Charlie's ///M Project Thread

[cakM3]

Got my Engine cover badge monochromed this evening...

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/27/7bde79ea36e5157dd8d099f1ff473510.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/27/261b3b34e3ad6969e32a12a3c63c5f3f.jpg

iPhone pics for now...it's supposed to be nice out on Sunday....can't believe this being in New England!! Anyway, I'll work on better quality daylight pics of my ///M's engine bay ;)

Thanks Gary!! :thumbsup


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[johnrando]

Nice

Sent from mobile

[WOLFN8TR]

Looks Great!

[cakM3]

Nice

Sent from mobile


Looks Great!


Thanks guys! :)

[ELCID86]

Subdued. I like it.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[cakM3]

Subdued. I like it.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

Thanks Shawn! I pretty much have everything monochromed regarding the ///M badge on my M3 so having this was a nice touch :)

[cakM3]

2004 M3 For Sale


Here are a list of things that have been done thus far...

- OEM Black Interior Retrofit (dash, rear deck, and carpeting)
- 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 Black interior seats front and back full lumbar support w/ Memory
- OEM Oval rear view auto-dim mirror
- OEM F10 ///M5 lit shift knob retrofit
- OEM E92 LED license plate lights
- OEM BMW First Aid Kit
- OEM BMW Windshield @ 150,000 mi
- OEM BMW ALU TECH interior trim
- OEM BMW Titan Shadow interior trim - spares
- ///M oil cap
- Sprint Booster
- Tekarbon 1x1 Carbon Fiber CSL rear diffuser
- 365Autosports one-piece CSL 1x1 carbon fiber lip spoiler (ICONZ style)
- Scorza Carbon Fiber CSL center console
- BC Racing "BR series" coilovers
- Authentic Gruppe M Carbon Kevlar CAI
- Afe smooth Intake elbow
- ARC8 18" hypersilver wheels w/ Hankook Ventus V12s 245/275s (summer ///M wheels)
- 19" BBS CH wheels w/ Falken 452's 245/275s (summer use only)
- ///M aluminum pedals
- Color matched corner reflectors
- White LED side markers
- CDV delete
- Monochrome ///M badges
- Monochrome BMW Roundels (TiAg/White)
- 35% ceramic window tint
- Valentine V1 hardwire
- Eurosport Design Stainless Steel double-walled exhaust tips
- SIRIUS Satellite Starmate 4 BMW 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
- Carbon Fiber e-Brake handle - thanks Ryan!!!


164,553 miles

Car recently was put on a Mustang dyno and pulled 292 WHP! Car is strong and is well maintained!
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/M3/ScreenShot2014-06-28at90725PM_zpsc2ee37f2.png

You won't find another car in this shape where mileage is just a number. Car performs as well as any with considerably lower mileage... Only thing that will be taken off is the UltraGauge so I can put it in my ZHP....

Your choice of wheels between the ARC-8s (pictured in my sig) or my BBS CH wheels.... There are several members here who have seen and either driven or ridden in my car so they know the extent of care that has been put into my ///M. Interested parties let me know!

Edit: APRIL FOOLS ;)

[brettbimmer]

2004 M3 For Sale


Here are a list of things that have been done thus far...

- OEM Black Interior Retrofit (dash, rear deck, and carpeting)
- 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 Black interior seats front and back full lumbar support w/ Memory
- OEM Oval rear view auto-dim mirror
- OEM F10 ///M5 lit shift knob retrofit
- OEM E92 LED license plate lights
- OEM BMW First Aid Kit
- OEM BMW Windshield @ 150,000 mi
- OEM BMW ALU TECH interior trim
- OEM BMW Titan Shadow interior trim - spares
- ///M oil cap
- Sprint Booster
- Tekarbon 1x1 Carbon Fiber CSL rear diffuser
- 365Autosports one-piece CSL 1x1 carbon fiber lip spoiler (ICONZ style)
- Scorza Carbon Fiber CSL center console
- BC Racing "BR series" coilovers
- Authentic Gruppe M Carbon Kevlar CAI
- Afe smooth Intake elbow
- ARC8 18" hypersilver wheels w/ Hankook Ventus V12s 245/275s (summer ///M wheels)
- 19" BBS CH wheels w/ Falken 452's 245/275s (summer use only)
- ///M aluminum pedals
- Color matched corner reflectors
- White LED side markers
- CDV delete
- Monochrome ///M badges
- Monochrome BMW Roundels (TiAg/White)
- 35% ceramic window tint
- Valentine V1 hardwire
- Eurosport Design Stainless Steel double-walled exhaust tips
- SIRIUS Satellite Starmate 4 BMW 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
- Carbon Fiber e-Brake handle - thanks Ryan!!!


164,553 miles

Car recently was put on a Mustang dyno and pulled 292 WHP! Car is strong and is well maintained!
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/M3/ScreenShot2014-06-28at90725PM_zpsc2ee37f2.png

You won't find another car in this shape where mileage is just a number. Car performs as well as any with considerably lower mileage... Only thing that will be taken off is the UltraGauge so I can put it in my ZHP....

Your choice of wheels between the ARC-8s (pictured in my sig) or my BBS CH wheels.... There are several members here who have seen and either driven or ridden in my car so they know the extent of care that has been put into my ///M. Interested parties let me know!
Happy April Fool's Day!! 😁😁😁

[WOLFN8TR]

Ok you got me Charlie. I first thought WTF? [emoji16]

[330i ZHP]

I will offer $10,000 - since some members here think everything should be sold cheap (V and BC)

[az3579]

One... Miiiiiiilllllliiiioon dollars!


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[cakM3]

One... Miiiiiiilllllliiiioon dollars!


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uh huh..... :rofl Good thing this was my April Fool's joke! :p

[cakM3]

Brett brought this to my attention today and I have been thinking of getting this but I don't mount any badges on my grills.....

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8768/17056996116_79de673900_o.jpg

I really like how this badge looks though......love carbon fiber :drool

[danewilson77]

Brett brought this to my attention today and I have been thinking of getting this but I don't mount any badges on my grills.....

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8768/17056996116_79de673900_o.jpg

I really like how this badge looks though......love carbon fiber :drool
Yeah but it says "BMW CCA" on it.

:)

"No flamesuit required"

[cakM3]

Yeah but it says "BMW CCA" on it.

:)

"No flamesuit required"

Exactly and it has carbon fiber :drool

[BCS_ZHP]

Juuusssttt dweeet!!!!

[BCS_ZHP]

And can be wall art if you don't want to put it on the kidneys.

[ELCID86]

Lapel pin?

[az3579]

And can be wall art if you don't want to put it on the kidneys.

This.


Lapel pin?

It's a grille badge.


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[Pip]

Charlie your engine bay is stunning. I've spent a fair amount of time in mine these past two nights and I've found that my arms are coated in black junk from the road. Definitely needs a good clean. Thanks for the inspiration.

[cakM3]

Charlie your engine bay is stunning.... Thanks for the inspiration.

Thanks Sean!! I've always been OCD where engine compartment cleanliness was concerned. I see a very dirty engine bay and cringe...


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[cakM3]

I will be swapping out steering wheels on the ///M tomorrow after I get home from work. Got to get her ready for the very first Cars and Coffee meet at Herb Chambers' BMW of Sudbury in Mass Saturday morning....

John's perforated leather steering wheel will be put away again...
19052

My alcantara steering wheel (thanks Bill!) will come out...
19051


Since it's going to be nice on Saturday so I plan to take some quality pics (not iPhone) of the interior to show off some of the "CSL goodies" I have installed inside ;)

[TigerTater]

Do you always change them out seasonally? What's your preference?

[az3579]

Do you always change them out seasonally? What's your preference?

Because Charlie. :biggrin

[cakM3]

Do you always change them out seasonally? What's your preference?

Winters I prefer having my perforated leather steering wheel mounted and in warmer months, I prefer having my Alcantara steering wheels mounted.

And yes, I change out my steering wheels seasonally.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[anandoc]

I will be swapping out steering wheels on the ///M tomorrow after I get home from work. Got to get her ready for the very first Cars and Coffee meet at Herb Chambers' BMW of Sudbury in Mass Saturday morning....

John's perforated leather steering wheel will be put away again...
19052



Your perforated steering wheel with the CF trim looks sexy!! Still waiting for it to warm up a little bit so I can put in the SMG M3 wheel on mine.

[johnrando]

Wheel looks great, love that it's getting such good care (of course I knew it would).

[WOLFN8TR]

Winters I prefer having my perforated leather steering wheel mounted and in warmer months, I prefer having my Alcantara steering wheels mounted.

And yes, I change out my steering wheels seasonally.

"Mod King Status" :pimp

[cakM3]

"Mod King Status" :pimp

Thanks Gary! :biggrin

[cakM3]

Went from this on my UltraGauge
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/11/ca47c9cee266070fda6ee6360628396c.jpg

To this thanks to Gary! :)
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/11/be28572b8327d995e2fe98530c2ee5db.jpg

One less detail to worry about ;) Thanks for your asist Gary!! :thumbsup


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[WOLFN8TR]

Nice! Your Voltage is low. :shifty

[cakM3]

Nice! Your Voltage is low. :shifty

reads 14 when I'm driving

[330i ZHP]

Is there a way to build that in somehow?

[cakM3]

Is there a way to build that in somehow?

Not sure Stuart but since I use the cigarette adapter for USB charging and the ashtray for my quarters, this seemed the best solution for my setup :)

[TheFinanceGuy]

Brett brought this to my attention today and I have been thinking of getting this but I don't mount any badges on my grills.....

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8768/17056996116_79de673900_o.jpg

I really like how this badge looks though......love carbon fiber :drool

Ah. There it is!!! I was just telling Charlie about this yesterday. He already knew....


