http://images.cars.com/supersized/DMI/80284/851.jpg

http://images.cars.com/supersized/DMI/80284/851.02.jpg

http://images.cars.com/supersized/DMI/80284/851.03.jpg

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http://images.cars.com/supersized/DMI/80284/851.06.jpg

http://images.cars.com/supersized/DMI/80284/851.15.jpg


http://images.cars.com/supersized/DMI/80284/851.17.jpg


http://images.cars.com/supersized/DMI/80284/851.19.jpg

http://images.cars.com/supersized/DMI/80284/851.22.jpg

http://images.cars.com/supersized/DMI/80284/851.25.jpg

http://images.cars.com/supersized/DMI/80284/851.27.jpg

http://images.cars.com/supersized/DMI/80284/851.28.jpg
http://images.cars.com/supersized/DMI/80284/851.29.jpg

http://images.cars.com/supersized/DMI/80284/851.30.jpg

:redspot

Sweet, another Jersey guy!

Congrats...

-JRW

looking good

Thanks guys!

IM GETTIN EXCITED!

Nice ride! I have always liked grey and especially white leather.

Looking good Mo,
You bringing her on the run on the 13th to keep me company?? I'm always the lone 8....:(

if its a good day... you got it!

if its a good day... you got it!It's always a good day when you're behind the wheel of your 8....You'll see..:D

Looking good Mo,
You bringing her on the run on the 13th to keep me company?? I'm always the lone 8....:(

If he does, there might be three. Four or more if we can drag Randy, JRW, Nick, Peter and other NJ/PA 8ers with us. Perhaps even Zatman from his new digs So of PHL.

GimmieSumMo72 (http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/member.php?u=162353) - what are the last seven of your VIN?

Congrats!! Looks good! :)

Congrats, you are now officially signed up as a member of the E31 looney farm! :D

If he does, there might be three. Four or more if we can drag Randy, JRW, Nick, Peter and other NJ/PA 8ers with us. Perhaps even Zatman from his new digs So of PHL.

GimmieSumMo72 (http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/member.php?u=162353) - what are the last seven of your VIN?That would be great cantbl8.. I'm always the lone 8.. A pack of them would be awesome!!!!!

Welcome!! :D.

GimmieSumMo72 (http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/member.php?u=162353) - what are the last seven of your VIN?

CB73008

a pack of 8's would be awesome!

Mo, go over to 8coupe.com and get your car registered in the global registry. Jud Spencer the administrator, can provide an original build sheet of your car.
Congrats

sweet! thanks again! just signed up!

Congrats on your car - beautiful color combo inside & out.
But you better get those manifolds cleaned!!!!

Congrads on the purchase. I love that color combination:cool

Congrats. Interior is white?

benz and beemer:confused

Congrats. Interior is white?

Light Grey leather :D

yeah it looks like light gray...

you guys are such a warm welcome committee!

im glad to join the group!

A warm welcome like american pie...lol
all warm and squishy.

Congrats. Interior is white?
black/light silver grey interior (code 0354/M5SD) two toned!

A warm welcome like american pie...lol
all warm and squishy.

i'll try to remember to keep the keys out of the kitchen!

Really nice car. What rims are those? Are they off some BMW from factory? I am searching for wheels for winter, and I love those..

Awesome car, Brother. I saw this one online a month or so ago, kick ass color combination and a good price to boot. Have fun with her! :)

Really nice car. What rims are those? Are they off some BMW from factory? I am searching for wheels for winter, and I love those..

those are style 95's 19" staggered. the offset is 25 all around. once i get the car i'll see how those fronts handle!

Awesome car, Brother. I saw this one online a month or so ago, kick ass color combination and a good price to boot. Have fun with her! :)

thanks! thats why i whipped out the credit card!

the dealer was really shady, personally if it wasn't for this car, i would never do business with Certified Benz & Beemer again!

they lumped in the credit card and shipping fees into the list price on the purchase order. so now im stuck with paying extra sales tax in addition to their credit card transaction fee! :confused

plus i really cant get a straight answer if they shipped the car or not and when it will be arriving! :mad

congrats mo. You owe me a ride. ;)

the dealer was really shady, personally if it wasn't for this car, i would never do business with Certified Benz & Beemer again!

they lumped in the credit card and shipping fees into the list price on the purchase order. so now im stuck with paying extra sales tax in addition to their credit card transaction fee! :confused

plus i really cant get a straight answer if they shipped the car or not and when it will be arriving! :mad

I sure hope you got it inspected by someone 8er knowledgeable and reputable, not some random 'mechanic'.

Let me know when it 'lands' - I'll be in Edison the last week in April and could meet you to look things over.

congrats mo. You owe me a ride. ;)

stop fapping to pix of my wife and maybe you'll get one!

I sure hope you got it inspected by someone 8er knowledgeable and reputable, not some random 'mechanic'.

Let me know when it 'lands' - I'll be in Edison the last week in April and could meet you to look things over.

i didn't get it inspected by anyone... im taking a shot in the dark on this one! but i did speak to the service guy at the dealer who maintained it and he knew the 2 previous owners.

let me know when you'll be available... i'd really appreciate the look over!

Congrats and welcome. We have established a DC Metro E31 Special interest group online (http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/DCMETRO_E31/) and scheduling to set up a Wrench-Fest soon. You are welcome to come by and one or more of our tech savvy members will be able to give you a detailed once over of the car.

Our members include JonL (Suspension and mechanical expert), John in DC (E31 Twin Turbo and SC expert), and more who are friendly and willing to help.

i didn't get it inspected by anyone... im taking a shot in the dark on this one! but i did speak to the service guy at the dealer who maintained it and he knew the 2 previous owners.

let me know when you'll be available... i'd really appreciate the look over!

Knowing the previous owners helps. Did you get all the maint/repair history papers? Car worth more with than without and it can save you time and money.

If not, suggest that you ask dealer and get as much as you can ASAP while he remembers you. If you have difficulties, post here and on RF - members around the country have relationship with their local dealers and might be able to apply special sauce to make it happen. If you post on RF, provide the last seven of the VIN - someone might know the car. Jud will probably pipe in. Also run a RF search on the full VIN and the last seven.

I will be in Raritan Center and will be available before 9am and after approx 5:30 pm, Mon - Fri.

Knowing the previous owners helps. Did you get all the maint/repair history papers? Car worth much more with than without and it can save you time and money.

If not, suggest that you ask dealer and get as much as you can ASAP while he remembers you. If you have difficulties, post here and on RF - members around the country have relationship with their local dealers and might be able to apply special sauce to make it happen. If you post on RF, provide the last seven of the VIN - someone might know the car. Jud will probably pipe in. Also run a RF search on the full VIN and the last seven.

I will be in Raritan Center and will be available before 9am and after approx 5:30 pm, Mon - Fri.


no, he said that he couldn't give me the record's w/o the PO's consent.

which site is RF?

cool! i usually get around the area around 6pm. we'll keep in touch, my work schedule is usually pretty lax around the last week of the month.

Congrats and welcome. We have established a DC Metro E31 Special interest group online (http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/DCMETRO_E31/) and scheduling to set up a Wrench-Fest soon. You are welcome to come by and one or more of our tech savvy members will be able to give you a detailed once over of the car.

