View Full Version : Project 'sensible' - I'm old, I can deal with it
Yes that's right, I am now officially old :wack:
Sold the DC2 to Delboy a month or so ago and went in search of something comfortable on a cruise. What I've bought certainly fits the bill - but it's also a DIESEL :eek: and an AUTOMATIC :eek: and an ESTATE :eek: It is, however, at least RWD :nod:
Here it is in all its glory
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture016-6.jpg
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture021-4.jpg
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture025-3.jpg
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture029-2.jpg
However, I knew I'd get totally bored of anything gutless in less than 5 minutes - so it had to be something with a bit of punch, so the all important detail is:....
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture027-1.jpg
In the words of James May - it goes like a stabbed rat :cool:
Done about 800 miles in her so far, including driving back from Wales after collecting her. She's been fantastic - what a drive. For a big car it doesn't feel it :no: and when you do want to get on it, there's bundles of torque to just surge you down the road - it's seriously sweet :smash:
Playing around with the traction control is - err - interesting ;) Who knew Daneholes Roundabout could be so much fun :wack:
So anyway, middle agedness comes to us all. I'll rock this for a bit before I go off and invest in some string back driving gloves and a flat cap :D
Sideways14a
02-04-2011, 20:03
Must be quite a shock having something called "torque", in fact having quite a lot of it. :D
That ones mapped too isn't it? got around 400 torques i believe! I've driven this and can vouch its a flying machine! (Well for a deisel estate anyway :D)
Nice, whats the plans? X5 19's will look pretty sweet on that, or some 18in style 5's, if you can find any. But what ever you do, ditch the MV2's :(
Very :cool: in estate disguise, al you need is the M-sport bumpers :nod:
MV2's look good too :nod:
Stiffler
02-04-2011, 20:44
That's it, fill the centre console with werthers :ken:
;)
l miss my E46 Touring. Seriously good cars and fun enough with it. Hope you've been holding the traction control button down when you switch it off though :D
Nice, whats the plans? X5 19's will look pretty sweet on that, or some 18in style 5's, if you can find any. But what ever you do, ditch the MV2's :(
The MV2's aren't in particularly good condition so I think they will be being replaced at some point - not really considered what to get yet; although have seen some 5 spoke M wheels that look nice, god knows what they are though.
Very :cool: in estate disguise, al you need is the M-sport bumpers :nod:
MV2's look good too :nod:
Not changing bumpers :D Alright, maybe I will one day. Conflicting views on the MV2's already :)
That's it, fill the centre console with werthers :ken:
;)
It already was full of them - just half chewed :wack: That's partly the reason I had the car fully detailed today :nod:
l miss my E46 Touring. Seriously good cars and fun enough with it. Hope you've been holding the traction control button down when you switch it off though :D
Yes, I've discovered that trick :D
Right - so the car was looking a bit, err, sorry for itself TBH. It's in good overall shape but I don't think it's been treated to a serious bath for quite a few years :no:
This is what it looked like this morning at 7:15
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture066-1.jpg
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture056.jpg
Nice door pocket fluff :smash:
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture064.jpg
Clearly, this was not an acceptable state of cleanliness to take photographs of :no: so I'd booked good ol' Jem to come over and spend a while detailing - little did he know it'd take him 10 hours to get it presentable :D
Very nice arry, miss the 3500 rpm :D
Stiffler
02-04-2011, 21:19
10 hours :eek:
better put my sunglasses on now to protect my retinas :D
Very nice arry, miss the 3500 rpm :D
Maybe I do, maybe I don't :D
Jem set to work on the interior first - picking up the fluff from every orifice :wack: There was so much gunk in it, I thought he was going to have to empty his hoover
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture074.jpg
The interior mats were filthy - so they got a good hosing down
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture113.jpg
And then got hung out to dry on my line
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture110.jpg
The wheels were in a bit of a horrid way, and really needed some hardcore attention to get them clean. They came out almost a different colour after Jem had finished with the detergent, brush and jet-wash
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture101.jpg
The bodywork had lots of swirls and scratches along with 10 years worth of grime baked in.
The scratches were pretty bad in places - especially the bonnet
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture085.jpg
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture072.jpg
The clay bar took a bit of a beating getting all the contaminants out
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture121.jpg
But once that was done, it was time for the car to be taped up ready for the machine paint correction
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture133-1.jpg
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture128.jpg
Jem got handy with the rotart polisher
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture149.jpg
Then checked his handiwork carefully before deciding it needed a more aggressive compound
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture156.jpg
And before you knew it, well actually it took hours and a lot of his hard work but the results were excellent
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture161-1.jpg
Will leave it there for now.
Couldn't thank Jem enough for giving the ol' girl a new lease of life - she's looking fit to do another 10 years now, the paint's like glass and the finish on her is amazing :nod:
Well worth the time and investment :)
That does look amazing, well worth the effort. Hats off to Jem.
You got any pictures of the completed car arry?
Having seen the pictures of Jems car, I'm sure it'll be a top job.
Unusually high number of pubes in the inside of your car there.
Looks good, hopefully it won't throw up any big bills. :)
You got any pictures of the completed car arry?
Having seen the pictures of Jems car, I'm sure it'll be a top job.
They're at the top of the thread fella - that was immediately following the work done. Shame they've not come out more vibrant but it was best part of half 7 by the time I got to take them and it had clouded over in prep for rain :( No light = no shine.
It was also difficult trying to get the camera to focus on the glass shine of the paint because it didn't like it, probably because of the light again.
Unusually high number of pubes in the inside of your car there.
I'm hoping it was the dog - otherwise these welshies really are getting more depraved :wack:
Looks good, hopefully it won't throw up any big bills. :)
Hope not - it's sound enough as is. I think I'm going to stick it in for a big service soon ie the Inspection 2. Probably worth the £250 to get it all looked at and see what's what - I have a specialist local ish to me so no real bother.
They're at the top of the thread fella
Bugger. Clicked on new posts and it took me to Jem doing the work.
Does look good. :thumbs:
I'm leaning towards a comfy cruiser myself for the next car.
You see Arry, I did say you should have got one in Carbon Black, then I could have made it reflect like this for you :P
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v189/jerem_rsv_uk24/666_500_csupload_25111040.jpg
Bugger. Clicked on new posts and it took me to Jem doing the work.
Does look good. :thumbs:
I'm leaning towards a comfy cruiser myself for the next car.
LOL - yeah, it's my novel way of showing pics before and after, showing after then before :wack:
Well worth considering are the big 6 pot derv BM's. They drive really well.
You see Arry, I did say you should have got one in Carbon Black, then I could have made it reflect like this for you :P
Wish it was carbon black :D But it's not. Still more than happy with the shine thanks fella ;)
Congratulations on your retirement :wack:
Hope not - it's sound enough as is. I think I'm going to stick it in for a big service soon ie the Inspection 2. Probably worth the £250 to get it all looked at and see what's what - I have a specialist local ish to me so no real bother.
Wasn't trying to put a downer on the whole thing. Has it had any things changed? Injectors etc.
Do you get the 'golden clock' soon then you ol git
You see Arry, I did say you should have got one in Carbon Black, then I could have made it reflect like this for you :P
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v189/jerem_rsv_uk24/666_500_csupload_25111040.jpg
I have a carbon black one, you would have your work cut out with mine :D
Congratulations on your retirement :wack:
:notworthy
Nice work on the paint :nod: Looking forward to seeing the finihed article :thumbs:
Wasn't trying to put a downer on the whole thing. Has it had any things changed? Injectors etc.