Went from this on my UltraGauge
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/11/ca47c9cee266070fda6ee6360628396c.jpg

To this thanks to Gary! :)
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/11/be28572b8327d995e2fe98530c2ee5db.jpg

One less detail to worry about ;) Thanks for your asist Gary!! :thumbsup


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

Looks great!! What did use to template the film?

I was surprised to see how small this device is in person. It really looks great. I may have to get one.


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[cakM3]

Ah. There it is!!! I was just telling Charlie about this yesterday. He already knew....

I like where you have yours installed. Once I get two they will be mounted in the same location on both cars :thumbsup


Looks great!! What did use to template the film?

I was surprised to see how small this device is in person. It really looks great. I may have to get one.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks Patrick! Gary provided the film. I think it's a film filter, not sure but Gary has the details in his UltraGauge thread :thumbsup I love how it matches the car :)


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[cakM3]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/15/9ce8bf7012fda32d71d40ca4378eb9ee.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/15/a9f9dfaa07f6f1ad1a231c31587bcbff.jpg

It was time to swap out steering wheels so John's perforated leather steering wheel will remain in pristine condition :thumbsup

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/15/e69646c0d65fda6a923fb10042d7099e.jpg
Took the opportunity to clean off all the dust that had accumulated in the clock ring area...my finger is pointing to the alignment groove on the steering column

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/15/5404d9e1dd0bb57bf660c97ad408222d.jpg
Kept track of this alignment groove

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/15/595b65bead39962d430d8f4e3a83d114.jpg
You can also see the alignment groove on the steering wheel

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/15/685bf85a93b119c27718a5ba7e6844f6.jpg
With flash you can see how I have the alignment grooves match between the steering shaft snd steering wheel....time to slide it all the way in and secure the retaining nut...

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/15/36bb76d64b385036d034e6cc3119dd78.jpg
Round air bag reconnected and installed
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/15/c44154b37ea9f42eed444fafd8c68ca6.jpg

For those who have not swapped out steering wheels, it's very easy but remember to disconnect your battery and allow the car to sit at least 15 minutes before disconnecting your airbag or you will get an airbag deployed warning on your instrument cluster. Just a heads up :)




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[Ssparrow]

That wheel looks so good. Every day I think about getting a Coby wheel re-wrap.. This may of sealed the deal.

[cakM3]

This wheel is not a Coby wheel but I guarantee his wheels look just as good as this! :thumbsup

I have a Coby alcantara steering wheel in my ZHP and I love it!


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[johnrando]

Good stuff Charlie.

[cakM3]

Good stuff Charlie.

Thanks John! :thumbsup

[BMWCurves]

For those who have not swapped out steering wheels, it's very easy but remember to disconnect your battery and allow the car to sit at least 15 minutes before disconnecting your airbag or you will get an airbag deployed warning on your instrument cluster. Just a heads up :)

I didn't know that bit about waiting 15 mins, very helpful! I am excited to swap my beat aged alcantara for the perforated leather wheel I ordered. Your alcantara wheel almost makes me wish I had just gone for rewraping my wheel in alcantara.

[cakM3]

I didn't know that bit about waiting 15 mins, very helpful! I am excited to swap my beat aged alcantara for the perforated leather wheel I ordered. Your alcantara wheel almost makes me wish I had just gone for rewraping my wheel in alcantara.

William, the Perforated Leather steering wheel is nice, for sure! If you still have the worn Alcantara steering wheel you can always send it in to Coby for a rewrap and then do what I do regarding swapping out steering wheels when the need to change the look arises! Then it will be all the little things that make your driving experience even better :thumbsup ;)

[squashman702]

Any pics from Cars & Coffee? Grew up a few miles from where that dealer is now in Sudbury.

[330i ZHP]

Nice

[BMWCurves]

William, the Perforated Leather steering wheel is nice, for sure! If you still have the worn Alcantara steering wheel you can always send it in to Coby for a rewrap and then do what I do regarding swapping out steering wheels when the need to change the look arises! Then it will be all the little things that make your driving experience even better :thumbsup ;)

Certainly considering...:shifty

[NoVAphotog]

I didn't know that bit about waiting 15 mins, very helpful! I am excited to swap my beat aged alcantara for the perforated leather wheel I ordered. Your alcantara wheel almost makes me wish I had just gone for rewraping my wheel in alcantara.

Pretty sure you don't have to do that...I mean...after two wheel swaps on my ZHP I definitely haven't even thought about it and have had no airbag lights after disconnecting the battery and removing the wheel/airbag in WAY less than 15 min. I would think after you pull the negative connection the car is basically dead immediately, even if there was residual draw, the time it would take to finagle the airbag off with a screwdriver would be enough time.

[az3579]

Pretty sure you don't have to do that...I mean...after two wheel swaps on my ZHP I definitely haven't even thought about it and have had no airbag lights after disconnecting the battery and removing the wheel/airbag in WAY less than 15 min. I would think after you pull the negative connection the car is basically dead immediately, even if there was residual draw, the time it would take to finagle the airbag off with a screwdriver would be enough time.


This. You don't have to wait 15 minutes. By the time you get the airbag off, any residual power should be gone.

[cakM3]

wait 15 minutes and you're guaranteed you won't get any airbag deployed indications on your dash. I will continue to wait the 15 minutes. I'm never in a rush when swapping out my steering wheel anyway.....

[terraphantm]

Pretty sure you don't have to do that...I mean...after two wheel swaps on my ZHP I definitely haven't even thought about it and have had no airbag lights after disconnecting the battery and removing the wheel/airbag in WAY less than 15 min. I would think after you pull the negative connection the car is basically dead immediately, even if there was residual draw, the time it would take to finagle the airbag off with a screwdriver would be enough time.

I don't even bother disconnecting the battery. The airbag light won't come on as long as you don't turn on the ignition while the airbag is out

[cakM3]

I don't even bother disconnecting the battery. The airbag light won't come on as long as you don't turn on the ignition while the airbag is out

I didn't know that Mirza, thanks for sharing!

[az3579]

I don't even bother disconnecting the battery. The airbag light won't come on as long as you don't turn on the ignition while the airbag is out

This is what I thought. Thanks for the confirmation.
I only disconnected the battery for my baseless fear that it would deploy while removing it, even though that shouldn't be possible.

[cakM3]

This is what I thought. Thanks for the confirmation.
I only disconnected the battery for my baseless fear that it would deploy while removing it, even though that shouldn't be possible.

This is the reason why I disconnected my battery....well, now I know :thumbsup

[cakM3]

I swapped wheels this morning and as I suspected the tires on my BBS were getting worn so I mounted my 18x9 square Style 67 setup with 265/35 ZR 18 Hankook Ventus V-12's and readjusted my front camber. I now have less camber in front. It took me most of the morning to get my car set up and I knew this when I started so I texted BP this morning and told him to go on his road trip without me as I would cause too much delay.

It took me a few hours to get my wheels swapped out, old wheels properly stored, then camber adjusted. Since I wasn't going anywhere as a result, I decided to give my ///M a proper interior clean and exterior detail since I will be driving my ///M in the rain this week...
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/18/fea3f50f27171457a27f0b17aa3b3cdc.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/18/4bffbed956defb78a1339079191a7ec2.jpg

I want a little more poke on my rear wheels so I will put on 10mm spacers I purchased from Joop awhile back :thumbsup

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/18/2e8fdda4ebe22cea6079253356295be1.jpg

Doors were opened so I could polish the carbon fiber inside ;)
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/18/fd80b4a79274dd43f901c392799f8cfb.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/18/4d3d1ecfeae1c491307a50c03d09c1fb.jpg

I'm thinking I got a good polish on my ///M today. It was a lot of work but I still have a few more things to do....


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[330i ZHP]

This is why you stood me up?

[cakM3]

This is why you stood me up?

you skeerd me....

[ELCID86]

Glad you got her set up for the roads there. Hope you get your zhp back on line soon.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[cakM3]

Glad you got her set up for the roads there. Hope you get your zhp back on line soon.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

Thanks Shawn! I have fresh Hankooks mounted on my Style 67's so it made sense to mount these, especially if I were to go on a road trip. Unfortunately I couldn't get my ///M set up in time to go down with Botond...

Good thing is I'm having breakfast with my daughter on a nice Sunday morning...she's in college so these opportunities don't come up as often as I'd like ;)


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[ELCID86]

^Family first. Glad you have the opportunity.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

[WOLFN8TR]

Man now I feel bad for not washing my car in two weeks.

[cakM3]

^Family first. Glad you have the opportunity.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk.

Thanks Shawn, I had a very good visit with her and we got to catch up in our lives. I always enjoy spending time with her....she's so grounded, thinks her dad is completely nuts about his BMWs ;) Of course there are many of us here who are nuts about our cars :)


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[cakM3]

Man now I feel bad for not washing my car in two weeks.


Now I feel bad for not washing my car the last two weeks. :facepalm

Gary....you must be feeling pretty bad to double post in my thread...:p I'm going back out there and completely wipe my car down and continue waxing it for the upcoming crappy weather the ///M will be subjected to as daily driver....

EDIT: Gary most likely did not do this double post on purpose....somethings amiss here...

[az3579]

You just did a partial double post yourself, Charlie. At least that's how it shows up in Tapatalk. Lol


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[cakM3]

then it's not Gary's fault....something going wrong. I did that post using my Mac laptop. FIXED....

[WOLFN8TR]

Weird as I only posted once.

Deleted...