Our members include JonL (Suspension and mechanical expert), John in DC (E31 Twin Turbo and SC expert), and more who are friendly and willing to help.


awesome! depending on what the wife has planned, im usually up for the drive!

benz and beemer:confused


+1



I hate when I see this because it speaks volumes to the actual knowledge one possesses regarding actual BMWs

Ask dealer to contact POs and get permission. Offer to have them call you. A call is more personal. If they are bimmer nuts there will be a way.

RF=roadfly.org aka bimmer.org. Go Forums -> BWM -> E31

Yeah dude, definately try to get the service records. They WILL come in handy, ask me how I know :).

+1



I hate when I see this because it speaks volumes to the actual knowledge one possesses regarding actual BMWs


i looked at their site and they do sell motorcycles too...

Yeah dude, definately try to get the service records. They WILL come in handy, ask me how I know :).

Ask dealer to contact POs and get permission. Offer to have them call you. A call is more personal. If they are bimmer nuts there will be a way.

RF=roadfly.org aka bimmer.org. Go Forums -> BWM -> E31

i'll try to call later today since they're on the west coast theres a 3 hr time difference.

Beautiful, clean 8er. Very nice. :drink1

Ask dealer to contact POs and get permission. Offer to have them call you. A call is more personal. If they are bimmer nuts there will be a way.



I contacted the BMW Dealer in Arizona and he said that he'll try to work on it and try to get them to me today, Monday the latest! :redspot
Beautiful, clean 8er. Very nice. :drink1

Thanks!

Very nice car and just in time for spring driving. Enjoy.

If he does, there might be three. Four or more if we can drag Randy, JRW, Nick, Peter and other NJ/PA 8ers with us. Perhaps even Zatman from his new digs So of PHL.

GimmieSumMo72 (http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/member.php?u=162353) - what are the last seven of your VIN?

Don't forget me! I am here in Philly too. I will come if you let me know ahead of time. :cool

CB73008

a pack of 8's would be awesome!
That got us a airplane speeding ticket last month. Creates a spectacle on the highway!
Nice car, welcome to the insanity.

We shall try our hardest not to duplicate (or exceed) the Texan record. ;-)

Don't forget me! I am here in Philly too. I will come if you let me know ahead of time. :cool

The date is June 13th. The announcement is http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1209635.

Faisal, perhaps you can rouse the DC group?

why is the engine yellowish?

It's cosmolene - an anti-corrosion agent. The stealers were supposed to clean it off pre-delivery but they mostly never do what they are supposed to and collect the money anyway.

That is a nice 8 there! Wait til you get it outside and the weather is spring like! Just be careful... people behind you can't stop as quick!!

That got us a airplane speeding ticket last month. Creates a spectacle on the highway!
Nice car, welcome to the insanity.

Were you in Florida on I-75 heading south? Troopers are notorious around Lake City just south of I-10.

It was delivered at noon today and these are the pix my wife sent me!

http://gimmiesummo72.zoints.com/image/85269-Underneath

http://gimmiesummo72.zoints.com/image/85268-Sunroof

http://gimmiesummo72.zoints.com/image/85267-SunroofMotor

http://gimmiesummo72.zoints.com/image/85266-Door

http://gimmiesummo72.zoints.com/image/85265-CenterConsole

http://gimmiesummo72.zoints.com/image/85264-AshTray

now im scared about the mechanical issues!

That stuff is easy to fix, The console is under $40.00 from the stealer.

Don't worry Mo, they're all projects to some degree. We'll get you hooked up for less than you're imagining now. However I would have a straight talk with that seller about things that he might have 'forgotten' to mention.

thanks guys!

now im really itching to get home to see how it drives!

7pm can't come fast enough!

At least check the fluids first.

ok i came home early just to check out the car!

i open the door, sit down inside to start it and the alarm goes off and she doesn't start and i cant find anywhere to shut it off...

the interior is clean but once you touch a button it falls inside, the drivers side door isn't flush with the body so it leaves a gap up top so water gets in(its raining here). looks like the window can't roll up all the way. the underpanel is cracked...

i'd love to check out the fluids but it sets off the alarm everytime i open the door! it looks like something is leaking b/c theres a rainbow on the wet asphalt.

i talked to the dealer and he said he'll call me back after speaking to his manager.

are you a self wrencher? if not, hang on for a ride!

looks like more than a wrencher!

i cant even start her up!

Lock and unlock the drivers door with the key, That should turn the alarm off to let it start if it's a factory alarm.

hey thanks! i'll try that!

ok i got it started and it drives pretty smooth...

still gotta take it to get it looked over.

with the 19's on, i feel everything on the road and trying to steer is a bit of a chore. i cant wait for this storm to pass to really test this thing out!

Mo....... I'm in the same storm front you are... don't freak out, these are actually some fairly common things. Call me....

my to do list!

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/Cars/0a3015d3.jpg
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/Cars/0e6eb635.jpg
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/Cars/00989dd8.jpg
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/Cars/809622c5.jpg
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/Cars/e21d4e9d.jpg
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/Cars/d6274f9e.jpg
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/Cars/c6b214c7.jpg
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/Cars/50b9a8ac.jpg
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/Cars/1b61b5ee.jpg
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/Cars/3169620e.jpg
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/Cars/9fccdeb8.jpg
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/Cars/1cd0bd27.jpg

and the searching commences!

Not much searching...just call Charlie.

Just wondering, does your CD43 work with your steering controls and your factory CD changer? Thanks

Not much searching...just call Charlie.

Just wondering, does your CD43 work with your steering controls and your factory CD changer? Thanks

Charlie?

Yes, the steering wheel controls do control the CD43. I don't have a phone in the E38 so the "R/T" button is non-functional for lack of a better term. If you do press the "R/T" button and it toggles to the telephone function, then it no longer controls the CD43.

about the CD changer, I have the M-bus (data cord) so it doesn't, but if you have or install the I-bus (data cord) with an I-bus compatible CD changer then the CD43 will control the CD changer.

The CD43 is only I-bus compatible.

i hope that wasn't too wordy or confusing... its been a long day and it's past my bed time.

Charlie?

Yes, the steering wheel controls do control the CD43. I don't have a phone in the E38 so the "R/T" button is non-functional for lack of a better term. If you do press the "R/T" button and it toggles to the telephone function, then it no longer controls the CD43.

about the CD changer, I have the M-bus (data cord) so it doesn't, but if you have or install the I-bus (data cord) with an I-bus compatible CD changer then the CD43 will control the CD changer.

The CD43 is only I-bus compatible.

i hope that wasn't too wordy or confusing... its been a long day and it's past my bed time.http://www.gaultautosportbmw.com/ind...nguage=english (http://www.gaultautosportbmw.com/index.cfm?domainhostid=115217&language=english) Ask for the parts dept. The man you're looking for is named Charlie Spears..He can get you damn near anything you need... Well Mo I kinda feel bad now that I see the real pics.. Not that bad tho..Is that the front lower spoiler that's broken?? I still may have my old one when I changed to the ACS lower..It's yours if you want it ,let me check with the bodyshop tomorrow I'm sure they still have it..All of the things I can see look like fairly easy repairs..

Congrats on the car (even with the now-discovered flaws)! Very nice interior, supposedly one of the more rare ones (I have the same).
It looks like the headliner has been recovered at some point, and you have the same "purple"-used-to-be-black rear deck like I had. All the things on your car are hopefully only cosmetic. As long as the mechanicals and the electricals are in order, you are almost there.
As stated in a few earlier posts, Charlie Spear is the guy you need to get to know real well. It will get to a point where you just email him the part numbers you need and a few days later a box magically will appear on your doorstep - excellent service!!