Not going to talk about it - no opportunity to jinx then :wack:
Congratulations on your retirement :wack:
Hardehar :D
As it happens I'm not far off retirement age nowadays - well, 29 years at last count but by the time I get there no doubt both my contract and the state retirement age will be in the early 80's anyway :smash:
I think the BM's going to be kept until it's past it - the wife really enjoys driving it and it's great at just about everything. I also don't mind leaving it out on the road (not that I do at the moment but...) whereas I'd never have done so with the DC2. That paves the way for me to get something interesting as a weekend car once I've got some of the bigger projects out of the way on the house - one of which being the garage rebuild which starts next month and is costing me a kidney :smash:
Still really want an E46 Touring :nod: but then i still really want a Jag :wack:
Looks good mate, I am a fan of the MV2's :thumbs:
Wonder if Jems wants to do my Discovery :D:wack:
Wonder if Jems wants to do my Discovery :D:wack:
It could be arranged :thumbs:
You like a challenge then :D
http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/148656_132008733523753_100001438828659_205586_2200 923_n.jpg
:wack:
Nothing a pressure wash wouldn't sort!
Jem, you would have a heart attack if you saw the amount of scratch's on Mark's Landy lol.
And an even bigger heart attack as you seem him take it offroad straight after you've finished lol.
Damn you arry, you got me looking again at E46 Tourings :wack:
Might have to have a poke round yours sometime and get you to take me for a spin ;)
Am thinking 330d but loads seem Autos. Whats the box like?
Jem, you would have a heart attack if you saw the amount of scratch's on Mark's Landy lol.
And an even bigger heart attack as you seem him take it offroad straight after you've finished lol.
It's good to see a 4x4 being used for what it was designed for rather than sporting 22" wheels on the way to the shops:thumbs:
Damn you arry, you got me looking again at E46 Tourings :wack:
Might have to have a poke round yours sometime and get you to take me for a spin ;)
Am thinking 330d but loads seem Autos. Whats the box like?
Drove a couple of manuals and I think the manual box spoiled it TBH. Stirring porridge and a bit clonky.
Auto box much betterererer IMO, suits the car and engine. I find it smooth and predictable. "Sport mode" ain't worth a shit, mind.
Interesting :nod:
So whats the real world MPG like?
Well I don't think mine is that great - trip comp is showing about 35mpg with a fair bit of round town and bootfuls of throttle, which ain't bad, but I think I've got a small boost leak as there's an air escaping noise especially when cold.
Ron Jeremy saw about 60mpg on a run back over 100 miles from picking his up.
I reckon in good condition running well it'll be around 40mpg average
Auto box much betterererer IMO, suits the car and engine. I find it smooth and predictable. "Sport mode" ain't worth a shit, mind.
Autobox suits these big engined diesels very well. :nod:
I do find the sport mode great for standing starts though as it sets off in 1st rather than 2nd in the default mode. Also good for dropping a gear on the tiptronic for approaching bends.
Fake Ben Taylor
06-04-2011, 15:29
Autobox suits these big engined diesels very well. :nod:
I do find the sport mode great for standing starts though as it sets off in 1st rather than 2nd in the default mode. Also good for dropping a gear on the tiptronic for approaching bends.
thats handy to know! ive always thought mine was sluggish off the line
I guess you don't have to worry about DMFs on the Autos :thumbs: .
Fake Ben Taylor
06-04-2011, 15:51
Autos have the dreaded swirl flaps though which a lot of manuals didn't :wack:
Autos have the dreaded swirl flaps though which a lot of manuals didn't :wack:
They're about £50 worth of blanking plates to remove though - a few hours work. Most will likely have been done already but if you find one that hasn't been, it's not the end of the world to get rid of 'em :)
Fake Ben Taylor
06-04-2011, 16:10
its on my list :nod:
along with egr bypass, decat, map, better air filter etc all of which apparently improve mpg whilst also improving power :D though i cant see the egr bypass helping mpg just giving better low down grunt
Well it looks like the mv2 will be gone sooner than anticipated. Some stupid ****ing cow decided to cut 3 quarters into my lane at speed so the brakes didn't save me stuffing it into the kerb.
She just drove on regardless of the horn and refused to stop, so will report her later and expect **** all to come of it.
Tried to get her to stop but she was having none of it. Totally ignored me flashing headlights, indicating, using horn.
Damage not so bad but brand new front tyre has a massive lump of rim protector missing. Wheel is scuffed to hell
alanjuggler
10-04-2011, 16:54
that blows :indiff:
Ashleyyy
10-04-2011, 16:57
bad times I first read that thinking you missed an actual cow :facepalm: , major pain though epspecially they didnt stop inconsiderate :rant:
hope it wont be much to put right though looks awesome after Jem had his hands on it :)
zeppelin101
10-04-2011, 17:26
Dozy bitch :rolleyes:
btw, saw this at Combe yesterday and thought you should be out doing the same :wack:
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a400/zeppelin101/April%202011%20Action%20Day%20at%20Combe/arry.jpg
So, I'm after some new wheeeeeellls..
I've seen a couple of sets of MV1's refurbished in gloss black. Anyone hazard a guess whether that'd look pony? :wack:
What do we all think of MV1's in general anyway? I'm not sure I like them..... But then I'm not sure what I like, I have no idea what's going to suit this car for some reason.
Thoughts, suggestions? :)
bbs style 5s in staggered flavour
or these style 32's, but a cheekey refurb in gun metal
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Bmw-5-6-7-8-series-Style-32s-18inch-8J-9J-Staggered-/370499570461?pt=UK_CarParts_Acc_Wheels_tyres_Rims_ Car_Wheels_ET&hash=item56437ecb1d#ht_961wt_932
i think style 5's in a 8/9 stagger will be hard to come by, you used to be able to get sets for under 500 but everyones cottoned on and hiked the prices :(
MV1's are nice, I pefere them to MV2's :nod:
Just a pain in the arse to clean. I got a nice set in the garage but I'm keeping them for either when I sell the car or as a winter set of wheels.
or these style 32's, but a cheekey refurb in gun metal
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Bmw-5-6-7-8-series-Style-32s-18inch-8J-9J-Staggered-/370499570461?pt=UK_CarParts_Acc_Wheels_tyres_Rims_ Car_Wheels_ET&hash=item56437ecb1d#ht_961wt_932
i think style 5's in a 8/9 stagger will be hard to come by, you used to be able to get sets for under 500 but everyones cottoned on and hiked the prices :(
Don't think they suite the E46 shape :no: they make the car look older. But that's my opinion of course :)
samcash88
12-04-2011, 22:42
+1 for mv1's Sooooo much nicer than mv'2s in my opinion which were fitted to facelift sport models only.
Don't think they suite the E46 shape :no: they make the car look older. But that's my opinion of course :)
i think its the strait spoke design that doesnt always suit the curves of the car but need arry to buy them, decide he doesnt like them then sell them to me at a knock down price for my e36
LOL :wack:
I'll continue to consider my options throughout the week then buy something at the weekend :thumbs:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/C-Schnitzer-type-3-alloys-/110670846177?pt=UK_CarParts_Acc_Wheels_tyres_Rims_ Car_Wheels_ET&hash=item19c47f18e1
:thumbs:
zeppelin101
13-04-2011, 09:36
^^ we have a winner
Yep, Schnitzers on a touring do look good.
Dooo Eeet! :)
17's though. Unless it's sat on it's arse they just going to look naff :wack:
Fook it, get 19's then :D
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Bmw-19-AC-Schnitzer-wheels-235-35-19-avon-tyres-/320684374782?pt=UK_CarParts_Acc_Wheels_tyres_Rims_ Car_Wheels_ET&hash=item4aaa473afe
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/C-Schnitzer-type-3-alloys-/110670846177?pt=UK_CarParts_Acc_Wheels_tyres_Rims_ Car_Wheels_ET&hash=item19c47f18e1
:thumbs:
Can't see them at work as ebay blocked. Are they the solid 5 spokes?