[cakM3]

This weekend was a great weekend to set up my ///M for daily driving duties over the upcoming week... Got a good polishing done and wheels properly set up. Dug up Joop's 10mm spacers from my "parts" closet and replaced the 5mm spacers I was using.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/19/8af8ba423a5332ac66b3a04f121d95a3.jpg

The rear wheels poke much better now and look good with the fronts...

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8816/17200978092_318f5d6a52_h.jpg

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5323/17202633815_cf3c6aca0f_h.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7700/17015103560_4d4fbb280b_h.jpg

It's been awhile since I have run a square setup on the ///M. I let it rip this morning while driving home after spending some time with my daughter and man did the car feel good! :thumbsup

[kakashi169]

Nice new refreshed look! What happened to the APEX and BBS CH wheels for your M?

[cakM3]

Nice new refreshed look! What happened to the APEX and BBS CH wheels for your M?

They're stored inside my garage Daniel


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[cakM3]

I was browsing over at e46Fanatics Showroom section tonight when I came upon this thread: "|*****|OFFICIAL Pimp (drop) My Ride Thread.|*****|" Scanning into this thread made me realize I have not recently put up a before and after pic of my M3 in 5 years of ownership so here goes...

This is the first week after picking up my ///M :) I can still remember just how excited I was to have her. Even with the all ugly grey interior that was installed from the factory.... she's completely stock at this point...

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/MyM3_03.jpg
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/MyM3_02.jpg
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/MyM3_01.jpg
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/MyM3_04.jpg
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/MyM3_05.jpg

Looking at these pics it doesn't even seem like I have the same car now...

Here's how she sits today...original suspension replaced by BC Racing "BR" Series coilovers and ride height lowered...


My ///M with OEM Style 67's 18x9 wheels mounted...
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8816/17200978092_318f5d6a52_h.jpg
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5323/17202633815_cf3c6aca0f_h.jpg
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7700/17015103560_4d4fbb280b_h.jpg


My ///M with ARC8's mounted
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/M3/ScreenShot2014-05-28at105329AM_zps3a8f9784.png
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/M3/ScreenShot2014-05-28at105316AM_zps18cd1c94.png


My ///M with BBS CH wheels mounted
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7376/16309864967_6592c2472b_o.png
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/M3/ICONZ%20Lip/_DSC6354_zps25896c3c.jpg
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/M3/ICONZ%20Lip/_DSC6338_zps1e91cc71.jpg
http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/pp37/macdctr/M3/ICONZ%20Lip/_DSC6329_zpscd5c15bd.jpg

I have all three wheel sets for my ///M :) Looking at the pictures with my ARC8's and BBS wheels mounted my M3 doesn't look the same as it did when I first purchased her but then I have been having a lot of fun modding and upgrading her over the years :thumbsup

Like my trusty ZHP, I have plenty of other mods since picking up my M3 but then that's all listed in this thread ;)

[Pip]

I can't decide between the arc8 or the CH. I do think you've stopped me from going back to OEM 18s from VMR718s.

[BMWCurves]

:drool all of those wheel options look great! What's the finish on the ARC8s?

[johnrando]

Holy cow, doesn't even look like the same car. Hail to the mod King!

Sent from mobile

[cakM3]

I can't decide between the arc8 or the CH. I do think you've stopped me from going back to OEM 18s from VMR718s.

Sean, the Style 67's aren't my first choice now that I have both my ARC8s and BBS wheels but having them is nice when I just want to slap on my "square set" and run with these for a bit... I can tell you that the 18's do give me a nicer ride in the rough New England roads and with these being OEM Style 67's I'm not as worried when hitting frost heaves and/or pot holes like I am when using my other two sets of wheels...


:drool all of those wheel options look great! What's the finish on the ARC8s?

Thanks! The ARC8s are finished in Hyperblack.


Holy cow, doesn't even look like the same car. Hail to the mod King!

Sent from mobile

Thanks John! Yeah, looking back I have done lots to this awesome ride! :thumbsup

[sillieidiot]

iono still looks like the same car to me, but modded lol

[cakM3]

iono still looks like the same car to me, but modded lol

Nice seeing you Hieu!!


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[FL116]

I'm just trying to decide if I want to do wheels first or other mods first. Lol so many choices...

[fredo]

I would do wheels first. That's what I did on the Mini and e90. No need for new wheels on my ZHP, since she came with really clean ones. :applause2

[cakM3]

I would do wheels first. That's what I did on the Mini and e90. No need for new wheels on my ZHP, since she came with really clean ones. :applause2

+1

[UdubBadger]

I can't decide between the arc8 or the CH. I do think you've stopped me from going back to OEM 18s from VMR718s.

For the money I'm still :drool on the Apex line. I love me some BBS but those Apex just look at home on an E46 M3.

[cakM3]

For the money I'm still :drool on the Apex line. I love me some BBS but those Apex just look at home on an E46 M3.

The Apex is also lighter than the BBS CH wheels but if you're going for looks I prefer the looks of the BBS CH wheels because of the "Motorsport" word imbedded on the wheel face. Looks perfect mounted on the ///M in my humble opinion :biggrin

If you're going for performance I say go with he ARC8's, if you're going for looks then BBS CH is the obvious choice :thumbsup I'm glad I have three sets to choose from ;)

[sillieidiot]

Nice seeing you Hieu!!


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

forever waiting for that picture of the roof on your wall...:lurk

[johnrando]

iono still looks like the same car to me, but modded lol
Lol. Hey, we need to install my Dynavin and my sway bars.

Sent from mobile

[danewilson77]

Apex crack no? Like 135's?

[cakM3]

Apex crack no? Like 135's?

Good question Dane, I have heard Apex wheels do crack. So far while driving in these fantastic New England pot hole-ridden roads, I have not had that experience running on my Apex ARC8's... (knock on wood)...

[sillieidiot]

Lol. Hey, we need to install my Dynavin and my sway bars.

Sent from mobile

i thought you installed them that one time already? i swear you texted me saying that you did lol


Apex crack no? Like 135's?


Good question Dane, I have heard Apex wheels do crack. So far while driving in these fantastic New England pot hole-ridden roads, I have not had that experience running on my Apex ARC8's... (knock on wood)...

well all wheels can crack. but the Apex aren't like known for cracking though. the CHs are more likely to crack than the ARCs though.

[az3579]

well all wheels can crack. but the Apex aren't like known for cracking though. the CHs are more likely to crack than the ARCs though.

I disagree with this statement.

I've driven my ZHP with 18" CH's and 35 profile tires through New York City numerous times the past few weeks, many times hittings bumps that hit so hard it would make an enthusiast immediately fall into a deep crying depression. The wheels are not bent; they're not cracked. In fact, they are just fine.

I would think a heavier wheel with more mass compared to a lighter non-forged wheel like the Apex, would have a better chance at surviving impacts, but that's just my line of thinking and could be entirely wrong. I'm not an engineer, but would love the input from someone who has data that would prove useful.

[sillieidiot]

I disagree with this statement.

I've driven my ZHP with 18" CH's and 35 profile tires through New York City numerous times the past few weeks, many times hittings bumps that hit so hard it would make an enthusiast immediately fall into a deep crying depression. The wheels are not bent; they're not cracked. In fact, they are just fine.

I would think a heavier wheel with more mass compared to a lighter non-forged wheel like the Apex, would have a better chance at surviving impacts, but that's just my line of thinking and could be entirely wrong. I'm not an engineer, but would love the input from someone who has data that would prove useful.

my experience has been the complete opposite of yours lol I had 2 sets of CHs and both of them cracked. the 2 rear wheels on each set. i don't have a lot of potholes around here like you guys, but we have some bumps that really hurt too. I'm guessing that's where they got cracked cause you can't avoid them really. My Apex have been fine though. i also ran them with a 35 profile.

well Apex are flow-formed which is like the second strongest wheel making process. With forged being the strongest. The CHs are low pressure casted, and they they flow-form the inner part of the rim to try to save some weight. But it's still heavy as hell lol But yeah, flow-formed has similar strength characteristics of a forged wheel at a lower cost.

in terms of breakage, usually forged = crack, and cast = bend. but since forged is so strong, the force required to make it crack, would have already bent and cracked your cast wheels.

[Pip]

I disagree with this statement.

I've driven my ZHP with 18" CH's and 35 profile tires through New York City numerous times the past few weeks, many times hittings bumps that hit so hard it would make an enthusiast immediately fall into a deep crying depression. The wheels are not bent; they're not cracked. In fact, they are just fine.

I would think a heavier wheel with more mass compared to a lighter non-forged wheel like the Apex, would have a better chance at surviving impacts, but that's just my line of thinking and could be entirely wrong. I'm not an engineer, but would love the input from someone who has data that would prove useful.

I have cried many times after visiting SF. I now stock tissues when traveling there.

[cakM3]

I have cried many times after visiting SF. I now stock tissues when traveling there.

I leave room between me and the car in front of me so I can see any pot holes to avoid....I also tend to drive much slower than I used to just because these roads are so crappy these days :facepalm Price of being low....gotta go slow...

[johnrando]

Hieu, nope, not yet.

Sent from mobile

[cakM3]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/27/8920308f9a49955669520d986ff6c3b8.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/27/bb8b1a12a276e03c04d8fb6442066956.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/27/e2584c5c7754c848bcdfb3efc2437ad5.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/27/306597bc3d2faae7725f3db5cd833014.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/27/09ece5869840e45a4fd6a6694713b22b.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/27/2af433ab244283203e1700470f41e02b.jpg

I never get tired of looking at this engine bay......:drool :drool :drool

So clean!!


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[BMWCurves]

That Gruppe M gold carbon fiber intake housing is awesome.

[johnrando]

Hmmmm, shiny!

Sent from mobile

[cakM3]

That Gruppe M gold carbon fiber intake housing is awesome.