Hey, GimmiesumMo72, keep me posted on what you find out with your sunroof would ya? I have similar issues. your center console doesn't look bad at all! look at mine http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k273/144543/2009_0409Image0006.jpg I ordered mine from 1stBMW online but that was before I heard about Gault. I payed $50 + 9 shipping, so not bad I guess, at least compared to the local dealer! who wanted $90!!! :shifty Anyway, yeah, my MID is trashed too, and I KNOW that's gonna hurt!:eek: All in all your 8'er is beautiful Trade ya wheels and tires??:D

nice ride, congrats. What I meant about wrenching is- are you going to work on the car yourself? If so, visit wuffer.net and download some manuals. You will break many less things this way! good looking car, watch out with the 19's, not enough tire imo for the weight of these cars. I have a set of HRE's that are beautiful, wish I could shrink them and keep 'em. They are 19's also, and I can't stand beating the car like that, and the two front tires on mine are trashed from being pinched too many times. Nice for show, but not for me traveling the miles we do.
http://bmw.satservice.com/hrewheel.jpg

http://www.gaultautosportbmw.com/ind...nguage=english (http://www.gaultautosportbmw.com/index.cfm?domainhostid=115217&language=english) Ask for the parts dept. The man you're looking for is named Charlie Spears..He can get you damn near anything you need... Well Mo I kinda feel bad now that I see the real pics.. Not that bad tho..Is that the front lower spoiler that's broken?? I still may have my old one when I changed to the ACS lower..It's yours if you want it ,let me check with the bodyshop tomorrow I'm sure they still have it..All of the things I can see look like fairly easy repairs..

Hey Mark!

dont feel bad... im happy with the way the car drives so far. going to have a mechanic look at it for any major mechanical defects for starters.

all i was hoping for was a well running car. the cosmetics i can deal with!

my wife got me all heated up and on top of that, the dealer should have been fully honest with me. i even told the guy that i restored my old BMW.

I've gotta compile a list for the dealer to fix or use as a bargaining tool, this is what I have so far w/o any diagnostics:

non functioning sunroof
one headlight won't go down
no tunes
no key fobs
center console
upholstery


I was wondering if BMW NA would be willing to replace the MID under Goodwill? getting the part for free would be cool, all I'd have to do is put it in right?

Does anyone know if Carsoft 6.5 is compatible with the E31? I have a copy, I'll have to try it out this weekend!

As for the wheels, I'm still getting a feel for them, if I don't like them, i'll just take the M-Pars off my E38 and put them on the E31.

Thanks for all your help! You guys are the best!

M pars look sick on the e31

http://bmw.satservice.com/hrewheel.jpg

Mr Greg, they do offer that HRE wheel in size 18", the only problem is finding them or trying to buy them off of someone. I agree, your wheels are awsome, but the tire size for the 19's don't offer enough tread (meat as I would call it). How do you predict the suspension components will hold up as time FLYS BY?

Check yourself http://hrewheels.com (http://hrewheels.com/)

Anyone from around Mesa, AZ here???

wanna throw someone a beatdown OT style?

GimmieSumMo72,

The DC Metro Wrenchfest is shaping up for May 23rd. Keep your eye on the Yahoo group for updates.

We may even do a Picnic this year.

oh man... that weekend is my daughter's bday... i'll try to make that!

Hang in there!! e31 owners go above and beyond to help...all ya gotta do is ask :)

as mentioned a couple times earlier, those are 'little' common things that are easily fixed...so far.

G'luck!!

Hang in there!! e31 owners go above and beyond to help...all ya gotta do is ask :)

as mentioned a couple times earlier, those are 'little' common things that are easily fixed...so far.

G'luck!!

Im not worried about repairing the car much anymore. I'm PO'd that they lied to me.

I'm gunna try to give her a good home.

is it me or are both roadfly and wuffer.net down?

Im not worried about repairing the car much anymore. I'm PO'd that they lied to me.

I'm gunna try to give her a good home.

is it me or are both roadfly and wuffer.net down?

RoadFlys search engine and archives are down, but the Wuffer website is up. If you are talking about the Wuffer forum, I'd have no clue, I'm registered there.

ok update!

took it to a mechanic yesterday for a simple test drive and he said that the car is good enough to keep.

the only things that he sees that need to be fixed are pretty minor and/or cosmetic.

so, while i was at his shop, i called up the dealer telling him what I want fixed and he said he'd get back to me. well... he never did. so at midnight i faxed over a 22 page letter of complaint (a 2 page letter 20 pages of photos and a copy of ad) to the Partner of the dealership and emailed copies of that letter to the BBB in Phoenix and the Arizona AG.

technically, i fall outside the AZ lemon law b/c the dealer lied on the odometer statement, i now feel comfortable keeping the car due to the vast resources and support of the 8er community.

with that being said... the vent position of my sunroof is in operable. is there any way to re-program the sunroof motor or reposition the sunroof?

i've searched and searched and the only way to adjust the sunroof or do anything with the sun roof is to have it in the vented position.

the vent position of my sunroof is in operable. is there any way to re-program the sunroof motor or reposition the sunroof?

i've searched and searched and the only way to adjust the sunroof or do anything with the sun roof is to have it in the vented position.

From the looks of the pictures, there may be loose sunroof inner cover cloth material binding to the teeth. The same thing happened to me. I decided to replace the headliner and did the sunroof inner cover at the same time. It is not so hard.

You can try the sunroof resync procedure (in the archives).

If you are talking about making the outside of the sunroof flush with the roof, it is a simple 10 minute adjustment procedure involving a few screws.

From the looks of the pictures, there may be loose sunroof inner cover cloth material binding to the teeth. The same thing happened to me. I decided to replace the headliner and did the sunroof inner cover at the same time. It is not so hard.

You can try the sunroof resync procedure (in the archives).

from what i saw the the teeth were free and clear from any cloth and i also greased the tracks with white lithium grease.

yeah i tried the resync procedure last night... it didn't work... it left a bigger gap, i ended up using a screw driver to pry the roof closed.

Man, wish you were closer to the DC Metro area. We (the DC metro E31 owners group) could have resolved a lot of your troubles over a weekend (Provided the parts are at hand).

Man, wish you were closer to the DC Metro area. We (the DC metro E31 owners group) could have resolved a lot of your troubles over a weekend (Provided the parts are at hand).

me too!

i'll try to make it down for a weekend though... Memorial Day weekend is kinda bad for me b/c its the weekend of my daughters bday and we usually throw this huge back yard BBQ to celebrate and open up the summer.

me too!

i'll try to make it down for a weekend though... Memorial Day weekend is kinda bad for me b/c its the weekend of my daughters bday and we usually throw this huge back yard BBQ to celebrate and open up the summer.

so have a Wrenchfest/Birthday party. Let the pros come to you...
(It always helps if you offer food, drink and cake)
:)

so have a Wrenchfest/Birthday party. Let the pros come to you...
(It always helps if you offer food, drink and cake)
:)


sounds good to me!

It'll be on Sunday May 24th! Edison, NJ!