Fook it, get 19's then :D
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Bmw-19-AC-Schnitzer-wheels-235-35-19-avon-tyres-/320684374782?pt=UK_CarParts_Acc_Wheels_tyres_Rims_ Car_Wheels_ET&hash=item4aaa473afe
Do 19's fit with no work?
Missus drove it last night and confirms there's a fair bit of wheel wobble at speed - looks like the wheel is buckled :rolleyes: Oh well. They're being replaced now 100%
No these ones
http://www.sxoc.com/vbb/attachment.php?attachmentid=72293&stc=1&d=1302692712
I'm in on those :thumbs: Wifey won't like them but hey ho :D
Anyone photoshop them on for me?!
Cant find a silver car but he is a red one :D
http://www.vipcar.com.vn/media/FullSize/AC_Schnitzer-ACS3_3Series_E46_Touring_2002_1280x960_wallpaper_0 1.jpg
Badical :D
Need those :)
Hope I can afford them now :wack:
zeppelin101
14-04-2011, 17:34
Don't mind me
You should dress it up as sport too. :nod:
Has anyone used these guys before? More specifically the front arms :nod:
http://www.motormec.co.uk/e46parts.html
Need to get a set on order.
Would they not be cheaper from somewhere like GSF?
Would they not be cheaper from somewhere like GSF?
Probably - only problem is I can't tell from GSF's site which blinkin' ones they are :wack:
Will give them a call later I reckon.
I know which ones wear on the front, and am going to replace the whole arm rather than just the lollipop as I don't suspect the balljoints are in that great a nick.
Also want to know which rear arms aren't the greatest, and where to get those from.
i boughts a set of meyle wishbones with balljoints and new lollipops mounted from these guys http://www.allgermanparts.co.uk/ reasonably priced and a decent brand, they also sell lehmforder stuff which is oem, check em out
mine were 175 on my e36 but i think these might be the ones u want
http://www.allgermanparts.co.uk/ourshop/prod_1142630-Front-axle-control-arm-set-amp-brackets-Meyle-HD-316-050-0000HD.html
BO! Cheers. I'll order them up.
AND FCUK IT!!
Both those sets of AC's have been withdrawn :rolleyes:
Keep you eye out on this place: http://bmautosport.co.uk/
Usually a fair amount of stuff coming up both new and used. Good prices as well :nod:
http://bmautosport.co.uk/detail.php?siteid=2038
Would they fit? 9.5J rears seems a bit touch and go
If you wanted them too, may need some slight arch modification.
Hmm, not sure I want to go down that route.
This is supposed to be project sensible, after all :wack:
Nothing major, at most a lip roll with that offset, depending on your alignment you may find they may just pop straight on.
BMW have the best paint work of any manufacturer IMO, so if all is original and in good nick you wont have any issues.
Hmm - we'll have to see. If nothing comes up after this weekend that takes my fancy, I'll just be off buying something.
What sort of lead time would you need if I found they didn't just pop straight on mate??
E46 dealer servicing. "Value Line Service" (http://www.bmw.co.uk/bmwuk/owner/service_value/moreinfo/0,,1312_181248203__dht-aHR0cDovL3d3dy5iYXllcmlzY2hlYm13Lm5ld2RvbG4ubmV0,0 0.html)
inspection 2 for your car, £339 and you get a dealer stamp in the book.
and any issues will be flagged up to you.
Well 9.5 et45 bolt straight on with a 255/35/18 so I can't see the extra 2mm making a difference tbh.
Well 9.5 et45 bolt straight on with a 255/35/18 so I can't see the extra 2mm making a difference tbh.
If that's the case - then I reckon these could be a go'er?
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=230613292700&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT#ht_3468wt_1628
There pretty much the same width and offsets as MV's. I still think a clean set of MV1's will really suite your car :nod:
So do I but I can't seem to find any at a reasonable price :(
I've put an offer in on those as they're by far the best of a bad bunch :thumbs: We'll see what happens :)
I don't know if you've had a look at this website http://www.bmautosport.co.uk/ but they do a good selection of bmw replica wheels and also sell second hand wheels :)
Yeah, seen those - I think I'll end up buying from them if these ones fall through, a bit sick of ebaying now :wack:
You tried BM Bitz on Canvey?
You tried BM Bitz on Canvey?
No? Didn't know there was anything like that on Canvey - never heard of them.
Website or?
http://www.partsgateway.co.uk/bmbitz/
They are mainly a breakers but do some new blingy bits as well :D
Cheers - I'll give them a call see if they've got anything for me :thumbs:
Actual_Ben_Taylor
28-04-2011, 11:09
Arry - Matt_S might have a tidy set of MV1 for sale next week :)
HELLO!
Arry, I'll have a set for sale for sure. AFAIK, (only seen it once, picking it up Sunday :wack: ) they were all good apart from the from near side. Could prob throw in the front tyres too. But the NSF (poss the OSF inner too, couldnt see) has some feathering to it. Get you outta trouble tho.
Ill PM you pics when I get it, OK. :)
Shame you didn't get here before last night, would have saved me putting an offer in on those wheels on teh bay :wack: I think it'll probably get rejected anyway, we'll see.
Yeah I'd be interested in those mate - as long as seller doesn't accept offer :thumbs:
Arry. These might work with the silver...
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320689992736&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT
You're right - they'd look badass :cool:
However, ol' matey's come back and accepted my offer so I'm picking up the others tomorrow :cool: If it all falls through I'll give you a shout mate :thumbs:
No prob mate. As it is, Carter has just come up with an idea for the new wheels that might look trick! If it does, Id like to keep the car rolling, so Ill stick with the MV1s for now :)
Cool - all works out well then :thumbs:
ANd Ive also got a guy at work who's just bought one but its on 16s :wack: And he's asked what I want for them! :D
Right - new wheels on ze wagon. Off to take some snaps now, back in an hour :cool:
So, are we feeeelin' it?
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture002-6.jpg
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture003-5.jpg
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture007-3.jpg
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture005-4.jpg
I prefer them :nod:
Just to give an indication of how much of a shine Jem left the paintwork with - this is a pic of the rear quarter; bear in mind the car hasn't been washed at all since Jem left a few weeks ago now!
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture011-5.jpg
:cool:
That's look ace mate!
Oh and fecking wash it :smash::smash:
Looking good! Style 32s! ;)
16 hours til I get mine now! :D
I might have to get Jem involved to give mine the once over... Jem, drop me a PM with a quote pal :thumbs:
Cool Matt, what have you gone for?
I'm properly happy with the look of mine now - didn't think they'd look as good as they do, but I was wrong, looks much better :)
330i 4dr M Sport mate.
Lovely car :cool:
Pics when you get it :D
Why of course! ;)
Ive already been buying bits. Wheels, illuminated OEM M Sport gear knob, spare Key and some black kidneys! :)
Next on the list next week are coilies, parrot kit to make the steering wheel controls work and an oil service.
Here's a pic to wet your appetite ;)
Quite funny tho. It was an Ex Demo, so it has some nice options to the tune of the over £3k. In fact, the options equate to approximately the same price as Im paying for it tomorrow! LOL! :D
http://www.sxoc.com/vbb/attachment.php?attachmentid=72558&d=1304192302
I might have to get Jem involved to give mine the once over... Jem, drop me a PM with a quote pal :thumbs:
YHPM
330i 4dr M Sport mate.
That looks LOVELY:smitten:
:cool:
Look forward to more pics and hearing how you get on with it :thumbs:
Stiffler
30-04-2011, 21:33
So, are we feeeelin' it?
You either have a full tank of petrol or you have removed the engine which is it :D
are they "normal" springs you have on :)
lol - I thought that, but I think it's just the angle of some of the pics. It's actually fairly even ride height wise although it does appear lower at the back :nod:
:cool:
Look forward to more pics and hearing how you get on with it :thumbs:
Cheers! You've just inspired me to start my own thread! :thumbs:
YHPM
That looks LOVELY:smitten:
Thanks :)
Ill mail you in a bit :thumbs:
Stiffler
30-04-2011, 21:54
ahh if you follow the line of the top of the front arch backward its a good few inches higher than the rear..
Thats just how they must be as matt's looks the same :)
ahh if you follow the line of the top of the front arch backward its a good few inches higher than the rear..
Thats just how they must be as matt's looks the same :)
Most cars are like that. Its so you can turn the front wheels :wack:
Woo - it serves it's purpose :cool:
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture-2.jpg
Nice not to have to muck around taking wheels off and placing stuff inside the car - Thule bars took about 10 mins to get properly sorted out into position then the bikes go on and you're away :thumbs:
Makes it SO much easier to take the bikes somewhere good for a ride, it's now actually worth doing.
Yup I use a roofrack on my M3, less healthy purpose though, with a box on top that means I can avoid putting extra wheels and tyres in the car for trackdays :D
Lol! Top box may well be a purchase. Reckon it'll be useful for some shows
Lol! Top box may well be a purchase. Reckon it'll be useful for some shows
This is all far too practical, it'll be a caravan next so you don't have to put your tent up :ken:
Just remember the bikes are up there before you put it in the garage eh :wack:
Going to have to take 4 mountain bikes on it in a couple of weeks time - so I've bought a tow bar mounted bike carrier; a Thule 970 which just clips onto the tow ball - really fuss free. It's arrived today so I'll give it a try on the weekend :)
Also got my control arms - goes in tomorrow to Deek to have them fitted.
Meyle arms - total quality :cool:
Right from the packaging
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture165.jpg
To the items themselves
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture166.jpg
Quality service from the guys at http://www.allgermanparts.co.uk :)
nice one on the arms, makes a big difference to the ride once the alignment is all done, bit firmer but tightens up the front nicely
nice one on the arms, makes a big difference to the ride once the alignment is all done, bit firmer but tightens up the front nicely
That's what I'm hoping for. It's just a touch floaty at speed - 80mph really feels like you're doing 50 apart from the fact it's a bit vague which is disconcerting.
Next job will be MOT. It's got some months left but I guess I'd rather just get it in and bite the bullet, make sure there's nothing awry.
Arms look like a nice piece of kit. How much are they out of interest? CBA searching through there site on my phone :wack:
Arms look like a nice piece of kit. How much are they out of interest? CBA searching through there site on my phone :wack:
£250 delivered - expensive, but come with everything, straight forward swap over job. No messing around polybushing and still running 10 year old + balljoints :)
Bet there cheaper than BMW :). If happily pay £250 if I needed some :nod:
Bet there cheaper than BMW :). If happily pay £250 if I needed some :nod:
Yeah I can imagine BMW parts would be somewhat lumpy on price.
I'll get them on tomorrow and hopefully that'll make the car even better to drive.
Well done on the bike rack, well excited about it all. It is a very nice car to drive and surprisingly 'fun' with levels of comfort. Still pipe and slippers material but a choice comprimise. Now just the CBR to fix.
You think the parts will make a noticable difference?
Should hope so - it'll be on very tired balljoints at the moment, so I can't see that it won't.
Wow, this really is all very sensible! :eek:
Like the new wheels mate, a smidge lower and some spacing out would have it looking spot on, should still be practical too ;)
When do you want me to swing round with your head unit dude?
Looking good so far Arry :nod:
Nearly went the Style 32 route myself, but so many of them were needing a refurb yet still going for good money. 5 series fitment Style 32's look awesome, but need a bit of stretch at the rear.
What sort of mileage is yours? Will be interested to hear how much difference the new arms make. I want to check out the front end on ours, it drives fine generally but at motorway speeds & above it feels a little fidgety, although the 330 petrols had boosted steering for first year or so which doesn't help. Either way, I feel more comfortable in my older 850R above 80 leptons.
Listen out for erratic air con fan speed. Common problem on E46's, the FSR can play up which causes erratic fan speeds or fans on with ignition off. Ours did it, I was sitting in it one day without keys in the ignition and the interior fans were blowing!! FSR is around £50, easy enough to fit if a little fiddly. Saves getting a random flat battery anyway!
Wow, this really is all very sensible! :eek:
Like the new wheels mate, a smidge lower and some spacing out would have it looking spot on, should still be practical too ;)
When do you want me to swing round with your head unit dude?
I may possibly look into having it a little lower - although I always worry with that sort of thing as I don't want arch contact when loaded, it is a load carrier after all - and no I don't really fancy arch work either!
No rush on HU mate, I'll probably be going through your way at the weekend so I'll give you a shout if I do.
Looking good so far Arry :nod:
Nearly went the Style 32 route myself, but so many of them were needing a refurb yet still going for good money. 5 series fitment Style 32's look awesome, but need a bit of stretch at the rear.
What sort of mileage is yours? Will be interested to hear how much difference the new arms make. I want to check out the front end on ours, it drives fine generally but at motorway speeds & above it feels a little fidgety, although the 330 petrols had boosted steering for first year or so which doesn't help. Either way, I feel more comfortable in my older 850R above 80 leptons.
Listen out for erratic air con fan speed. Common problem on E46's, the FSR can play up which causes erratic fan speeds or fans on with ignition off. Ours did it, I was sitting in it one day without keys in the ignition and the interior fans were blowing!! FSR is around £50, easy enough to fit if a little fiddly. Saves getting a random flat battery anyway!
Mine's on 141k now, so it's done a fair few miles. There's no definitive problem as such, it's just floaty. One that I drove with new wishbones when I was looking felt a bit more solid, so we'll give them a try and see what's what.
Fans, so far, have been fine - but reassuring if it does turn out to be a problem then it's a relatively cheap fix :)
Looking good Arry :thumbs: Wonder what those rims would look like in gunmetal :D
Oh and dont worry about the test drive now, blagged a go of Kens at the weekend :thumbs: Drove really well but i am probably not getting one now :wack: Drove Stidis 530d straight afterwards and preferred it :D
So 530d Auto Touring is the plan but will still keep an eye on the 330d incase a really nice one comes up for the right money :)
I did wonder, I was going to go darker on the rims but these are freshly refurbed to a good standard so they're staying as they are until wifey manages to kerb them all :D
530's a good choice - out of interest, why did you prefer it? Never driven one, so it'd be interesting to know how they compare :)
Hard to explain really it just felt a slightly nicer place to be. I guess the quality was another notch up, it was just little things that when put all together made it a better car IMO. The actual drive was very similar :)
Picked the car up yesterday - after some quick work by Deek to fit the new Mehle arms to the front :thumbs:
The old ones - one had been replaced previously, so they replaced one side :wack:, and wasn't in too bad a nick really. The other side was totally borked :smash: Rear lollipop bush was doing the sum total of naff all, and the balljoints had no resistance in them at all.
So, with it already feeling better as I drove back, I decided I'd take it in for an alignment. Glad I did :eek:
Front toe was out by over 3 degrees either side :wack: Rear toe wasn't much better. Thrust line of the car was all over the shop. Rear camber was ok but still worth adjusting. Front camber was a touch out as well but the stock adjustment didn't seem to want to give, which was frustrating but it's only a touch out.
Also got me some Falken 452's on the back in 255/35/18's - noticed the tyres that were on my new rims were run-flats, wasn't comfortable with that :no: not without sensors. The 452's aren't exactly known for quietness or comfort but they're instantly better than the run flats anyway, which I'd noticed as soon as they went on how much it destroyed the ride.
Overall, now much better :thumbs: Drives really well.
Shame it's costing me fortunes without anything really going wrong but hey ho, that's car maintenance for you :smash:
Next job, half service, ie air filter, oil change - oh and spark plugs ......