That's actually Kevlar ;)


Hmmmm, shiny!

Sent from mobile

And this has been my daily driver going on 3 weeks now since I took my poor ZHP off the road until new parts arrive for rear shock replacement.

[FL116]

I cry because I know my engine bay will never look this good... lol that intake is awesome

[slater]

That Gruppe M gold carbon fiber intake housing is awesome.

um....wow, and yeah - kevlar, as charlie mentioned... it is ridiculously cool looking!



I cry because I know my engine bay will never look this good... lol that intake is awesome


don't cry. fly charlie down to clean your engine bay. problem solved. :)


charlie, for real - your engine bay is TOO clean. ;) haha. i'd feel guilty driving it! for a few minutes, at least... :)

peter

[cakM3]

I cry because I know my engine bay will never look this good... lol that intake is awesome

I have had my ///M going on 5 years this May.... it has taken me a few years to get the engine bay up to my standards of cleanliness. Little by little you too have a very clean and detailed engine bay :thumbsup Next step for me is to remove all the mounting brackets and have them powder coated ;)


um....wow, and yeah - kevlar, as charlie mentioned... it is ridiculously cool looking!

:wub



don't cry. fly charlie down to clean your engine bay. problem solved. :)

I would be happy to help detail if someone would pay to have me come over and stay... ;)



charlie, for real - your engine bay is TOO clean. ;) haha. i'd feel guilty driving it! for a few minutes, at least... :)

peter

Thanks Peter! Since I was available to help Botond today I figured I would detail my engine bay while I had the time. The ///M is going to the shop this Friday to have a few things done and I wanted to ensure the car is pristine. It get's all the attention whenever it goes into the shop for work. It is funny seeing both customers and shop employees go over to my ///M to take pictures of it ;) At first I didn't believe this when my service advisor told me then I actually saw someone walk over and take a pic with their cell phone. I just want to show people just how good an older BMW can look when there is an owner who provides it with the proper care and love the car deserves :thumbsup

[WOLFN8TR]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/27/2af433ab244283203e1700470f41e02b.jpg



Looks Great Charlie! I see a few engine components that you could polish. :thumbup

[UdubBadger]

nice Chuck

[cakM3]

Looks Great Charlie! I see a few engine components that you could polish. :thumbup

Ha!!! There are a few and I will get to them as the weather warms up more... ;)

Thanks for the complements Seth and Gary :thumbsup

[BMWCurves]

That's actually Kevlar ;)

My mistake, still looks great in there!

[330i ZHP]

Charlie. It's not perfectly clean until you pull engine. Detail every nook and cranny. And build motor with all fresh parts

[330i ZHP]

Then go ugh a few months later when dust, pollen and other stuff gets all over everything. Or it's summer and amazingly cosmolean manages to ouse out of seams

[az3579]

Then go ugh a few months later when dust, pollen and other stuff gets all everything. Or it's summer and amazingly, cosmolean manages to ouse out of seams

I thought they stopped using Cosmoline a long time ago...
My E30's M20 had yellowed Cosmoline all over the intake manifold before I pulled it. lol

[330i ZHP]

What do you think that yellowish wax is?

[az3579]

What do you think that yellowish wax is?

I don't see any in my engine bay... :dunno

[cakM3]

Charlie. It's not perfectly clean until you pull engine. Detail every nook and cranny. And build motor with all fresh parts

You are correct! I don't have the skills like you Stuart nor do I have the equipment to do that. I wish I did though!!! As I always tell people, you are the true mod king...the reason why I try to do the best job on my cars... :thumbsup ;)

[330i ZHP]

Just busting your balls. I wish that task on no one

[cakM3]

Just busting your balls. I wish that task on no one

That's okay Stuart, the work you put into your cars really show the enthusiasm you have for these cars! :thumbsup Every detail not missed. Someday I hope to be like you when I grow up ;)

[330i ZHP]

Actually - I do not want to wish others my obsessive ways

[BADCLOWN]

Man, I need some CF engine covers. Looks great.

[johnrando]

I would like some too

Sent from mobile

[cakM3]

Actually - I do not want to wish others my obsessive ways

Too late Stuart.... I have it too ;)


Man, I need some CF engine covers. Looks great.

Thanks!


I would like some too

Sent from mobile

Everyone should have carbon fiber engine covers :thumbsup

[az3579]

Everyone should have carbon fiber engine covers :thumbsup

Let's not get ahead of ourselves, now... :biggrin

[cakM3]

Let's not get ahead of ourselves, now... :biggrin

okay... everyone who wants them should have carbon fiber engine covers! :p



Everyone who knows me know I love carbon fiber ;)

[az3579]

okay... everyone who wants them should have carbon fiber engine covers! :p

:biggrin

[cakM3]

:thumbsup

[ZHP330CI]

:thumbsup

Hi, Im new here. Just wondering if you also have BC coils on your ZHP and if they are comfy even with the drop. I recently bought a 2005 330ci vert ZHP and Im not sure if I should get springs to lower it a bit more or just get a coilover set.
Thanks

[az3579]

Hi, Im new here. Just wondering if you also have BC coils on your ZHP and if they are comfy even with the drop. I recently bought a 2005 330ci vert ZHP and Im not sure if I should get springs to lower it a bit more or just get a coilover set.
Thanks
The ride is very very firm in both of Charlie's cars. If comfort is what you're after, this may not be the best choice for you.

[cakM3]

I like my rides firm Botond. The BC Racing coilovers have been awesome and the new kits come with better, more durable shocks as I have recently found out. I now have to wait an additional 3 weeks before my parts are available to rebuild my rear suspension. On the most part I haven't had any major issues...I say on the most part.

The setup on my ZHP had issues as my rear shock seals had failed due to the dismal shape of the roads in Rhode Island this past winter. The new more durable shocks should handle these crappy roads now.

Even with these issues I still love this setup. :thumbsup


The setup on my ///M has been relatively trouble-free :) Oh, and the important part...using these coilovers, I get a lot for what I paid and get the low ride height I'm going for.....

Low and slow....:thumbsup


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[ZHP330CI]

The ride is very very firm in both of Charlie's cars. If comfort is what you're after, this may not be the best choice for you.


I like my rides firm Botond. The BC Racing coilovers have been awesome and the new kits come with better, more durable shocks as I have recently found out. I now have to wait an additional 3 weeks before my parts are available to rebuild my rear suspension. On the most part I haven't had any major issues...I say on the most part.

The setup on my ZHP had issues as my rear shock seals had failed due to the dismal shape of the roads in Rhode Island this past winter. The new more durable shocks should handle these crappy roads now.

Even with these issues I still love this setup. :thumbsup


The setup on my ///M has been relative trouble-free :) Oh, and the important part...using these coilovers, I get a lot for what I paid and get the low ride height I'm going for.....

Low and slow....:thumbsup


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

What would be the best choice for comfort then?
Thanks

[cakM3]

What would be the best choice for comfort then?
Thanks

If comfort is your priority then I would stay completely stock. There's nothing wrong with the stock ZHP setup, I just prefer to go low and love having my coilover setup and I like my setup a little stiff. I like to feel the road that I drive on ;)

[ZHP330CI]

If comfort is your priority then I would stay completely stock. There's nothing wrong with the stock ZHP setup, I just prefer to go low and love having my coilover setup and I like my setup a little stiff. I like to feel the road that I drive on ;)


I would like a bit more low, thats all. Without sacrificing comfort.

[johnrando]

I have the H&R Touring cup kit (different setup in my sig) and I find that's a great balance. I want to go a little lower and add spacers so I'm thinking of going to coilovers for adjustability. But, that's a lot more money. Check out the H&R kit. I'll send you pics of where my car sits if you need.

Sent from mobile

[az3579]

I have the H&R Touring cup kit (different setup in my sig) and I find that's a great balance. I want to go a little lower and add spacers so I'm thinking of going to coilovers for adjustability. But, that's a lot more money. Check out the H&R kit. I'll send you pics of where my car sits if you need.

Sent from mobile
I have driven your car, John. I can't say I remember how stiff the ride was (wasn't paying attention to that), but I can say that it looks awesome for ride height. I'm sure your ride wasn't anywhere as stiff as mine; that I would have noticed.

[ZHP330CI]

I have the H&R Touring cup kit (different setup in my sig) and I find that's a great balance. I want to go a little lower and add spacers so I'm thinking of going to coilovers for adjustability. But, that's a lot more money. Check out the H&R kit. I'll send you pics of where my car sits if you need.

Sent from mobile

That would be great if I can see pics of your car.
Thanks

[cakM3]

I would like a bit more low, thats all. Without sacrificing comfort.

Keep in mind "comfort" is a relative term. Botond says that my suspension settings on both my cars are a little on the stiff side and for me it's quite comfortable. So much so that I will take either cars on long-distance road trips without any issues to my back.

What I like about my BC Racing coilovers is that they have a 30-way adjustable setting so if you're looking for a softer setup you are able to do so. Right now my settings are mid-way at 15 and I like it just where it's at a little bit on the firm side to me but not too harsh.

[ZHP330CI]

Keep in mind "comfort" is a relative term. Botond says that my suspension settings on both my cars are a little on the stiff side and for me it's quite comfortable. So much so that I will take either cars on long-distance road trips without any issues to my back.

What I like about my BC Racing coilovers is that they have a 30-way adjustable setting so if you're looking for a softer setup you are able to do so. Right now my settings are mid-way at 15 and I like it just where it's at a little bit on the firm side to me but not too harsh.


Thank you, I guess I have a lot of thinking and searching to do. I'll see how Johnrandos car looks with the touring kit. I was also considering the Tein H springs but Im not sure if they will even lower the ZHP because they are rated at .7 front and .3 rear.