(now i've gotta dust the cobwebs off of my keg tap)

Mind if a Philly owner comes down to install Euro spec lights? :-D

cool with me!

i won't be of much help but maybe if we get enough guys it could work out!

I would love to come with some shark and Icelandic vodka, but I have exams:eyecrazy:eyecrazy

^^^ hah, best of luck... then a cold one :)!

sounds good to me!

It'll be on Sunday May 24th! Edison, NJ!

(now i've gotta dust the cobwebs off of my keg tap)

I think the DC area wrenchfest is that weekend. And I can be in only one place at a time. Can you move the date?

As far as the sunroof - there is an Allen wrench tool in the toolbox that you should use go manipulate the sunroof by rotating the motor manually. (under cover by interior rear-view mirror). You might have to pull fuses (43,44 iirc) in the driver side above the battery in the trunk.

You should also get a floating battery charger and plug the car in to the B post next to the brake master.

I think the DC area wrenchfest is that weekend. And I can be in only one place at a time. Can you move the date?

As far as the sunroof - there is an Allen wrench tool in the toolbox that you should use go manipulate the sunroof by rotating the motor manually. (under cover by interior rear-view mirror). You might have to pull fuses (43,44 iirc) in the driver side above the battery in the trunk.

You should also get a floating battery charger and plug the car in to the B post next to the brake master.

yeah thats my conflict too... i want to go down to the DC wrenchfest but my little girl kinda takes precedence. i believe the wrenchfest is the day before.

i tried to open the toolbox but it wasn't opening. but i do have a set of allen tools. do you have a diagram of where the adjusting screw is on the motor? I opened up the panel near the rear-view but couldn't seem to find it (guessing the black rectangular thing is the motor)

thanks!

You need leverage. The tool is an Allen shaped like a sharp turn S. You insert it into the center of an approx 1-1/2" 'wheel' and turn.

It sits on the right in a toolbox under the wrenches.

Dang Mo..... what could that dealer have done to that toolbox screw so it won't open.......it's cake!

yeah you're supposed to turn lefty loosey righty tighty like 2x around right?

but no... no matter which way you turn, it just keeps turning.

I would love to come with some shark and Icelandic vodka, but I have exams:eyecrazy:eyecrazyThere's always next time, Is there a reason the vodka can't make it? :D

I would love to come with some shark and Icelandic vodka, but I have exams:eyecrazy:eyecrazy

I've always wanted to try Icelandic fermented dried shark. And the lamb hotdogs! I've heard both are amazing.

ok i've got the dealer offering to pay something for the repair of the sunroof and he wants an answer by monday...

HELP!

if you really want to stick it to him, take it to another dealer to have it fixed ;)

I'd have the AZ dealer replace the messed up parts, that the interior shots failed to depict.

There's always next time, Is there a reason the vodka can't make it? :D

I could send the vodka, but I am afraid it would break in the mail.

I've always wanted to try Icelandic fermented dried shark. And the lamb hotdogs! I've heard both are amazing.

Yeah. The best hot dogs are in the center of Reykjavik where all the clubs are. There is nothing better then go drunk out of the clubs and go for a hot dog with coke. Gives you all the energy you need to party longer.

I could send the vodka, but I am afraid it would break in the mail.



plastic bottles man!

Nothing special about vodka whether it comes from PL, RU or FI for that matter.

Anejo tequila is better anyway. ;-)

Nothing special about vodka whether it comes from PL, RU or FI for that matter.

Anejo tequila is better anyway. ;-)


Its not, but the taste is different.

yeah you're supposed to turn lefty loosey righty tighty like 2x around right?

but no... no matter which way you turn, it just keeps turning.



Wedge the lid open by the screw with a thin screwdriver and turn lefty - it should open up. The thread is stripped at the end.

Wedge the lid open by the screw with a thin screwdriver and turn lefty - it should open up. The thread is stripped at the end.


I'll try that...

I pryed the side a bit and felt no tools in there.

the sun roof... i finally found the manual adjustment screw! stupid dealer put some type of black adhesive to keep the panel up and it hardened over the adjustment screw! thats why i couldn't find it!

so i whipped out my allen keys and finally closed the roof! nice and flush...

if i get a chance, i'll try to reinitialize tonight.

It might partially open again. In that case you can pull the fuses in the trunk that I mentioned earlier.

Btw, you do have the owner manual right? Not that it helps that much.

If not, wuffer has reprints iirc.

no i dont have the owners manual... but have seen it on wuffer's site.

i'll print one out!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3528/3469673789_bb1bf05c91.jpg

1st decent pic of the 8!

Thanks Pat!

Another update!

after a couple of days sitting in the driveway I took the car out for the weekend, and found a small puddle of engine oil on the ground. I checked the oil level at running temps and the dipstick says full!

last night I decided to give it a distance highway test. took it to atlantic city and back. the car ran pretty smooth, except when getting into the poorly paved roads of the GSP in the lower 40 exits, im not sure if it's b/c of the 19's on low profile tires but there were a few times I heard "clack"ing sounds coming from the wheels when it hit a bunch of bumps.

any ideas?

Another update!

after a couple of days sitting in the driveway I took the car out for the weekend, and found a small puddle of engine oil on the ground. I checked the oil level at running temps and the dipstick says full!

last night I decided to give it a distance highway test. took it to atlantic city and back. the car ran pretty smooth, except when getting into the poorly paved roads of the GSP in the lower 40 exits, im not sure if it's b/c of the 19's on low profile tires but there were a few times I heard "clack"ing sounds coming from the wheels when it hit a bunch of bumps.

any ideas?


Put a piece of cardboard under the car to get an idea how much it leaks.

We will discover what is amiss when we get her up on the lift Tue.

Please have tools with you. Will definitely need a good light, cotton rags, large screwdriver or a crowbar and large channel interlocks. Various pliers and screwdrivers might come in handy as well.

I'll bring some more specific BMW/e31 tools.

I'd also bring a notebook to write down what we find and perhaps a digital camera.

will do!

Thanks!

Another update!

except when getting into the poorly paved roads of the GSP in the lower 40 exits, im not sure if it's b/c of the 19's on low profile tires but there were a few times I heard "clack"ing sounds coming from the wheels when it hit a bunch of bumps.

any ideas?

my suggestion is shake the 19's for 18's. Not enough rubber for the weight imo. And I have first hand experience! Just put my M-Pars 18" on the TT yesterday, large difference. The 19's beat the car (and you) too hard. With the roads up there, 18's are still stretching your luck.

as soon as i get the title for the car and register it, then that's when i'll make all the changes.

i've got the M-pars on the E38 at the moment but as soon as i register it i'll make the swap!

I'd like to thank cantbl8 (ladislav) for coming out tonight and taking time out to check out my car!

Here's my updated to do list:


Air duct 51711970030
Headlight Housing 63128354557 & 63128354558
Fuse Box Cover 61131383273
11 Blade Fan 11521712110
Belt Tensioner 11281715626
Distributor Cap Cover 12111702731 & 12111702732
Vent Screw 17111712788

anyone parting out?

I started another thread with the pics.

sweet!

And thanks for dinner!

its the least i could do!

thanks for looking at the car!

Update!