Good luck doing the spark plugs :wack:
Good luck doing the spark plugs :wack:
I've read that they're a simple job, and most mechanics charge 3 hours labour - so it won't be too sad :)
em... diseasels don't have spark plugs... :wack:
From what Ive read tho, its easier to change the spark plugs on 330s than the Glow plugs :wack:
Keep it up Arry.
LOwering will be fine! You'll tuck the rears!
I've read that they're a simple job, and most mechanics charge 3 hours labour - so it won't be too sad :)
Please tell me thats a wind up :wack:
Please tell me thats a wind up :wack:
Why? You think that's too long? How much should I be paying?
alanjuggler
16-05-2011, 12:10
I can't tell who's on the wind up here :wack:
you'll have some glow plugs to change, no spark plugs in sight. :D
:D
Well they did say they were in a really inaccesible position, and I can't seem to find spark plugs listed on the GSF site :wack:
Glow plugs are absolutely fine for now - it starts from cold without missing a beat and the light goes off even from cold within 2 seconds of turning the key. Iss awwl guuud
Did ~60 miles in it yesterday, much tighter to drive now - not so wandery at speed. Feels good :)
:D
Well they did say they were in a really inaccesible position, and I can't seem to find spark plugs listed on the GSF site :wack:
Glow plugs are absolutely fine for now - it starts from cold without missing a beat and the light goes off even from cold within 2 seconds of turning the key. Iss awwl guuud
Did ~60 miles in it yesterday, much tighter to drive now - not so wandery at speed. Feels good :)
I'm not sure if you've noticed the comments about the spark plugs arry lol.
Thanks for letting me have a drive of it the other day. I was very impressed with it. Only thing I would miss from the 200 would be how smooth the power is, that makes it feel slower than it is despite how quickly it pulls you down the road.
Gonna try and find a manual 330d to drive and see how that feels as I've never been a lover of Auto's.
The new arms have tightened up the steering now then :).
lol - I have mate, don't worry ;)
No problem mate - at least it gives you an idea of what they're like and whether it's worth further investigating / a steer as to whether you can live with it. I drove a couple of manuals and didn't feel it suited the nature of the car, but I'd have thought a manual with the M-Sport suspension could be a really good compromise :nod:
lol - I have mate, don't worry ;)
No problem mate - at least it gives you an idea of what they're like and whether it's worth further investigating / a steer as to whether you can live with it. I drove a couple of manuals and didn't feel it suited the nature of the car, but I'd have thought a manual with the M-Sport suspension could be a really good compromise :nod:
indeed it does. The thing its really shown me is the massive difference between how the 200 is all out crazy compared with the nice refined bmw. Been chatting to Laura and when we move in together we are gonna sell both cars and get one practical car and 1 fun weekend car between the both of us. So something like the 330d Touring and possibly an MX5. Best of both worlds then.
I need to drive a manual as it's what I'm used to and like. I think I would get bored of an auto after a short while.
M-Sport suspension sounds like a good idea as yours did lean a fair amount. I keep looking at the 530d's though. :wack:
It's mainly a case of my head is saying get the 330d Touring and my heart is saying to keep the 200.
arry, M-sport like this one?
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201118386208209/sort/priceasc/usedcars/fuel-type/diesel/body-type/estate/price-to/7000/transmission/manual/engine-size-cars/3l_to_3-9l/model/3_series/make/bmw/postcode/rm25dj/radius/1500/page/1?logcode=p
Fake Ben Taylor
16-05-2011, 13:22
indeed it does. The thing its really shown me is the massive difference between how the 200 is all out crazy compared with the nice refined bmw. Been chatting to Laura and when we move in together we are gonna sell both cars and get one practical car and 1 fun weekend car between the both of us. So something like the 330d Touring and possibly an MX5. Best of both worlds then.
I need to drive a manual as it's what I'm used to and like. I think I would get bored of an auto after a short while.
M-Sport suspension sounds like a good idea as yours did lean a fair amount. I keep looking at the 530d's though. :wack:
It's mainly a case of my head is saying get the 330d Touring and my heart is saying to keep the 200.
ive got a 530d touring m sport and its nothing short of awesome :nod: doesnt roll much in corners and handles much better than a car its weight should!
ive got a 530d touring m sport and its nothing short of awesome :nod: doesnt roll much in corners and handles much better than a car its weight should!
I haven't seen a single 530d touring m-sport for sale yet :wack:. They quite rare?
I haven't seen a single 530d touring m-sport for sale yet :wack:. They quite rare?
Really? :p
http://www.sxoc.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=496615
Really? :p
http://www.sxoc.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=496615
Here's my lack of knowledge of BMW's showing. I thought Sport and M-Sport were different with BMW's, so they are the same? If so then I've seen a couple :wack:
Different bumpers, skirts, seats and suspension. A few other little stuff aswell :nod:
Here's my lack of knowledge of BMW's showing. I thought Sport and M-Sport were different with BMW's, so they are the same? If so then I've seen a couple :wack:
On E39's there was no such thing as M-Sports, well inside it was badged M-Sport on the door sills etc, but as far as acual car trim level was concerned it was just called a Sport.
So you would have had either a 530D SE, or 530D Sport.
On the E60 5 Series it was then called M-Sport :nod:
Fake Ben Taylor
16-05-2011, 15:07
On E39's there was no such thing as M-Sports, well inside it was badged M-Sport on the door sills etc, but as far as acual car trim level was concerned it was just called a Sport.
So you would have had either a 530D SE, or 530D Sport.
On the E60 5 Series it was then called M-Sport :nod:
i think the tourings didnt have sport - they were all SE and you had to check that it had the sports bits fitted :confused:
mines an SE touring on the papers but has the m-technic suspension, sport drivers seat, sport wheel and sill plates, double glazing etc
so its a sport but not badged a sport :wack:
Nope, same as the saloon both SE + Sport were there to choose from.
Although you could always order the Sport and then choose to have it fitted with various SE bits instead and vice versa :wack:
Different bumpers, skirts, seats and suspension. A few other little stuff aswell :nod:
Sweet, that makes sense :).
On E39's there was no such thing as M-Sports, well inside it was badged M-Sport on the door sills etc, but as far as acual car trim level was concerned it was just called a Sport.
So you would have had either a 530D SE, or 530D Sport.
On the E60 5 Series it was then called M-Sport :nod:
Ah, so that's why when I've tried finding M-Sport E39's I'd never seen one, but seen loads of Sport ones. I understand now :).
i think the tourings didnt have sport - they were all SE and you had to check that it had the sports bits fitted :confused:
mines an SE touring on the papers but has the m-technic suspension, sport drivers seat, sport wheel and sill plates, double glazing etc
so its a sport but not badged a sport :wack:
And that throws all the above out the window lol.
Sports get shadowline, bumpers, sills, wheels too.
Personally Daz I am a lover of manuals but the BMW one isnt that nice :wack: The Auto is much much better. They have the tiptonic on them as well so can use it as a manual if you want :nod:
So something like the 330d Touring and possibly an MX5. Best of both worlds then.
I need to drive a manual as it's what I'm used to and like. I think I would get bored of an auto after a short while.
This is my plan :nod:
I am the same, can't deal with autos, even the paddle shift thingys.. it's not the same :no:
What's so bad about the manuals then people!?!
I've had both a manual 530D and an auto albeit slightly newer generation but meh. Gives me a pretty good view from both sides. :nod:
They both have there faults. The manuals arent the slickest I have ever used, its not the nicest of gear changes, and its alot harder to get the changes right/smooth with the diesels. You do get used to it though, you just cant really jump right into it and drive it smoothly from the off. But you get better MPG, and taking all things into account makes it a slightly more 'drivers' car.
Likewise the autos really do suit the diesels, the powerband, the delivery, the torque curve, seamless shifting. 98% of the time the box gets it right, rarely shifting up or down when you dont want it to, and if its that important just switch it over to tiptronic and pick your gear, its really not hard. :wack:
Plus the usual benefits that you get with an auto, being stuck in traffic isnt an issue anymore, waiting on a hill etc. When your not in the mood for driving, and just want to get home, stick it in D and leave it to it.
The only real time I have used mine in full manual mode was on track, and on some twisty mountain roads. Oh and in the snow as well!
Personally I dont mind either, I will happily have another one in either manual or automatic.
The manuals arent the slickest I have ever used, its not the nicest of gear changes, and its alot harder to get the changes right/smooth with the diesels.
Yep this is what i found, the box didnt even feel connected to the box, more like in a bowl of porridge :wack:
I think the box on my Landrover felt tighter :wack:
Yep this is what i found, the box didnt even feel connected to the box, more like in a bowl of porridge :wack:
I think the box on my Landrover felt tighter :wack:
Going on a slight tangent. The manual boxes on the current shape E9X's are fine, even up to the 330D's, nothing like the older style at all, very short throw + precise, lovely boxes.
I dont think the gearknobs on the E39's helped much, from memory they were huge :wack:
Fcuk what the manual feels like, I dont like £2k bills for a rebuild of an auto and I know of at least two. :wack:
Reverse goes.
The manuals OK. Its weird in that it feels a little metallic when it goes in, but the gate is quite wide, which contradicts the precise feel when you actually get a gear :wack: The throw is really long too.
Sometimes this vagueness can be helped with an oil change and also, the lever doesnt spring to 3/4th plane but sticks either side. Its £200 job to fix as you need to drpo the box and replace some springs.
Fcuk what the manual feels like, I dont like £2k bills for a rebuild of an auto and I know of at least two. :wack:
On the whole they are reliable boxes, they aren't known as a particularly weak point.
You personally know of 2 failures, I know 4 people who had or still have various e39's both petrol and diesel with autoboxes who have never had any trouble. A bit like saying stay away from a common rail diesel you will end up with a bill for a DMF, injectors, DPFs etc. You always hear about the horror stories, never the other way around. ;)
However ignore the 'sealed for life' transmission fluid! If you have any plans on keeping the car for any length of time, and/or your at or past the 100k mark get the fluid changed. It's not cheap, for the e90 its about £35/£40 per litre (not sure on e46/39 costs, I assume its a similar amount) but its worth it, if only for piece of mind.
However ignore the 'sealed for life' transmission fluid! If you have any plans on keeping the car for any length of time, and/or your at or past the 100k mark get the fluid changed. It's not cheap, for the e90 its about £35/£40 per litre (not sure on e46/39 costs, I assume its a similar amount) but its worth it, if only for piece of mind.
I had it all swapped within a week of picking mine up - front to back :)
And the coolant system is getting an overhaul once I sort the cosmetics out :)
I had it all swapped within a week of picking mine up - front to back :)
And the coolant system is getting an overhaul once I sort the cosmetics out :)
Nice :) Should outlive you after all that work :p
A friends rad gave up on his 60k 530i. So yeah give it the once over!
TBH its so tight down there, I cant see feck all! I want to replace the drive belt, and to do that looks a mare with the rad in, so its coming out. Whilst thats out, I 'may as well' change the Stat and Water pump as I know theyre fragile.
The cost is mounting up, but hopefully it might save me a roadside breakdown/HG failure and also it might hopefully make it more saleable as and when Ive had enough of it. :)
So is that the only downside to the manual, that it's a bit wooly? I was expecting it to be becuase they were shite or something. I really must go and drive a 330d manual sport I think :)
Check if it stays in the 5th gear plane from cold. Mine did a bit but a gear fluid change sorted it. If not, see what I said earlier.
But others have said you get used to it. And TBH if you can, then wait til it needs a clutch and do it then :)
Go have a drive :)
If my car is sorted (bloody coilovers nightmare!) and its nice weather, Im thinking about bringing it out for a run on Thursday to the HWH as I havent been for like 2 years :wack:
Check if it stays in the 5th gear plane from cold. Mine did a bit but a gear fluid change sorted it. If not, see what I said earlier.
But others have said you get used to it. And TBH if you can, then wait til it needs a clutch and do it then :)
Go have a drive :)
If my car is sorted (bloody coilovers nightmare!) and its nice weather, Im thinking about bringing it out for a run on Thursday to the HWH as I havent been for like 2 years :wack:
I'm worried I might really like the 330d sport too much lol. It suits my needs perfectly being an estate aswell. I used to love my ST24 mondeo for how smooth that was to drive. The shifter in that was pretty erm, sloppy.
Would be good to see you at the HWH meet, shame yours is the petrol otherwise I'd nick the keys for a drive lol.
Im sure theyre not too different. The petrol is quicker (to the pumps anyway :wack: )
This is my plan :nod:
I am the same, can't deal with autos, even the paddle shift thingys.. it's not the same :no:
What's so bad about the manuals then people!?!
I don't mind paddle shifts aslong as they work. I've driven a SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra and that had a 7 speed auto with paddle shifts and a blip on downshifting. It worked very very well. The box in arry's had a bit of a delay which took some getting used to. I guess I'm just impatient lol.
Im sure theyre not too different. The petrol is quicker (to the pumps anyway :wack: )
lol. Isn't the 330 petrol about 17-18mpg around town, ouch.
Nah, not quite.
Just read the for sale ads. They all get 35+ :wack:
:D
Nah, not quite.
Just read the for sale ads. They all get 35+ :wack:
:D
lol.
Take a look at the E46 I just posted in the inspirational thread :)
sroberts
17-05-2011, 07:59
lol. Isn't the 330 petrol about 17-18mpg around town, ouch.
There is quite a good thread on e46zone :wack: (I know, good and e46zone in the same sentence) about this. It would appear that the autos really drank the petrol while the manuals where a little more frugal, my old one was getting 25-26 round town and 37 on the motorway :smash:
Si
Yeah I'd go with that Si. Im still hooning at the moment, so prob getting the lower figure...
So is that the only downside to the manual, that it's a bit wooly? I was expecting it to be becuase they were shite or something. I really must go and drive a 330d manual sport I think :)
That and I dont want to find out how much a BMW DMF is :wack:
Actual_Ben_Taylor
17-05-2011, 09:49
That and I dont want to find out how much a BMW DMF is :wack:
Cheaper than a new auto box...
My brother is one of the guys that I mentioned losing Reverse.
He got quoted £1500 for a S/H box fitted or £2100 for a recon box. He went for the recon. Apparently they all do it eventually. DMF is £300 ish on the bay.
But whats the chances of the DMF needing doing compared to the Auto dying :confused:
DMFs and clutches are a consumable that wears out. Box's arent imho.
Apparently they all do it eventually.
To be fair you could say that about every component on everything ever made. They will all brake at some point :wack:
To be fair you could say that about every component on everything ever made. They will all brake at some point :wack:
Well my brother was advised that he'd seen a lot go at 85-100k. Admittedly my Bros is a fairly early 330 (X I think) but still....
LOL, I saw this link a few days ago but thought it was just someone on a wind up...
http://noreverse.org/
My mate used to work at an independent BMW specialist for about 8 years and he said they did get a couple of e46 autos in with box problems and it wasn't common at his work. On the other hand he said they had a fair few e39 540's with box problems.
It's probably just luck of the draw. Some will go on and on and on. Some, well......won't
My mate used to work at an independent BMW specialist for about 8 years and he said they did get a couple of e46 autos in with box problems and it wasn't common at his work. On the other hand he said they had a fair few e39 540's with box problems.
It's probably just luck of the draw. Some will go on and on and on. Some, well......won't
So it's like running near 400bhp on the SR box, some go, others hold on.