[az3579]

Thank you, I guess I have a lot of thinking and searching to do. I'll see how Johnrandos car looks with the touring kit. I was also considering the Tein H springs but Im not sure if they will even lower the ZHP because they are rated at .7 front and .3 rear.

You're in Jersey. You're welcome to get a feel for it in my car; you're not that far away.

[ZHP330CI]

You're in Jersey. You're welcome to get a feel for it in my car; you're not that far away.

Thanks for the offer, Ill think about that.

[slater]

I would like a bit more low, thats all. Without sacrificing comfort.

everything is a compromise - if you want comfort, like charlie said, keep the stock springs - add some koni yellows and enjoy a good DD suspension.

when you lower the car, you lose bump travel (unless you have a strut- and shock-body that is height adjustable). bump travel is important for a compliant ride.

also important is good damping. if you want to go lower, you'll need stiffer springs to keep you off the bump stops. if you have adequate damping for said stiffer springs, then your ride should be firmer but still fairly compliant.

also also, adjustable damping does not equal good damping.

it's a major compromise to lower the car. i went through weeks of research and way too much over-analyzing before i settled on a setup for my car.

peter

[johnrando]

PM'd you pics.

[az3579]

PM'd you pics.

I just found out that the H&R Touring Cup Kit lowers a different amounts for convertibles and tourings.
The sedan/coupe kits lower a lesser amount. That's what I gathered after reading the descriptions on Turner's site, at least.
http://www.turnermotorsport.com/c-120-bmw-hr-cup-kits.aspx

I don't think Charlie's thread is the right place for this discussion though.

[ZHP330CI]

PM'd you pics.


I just found out that the H&R Touring Cup Kit lowers a different amounts for convertibles and tourings.
The sedan/coupe kits lower a lesser amount. That's what I gathered after reading the descriptions on Turner's site, at least.
http://www.turnermotorsport.com/c-120-bmw-hr-cup-kits.aspx

I don't think Charlie's thread is the right place for this discussion though.


Thanks for the pics and the info.
My first question was for Charlie, thats why now all the comment are here, sorry.

[cakM3]

Thanks for the pics and the info.
My first question was for Charlie, thats why now all the comment are here, sorry.

Botond's right but in this case I didn't mind. It was an interesting topic so it's all good :thumbsup

[ZHP330CI]

Botond's right but in this case I didn't mind. It was an interesting topic so it's all good :thumbsup

Cool, thanks. :biggrin

[johnrando]

Thanks Charlie.

Sent from mobile

[cakM3]

Thanks Charlie.

Sent from mobile

:thumbsup

All good guys :)


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

Today is a great day to be outside and work on the car. Botond is helping me swap out rotors and brake pads.

The blanks on my ///M were OE and it was time to change them out for the Euro Cross-Drilled ones :)

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/03/10e250815ec4d515809eb2f9abab7bec.jpg

The front rotor retaining screws were seized and wouldn't come loose, even with liberal use of PB Blaster (yes, we allowed for plenty of time to soak in) so I drilled them out...
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/03/f8750f9b306b42ef69a01cda002b09a4.jpg

Things were going very smooth and we were working on the last rotor before everything came to a crashing halt. Brakes were inadvertently applied before either of us realized the implications then I noticed brake fluid leaking out from my front driver's wheel area. The caliper seals got blown and this was the result...

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/03/840051c89cf92f503f9328a0933a0361.jpg

Both Botond and I realized the level of frustration but we worked thru the problem. Fortunately I am in the mindset if carrying spare parts and have spare calipers for my M3 so I grabbed the spare and swapped out calipers. So as well as swapping out rotors and brake pads, I'm ending up doing a full brake system flush and bleeding brakes so at least my ///M ends up getting much needed brake maintenance completed even with a little unforeseen oops ;) :thumbsup


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[BADCLOWN]

good ole pittsburgh jack stands

[WOLFN8TR]

Charlie I did that when I was doing the brakes on my wife's 4Runner. [emoji15] Makes you feel real stupid.

[cakM3]

Charlie I did that when I was doing the brakes on my wife's 4Runner. [emoji15] Makes you feel real stupid.

As they say Gary...shit happens. Fortunately I have a spare set of rebuilt M3 calipers sitting on my shelf in the garage I was able to use so it's all good. At least there's no down time with my M3 :thumbsup

I can rebuild this caliper at a later date :)

Got even more stance with my ARC8's and best part??? There's absolutely no rubbing even on the damned WWII battlezone road I live on!! Car feels absolutely perfect and I really love having these Performance Cross-Drilled rotors on :) They really look good behind these wheels! :thumbsup

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/03/993ee9e89fcde5fdd135f97dcd3dd35e.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/03/cf5ee887f1ee85cd37beb6640cd6111e.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/03/7e03bfe7fb0f44b7c3095dd773cebdf1.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/03/abedc4e77ecd8c019b2698354e61536a.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/03/ba2fd806b8e27df121dffd7692cae98b.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/03/99fb9efcda9d6c30f572af6ab5c0f15a.jpg


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

Yep it sure does. I took a coolant bath yesterday when removing my exp tank. [emoji15]

[johnrando]

Glad things worked out

Sent from mobile

[cakM3]

Thanks guys! :thumbsup All that work done and now I'm feeling completely exhausted and spent..... will be taking a very hot and long shower tonight before going to sleep.


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[danewilson77]

Looking good Chuck.

[330i ZHP]

Nice job

[cakM3]

Looking good Chuck.


Nice job

Thanks Dane and Stuart! I will have better pics to post later today :thumbsup

[cakM3]

I promised to get better pics showing my current ride setup so here it is. I was dropping off my ///M for service this morning when I took these shots :)

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/04/5014770c5e900697f977629eb85d5aca.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/04/3bf1692b1b7a3ee3ac545174ce49ea14.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/04/7e423b68bf69536a1da4c29c78869544.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/04/df7a6ed6fe22407a2bce09bf0a2934d0.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/04/6325f46755cd2b52d1f28afa6148c240.jpg

Ride is absolutely perfect! :thumbsup

Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[cakM3]

Car as it currently sits - May2015

- OEM Black Interior Retrofit (dash, rear deck, carpeting, seats, and interior plastics)
- OEM CSL Interior Door Panels
- Scorza CSL Center Console (Door mirror switch relocated)
- OEM CSL Door Handles
- OEM CSL Bootlid
- OEM E92 LED license plate lights
- 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/Stage 3 Brake Force Display activ
- OEM Black interior seats front and back full lumbar support w/ side bolster adjustment and Memory
- OEM Oval rear view auto-dim mirror
- OEM F10 ///M5 lit shift knob retrofit
- OEM BMW First Aid Kit
- OEM BMW SIRIUS Satellite Integrated Radio
- OEM BMW Windshield @ 150,000 mi
- OEM BMW ALU TECH interior trim
- OEM BMW Titan Shadow interior trim - spares
- BMW Euro cross-drilled rotors @ 165,680 miles
- ///M oil cap
- Sprint Booster
- Tekarbon 1x1 Carbon Fiber CSL rear diffuser
- Tekarbon 1x1 Carbon Fiber Engine Cover
- 365Autosports one-piece CSL 1x1 carbon fiber lip spoiler (ICONZ style)
- BC Racing "BR series" coilovers
- Authentic Gruppe M Carbon Kevlar CAI
- Afe Smooth Intake Elbow
- CDV delete
- UltraGauge OBDII Gauge
- ///M aluminum pedals
- Color matched corner reflectors
- Hamann Fog Covers
- White LED side marker lights
- Dark Smoked Side Markers
- 35% ceramic window tint
- Valentine V1 hardwire
- Eurosport Design Stainless Steel double-walled exhaust tips
- HID 6000k lighting (D2S and 9006)
- Wheel stud conversion (75mm studs)
- Stereo upgrade from stock HK - Rockford Fosgate speakers/amp & Alpine speakers/QuartMB amp subwoofer
- Rear window switch mod to allow one-touch close feature
- Rear fenders rolled
- Carbon Fiber e-Brake handle
- Monochrome ///M badges
- Monochrome BMW Roundels (TiAg/White)

Wheels
- ARC8 18" hypersilver wheels w/ Hankook Ventus V12s 245/275s (summer ///M wheels)
- 19" BBS CH wheels w/ Toyo Proxes T1 Sport 245/275s (meet wheels)
- Style 67's in 18x9 square with 265/35 ZR 18's


Current mileage: 165,747



Future and/or upcoming mods

- IAT Relocation kit install (2015 Season)
- Intravee II breakout box/Alpine PXA-100 DSP integration (2015 Season)
- ZKW lens swap from the OE Bosch lens (2015 Season)
- UUC EVO3 SSK
- OEM CSL headers/Euro Sec 1
- Challenge Carbon Fiber 1x1 CSL roof panel retrofit (roof panel and roof bow purchased)
- Recaro Sportster CS Seats: Black/Heated/Carbon Fiber Backshell
- StopTech BBK
- Anti-Laser AL G9 countermeasures



List has been updated to reflect what I have done to my ///M other than required maintenance in the 5 years of ownership :) This is what I started with back in April 2010 when I purchased my ///M....


The ///M at the time of purchase had the following:

- Grey Nappa Leather interior
- LCM s/w ver 3.6
- Cold Weather Package
- BMW Navigation
- BMW Assist
- BMW Premium Package
- Brushed Aluminum interior trim (seen better days)
- Rain sensor / Auto headlight
- Harman / Kardon premium sound
- 18" Style 67 wheels

[Johnmadd]

That stance... :drool :drool :drool

[cakM3]

That stance... :drool :drool :drool

Thanks John! ;)

[WOLFN8TR]

Charlie after looking at the list I think you are just about out of things to Mod. [emoji15]
Looks great!