This is what I've ordered so far and still waiting to be delivered (due to be in by Friday):

2 FRONT - Zimmermann Sport Cross Drilled Brake Rotor - Import Replacement Parts
2 REAR - Zimmermann Sport Cross Drilled Brake Rotor - Import Replacement Parts
Goodridge G-Stop (Stainless Steel) Brake Line Kit (set of 4 Lines) - Import Replacement Parts

Magnecor Competition Ignition Cables 8.0mm High tension ignition leads with sensors - Wuffer
Powerflex Poly Upper Control Arm Bushings - Wuffer

1 Ignition Coil - Autohaus
1 Ignition Coil; For Cylinders 7-12 - Autohaus
2 Distributor Cap - Autohaus
2 Distributor Rotor; Triangular Bolt-On Type, 3 Bolt - Autohaus
2 Accessory Belt Tensioner Shock; Shock Type - Autohaus
1 Fan Blade; 450mm; 11 Blades - Autohaus
2 Fuel Filter - Autohaus
2 Air Filter - Autohaus
2 Shock/Strut, Hood; Left/Right - Autohaus
2 Coolant Bleeder Screw; Brass; At Expansion Tank/Radiator; With O-Ring - Autohaus
1 Brake Pad Wear Sensor; Front; 260mm Length - Autohaus
1 Brake Pad Wear Sensor; Rear; 375mm - Autohaus
12 Spark Plug; Platinum+4; 4 Electrode - Autohaus
4 Shock/Strut, Hood; Retaining Clip - Autohaus
2 Cabin Air Filter/Pollen Filter - Autohaus
1 Brake Pad Set; Front; OE Supplier Compound - Autohaus
1 Brake Pad Set; Rear; OE Supplier Compound - Autohaus

1 Car Cover - Gault
1 Radio Braket - Gault
6 Self Tapping Screw Fillister Head - Gault
1 Body Nut - Gault
1 Center Console Cover - Gault
1 Gear Selecting Cover - Gault
1 Console Insert - Gault
1 Set Carpeted Mats - Gault
1 Gearbox Switch - Gault
1 Sliding Roof Switch (not sure if Charlie added it to the order) - Gault

1 Wokke chip set including EML 2.0 - Wolf

1 OEM Cassette Headunit - 1chiban


I can't wait to get at this stuff! My self-imposed deadline to have this complete is June 12!

WOW!!

Your M70 will NOT like those Platinum plugs!
This motor uses plain old copper plugs ( alot cheaper too), Suggest you cancel that part of the order and get some copper plugs - either BOSCH or NGK.

Wow! You officially have the 8 fever... The bug grows the more you drive it!

...who says the economy is in a slump???

:)

Me fx, but you always find some cash for your e31

...who says the economy is in a slump???

:)

The guys who aren't driving 8's, V12's to be exact :D

...who says the economy is in a slump???

:)


the stock I own in the nudey bar's been skyrocketing! up 25% in the past 2 days!

WOW!!

Your M70 will NOT like those Platinum plugs!
This motor uses plain old copper plugs ( alot cheaper too), Suggest you cancel that part of the order and get some copper plugs - either BOSCH or NGK.

parts already shipped... i just went to their website and requested a return for the plugs...

so can i just go to the local parts store and ask for regular bosch or ngk plugs?

NGK plugs for the M70 can be had at any local parts store (They might look at you funny when you ask for 12, but they should have enough), and for less than $2 a plug.

thanks!

i just came back from pep boys, and asked the guy for Bosch F8LCR's and he looked at me funny... tried to sell me platinum and iridium ones... then i asked him how much resistance they had... he looked even more lost. then tole me that the iridium ones are the best on the market, then i asked him how many ohms of resistance it had... he started to stutter.

ngk zfr5f

Thanks!

What do you guys think of Castol Syntec 5w-40?

I read over on RF, that a few guys used it but didn't see any reviews.

I use Mobil 1 10w-40 or 15w-50.

The last item on your list.... is that the sunroof switch? If so and he didn't order it, I have 1 or 2 here if you want...

-JRW

Wow! You officially have the 8 fever... The bug grows the more you drive it!
Looks like we have another sick individual here. Welcome to the madness, medical attention does not help, you're hooked now! Good luck and have fun. It gets worse as time passes. Ask me how I know?!!!

I use Mobil 1 10w-40 or 15w-50.

I was thinking about picking up a case of Castrol 5w-50. Advance Auto doesn't have 5w-40.

The last item on your list.... is that the sunroof switch? If so and he didn't order it, I have 1 or 2 here if you want...

-JRW

yeah, that was the sunroof switch... i'll be sure to let you know if i need it!

yeah, that was the sunroof switch... i'll be sure to let you know if i need it!

I work in Bridgewater... which isn't too far, so you could get it anytme.

-JRW

sweet!

progress!!!

parts are starting to come in!!!

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/850i/54e0f740.jpg
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/850i/269ea58c.jpg
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/850i/940220c7.jpg

thank you guys for all your help (1chiban, wolf, charlie)

Wuffer's parts are due in tomorrow and my steel brake lines are on back order. :(

Looks like a Coach purse and a couple pairs of shoes in that box Mo..........:stickoutt

Tell me about it! LV tomorrow @ the stealer!

Looks like a Coach purse and a couple pairs of shoes in that box Mo..........:stickoutt
Huh!?! Looks like a bunch of 850 parts to me!
I don't even want to know where THAT came from.

:) :)

Huh!?! Looks like a bunch of 850 parts to me!
I don't even want to know where THAT came from.

:) :)

let me explain... on the phone, i explained to him that in order for me to fix the car, i have to pay off my wife everytime i order parts or something for it. i guess that goes for everyone.

so far i've been pushing off the LV bag and wallet set my wife wants (DFM tax)... but i've been buying her other stuff instead!

wife = domestic finance minister (DFM)

Tx, if I ever seriously start describing E31 parts in terms of women's clothing accessories just come take my 8ers away and have me committed..... she is a fine lady but....:stickoutt

The console piece looks good Mo. I know it was nice to get rid of that glaring crack.

thanks! yes it was! hopefully the stealer doesn't crack it tomorrow while replacing the MID and putting in a gear shifter cable.

now i have tunes thanks to 1chiban! there were a few inserts that weren't compatible with the new console cover, but those are now on order @ Gault.

I run shell rotella or chevron delo 15w-40. Both are excellent traditional oils with cleaning agents designed for a diesel engine and in testing showed to resist breakdown very well. There are a few forums dedicated to testing and determining which oils perform the best and keep wear down, my conclusion was drawn from much experience and testing shared on said forums.

I was advised against switching from a dino to a synthetic oil for fear of loosening deposits on the cylinder walls, creating a lifelong oil burner. Personally, I'm somewhat skeptical, but it's not worth the risk on the somewhat looser toleranced builds of the m70 generation vs. newer cars.

You're welcome! I'm so glad to have helped, I hope things work out with your headlights. It makes me happy to see progress, and you've got a lot of it! Keep at it, bro... you're on your way!

Cheers,
Thomas

Dude! Paypal is the death of me!
Someone take it away!

hah!

I love the interior....

but get those 7 wheels off it!!!

hah!

i've bought more than all the mods and mechanical stuff that i need right now!

I love the interior....

but get those 7 wheels off it!!!

yeah im going to go the m-par route.

i've bought more than all the mods and mechanical stuff that i need right now!



LOL, you only THINK that's true... you obviously haven't been hit with your recent 8 Series ownership yet, it's called the madness for a reason!

has anyone bought stuff from MK BMW E31 parts warehouse?

how is the quality of customer service and the quality of their goods?

