[uucdigest] Wednesday, April 12 2000 Volume 03 : Number 590 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ | For all available Digest commands including unsubscribe/subscribe, | visit the BMW UUC Digest page: http://www.uucdigest.com | Send SUBMISSIONS to [EMAIL PROTECTED] | Complaints? Send 'em to [EMAIL PROTECTED] if you must. | Visit http://www.bubbaclub.com | www.bimmers.com - "serving enthusiasts on the 'net" | Visit http://www.bimmer.org - ultimate BMW bulletin boards! | Subscribe to the Zionsville Autosport Parts Digest: | http://www.zionsvilleautosport.com/majordomo.htm ����������������������������������������� In this BMW UUC Digest: [uuc] RE:Autosport Performance [uuc] <E30><iX,ALL> Suspension improvement..long [uuc] Headlights [uuc] FS: car alarm & Unbeatable BMW book [uuc] Dustless brake pads [uuc] E30 ///M3 Trunk Emblem Location Re: [uuc] Headlights [uuc] Re: Carfax Reports [uuc] E36 to E30 Swap [uuc] E36 into E30 Engine Swap [uuc] FS: BRAND NEW Michelin Pilot SX MXX3 Tires [uuc] <FS> E39 17x8 7-spoke composite rims Re: Fake Latin (was: [uuc] Stellar Alarm) [uuc] <E30><M20B25> Coolant sensor again! H*lp! [uuc] <E30> Stock wheel size [uuc] installing M3 wings [uuc] HID lights Re: [uuc] installing M3 wings ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 07:27:20 -0400 From: "George, Zachariah (CICG Development)" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] RE:Autosport Performance All this talk about Autosport, can someone please tell me if they do body work as well? I have a tiny ding that needs to be removed, and another nick that took out the paint. I could use an annual wax and polish too - interior and exterior... Anyone care to recommend a place in the NYC/LI area? thanks Zach '94 325i w/sports pkg. 5-spd. Sharked. > > > I've been a loyal customer of Autosport Performance > since 1995 when Will Turner of Turner Motorsport > referred me to them. > Don Fields bends over backwards to make sure I was > happy. Highly recommended. > > ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 09:05:52 -0400 From: "Money, Jack (J.J.)" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] <E30><iX,ALL> Suspension improvement..long Everyone, You may recall that about a year ago I cut the front springs on my iX in order to increase the stiffness (which it did), improve the handling characteristics (which it did), and lower it slightly (which it also did). Well I would now like to report on another improvement stemming from this. After performing this "upgrade" I was very pleased with the reduced body roll, the quicker turn in, the solid feeling over sharp bumps, and the much improved look. However, I was not careful when I seated the springs and consequently they were seated improperly. This improper seating caused a couple of strange noises which I had a hard time tracking down. They were also quite annoying. I had decided to just live with it but so many squeaks and rattles developed that I became beyond annoyed. So after turning the car upside down in an effort to tighten everything up I realized that the springs were not seated correctly. They were slightly offset in the perch thus causing some binding on the edge of the perch on the lower portion of the strut tube. This caused a clunking along with some squeaking/creaking. I greased it several times and tried to reseat it without taking the assembly out which produced a marginal improvement. Fast forward to this year....I bought an M3 and decided to try the stock front springs in the iX. We (Neil, Carlos, Bob, Steve, and I) had successfully installed M3 springs in Neil's cars to much delight. Some background on the M3 springs.... I wasn't sure of the spring rate but I thought I recalled it being in the neighborhood of 120-140 lbs/in. I unscientifically guestimated the cut iX springs to be ~127 lbs/in. so I figured this should be a bit stiffer. Now the iX springs are of a fairly larger wire diameter...I didn't measure it but it's visibly larger. The stock M3 springs are roughly the same height as the cut iX springs...<.25" taller. The spring diameter of the stock M3 springs is slightly smaller than the cut iX. This means that the stiffness of the stock M3 springs should be similar to the iX (stiffness is inversely proportional to spring diameter and proportional to wire diameter)...which makes sense given the number assumptions. So, I installed them without any real problems. They fit well...I did use the thick, solid ring from the M3 (which goes between the spring and the metal "cap" under the strut bearing) vs. the thin, soft rubber ring which is stock on non-M3 cars. This would account for the slight increase in ride height, ~.25" (about the same as the thickness of the ring). The overall lowering is still roughly 1". Now, the improvement on the road is very noticeable, mainly due to the M3 springs actually being slightly softer than the cut iX springs. The clunking is completely gone...turns out it was much worse than I thought. Many of the annoying squeaks and rattles are also gone...somehow related to the cut springs. Turn in is not quite as sharp but not vastly less. Overall ride quality is somewhat "improved" due to the decrease in road noise transmission. Handling is still very crisp, body roll increased minimally...in fact hardly noticeable. Overall, a major improvement and very much worth the very slight sacrifices in performance. So, bottom line, cutting the springs was/is a good idea. However, iX owners should be aware that there are options out there. BTW, I left the rear springs stock iX. I think the important thing to do when cutting is to be very careful to seat the spring correctly, perhaps using upgraded rings between the spring and metal "cap". If I had it to do over again I would still cut my springs, it was worth the effort and improvements