[cakM3]

Charlie after looking at the list I think you are just about out of things to Mod. [emoji15]
Looks great!

Thanks Gary! You know as well as I that I will never be done...I love modding my cars too much. ;)

[FL116]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/04/5014770c5e900697f977629eb85d5aca.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/04/3bf1692b1b7a3ee3ac545174ce49ea14.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/04/7e423b68bf69536a1da4c29c78869544.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/04/df7a6ed6fe22407a2bce09bf0a2934d0.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/04/6325f46755cd2b52d1f28afa6148c240.jpg

Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

I'll just leave this here. . . :drool

19693

[cakM3]

I'll just leave this here. . . :drool

19693

Very nice Bryant....thanks :)

I snagged these pics as I put my ///M away for the evening after applying another coat of wax ;)
https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8692/17505315052_b959f124ff_b.jpg

https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8899/17319880270_3a42d5e276_b.jpg

Then I played with my camera settings to get this pic....thought it was interesting so here it is ;)
https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8743/17319684528_720bdf719d_b.jpg

[cakM3]

This morning I backed my ///M at a Starbucks parking lot and caught my rear diffuser panel on something and lost two lower retaining clips from the panel. Fortunately I didn't damage my panel but had to go to the dealer near my work to purchase a few extra plastic expanding rivets @ 0.36/ea so I can reattach my diffuser panel. I got to remember that I'm much lower than stock height.....

Looks like this weekend I will remove my lower diffuser panel and do some much needed cleaning in that area.....

[fredo]

That hurts, man ! Glad to hear you managed to keep damage to a minimum.

[cakM3]

I was very lucky this morning fredo..... didn't have my morning coffee yet. ;)

[UdubBadger]

Very lucky!


GoingHAM mobile

[cakM3]

agreed!

[WOLFN8TR]

That Sucks. [emoji16] Time to raise it up a bit. [emoji13]

[Pip]

Did you back into a spot?

[johnrando]

Sux. Glad it's an easy repair.

[cakM3]

That Sucks. [emoji16] Time to raise it up a bit. [emoji13]

Never!! ;) I just need to retrofit PDC into the ///M :biggrin


Did you back into a spot?

Yeah, problem is that I always back into spots....didn't have my morning coffee and it was misty outside this morning... misjudged the distance. If I had PDC this wouldn't be an issue :rofl


Sux. Glad it's an easy repair.

Two plastic expanding rivets purchased from a local BMW dealer and all was taken care of :)

On another note... today ZHP Mafia became the only BMW forum that has this project thread in it's entirety. I have decided to keep my updates limited to one forum and closed out the project thread in the other forum....the choice was an obvious one to me :thumbsup

[cakM3]

Since I found lots of standing water on my kitchen floor this morning, it looks like I will be staying home today. :biggrin Guess I will address my rear diffuser from yesterday's mishap and clean everything out. Then inspect my diffuser panel for any damage.... Haven't done any cleaning with the diffuser panel removed so I'm expecting to see lots of dirt to dust off in those areas... then reattach the diffuser panel for a more solid install :)

[Pip]

Since I found lots of standing water on my kitchen floor this morning, it looks like I will be staying home today. :biggrin Guess I will address my rear diffuser from yesterday's mishap and clean everything out. Then inspect my diffuser panel for any damage.... Haven't done any cleaning with the diffuser panel removed so I'm expecting to see lots of dirt to dust off in those areas... then reattach the diffuser panel for a more solid install :)

No mention of the kitchen after the hook. So...what happened? I had a proprietary sink hose (Moen hydrolock) break the other day allowing water to fill my cabinet rather than the sink. Thankfully Amazon had a replacement because I didn't feel like waiting for Moen. Apparently they replace them free but couldn't wait.

No that I reread your post it would seem that the water on the floor was caused by the BMW :)

[cakM3]

No mention of the kitchen after the hook. So...what happened? I had a proprietary sink hose (Moen hydrolock) break the other day allowing water to fill my cabinet rather than the sink. Thankfully Amazon had a replacement because I didn't feel like waiting for Moen. Apparently they replace them free but couldn't wait.

No that I reread your post it would seem that the water on the floor was caused by the BMW :)

Nice Sean :biggrin

Water in my kitchen apparently caused by the central air unit inside my apartment leaking water. I have numerous PVC piping and one of the maintenance guys found a crack on an elbow connection and fixed it the other day. Apparently the leak is coming from that repair connection or there's another leak somewhere that needs to be addressed. I have the maintenance guys over right now using a wet vac to suck the water out and then address the source of the leak. We'll see what happens. I called my boss this morning to explain what is going on and was told to come in when I can or just take the day off and he will see me tomorrow. Awesome boss!! Right now it looks like I will be taking the day off ;)

[cakM3]

I will be replacing the side bolster adjustment switch when this part comes in...

https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8893/17034907953_d65d54c5ce_o.png

Mileage: 166,xxx (will fill in the mileage when I replace the part)

[cakM3]

I decided today I will be getting an OEM CSL center console to replace the Scorza rep CSL console for my birthday present this year. This means I will be selling my Scorza CSL center console sometime this summer...

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/18/cafb2d52b7bcd4c007b252285c544de5.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/18/628a666049042bd739a71aeb9e679b07.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/18/076ab1fdda886b46782ddae18935e205.jpg

As nice as the Scorza rep really is, I really want to have the OEM part to go with my OEM CSL door panels for my ///M.


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[FL116]

I decided today I will be getting an OEM CSL center console to replace the Scorza rep CSL console for my birthday present this year. This means I will be selling my Scorza CSL center console sometime this summer...

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/18/cafb2d52b7bcd4c007b252285c544de5.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/18/628a666049042bd739a71aeb9e679b07.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/18/076ab1fdda886b46782ddae18935e205.jpg

As nice as the Scorza rep really is, I really want to have the OEM part to go with my OEM CSL door panels for my ///M.


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

Can't wait to see it installed! :thumbsup

[BADCLOWN]

all the carbon fibers........must have.

just need to get that CSL airbox setup hahaha, couple grand, no big deal.


super glad you didn't damage the diffuser.

[sillieidiot]

So OEM CSL diffuser next? Lol

[cakM3]

So OEM CSL diffuser next? Lol

No Hieu. For what you pay I don't feel it is worth is because of how easy this item is to take off and steal if someone really wanted it. Having my Tekarbon CSL diffuser for just under $200 and I have the same look is good enough. If someone feels they have to steal my Tekarbon CSL diffuser, it wouldn't hurt as bad as if someone stole the OEM CSL rear diffuser....




Just found out today that I can source CSL headers and European Section 1 w/ 200 cell cats for the same price as the OEM CSL center console. I asked Seth, Sean and Gary this afternoon their thoughts and came the conclusion that it would be better for me to go with performance upgrades so I will be going with the CSL headers and European Section 1 instead :) Getting the OEM CSL center console will have to wait.....

https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8854/17220569623_a4b0188967_b.jpg

https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8871/17841384501_78e8181f4c_b.jpg

[JB3]

Yeah, can't say I blame ya. Nice find.

[cakM3]

Yeah, can't say I blame ya. Nice find.

Thanks Jay! I will get the OEM CSL center console, it just won't be this summer.....

[Pip]

If you have a handy computer friend (BP) you should think about the csl intake at some point. This is a very expensive item but adds a great intake sound and performance. Can't say I'll ever be going down this path but I like looking at them :)

[az3579]

Are you going to be able to pass emissions with this head/cat setup?

[UdubBadger]

Mine doesn't even throw an emissions code


GoingHAM mobile

[Pip]

Are you going to be able to pass emissions with this head/cat setup?

Do you guys have sniffer? Or visual?

[cakM3]

well honestly, most things on the car are easy to take anyways. i mean it would only take me a couple of hours to take your front/rear/sides, wheels, and mirror glass lol you just gotta know your way around an e46 pretty much. our cars are pretty easy to break into too. i mean honestly, for an OEM CSL console, if i really wanted it. some windows aren't going to stop me lol but if i were to do it though, i would stalk your car and take off some rivets and stuff here and there. make my life easier so that when i actually do the deed, it's like already 90% done.

although, i never got why people put the cars on blocks after they steal the wheels. i would just put the car on the ground. that would save a ton of time and energy.

I don't even know why on earth you would even post something like this in my thread Hieu but you do bring up a very good and realistic point into my discussion/project thread. Something I hope never happens.....

Yes, I know if some "jackass moron" wanted to steal stuff off a car they could simply break into the car and pull off components or just steal the whole car.

You can't worry about things like this... if it happens it happens. I have been a victim of car theft before Hieu. I'm not going to allow some jackass moron prevent me from doing what I enjoy doing. It's as simple as that.

What you posted is a sad fact of reality. I just hope things like that won't happen. If it does then it will be time for another project, that's all :)

In closing, it's a good thing I don't live close to you then....won't have to worry about you paying my car a visit and you "stealing" things off of it ;)


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD

[sillieidiot]

didn't mean to strike a cord. but like you said if it's going to happen, it's going to happen. why even worry about it being stolen? it's just as likely to have any other part stolen on the car as the diffuser is what i'm saying. also, some random person isn't going to just take it. they have to first know what it is, very little people can tell the difference between OEM and a rep, or they know you and you have told them (my personal experience).

i mean i've never had a whole car stolen. however, i've been a victim of having multiple parts on my cars stolen (or broken when they failed to take it).

by the way, it was just a hypothetical. i appreciate the car too much to even steal stuff off of it lol especially if you have good stuff. cause then i would be drooling over it. but i mean there is one thing i want from your car that is impossible to take. the rear fenders lol everything else on the car we practically share except the front/rear bumpers.

[TheFinanceGuy]

Are you going to be able to pass emissions with this head/cat setup?

Shouldn't be a problem. RI is just a OBDII read. No sniffer or anything.

http://www.riinspection.org/overview.htm#InspectionRequirements

[WOLFN8TR]

Running 200 Cell Euro Cats versus 200 Cell US Cats shouldn't make any difference. Plus the Euro cats are longer so the CPSI are more.

Charlie these are not CSL Headers correct? The look like Super Sprint or CPI.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/19/6f62d6ef709c85218157717779116eeb.jpg

[cakM3]

Charlie these are not CSL Headers correct? The look like Super Sprint or CPI.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/19/6f62d6ef709c85218157717779116eeb.jpg

Not sure Gary but when mine comes in I will have the actual pics and post. The pic above is what showed up thru Google search so who knows?

They should look much more like this...
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/19/0a1665beefdabde2e44239d3b577bdbe.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/19/ce22738f5d951714f882f158854ff144.jpg


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

The M3 exhaust is laid out in the following pathway:
Headers - Section 1 - Section 2 - Section 3

It's designed by Arvin-Meritor and their white paper can be seen here:
http://www.unofficialbmw.com/images/BMW_M3_Exhaust_System.pdf

Headers:
US cars came with the 200-cell cats built into the header contain 1 EGT bung, 2 pre cat and 2 post cat sensor bungs.
Euro cars came with headers without cats built into them. The factory cats are located in section 1.

Section 1:
This is the section immediately after the headers, and consists of a pair of parallel S-pipes.
US cars came with only one resonator.
Euro cars came with 200-cell catalytic converters and EGT bungs built into section 1. CSL euro cats are lighter due to thinner piping for weight saving purposes.

Section 2:
Longer portion of the mid section that connects to the muffler. There is a factory H-Pipe crossover in the beginning of this section, and a tiny straight through resonator halfway down on this section.

Section 3:
This is the actual muffler, including tips. The stock muffler weighs 56lbs and the CSL is claimed to be lighter 5-10lbs lighter. The muffler is not valved internally and is a very good flowing muffler. It features perforated tubes and one crossover chamber.

http://www.m3forum.net/m3forum/showthread.php?t=484858

[cakM3]

didn't mean to strike a cord. but like you said if it's going to happen, it's going to happen. why even worry about it being stolen? it's just as likely to have any other part stolen on the car as the diffuser is what i'm saying. also, some random person isn't going to just take it. they have to first know what it is, very little people can tell the difference between OEM and a rep, or they know you and you have told them (my personal experience).

i mean i've never had a whole car stolen. however, i've been a victim of having multiple parts on my cars stolen (or broken when they failed to take it).

by the way, it was just a hypothetical. i appreciate the car too much to even steal stuff off of it lol especially if you have good stuff. cause then i would be drooling over it. but i mean there is one thing i want from your car that is impossible to take. the rear fenders lol everything else on the car we practically share except the front/rear bumpers.

Its all good Hieu and I appreciate you bringing up those points. I agree you can't stop someone from stealing parts off your car or even stealing your car. As I have said, I have gone thru this from personal experience and it's not fun. Regarding the rear fenders... you can do a wide body conversion where you can install the M3 front and rear fenders on your car. It would cost money to do this right but at the end of the day you got to decide whether or not this conversion is worth it to you :thumbsup

After you installed the Challenge Carbon Fiber roof panel, your car went to drool status in my book. Everything you have done to your car has been top-notch.... very well executed as far as I'm concerned. Someday.... when I have all maintenance caught up on both cars, I will have my Challenge carbon fiber roof panel installed on my M3.... until then it will be decoration in my house ;)

@ Gary.... thanks for posting the information on exhausts.... very helpful :thumbsup

[cakM3]

during the next few weeks for the 2015 summer season I have a few identified maintenance/mod items I plan to complete on my M3:

- install CSL headers
- install European Section 1 with 200 cell cats
- install my EVO3 SSK
- perform valve guide adjustments on my S54
- perform VANOS inspection
- replace my Bosch lens with ZKW lens on my headlight assemblies
- RTAB replacements
- flush transmission/diff fluids


Once this has been completed, the ///M will be certified for long-distance road trips again :thumbsup

[sillieidiot]

Regarding the rear fenders... you can do a wide body conversion where you can install the M3 front and rear fenders on your car. It would cost money to do this right but at the end of the day you got to decide whether or not this conversion is worth it to you :thumbsup

After you installed the Challenge Carbon Fiber roof panel, your car went to drool status in my book. Everything you have done to your car has been top-notch.... very well executed as far as I'm concerned. Someday.... when I have all maintenance caught up on both cars, I will have my Challenge carbon fiber roof panel installed on my M3.... until then it will be decoration in my house ;)


yeah that's the plan. i already have m3 front fenders on my car. i did it at the same time as the roof install, hence why my roof install took like a month to do vs. the 3 days it would normally take lol

thanks for the kind words.

[Pip]

The M3 exhaust is laid out in the following pathway:
Headers - Section 1 - Section 2 - Section 3

It's designed by Arvin-Meritor and their white paper can be seen here:
http://www.unofficialbmw.com/images/BMW_M3_Exhaust_System.pdf

Headers:
US cars came with the 200-cell cats built into the header contain 1 EGT bung, 2 pre cat and 2 post cat sensor bungs.
Euro cars came with headers without cats built into them. The factory cats are located in section 1.

Section 1:
This is the section immediately after the headers, and consists of a pair of parallel S-pipes.
US cars came with only one resonator.
Euro cars came with 200-cell catalytic converters and EGT bungs built into section 1. CSL euro cats are lighter due to thinner piping for weight saving purposes.

Section 2:
Longer portion of the mid section that connects to the muffler. There is a factory H-Pipe crossover in the beginning of this section, and a tiny straight through resonator halfway down on this section.

Section 3:
This is the actual muffler, including tips. The stock muffler weighs 56lbs and the CSL is claimed to be lighter 5-10lbs lighter. The muffler is not valved internally and is a very good flowing muffler. It features perforated tubes and one crossover chamber.

http://www.m3forum.net/m3forum/showthread.php?t=484858
Good link. Hard to believe 200 cell cats in the stock headers

[sillieidiot]

yeah i don't think it's 200. it should be 400.

[UdubBadger]

Good link. Hard to believe 200 cell cats in the stock headers

very cool tho

[WOLFN8TR]

Good link. Hard to believe 200 cell cats in the stock headers


yeah i don't think it's 200. it should be 400.

Ya right? I was under the impression they were 400 cell on the stock header. I asked several guys on the M3 Forum also and they said 200. One member said they are 200 but fatter than the race cats so a slightly higher CPSI.

[derbo]

Have you looked at Status GruppeM Section 1 with cats Charlie?

http://www.statusgruppe.com/collections/2001-06-bmw-e46-m3/products/bmw-e46-m3-section-1-with-catalytic-converter

[cakM3]

The ///M will be taken offline soon so that I can address a few maintenance/mod items...

- S54 valve guide adjustment
- Transmission oil replacement
- diff oil replacement
- coil pack replacement (all 6 of them)
- plug replacement (all 6 of them)
- Headlight assembly removal/replacement
..-> Bosch lens swap for ZKW lens
- side bolster switch replacement on driver's side front seat
- lit ///M Individual door sill lights

https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8807/17780655334_c04d873c5b_o.png

Upcoming maintenance will be header/sec 1 replacement to be done during the summer....

[WOLFN8TR]

Those look pretty sweet!

[UdubBadger]

Looks good, don't ask Gary for exhaust advice.

[johnrando]

GL with the list.

Sent from mobile

[BADCLOWN]

door sills are nice, who makes them?

[cakM3]

door sills are nice, who makes them?

GrafxWerks

http://www.grafxwerks.com/shop.php?part=E46M3 (http://www.grafxwerks.com/shop.php?part=E46M3)

[WOLFN8TR]

Looks good, don't ask Gary for exhaust advice.

Or Seth for exhaust videos...lol. Still waiting btw [emoji15]

[Torxuvin]

https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8899/17319880270_3a42d5e276_b.jpg


Mmmmm. Looking good Charlie!

[cakM3]

Thanks Cam :thumbsup

[330i ZHP]

coming along nicely

[cakM3]

coming along nicely

Appreciate it Stuart!


Sent from my iPad Mini using Tapatalk HD

[cakM3]

Performed my valve guide adjustment today....found 3 shims out of spec. Two intake (Cylinder 3 & 4) and one exhaust (Cylinder 4).

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/28/2afef72964366404f968215e3790ef82.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/28/88401d18d22893211e0260fa94d3e9f1.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/28/387553fa3ec522ce8f35830dc353cf16.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/28/1723df3fc6ed62a85f660a6068f997ee.jpg

Nice to know how to do this finally! :) Will be logging this maintenance on my computer :thumbsup

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/28/6f59e74208477cb03aa7b84204fbeaa9.jpg


Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[WOLFN8TR]

Nice! [emoji106] Always a good feeling when it's complete.

[cakM3]

Nice! [emoji106] Always a good feeling when it's complete.

Agreed and also a great feeling the wallet is not lighter due to this type of maintenance since I DIYd this... ;)

[johnrando]

Sweet

sent from mobile device

[cakM3]

Sweet

sent from mobile device

Thanks John! :thumbsup

[cakM3]

Got the ///M cleaned the other day and finished dressing up the wheels so I decided to take a few pics....it was a really nice evening....:)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/486/19334697523_46bea474e2_k.jpg

I never get tired of looking at this view.....
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/461/19955827885_711ef0e495_k.jpg

[poke08]

Lawd :drool :drool :drool :drool :drool

[cakM3]

Lawd :drool :drool :drool :drool :drool

Thank you sir! :thumbsup

[BCS_ZHP]

Lookin' good Charlie!

[cakM3]

Lookin' good Charlie!

Thanks Bruce! Trying to keep both of my babies as pristine as possible :)

[330i ZHP]

:hawaiian

[cakM3]

:biggrin

So much concave going on here....as much as I love my BBS CH wheels on my ///M I have to say that these ARC-8s look better on my ///M. :)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/467/19962838621_17f888a3b3_k.jpg

Car looks so perfect the way I have it set up right now....I almost don't want to do anything more regarding suspension and ride height/wheels....

[WOLFN8TR]

Looking good Charlie! Do you have any rock chips on the ///M? It looks new still.

[cakM3]

Looking good Charlie! Do you have any rock chips on the ///M? It looks new still.

Gary, you wouldn't know it but yes, after 166k miles driven on the ///M it does have it's share of "character" ;) Thanks for the complements on my ///M :thumbsup She's still a looker ;)

[Jconlin16]

:biggrin

So much concave going on here....as much as I love my BBS CH wheels on my ///M I have to say that these ARC-8s look better on my ///M. :)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/467/19962838621_17f888a3b3_k.jpg

Car looks so perfect the way I have it set up right now....I almost don't want to do anything more regarding suspension and ride height/wheels....

Definitely agree on the ARC-8s, I absolutely love the concavity on them. Your ///M & ZHP are looking fantastic.

[cakM3]

Definitely agree on the ARC-8s, I absolutely love the concavity on them. Your ///M & ZHP are looking fantastic.

Thanks! It's been a journey to get both of them here :thumbsup

[az3579]

:biggrin

So much concave going on here....as much as I love my BBS CH wheels on my ///M I have to say that these ARC-8s look better on my ///M. :)



I strongly disagree. BBS FTMFW.

[cakM3]

I strongly disagree. BBS FTMFW.

Of course you will strongly disagree... I would expect no less! :thumbsup

[johnrando]

beauties

[cakM3]

beauties

Thanks John! :thumbsup

[danewilson77]

:hashbrowns

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk

[BCS_ZHP]

Double hash browns, the highest of praise......., from the BossMan himself no less!!!!!!

[cakM3]

:hashbrowns

Sent from my SM-G925V using Tapatalk


Double hash browns, the highest of praise......., from the BossMan himself no less!!!!!!

I don't know what to say! ;) Thanks??

[Hornung418]

Double hash browns, the highest of praise......., from the BossMan himself no less!!!!!!
Think it was supposed to be code for "I'm lovin' it."

[cakM3]

Think it was supposed to be code for "I'm lovin' it."

ahhhhh! Gotcha Justin, thanks! :)

[Sockethead]

I just got a chance to look at the pics on something bigger than my iPhone...Those wheels really do look good on the M I like them better than the BBSs too.

[cakM3]

I just got a chance to look at the pics on something bigger than my iPhone...Those wheels really do look good on the M I like them better than the BBSs too.

Thanks Rob! Guess I'm lucky in that I have two sets of nice looking wheels that I can slap on depending on my mood ;) I can honestly say that the ARC-8s are a lot lighter than my BBS CH wheels though.

[cakM3]

Today I swapped out my interior trim and put away my ALU TEC interior trim...

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/07/565b08d587fa33b0ed6ea323c1f5a3d6.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/07/8ee4c6b308c2c15f70ecfd7df2c454ce.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/07/1767ef4701a0ad391371c188871e5fb0.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/07/080d88160ac6f46a21e3b487553145e5.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/07/022f44731fa99e240027576689f9230e.jpg

I installed my set of CSL interior trim on my M3 just to change things out for awhile. This trim even matches my steering wheel trim ;)
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/07/8b45ba01bf565ab0767ea16ad3756949.jpg

Nice to have options where my interior trim is concerned :thumbsup

Sent from my iPhone5S using Tapatalk

[Pip]

I'm so scared of changing those regularly because I know I'm going to break one of those clip things. I miss the Alu tec.

[cakM3]

I'm so scared of changing those regularly because I know I'm going to break one of those clip things. I miss the Alu tec.

I hear ya Sean :) The reason I put away my ALU TEC interior trim is because my cell phone keeps popping out of my Bimmian cell phone mount due to these damned rough New England roads.... sometimes I will hit a bump so damned hard my phone comes out before I get a chance to catch it and it usually falls onto my ALU TEC trim so rather than risk marring it up, I changed them out for the interior CSL trim I had stored in my closet.

After swapping out the trim, I took the ///M out for a mini photoshoot. Felt good just driving the ///M on this very fine afternoon :) Here are a few pics I took today :) Enjoy ;)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/340/20381177485_13c3d3b65d_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/449/19758495244_fd9413692a_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/550/20193116670_a9100b212c_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/288/19760255083_d9ff144392_b.jpg

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3823/20354922836_2d7e38a77f_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/284/19760254693_ae8816fa56_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/312/19758495674_395d9ccf72_b.jpg

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3740/20387323461_1c700642b6_b.jpg

:)

[Johnmadd]

Mmmmmm... I'll sit here and :drool

[BMWCurves]

:like

[WOLFN8TR]

Snazzy...[emoji41]

[cakM3]

Thanks guys!! :wub

I have a few I switched over to black and white.... I like the change in perspective from color to black and white with TiAg! :thumbsup Hope you guys/gals like them as well :)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/474/20393894751_86ed29b834_h.jpg

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3688/20361480986_0fb5fc0910_h.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/268/20361480266_2d69880ec0_h.jpg

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

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/367/20361481236_a3b8e7ba69_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/275/20201096489_50dd353ae8_b.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/528/20387734485_db40b54738_h.jpg

Never occurred to me how nice these pics would look in black and white until tonight :)

[slater]

Today I swapped out my interior trim and put away my ALU TEC interior trim...
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/07/080d88160ac6f46a21e3b487553145e5.jpg
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charlie, i just realized from this pic that 'M3' upside down spells 'EW'. :) quite the view of that on the passenger floor mat from the driver's seat! ;)

:cheers

peter

[cakM3]

charlie, i just realized from this pic that 'M3' upside down spells 'EW'. :) quite the view of that on the passenger floor mat from the driver's seat! ;)

:cheers

peter

Very nice Peter! I got a laugh when you mentioned it :)


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[WOLFN8TR]

New Sig Pic!!!! ​


https://farm1.staticflickr.com/528/20387734485_db40b54738_h.jpg

[cakM3]

New Sig Pic!!!! ​


https://farm1.staticflickr.com/528/20387734485_db40b54738_h.jpg

I will put this into consideration Gary :thumbsup


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Edit: Updated my sig pic Gary but I chose to leave my ZHP (in color format) as part of my sig pic ;)

[Sockethead]

Charlie, that really looks amazing in black and white. Silver seems to be made for it. I think you're on to something....

[cakM3]

Charlie, that really looks amazing in black and white. Silver seems to be made for it. I think you're on to something....

Actually the credit goes to Steve Crabb over at Facebook's BMW e46 Performance Package (ZHP) Owner's Club page. He post processed two of my pictures to black and white and posted them in my post there. I agree that TiAg cars are made for black and white pics :) These pics add another dimension to the same color pics :thumbsup Thanks Rob! :biggrin

[WOLFN8TR]

The Sig is now perfect!! :coolpic

[cakM3]

The Sig is now perfect!! :coolpic

Thanks Gary!! :thumbsup


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[cakM3]

My new Bimmian cell phone mount arrived in the mail today so I found myself tearing apart my interior trim pieces to install my new mount :)

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/377/20406651575_cf1ba0cefa_o.png

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/299/19784015344_d83cb862c6_o.png

Torqued down the 10mm nut so the trim pieces would align properly when installed :)
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/396/20218667488_b97f003063_o.png

Then got everything put back together finally...
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3732/20406651725_b8ef0eceea_o.png
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/285/20380408176_23684126ff_o.png
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/524/20380408016_6c647d3828_o.png

Checked alignment...looks good to me! :thumbsup
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/536/20220011159_f1dd2e6912_o.png
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/400/20380408226_ac40f6efa1_o.png
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/356/20218609080_1546884745_o.png

Took the M3 out for a spin to see how well the phone mount install turned out...everything was tight as expected :thumbsup
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/271/20406651835_8aa95d8883_o.png
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3798/20380407916_d4af1392d3_o.png

Another productive BMW day ;)


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[johnrando]

Looks great Charlie. I was going to swap between black and silver cube about every 6 months just for fun but I'm also not wanting to deal with potentially breaking tabs. Do your orange things pop out with the trim? My issue is that many of mine don't... so the silver "posts" are what pulls out.... but THEY get stuck in the silver thing so you risk breaking a tab. And while I'm at it, do the orange tabs go in vertical then you switch or horizontal, or do you leave them vertical?

[cakM3]

Looks great Charlie. I was going to swap between black and silver cube about every 6 months just for fun but I'm also not wanting to deal with potentially breaking tabs. Do your orange things pop out with the trim? My issue is that many of mine don't... so the silver "posts" are what pulls out.... but THEY get stuck in the silver thing so you risk breaking a tab.

Thanks John! When I pull out my dash trim piece the orange fasteners, at least some of them, tend to come out with the trim piece. I take my time whenever pulling off my trim pieces so as not to break the plastic post holders on the back of them. Most of the times I'm successful in not breaking them....but there is always that one time ;) So with that said, I will leave my very rare ALU TEC interior trim off for awhile and run with the CSL Shadow Titan trim.


And while I'm at it, do the orange tabs go in vertical then you switch or horizontal, or do you leave them vertical?

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.