^^^It's owned/operated by a fine veteran forum member.

Cheers

has anyone bought stuff from MK BMW E31 parts warehouse?

how is the quality of customer service and the quality of their goods?



That's Laszlo's site. You can't go wrong. He has a white 840. Look him up on RF.

sweet! i ordered a couple of goodies from there!

now i need some help! i think i figured out what was wrong with my moon roof!

you know the bottom piece is not aligned correctly... so it closes at an angle and when the motor feels resistance it stops.

my dilemma is, how can you adjust it w/o being in tilt mode?

the bottom piece being at an angle is preventing it from going into tilt mode.

all of the adjustment/removal instructions i've found requires the moonroof to be in tilt mode.

Mo, if you mean the piece that has the headliner on it is at an angle that means a couple of the clips on one side of it have broken or come off. You can move this piece with your hand simply by pushing up. You are right about how sensitive the motor is in terms of opening and closing. With the moon roof fully closed try to push the headliner piece as far to the forward of the car as you can (which ever side is angled). You will then be able to tilt the roof.

cool beans! i'll try that out when i get it back from the shop! its in for the 1st phase:
Replacement of the cooling fan, belt tensioners, hood shocks, and trying to adjust the steering box and fix a power steering fluid leak.

I was at the stealer today and got a diagnostic done. No misfire... so all that tune-up stuff is going to wait. Brakes looked fine... the shaking of the car was due to broken fan blades and spacers on the front wheels! so the brakes are going to wait. im gunna have them take off those 19's and swap em for the M-pars!

The oil leak... the crankshaft seal, oil pan gasket and tranny gasket are leaking. dont believe them about the tranny b/c the oil stain that was left under the car was all light brown, no mixing of fluids.

about the steering not returning they said that the steering box needs to be replaced, both frong upper control arms need to be replaced... (when looking at it with lad, they appeard fine.) and the power steering cooler needs to be replaced b/c it had a leak. the stealer also said i needed to replace both mufflers (ordered), rear control arm bushings (emailed wuffer) and rear shocks (i pushed down on them and they gave pretty good resistance and no bouncing but a smooth motion upward).

i have to go back to the stealer next saturday to get the MID, gearshifter pin, and the climate control bulb replaced... i know... i know... but since i'm getting the MID replaced there while they're at it, might as well do the bulb and gearshifter.

OF COURSE - makes sense about the fan. You are sooo lucky that thing did not explode your hood and what's underneath to the stars.

Hope they know what they are doing on an 8er. You're pretty brave - that's going to be some bill!!! I think you are looking at the price of the car once over or pretty close.

Make sure they give you Pentosin, not ATF or PSF. That's an initial measure of a dealer's awareness. Make sure you check it upon delivery.

Btw, you did need new upper arm bushings. Ask them how they preload them ;-)

The steering box may perhaps be re-adjustable, just not by the same kid who 'adjusted' to this state.

A new steering box is a very expensive item iirc - you may want to check the price and request an adjustment instead. Or perhaps
visit a specialist.

Agree about the tranny gasket.

And a reminder about the old parts, incl shocks.

the parts that i have right now are about half the cost right now.

im not having the dealer install anything except the MID, gear pin and bulbs for the climate control.

im going to have the work done at a few shops that I know.

as for the power steering fluid... i left a whole can of Pentosin with the rest of the parts on the passengers seat so they know to put that stuff in instead of that other stuff.

upper arm bushings (fronts) are here, i emailed wuffer for the rears.

so far all the parts i've ordered except for the radio have been brand new... i don't really trust used parts for the mechanics of the car. but i will use them for the aesthetics.

another update!

i got a copy of the last service on record.. and man! what a mess! actually it goes back to '04.

Mo, you're the classic example of the buyer beware when it comes to buying an 8er... however, with the obvious out of the way... you're helping this community to achieve it's goal by keeping as many 8s on the road, even when it comes at a cost. Keep posting updates!

yeah i know... even when i was going through the buying process i had some of you guys behind me! but as soon as i saw her i couldn't give up!

now looking at the service records i don't really need to start from scratch, and i'll have parts sitting in my shed for years to come! my enthusiasm is gunna get me one day!

for now, i'll be using mighty putty to keep my headlights from flying off at 75mph!

Not sure what your headlight situation is, but I figured out a way to "paper clip" my headlights where I wanted them until I had them fixed. It worked really well, let me know if you think you can do something like that and I'll show you how I did it.

i was thinking about zip ties but the clips to fasten the top to the bucket are broken.

Damn this pc, cant see the pics at all!!!

i was thinking about zip ties but the clips to fasten the top to the bucket are broken.


Zip ties were involved :), take some detailed pics of exactly your buckets look like, visible damage, etc. I'll come up with somethin' for ya.

Damn this pc, cant see the pics at all!!!

yeah you need to see these pix!

this thread should be stickied and renamed to "this can happen to you!"

Finaly got to the end of the thread, Managed to see all the pics and was feelin for you. I can see why your determined, its a lovely lookin ride, Why do US models always look cooler!!!

lol, it's funny you say that because most people here like the Euro sport look better :).

stupid mechanic, is telling me that the M-pars wont fit the car!

he says that the top of the tire is rubbing against the strut in the front and says i need lower profile tires. :(

don't the OEM tires for the M-pars fit the 8?

they should be 245/40/18 up front. Back is 275/35 or 285/35

lol, it's funny you say that because most people here like the Euro sport look better :).

The 8 is a good lookin car anyway, just somethin about the US versions, like the XJS with the twin headlamp conversion!

i've got 235/50/18's and 255/45/18's on.

Wrong sized tires, that is why they don't fit.

Time to whip out more ca$h, Mo! :D

FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUhhhhhhhhhhh!

can i do 245/40/18 all around? on 18x8.5's?

yes, you can.

I had the same issue with broken tabs on the headlight buckets, I tried everything and couldn't get anything to work reliably. I used duct tape for a while, this is not a good look! The cost of new buckets is so expensive you're better off getting a pair of used headlights from a parts car. That's what I ended up doing.

If it's any consolation my car had loads of problems when I bought it (on my drive home the front spoiler fell off and the headlight issue meant I had to drive on sides in the pitch black), and I'm slowly getting through them at vast expense. But you'll love the car all the more for having to do so much work on it.

I have had to impose a rule where I don't buy any parts (normally on ebay after drinking) until I'm ready to do the work!

Good luck, Nick

yes, you can.

sweet!!! since i'd have to spend $1000 on new tires for the M-Pars, might as well spend the extra $500 on BBS RGR's with tires!!!

I had the same issue with broken tabs on the headlight buckets, I tried everything and couldn't get anything to work reliably. I used duct tape for a while, this is not a good look! The cost of new buckets is so expensive you're better off getting a pair of used headlights from a parts car. That's what I ended up doing.

If it's any consolation my car had loads of problems when I bought it (on my drive home the front spoiler fell off and the headlight issue meant I had to drive on sides in the pitch black), and I'm slowly getting through them at vast expense. But you'll love the car all the more for having to do so much work on it.

I have had to impose a rule where I don't buy any parts (normally on ebay after drinking) until I'm ready to do the work!

Good luck, Nick

thats a good rule that i've learned the hard way. i've already spent about 60% of what i bought the car for in parts that will now just sit around.

Hey Mo, if you do get BBS (or any other wheels) make sure they're staggered. Your 8 deserves it.

just paid for those non-staggared BBS wheels... *flame suit on* but they looked sooo good!


http://www.bimmerfest.com/photos/data/500/IMG_1066.jpg

Nice wheels. I ain't gonna flame you :D

ok... now that i have the wheel situation covered...

on to the steering... the car has a major oversteer, the mechanic i had it at yesterday didn't wanna touch it. so i was just wondering if adjusting the steering box was an easy thing to do? the stealer wanted me to replace it.

just as an update... the remaining major problems that need to be resolved are:
1. Steering (major oversteer esp. after 1/4 turn in steering wheel)
2. Headlights (winking and clipping the doors down)
3. Sunroof (operation and upholstry)

i think everything else is minor.

beautiful wheels, perfect lip :). Take some pics of your head lights.

Dude! I'll do one better! I've been meaning to take video! I'll try tonite.

There are some pix earlier in this thread.
Wuffer thinks it may be the relay.

okay, I look forward to it. :).

Mo, It took me 2.5 years to get my cars where yours is now, Are you hiring?

ok im finally home... and i think wuffer was right!

i took out the relay for the headlights started up the car and saw that neither one flipped up, but the bulbs were lit. so i turned off the car put the relay in and waaaalaaaa! flipped the switch and the both popped up! AMAZING!

sorry to disappoint about the video. :(

8eights... with the money i'm about to fork over (time is a commodity i don't have much of), i wish i had someone on payroll!

edit: i zip-tied that one headlight door down... it only had one clip that broke so i just zip-tied that one down.

relay made sense, glad to know you now have light.

oh yeah.. one thing i wanted to clarify... wuffer gave me a good education today.

i don't have an oversteer... i've got a major pull in the steering wheel, that may be remedied by replacing the "u-joint" between the steering wheel and the steering column itself.

I do not know how everyone else feels, but we need a project build thread with PICTURES:stickoutt

The suspence at wondering how you felt when the lights finally popped up is killing me. I want to see the goodies as well, share.

Congradulations on the DIY procedures being a success. That car needed a lot of work, and thankfully you are the one who found it. Who knows, it could have gone to another dealer where the car would be parted out:shifty

You still need to either replace the relay or resolder the fractured solder joints Mo.

Ummm.... I doubt if it is the u-joint/donut in the steering column but they should be checked anyways. I asked you in email to clarify what steering issue that you had but havent heard back as yet. A "major pull to the right" if that is what you are experiencing is more likely to be a dragging caliper. Take the car for a drive and when you get back, feel each front wheel for how hot it is. If one side is significantly hotter than the other, a caliper is likely sticking.

as soon as my wife gets home i'll try to take vids/pix of the lights working.

You still need to either replace the relay or resolder the fractured solder joints Mo.

Ummm.... I doubt if it is the u-joint/donut in the steering column but they should be checked anyways. I asked you in email to clarify what steering issue that you had but havent heard back as yet. A "major pull to the right" if that is what you are experiencing is more likely to be a dragging caliper. Take the car for a drive and when you get back, feel each front wheel for how hot it is. If one side is significantly hotter than the other, a caliper is likely sticking.

im sooo sorry about not getting back to you on that... pretty busy at work and i've gotten into the habit of skimming and not reading.

i'll try that the wheel temp test.

it's kinda hard to explain... after turning the wheel either right or left more than a quarter turn the wheel just turns in that direction on its own and does not return on its own unless i take control of it and turn it back.

This is going in the right direction mate

Headlight video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrfBu8dFYkk

they're no longer winking... but failing in sync now.

i did take a spin in the car and both wheels were cool. no temperature difference.

Sounds like some hack has been into the steering box and over-adjusted. It isnt steering components likely. Use the Steering Box Adjustment pdf I sent you and a good bmw experienced mechanic. May be too late but worth a shot.

Re your video - headlights staying up and turning off after 5 or 6 turn-on/offs is normal so if thats your only problem it isnt a problem. 8-)

so my lights are fixed???

Dunno - but what I saw in the video looked normal to me.

The vid looks normal to me too. Like Wuffer said, if u flip the switch 5 or 6 times in a row quickly, the pods will stay up if the lights are off. I've had my car wink on the highway once. I turned the lights on then off real quick and one light stayed up. After a few times of flipping the switch, it went down. Guess it just got out of sync for a bit.

sorry... *crappy cell phone pic warning* (flame suit on)

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m249/GimmieSumMo72/850i/DSC00044.jpg

New Wheels!

car is sittin' kinda high!

car is sittin' kinda high!

the stealer said i need new rear shocks/struts.

while i was changing the wheels, i notice those are OEM shocks!

another thing i was wondering... i took hubcentric rings (green ones) off of these wheels b/c they came off an E60. are they good to go w/o the rings? i feel a vibration around 45-55 mph...

im thinking i need to rebalance the wheels.

the steering problem is still there, but less pronouced.

Does it float? I would get a second opinion, New inserts normally raise the car a tad.

they seem prettty firm.

i definitely need an alignment, but im gunna hold off until i get the bushings done.

another thing i was wondering... i took hubcentric rings (green ones) off of these wheels b/c they came off an E60. are they good to go w/o the rings? i feel a vibration around 45-55 mph...

im thinking i need to rebalance the wheels.

I would do just that, also likely a sign that your bushings are going out

It so happens that around 50-60mph an out of balance wheel (even ever so slightly) excites the thrust arm bushings at their natural frequency. This causes the oscillation of the wheel/bushing to 'blow up' mathematically resulting in the vibration that you're feeling.
The polyurethane bushings offered by Phoenix Motorsport will likely have a higher natural frequency, associated with a higher road velocity, prolonging their existence further over the advantage of a more durable material alone. [/physics]

I recently replaced my bushings so I have not yet needed to go polyurethane, but I might recommend it if you're doing them anyway

also: your car sits like a 4x4, just like mine! (I have stock springs and bilsteins) :(

yeah it does sit like a 4x4... but i dont wanna drop it... i ordered a front spoiler and need the clearance for my driveway.

i've got the phoenix motorsport ones sitting in my passenger's seat, and the rear bushings are on order from bmwpartzdirect.com (actually cheaper than gault on most parts).

i was thinking about going the stock springs and bilstein route(if i needed to change the shocks)... any increase in height?

definite slight increase in height with the billies

edit: there's also www.getbmwparts.com which has a good reputation for cheap dealer parts. It's powered by Tischer BMW and savings has been similar to Gault pricing (as a percentage of list price) from what I have ordered/seen. It's close to the employee pricing, which is typically 35-50% off list

yeah i have an account with tischer as well. i'll be getting in the magnaflows and rtabs on monday. I can't wait! once I get the RTAB's I can try to find a shop and get my steering, bushing and alignment done! then i can start working on the sunroof and upholstry!

another update!

took it to bay diagnostic today and they took it for a test drive. their analysis was that the car needs an alignment. it seems that the caster and camber are out of wack.

the thing is, he said that there is no caster adjustment on the car. is this correct?

only thing you can adjust on the front is toe-in

so who can adjust the other stuff?

Camber plates... Static for negative and adjustable for both positive/negative and caster.

