I learned so much and have so much fun working on my ZHP that I decided to supplement that experience with a clean red E82 I found lurking at a Buick dealership in Killeen.
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It came with lots of service history from the BMW dealer nearby in Temple. Zero mechanical issues apparent or noticeable during the test drive and the drive back to Dallas.
The automatic GM 6-speed and standard suspension make it a very comfortable, easy drive. Power or harsh, tight suspension will not be the end goal of this one as my older parents may use it occasionally. But I'm still giving it the treatment it deserves.
I first cleaned up the exterior lighting which is in decent-to-tired shape after 114k miles. The headlights are still genuine and in great condition. I regardless ordered a fresh pair of genuine euro clear corners from ECS. I think they'll be here around June - who knows.
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I ordered a full set of salvaged genuine calipers off ebay for the standard brakes, then had them locally rebuilt, powder coated gloss black, and installed. Brake lines were replaced with a set of Bimmerworld stainless lines at the same time. Pads and rotors were not changed as they were quite fresh and genuine - the massive dusting on my wheels the hallmark, lol. The previous owner seemed to have the right frame of mind in taking care of the maintenance. I'll be moving to high-carbon rotors and Akebono pads along with the glut of maintenance that's happening later this week.
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The interior is in wonderful shape. The seat cushions are a little dirty and worn, but nothing ridiculous. Unfortunately it came with fake wood trim, which I can't stand. I sourced a full set of satinsilber, with the final piece coming from Latvia.. at some point. The photos of the four pieces you see on ECS for this trim are probably in my car now, which is kind of cool. In the meantime I did the dash and doors.
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Satinsilber almost perfectly matches the color I picked for the sway bars, brackets, and springs.
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Fresh chrome line door sills from FCP Euro. Liftetime guarantee for these will pay dividends in the future.
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Yesterday I installed a BAF Motorsport rear k-brace that my local coater did an incredible job on.
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Trim out.
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Test fit.
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Trim modifications.
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Stay tuned. Lots more fun to come. Give Drew a shout at Unit F14 Powder Coating if you're looking for some quality powder or cerakote in the DFW area. https://unitf14.com/
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