Wasnt this thread about Arrys car :wack:
Wasnt this thread about Arrys car :wack:
Not anymore, it's got really boring now :D
It's turned me away from buying a BMW as there's a risk I'll become some sort of fun sponge if I get one ;)
The manual shift on our 330ci isn't great, but it's not bad enough that I'd disregard a manual. As Matt says, it's just a bit of a long throw with a bit of a vague feeling. The shift doesn't really want to be rushed from 1st to 2nd I find either, easy to kangaroo it like you've never driven before :wack: Although that's not helped by the clutch delay valve.
5th gear return spring is something to watch for, ours sticks from cold in the winter, but has loosened up within a couple of miles.
I have heard of some people fitting the shifter from a Z3M iirc, which shortens the throw a fair bit.
On the subject of Sport models, for the E46 at least it should say Sport on the logbook, and usually the easiest thing to check for is black headlining (although this was an option on non Sport models). All of the other Sport bits (bumpers, sills, suspension, shadowline, etc) could easilly have been added to make it look like a Sport. At the end of the day, you're really only paying a premium for a bit of a bodykit.
On our 2000 330ci SE you could have a few of the Sport bits as options, MV1 wheels, anthracite headlining, shadowline trim, sports seats, sports suspension. Although I think it was 2001 that the Sport models came out anyhow.
So it's like running near 400bhp on the SR box, some go, others hold on.
That's what I have been led to believe, yeah :nod:
Wasnt this thread about Arrys car :wack:
Point taken :wack:, sorry Arry.
One final point :wack:
I just did some research and it appears the petrols autos have the ZF box which has the reverse issues but the diesels use the GM box which doesnt :)
That and I dont want to find out how much a BMW DMF is :wack:
Pattern parts available :nod: Made by Exedy I think, so you'll probably get a fake for about a fiver :wack::D
Point taken :wack:, sorry Arry.
No worries :thumbs:
One final point :wack:
I just did some research and it appears the petrols autos have the ZF box which has the reverse issues but the diesels use the GM box which doesnt :)
Phew :wack:
I only saw one advertised with a "recent gearbox rebuild" when I was looking - that example was on 249k, so I don't think it's too much of an issue personally.
Good to know about the Diesel boxes. Good find Marcus! :D
One final point :wack:
I just did some research and it appears the petrols autos have the ZF box which has the reverse issues but the diesels use the GM box which doesnt :)
ok scrap that :wack:
Reading on 5 series forum and it seems the GM box is a ticking timebomb :rolleyes: Dont know if its true or just the usual forum 'you only hear about the ones gone pop' syndrome :confused:
Apparently they have a solenoid that can fail and fook the whole box, some people recommend changing the fluid whereas some people says it makes them worse :wack:
FFS, dont know what to get now :annoyed:
ok scrap that :wack:
Reading on 5 series forum and it seems the GM box is a ticking timebomb :rolleyes: Dont know if its true or just the usual forum 'you only hear about the ones gone pop' syndrome :confused:
Apparently they have a solenoid that can fail and fook the whole box, some people recommend changing the fluid whereas some people says it makes them worse :wack:
FFS, dont know what to get now :annoyed:
M5 :wack:
I spoke to a guy at BMW last week and he said that if you dont know what you're doing you csn wreck the box
did yo read this by any chance:
http://forum.bmw5.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=47785
My uncle has had loads of e39's in the last few years. A 540 untill last year, still has 2 530D's and has just bought a 523. All with auto boxes and upwards of 100k miles and no issues. He didn't know about the solenoid "Issues" and has never had a hint of a problem.
On the flipside they had a 530d in work with a blown box with 90k on the clock.
So no help there either :wack:
Ah well, mine's just made it another week without exploding, so all good so far :)
Been to Norfolk for the week - it's taken 3 suitcases, 2 ruck sacks, 4 people and 4 MTB's 130 miles each way and running around unloaded the week up there as well, and still returned about 32mpg :D Brought down a bit by the run home, where the wind was against us and aerodynamics were certainly more noticeable :eek:
It made short work of it though :nod: Got out the car after the run home and felt fine :)
Good to hear that arry.
I went blue water last night and had a walk round the car park because I saw a few 330ci's I really liked. I'm swaying towards the saloon sport now lol.
Good to hear that arry.
I went blue water last night and had a walk round the car park because I saw a few 330ci's I really liked. I'm swaying towards the saloon sport now lol.
Nice car :nod: No doubt Hallsy can give you some advice on what to look for mate.
Good to hear that arry.
I went blue water last night and had a walk round the car park because I saw a few 330ci's I really liked. I'm swaying towards the saloon sport now lol.
GET IN!!! :thumbs:
Do it mate. I keep meaning to lower the damping force on mine and see what its like. Wound it up to 130mph the other night and, err, it got a bit scary bumpy :wack: :D
Arry. Just fine? I get out of mine and love it!*
Love the way it surprises me the way it gets down the road so effortlessly :D
*As long as I dont look at the fuel guage :wack: :D
Arry. Just fine? I get out of mine and love it!*
Love the way it surprises me the way it gets down the road so effortlessly :D
Well it was still fast, and it certainly pulled all the weight fine - but "effortlessly" isn't a word I'd use to describe a car trying to tug a cargo like that up motorway hills whilst being dragged back by 2 bikes on the roof and 2 bikes on the rear tow bar rack :D
Do still love it :nod: Just not when it's loaded up like that ;) What I meant was, I didn't have a headache, bleeding ears, my kidneys falling out of my asscrack and eyes buzzing around in their sockets :smash:
What I meant was, I didn't have a headache, bleeding ears, my kidneys falling out of my asscrack and eyes buzzing around in their sockets :smash:
You didnt take the missus then? :wack:
:D
Roffle :D I'll not show her that comment :D
Great driving car I found, even four up and loaded to the brink. The auto box works well and was impressed. Reckon the fat pink ape in the back (George) weighed it down more than anything.
I quiet liked driving it. Anyone know the difference between the 325d/330d please?
Thanks Arry for the 'ride up'.
You dont get the 325d in the E46. Only 320d and 330d
Thank you, dum bum me then.
Feels wrong posting this info in here - sorry Arry, but we were on about it a few posts back.
An updated experience of Autoboxes:
http://forum.bmw5.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=75926
Feels wrong posting this info in here - sorry Arry, but we were on about it a few posts back.
An updated experience of Autoboxes:
http://forum.bmw5.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=75926
No worries :)
Yeah I'd found a similar story on E46zone.
Think I'm gonna get mine changed - not because there's anything wrong, just want to keep it in good order. Think I'm gonna keep this one for as many years as it keeps going :)
Feels wrong posting this info in here - sorry Arry, but we were on about it a few posts back.
An updated experience of Autoboxes:
http://forum.bmw5.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=75926
Thats the ZF box though fitted in the petrols :confused:
I've decided i am still going to get a 530D auto as i just think its just forum syndrome and there are literally thousands of them on the road. :)
Mini service this afternoon - managed to get me a new air filter and oil/filter from GSF.
New oil going in - I'll continue using this stuff for now, it's LL01/04 so has all the commendations to go into super spangly BMW stuff but isn't £50 a tub like Castrol ;)
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture033-1.jpg
Yes that's right - 2 tubs of it, since capacity is near a whopping 7 litres :smash:
And then the new air filter - strange looking thing, it's pink at the ends :D
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture031.jpg
Old one was grotty as - so hopefully a couple of extra MPG and some more power for its trip to Le Mans next week :thumbs:
Im running "Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 Fully Synthetic Engine Oil" courtesy of Opie Oils. They were doing a deal on it :thumbs:
Cool :thumbs: Researching it a bit there's a few that refuse to put anything other than 0/30 Castrol Edge in :wack:
I dont like 0w30 and Guy (at Opie) said he wouldnt recommend it either. The cars have done 100k + FFS :wack:
I got some castrol edge 5-30 from ASDA. £30 for 4 litres. Cheaper than anywhere else :nod:
0w30 must be like piss :eek:
Arry, see if they do the 25L drums of that. I bought some Carlube 10w40 semi for the disco from Motor Parts Direct, it was £22.99 for 5L or £53.99 for 25L :wack:
I remember first servicing my sisters E36 years ago and only get 5L and wondering why after sticking it all in it didnt register on the dipstick :wack:
...And then the new air filter - strange looking thing, it's pink at the ends :D
http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk301/arryR32/Picture031.jpg
Old one was grotty as - so hopefully a couple of extra MPG and some more power for its trip to Le Mans next week :thumbs:
Now I know what it's supposed to look like. The picture you texted me of the old one looked like a fleshlight :eek:
...I remember first servicing my sisters E36 years ago and only get 5L and wondering why after sticking it all in it didnt register on the dipstick :wack:
Erm, RTFM maybe :p However, having said that, I remember many many moons ago puting what must have been 15 litres into a Vauxhall Viva before I knew what a dipstick was :o Didn't half smoke :D
They do 25L for less than an undred quid, so I may go that way next time :nod:
Mini service this afternoon - managed to get me a new air filter and oil/filter from GSF.