for sure. As a side note, I had considered purchasing the H&R OE Sport springs for regular E30 (no iX application...why would there be?) since these do not lower the car as much as the Sports. If anyone decides to try this please let me know what the outcome is. I may still try this some day. Hopefully this is helpful information for people. Have fun. Regards, Jack Money Motor City Chapter iX Registry, E30 M3 SIG '89 iX ----> Sharked! riding better E30 M3 ----> Evolving mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] or reply http://skumwerks.net ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 09:24:39 -0400 From: "Binder, Larry - Paoli" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] Headlights Hello everyone, Like most people I am not happy with my cars headlight illumination. I was just wondering if anyone has put lower watt bulbs in their high beams and left them on all the time. Remember, I'm just curious so go easy on me! Larry 97 318i Mech Designer/Draftsman Synthes Spine ************************************************************************* The opinions and statements expressed above are mine, and do not reflect that of my employer. ************************************************************************* ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 08:31:04 -0500 From: "Mendez, Andrew D." <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] FS: car alarm & Unbeatable BMW book For sale: Book: "Unbeatable BMW: 80 years of engineering & motorsport success" by Jeremy Walton. Exc. cond. I read it once cover to cover, and while it was very good, I don't feel compelled to keep it lying around. $45 includes U.S. shipping. Crimestopper CS9701 car alarm. Brand new in box. I'm too lazy to install this in wife's car, which we'll probably sell within a year. For more info click on this link: http://www.electronics-pluz.com/electronics-pluz/gargoyle.html $45 includes U.S. shipping. Andy '95 M3 - ------------------------------ This communication is from a law firm and may be privileged and confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of this communication. ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 08:55:46 -0500 From: "John Marshall" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] Dustless brake pads Thanks everyone who replied. I ordered a pair from Steve D. @ The ultimate garage. Thanks again, John ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 10:03:28 -0400 From: "Robert Nagy" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] E30 ///M3 Trunk Emblem Location I just purchased an '88 E30 ///M3 and I'm in the process of fixing it up. I purchased all emblems and had stumbled upon an article on the location of the '///M3' Trunk emblem. The article gave precise measurements as to where it should be located. Does anyone have this information or can point me in the right direction? Thanks Bob ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 09:18:36 est From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [uuc] Headlights Do you have good quality low beams? (Hella or Cibie?) You don't want to leave your high-beams on full time - the pattern is focussed up higher and will be in the eyes of oncoming drivers regardless of the bulb wattage. How 'bout installing 4 good low-beam lamps. They would be focussed on the part of the road you want to see. There would be some wiring involved, but it should do the trick. If you haven't tried euro-spec lights, I'd suggest that first. >Hello everyone, >Like most people I am not happy with my cars headlight illumination. I was >just wondering if anyone has put lower watt bulbs in their high beams and >left them on all the time. Remember, I'm just curious so go easy on me! > >Larry >97 318i > >Mech Designer/Draftsman >Synthes Spine > >************************************************************************* >The opinions and statements expressed above are mine, and do not reflect >that of my employer. >************************************************************************* > > > ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 10:23:35 -0400 From: "Joseph C. Volpe" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] Re: Carfax Reports Why are all these people on here and other boards asking for these reports. If you are that cheap and can't afford to spend $14, then you shouldn't be buying a BMW. Joe > From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ([uucdigest]) > Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] > Date: Tue, 11 Apr 2000 16:12:39 -0500 (EST) > To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] > Subject: [uucdigest] V3 #586 > > Date: Tue, 11 Apr 2000 14:23:43 EDT > From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] > Subject: [uuc] Carfax..PLEASE > > Would someone with a carfax number please run a report on a car for me. My > girlfriend found a car and we would like a few details. The VIN is > WBABF3319NEF37960 > > Thanks again. > > Brian Leib > t.c.kline racing ProParts ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 10:28:07 -0400 From: Frank Renda <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] E36 to E30 Swap I would like to do this to my '89. Does anyone have any free info or instructions? ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 10:29:24 -0400 From: Frank Renda <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] E36 into E30 Engine Swap I would like to do this to my '89. Does anyone have any free info or instructions? ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 11:39:24 -0400 From: David Knight <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] FS: BRAND NEW Michelin Pilot SX MXX3 Tires I have a full set of Michelin Pilot SX MXX3 tires for sale. I purchased these tires from Tire Rack a few months ago for around $1100 delivered, but have since sold my M3 and never had them installed. They still have the factory stickers on them. Sizes: 245/40ZR17 rears 225/45ZR17 fronts I will not split up the tires. I'd like to get $1000 for the set (including shipping), but have no idea what the tires are worth now so go ahead and make me a reasonable offer. Thanks. - -Dave Knight [EMAIL PROTECTED] ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 12:13:21 -0400 From: "Ben Liaw" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] <FS> E39 17x8 7-spoke composite rims taken off E39, 17x8 7-spoke composite rims, EXCELLENT condition, very clean, near perfect. see rim style here: http://www.bmwusa.com/virtual/accessories/wheels/7bolted.gif first $1500 includes UPS shipping within the US. credit cards accepted. contact privately. ben liaw http://www.uucmotorwerks.com ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 12:27:18 -0400 From: "Peter Sterne" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Re: Fake Latin (was: [uuc] Stellar Alarm) I think the proper fake Latin for this is: Illegitium non carborundum. Peter Sterne '93 325is '91 Miata SE Gary Derian wrote: > Non basturdus carborundum. Don't let the bastards grind you down. (I don't > know if that Latin is real) > > Gary Derian <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 12:33:47 -0400 From: "Money, Jack (J.J.)" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] <E30><M20B25> Coolant sensor again! H*lp! Everyone, Last year I replaced my coolant temp sensor as the Motronic codes showed it as a fault. I checked my codes again yesterday because the check engine light came on and they revealed the coolant temp sensor again! Is this an item which fails frequently? Why would this happen? Is it possible for the fault code to be wrong? I don't mind replacing it but once/year seems a bit frequent. Any help is much appreciated. Thanks. Regards, Jack Money Motor City Chapter iX Registry, E30 M3 SIG '89 iX ----> Sharked!.....off to Putnam tomorrow! E30 M3 ----> Evolving.....wanting to be out of the garage running! mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] or reply http://skumwerks.net ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 10:01:36 -0700 From: Scott Catlin <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] <E30> Stock wheel size What's the stock wheel size on the E30 325is? I need to know if my 185/60/14 BFGoodrich g-Force T/A R1s will fit. Since I don't own the car yet, I can't just go look at what's on there now. Thanks. - - Scott ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 13:18:19 -0400 From: "Mark Bolton" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] installing M3 wings Has anyone on the list installed an M3 factory wing? I am looking for some tips. How do you wire it? Does the wiring already run to the trunk lid? Where do you find the wire? How do you determine where to install it? Is there some kind of template or instructions? I am getting a new in box one 'used' so I don't think it comes with anything. Thanks! Mark 95 M3 ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 10:29:07 -0700 From: "Joe Huie" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: [uuc] HID lights There is a group buy on the Phoenix Microlights HID system for retrofitting into your U.S. spec headlight system. Go to www.groupbuycenter.com, search keyword HID, and you'll see the details of the deal. I can't vouch for the quality or results of installing the HID lights into the standard headlights, but they do claim to have a custom system to fit the 9006 housing. According to Bob at Phoenix Microlights, the system is plug and play (you plug the stock 9006 bulb harness directly into the HID ballest). YMMV. Joe 95 M3 ------------------------------ Date: Wed, 12 Apr 2000 13:33:44 -0400 From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [uuc] installing M3 wings >How do you determine where to install it? Is there some kind of template or >instructions? I am getting a new in box one 'used' so I don't think it >comes with anything. Mark it should come with a template, of course buying it used you don't know what you'll get. You're in luck, you can buy the install kit from the dealership (screws, template, who knows what else), bad news is it doesn't include the wiring harness. You only get that if you order the wing. From what I remember the harness runs along the left side of the trunk into the car and you have to remove the rear shelf to connect it at the 3rd brake light. This involves removing the rear seat back, side bolsters, etc. Kind of a PITA install but *you* can do it. Since you might not have a harness, easiest route is to splice into the left brake light and pull the bulb on the 3rd brake light so you don't end up with two and risk a ticket (not likely but who knows). Home Depot should have all the wire, connectors and assorted crap to complete the job. As always, measure a gazillion times, drill once, not much room for error back there. I realize this is not very helpful but you asked... :-) Carlos 91 M3 winged x95 M3 almost winged ------------------------------ End of [uucdigest] V3 #590 ************************** _________________________________________ | Please visit these UUC-approved BMW parts vendors/service providers: | (listed alphabetically) | Bonneville Motorwerks . http://www.bonnevillemotorwerks.com | Circle Tire Co. (used & classic BMW parts) e-mail [EMAIL PROTECTED] | Curry's Auto Service . http://www.currysauto.com | Eurosport . http://www.eurosport-hp.com | Koala MotorSport . http://www.koalamotorsport.com | Taylor BMW - http://www.taylorbmw.com - Doc Bimmer! | The Ultimate Garage . http://www.ultimategarage.com | UUC Motorwerks . http://www.uucmotorwerks.com | Zionsville Autosport . http://www.zionsvilleautosport.com ����������������������������������������
