoji41]

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160304/cfc2f98e667b16562480763a949795b3.jpg


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[fw_fw]

Can't wait to see how those turn out!

[cakM3]

Got home and took a look at my new LED fog lights...
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160304/37e88289abbcd854ac92704babe8e096.jpg

They look nice...
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160304/3877ce7a9dc83070354d557e7ee937d9.jpg
This is used to connect the LED fogs to our electrical harness [emoji41]

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160304/0de9ae80f0c2cebd3ee441ec3eae6bf7.jpg
Did a quick electrical check and the new LED fog light (on right) outshined my HID fogs.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160304/8c549e6f349a8af6533112440401801c.jpg
Here are the E46 fog light housing (bottom of pic) compared to the X5/X3 LED fog light housings (on top)
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160304/5586f147c75cec225dd9db8bed5adcef.jpg

All I got to do is work on getting the new fog light housing mounted and I'm done [emoji1360] Too cold outside to work and I'm currently nursing a sinus head cold so I will be doing this once the weather improves and I get over this cold... This is going to look sharp! :roundel


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[Johnmadd]

That output is amazing.

[cakM3]

That output is amazing.

Yeah, I was thinking the same exact thing John. Once I get over this damned sinus head cold and the weather gets warm... I will be on this :)

[WOLFN8TR]

Got home and took a look at my new LED fog lights...
They look nice...
This is used to connect the LED fogs to our electrical harness [emoji41]

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160304/0de9ae80f0c2cebd3ee441ec3eae6bf7.jpg
Did a quick electrical check and the new LED fog light (on right) outshines my HID fogs.

WOW!! :jawdrop :jawdrop :jawdrop :jawdrop

[BADCLOWN]

Not going to lie, I'm surprised by the light output. Do these have good reviews? Constructed well?

[cakM3]

Not going to lie, I'm surprised by the light output. Do these have good reviews? Constructed well?


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQp3PieO2xs

[johnrando]

I can tell you're excited to put these on.

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[cakM3]

I can tell you're excited to put these on.

I am John but right now I'm not thrilled having this darned sinus head cold.... when I get this it is bad...

[cakM3]

I received Andrew's package in the mail today...thanks Andrew!!
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1506/25506050431_1f16116afc_c.jpg

His Homelink module arrived in perfect shape :)
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160307/c15af4cc13d0a471a53bfb6469e6aaa8.jpg
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160307/f08c124735ff9def3080af3e1d556ac4.jpg

I went ahead and modded the headliner cover that the sunroof switch and bluetooth microphone mounts on to install my Homelink module...
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160307/83fcfc4a0474d0ab7751985d1d62ffb7.jpg
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160307/5dbbd38126d33a3896a2cacbf52c5304.jpg

The plastic part cuts off very easy, then I put an X-cut in the center and proceeded to install the Homelink Module...
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160307/b0b44db6d5c6e7bd6e7a554155bdfd48.jpg

Perfect fit [emoji1360][emoji41] When I went to make the connection I realized I will have to reroute some wiring so everything will snap in without having to be very tight...yeah I sorta have a rat's nest up there...
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160307/45d369fccb801b4c22794ff269ff44e6.jpg

I'll save the sorting out for another day when I have more time...

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160307/830459071cc09ac9ef71fde4e3296771.jpg

Everything buttoned up and done! Another OEM Mod complete for my ///M [emoji4]

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160307/40788fe9a0376c86b2bd417d228a7f3c.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160307/432362837af0ae3d43299d9203a8693d.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160307/9ba88b0f9a088a29054f539da82fee2f.jpg

This was one of the easiest mods yet on this car [emoji41]


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[ELCID86]

Nice add. I like mine a lot.


---
"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

[cakM3]

Nice add. I like mine a lot.

My ZHP has Homelink and I got used to having it so when I looked at my M3, I didn't want to lose the Oval ///M rear view mirror so this was my solution to having Homelink in the ///M. It was very easy to reset and reprogram one of the buttons to work with my garage door opener. Nice to have clean OEM functionality in the car :thumbsup

[Pip]

Home link is a great addition because it cleans up the interior but mine doesn't seem to work at longer distances (end of driveway) which is my only gripe.


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[cakM3]

Home link is a great addition because it cleans up the interior but mine doesn't seem to work at longer distances (end of driveway) which is my only gripe.

I will find out just how good my Homelink is tomorrow when I take my M3 out for a ride. A friend of mine told me yesterday that my M3 must have been a stripped-down model because it did not come with Homelink from the factory.... :/

It's okay because when I'm done my M3 will have every option I care to have in it ;) Individualized - Charrie style.

[slater]

Home link is a great addition because it cleans up the interior but mine doesn't seem to work at longer distances (end of driveway) which is my only gripe.

i just installed a homelink module in my ZHP. i have one in my odyssey too. they both stop working at the end of my driveway (150'), which is about the same range as my actual garage door opener - so no qualms here!



It's okay because when I'm done my M3 will have every option I care to have in it ;) Individualized - Charrie style.

LOL. do your friends tell you that too? my best friend, who i've known for 30 years now, and has seen all of my car charades... calls what i do "The Slater Package." LOL.

it's good to know what ya like. ;)

:cheers

[cakM3]

LOL. do your friends tell you that too? my best friend, who i've known for 30 years now, and has seen all of my car charades... calls what i do "The Slater Package." LOL.

I like it! :biggrin


it's good to know what ya like. ;)

I totally agree Peter! :thumbsup

[slater]

I like it! :biggrin

even my wife calls it that now too. :)

[Pip]

I will find out just how good my Homelink is tomorrow when I take my M3 out for a ride. A friend of mine told me yesterday that my M3 must have been a stripped-down model because it did not come with Homelink from the factory.... :/

It's okay because when I'm done my M3 will have every option I care to have in it ;) Individualized - Charrie style.

Mine came without it as well. Had the SOS mirror but I removed that and transferred the home link from my ZHP.


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[jakksfor20]

Glad to help, Charlie.

[cakM3]

I've had my Homelink module installed for about 5 days now and it actually operates better than the garage door opener I have been using. I really love the OEM integration this Homelink module provides. On to my other projects now ����

[fredo]

Sounds good, Charrie ! For some reason, I could not make the Homelink on my e90 work with my garage door. Now I hesitate to try this with the ZHP.

[jakksfor20]

Sounds good, Charrie ! For some reason, I could not make the Homelink on my e90 work with my garage door. Now I hesitate to try this with the ZHP.

I've got another one that I can send you. Think it cost me $6 to ship it to Charlie. You can try it, if it does or does not work then you can buy it or ship back to me. Just temporary it up there to try.


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[BMWCurves]

Sounds good, Charrie ! For some reason, I could not make the Homelink on my e90 work with my garage door. Now I hesitate to try this with the ZHP.

Have you ever gotten HomeLink to work? You might have rolling codes which requires an extra step when programming the HomeLink module.

[cakM3]

Have you ever gotten HomeLink to work? You might have rolling codes which requires an extra step when programming the HomeLink module.

William, I was able to clear all settings on my Homelink module and then reprogram one of the buttons to my garage door opener without any issues. Yes I have rolling codes and did not have any problem with reprogramming :)