New oil going in - I'll continue using this stuff for now, it's LL01/04 so has all the commendations to go into super spangly BMW stuff but isn't £50 a tub like Castrol ;)
Arry, just looked on Carlubes site and this isnt LL01/04 :confused: in fact if I put my reg in it cant recommend anything for my car :wack: It should be ok though but i would think about changing it a bit sooner than the service lights suggest.
they do this
http://www.carlube.co.uk/index.cfm?product=179&product_title=5w30 Carlube Triple R Fully Synthetic C3
which is 04 complient
Spoke to the top oil bloke here and he said a B4 oil should be ok if you dont go for the extended interval so as mines done 150k I am tempted to see what this is like
http://www.carlube.co.uk/index.cfm?product=73&product_title=5w40 Carlube Triple R Fully Synthetic
I use shell helix ultra in ours, BMW ll01/04 and not too expensive from opie.
I use shell helix ultra in ours, BMW ll01/04 and not too expensive from opie.
The 5w30 or 40?
Yer thats not a bad price really, the 5w30 is a bit pricey though :)
Ended up with the same has arry :wack: £60 for 10L :thumbs:
The air filter is fooking huge :D
That's weird, because it's what GSF recommends for mine and it's the same engine :wack:
By the way - if you haven't already, check your diesel pump under the passenger side floor. Mine failed spectacularly the day before it was due to take me to Le Mans :smash:
Gotta love the way some cars just seem to know the absolute worst time to let you down!
Hope it's not too dear to fix :)
Must get down to you with your head unit soon too :smash:
Nah it's only ~£100 so no bother really. Easy enough to change too. Apparently a common fault.
marko14a
15-06-2011, 13:37
Arry, now you've had this a couple of months, how is it doing on juice? I here and read that they can do 45mpg but struggle to see that.
Arry, now you've had this a couple of months, how is it doing on juice? I here and read that they can do 45mpg but struggle to see that.
I would say they certainly can but dont expect it from day to day driving :no:
My E39 averaged 39mpg on the 60ish mile drive home after collecting it which was mainly DC's and doing 80ish but after a week of driving round town its down to 32ish.
Arry, now you've had this a couple of months, how is it doing on juice? I here and read that they can do 45mpg but struggle to see that.
That's an ironic question right now - it's doing really well on juice at the moment, since there's no diesel actually reaching the engine :wack: Pump failure - what a way to go, on the eve of Le Mans, one of the reasons you bought the car in the first place :smash:
According to receipts etc - I'm getting about 36mpg, however that's brought down somewhat by a long trip up to Norfolk FULLY loaded, and I do mean fully, including 4 MTB's loaded around the car. The trip computer says ~38mpg so that's not a million miles out. If I were to reset the trip computer just before a motorway run, it'll go to about 44mpg - more if I drive it easy.
I reckon I'll continue to get around what I'm getting now as an average, across the piece. I don't hang around, though :no: so with more careful driving that would no doubt increase.
marko14a
15-06-2011, 20:33
That's still bloody good considering the grunt they have. I'd be happy with aything over 30mpg I'm swaying more and more towards these cars every day.
Now if I can just find a black/red/blue saloon, M Sport, Manual, Without wood inside. Winner. :D
Really good to have it back. Did 120 motorway miles in it yesterday and it just soaks it up big time. Officially love it again.
Fake Ben Taylor
20-06-2011, 11:46
On a 1000 mile run to Germany I averaged 38mpg. Hoping for better once I've fitted a better filter and chipping apparently gives near 5 mpg so 45 may be possible.
On a 1000 mile run to Germany I averaged 38mpg. Hoping for better once I've fitted a better filter and chipping apparently gives near 5 mpg so 45 may be possible.
I managed to get 32mpg average on the trip down to LeMans this year in the 200. Would of thought you lot could easily get about 40mpg. Or was that alot of full throttle?
Fake Ben Taylor
20-06-2011, 11:59
No cruise control set to national limit where ever we were. Was almost exactly 3/4 tank. Although I now can't make the maths fit.........hull to dover to dusseldorf. So how ever many miles that is and computer said 38 :confused:
Minor update
The car took me all the way to France and back last week - with a bit of running around in between it racked up about 1000 miles; not using a drop of oil or water in that time, and averaging a very respectable 43.5mpg :) That's at French motorway speeds ie ~85mph, which I did all the way there and all the way back.
In fact, on the way back I managed to get right the way from where we were staying in Argenton, all the way back to Essex on a single tank of Diesel! Did the whole journey non stop, apart from when on the ferry, didn't stop for anything not even a wee wee! The car is so comfortable at speed, I felt like I could do another 500 miles and still get out fresh as a daisy :D
Anyway - the mileage through France took its toll on some components.
The front brake discs were looking a little poorly beforehand and, having taken a battering from going up and down the side of the valleys, the fronts are now warped, sticky and a bit tired. Have ordered a new set of discs, pads and sensors along with a rebuild kit for the front calipers - recommendations of what colour to paint them whilst rebuilding greatly appreciated.
Also up front the ARB bushes are looking past their best. I've been pondering over this. I don't really want to modify the car per se and above all else I don't want to ruin the ride comfort as that's one of the main reasons I bought it. However, I do want to sharpen turn in and cancel out some mid corner push on that the car has "as standard". The ARB bushes up front being a little worn probably doesn't help anyway but what I'm wondering is whether to upgrade both front and rear as there's quite a bit of body roll that I want to control and I don't want to do that with aftermarket bumpy suspension. What concerns me is if I go thicker on the front and don't uprate the rear, I'm going to get more understeer? Answers on a postcard on that one.....
And again up front; finally decided I'd had enough of the absolute garbage ditchfinder front tyres which in the rain were nothing short of shocking - they were so plastic you could feel them skipping off towards the kerbs at less than 20mph round roundabouts. Gone for another pair of Falken 452's which have done really well on the back. Car now feels much more planted and dependable, and hopefully will be even more greatly improved in the wet.
Last thing now is to order up some swirl flap blanks so I can de-swirl-flappery-ectromy the old girl. Unlike the Lesbian community - I don't want my flaps to get eaten :D
can't believe you haven't had this mapped yet, its amazing what can be unleashed.
let me know if you want it done i know someone who specialises in BMWs and various maps to suit.
missing the dc2 yet?
I've not really had to think about mapping TBH. It's actually a fairly quick motor for its size and carries it well, so I never really get a lack of feeling from driving it.
I guess I'll think about it at some point - if the offer comes up cheap enough.
Missing it? Yeah, I am, but not anywhere near as much as I thought - but then that's because of what I've always said which is the 95-5 % rule, only 5% of the time I drove it did I absolutely PROPERLY enjoy the teg through no fault of the car, just the roads, circumstances, passengers on board etc. For that one off through the lanes at the back end of night, just for the hell of it - oh feck yea I miss it :nod:
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