Camber plates... Static for negative and adjustable for both positive/negative and caster.

always heard terrible things about k-macs FWIW

It's the older ones with the rubber bellows, The newer one's are suppose to be much better as far as lasting longer, I'm waiting for Phoenix Motorsports to introduce theirs, They're in the makings as we type, I've been waiting and need them badly! If you guys are suffering from outer tire ware, Phoenix has a set for you available through Wuffer for this side of the pond, Inner tire ware is what i need them for, I'm very low in the front and need some postive camber adjustment, Thanks for the heads up though.

It's the older ones with the rubber bellows, The newer one's are suppose to be much better as far as lasting longer, I'm waiting for Phoenix Motorsports to introduce theirs, They're in the makings as we type, I've been waiting and need them badly! If you guys are suffering from outer tire ware, Phoenix has a set for you available through Wuffer for this side of the pond, Inner tire ware is what i need them for, I'm very low in the front and need some postive camber adjustment, Thanks for the heads up though.

In addition to the early version problems, I've heard about them losing adjustment in many cases I've spoken to owners about.
Thanks for the heads up on the Phoenix plates! Has anyone given an indication of an ETA? I was going to head to the shop to make some static plates soon, but don't like the idea of losing 1/4" of what little shock travel (before hitting the bump stops) I'm going to end up with after I finally decide on a combination of springs :P

and 8eights: since you're so low, would you be interested in working on a roll center spacer project with me? That would give you back your stock geometry and possibly alleviate some of your camber issues in one swoop

I don't think you will notice anything bad about the static plates, I've heard nothing but good things from cars not lowered and slightly lowered with them! No ETA on the adjustables from Phoenix, I think they will be a hit with the lowered crew especially as it's there only way of proper on/off track adjusment, I'd be interested in anything to put back my inner tire ware issue, I can only participate in money only at this time, I have the best part of my race season approaching and limited to any projects, I like the idea! I was going to have some custom lower control arms made up to combat my issue until i heard of phoenix's new products coming out.

doesn't Wuffer have a set from Phoenix?

Sure does!

so lemme get this straight... the set that Wuffer sells will be able to adjust the caster as well as the camber?

anyone running them?

I posted this awhile back, but talk to Vorschlag Motorsports. They're a supporting vendor here and were quite willing at the time to offer a set of plates for the E31. If I was going adjustable these are what I'd look toward to get quickly in the States and I think the workmanship appears fantastic.





http://i441.photobucket.com/albums/qq138/rcrad6653/e36_plate_engrv_02.jpg

i'll try to call them on monday! they have a set for the E32... wonder if they're compatible?

I posted this awhile back, but talk to Vorschlag Motorsports. They're a supporting vendor here and were quite willing at the time to offer a set of plates for the E31. If I was going adjustable these are what I'd look toward to get quickly in the States and I think the workmanship appears fantastic.

the problem with these camber plates is that the e31 spring hat is built into the upper strut bearing, while these are meant to be used with the 'other' cars which have a separate piece for the spring hat.

even the e36 got the removable hat fitted after originally using the e31 plates (same part number)

so lemme get this straight... the set that Wuffer sells will be able to adjust the caster as well as the camber?

anyone running them?Where did you here this?

That E32 set might work, Here's a link to there sight, Nice looking product.
http://www.vorshlag.com/index.php?cPath=1_17

Where did you here this?

That E32 set might work, Here's a link to there sight, Nice looking product.
http://www.vorshlag.com/index.php?cPath=1_17

i didn't hear it anywhere... just asking? i need one by this weekend... June 12 is right around the corner.

i didn't hear it anywhere... just asking? i need one by this weekend... June 12 is right around the corner.

you can mount them 120 degrees off from where they are supposed to be and that will net you slightly more positive camber and an increase in caster :dunno

so i guess Wuffer's camber plates only do camber...

does anyone know the difference between the adjustable camber plates at bav auto vs the vorshlag ones?

you can mount them 120 degrees off from where they are supposed to be and that will net you slightly more positive camber and an increase in caster :dunno Just asking! Have you tried this? Do you have a picture of a car with this done? The set i had were brand new and looked to work in one direction only. They would of been keepers if they could provide the same amount of postive camber as they did negative.

Just asking! Have you tried this? Do you have a picture of a car with this done? The set i had were brand new and looked to work in one direction only. They would of been keepers if they could provide the same amount of postive camber as they did negative.

they can't provide the same amount of positive camber, but will still supply some, (negative camber)*cos(120) to be exact. As cos(120) = -.5, they will get you half of the value in the positive camber direction as they would in the negative direction.

The bolt spacing on the strut tops is in an equilateral triangle with what looks like even clearance underneath, so the plates can be fitted in any of three directions.

so i guess Wuffer's camber plates only do camber...

does anyone know the difference between the adjustable camber plates at bav auto vs the vorshlag ones?

urethane mount for impact resistance versus spherical ball bearing which will not keep any impact from bumps from the car. That and the vorshlag ones are not confirmed to work with e31s.

if there is a camber plate that works with a non-vanos (92 only!) e36, these will work in the e31

'92 e36 strut mounts are identical to the e31

I tried the different direction approach, It was a no go?

I tried the different direction approach, It was a no go?

clearance issues in the inside of the strut tower?

The plates only lined up one way.

***You think we can use E36 Camber plates?***

This is interesting!

The plates only lined up one way.

***You think we can use E36 Camber plates?***

This is interesting!

I know we can use e36 camber plates, the problem is, nobody makes them! as they are for the '92 only, camber plates for the e36 require updated struts and springs to convert to the late (93+) style :(

you should have been able to rotate the plates 120 degrees and mount them that way, I'm sure of this as the bolt pattern is a perfect triangle. Stock mounts do not have to be bolted up directionally

Are you familiar with them? You don't use the existing shock tower as intended, You cut the bolts off and ad the plates which has there own and new mounting direction, Did i mis something?

I'm familiar with them yes.. well as the new bolt pattern is also a perfect triangle, albeit offset from the original, it obeys the same principle as the stock ones. i'll try to put this in crude photo form in a second

obviously this is very crude, but you can see that there is an increase in positive camber by the location of the strut (blue dot) as well as a dramatic increase in caster

I tried to make the dots in as perfect triangles as possible, hopefully this illustrates my point well enough

edit: top is as intended for more negative camber, bottom is for more positive camber, the big ring is the chassis of the car

Thanks!
Didn't work for me! If i put them anywhere else, I could'nt steer the car. If you had a set of them in hand, You'd say oooh!

ah that's disappointing, maybe the upper spring hat collided with the car's body itself :(

FWIW this was one of my main motivations for posting a thread a few weeks ago about fitting e34 front coilovers on the e31. It would allow the use of off the shelf adjustable camber/caster plates, along with much more clearance underneath to run more/less aggressive setups

From my obsrvation, There's almost no room for error up front, They are made to do one thing, Thats to rid cars of outer tire ware, I believe a set made in just the opposite to reduce inner tire ware would be very useful for us little guys...(

From my obsrvation, There's almost no room for error up front, They are made to do one thing, Thats to rid cars of outer tire ware, I believe a set made in just the opposite to reduce inner tire ware would be very useful for us little guys...(

unfortunately I think almost everyone is looking for a little negative camber increase and you're on your own, you could request that phoenix do a set for you with the beveling done on the opposite sides of the plate.. that would get you exactly what you're looking for..

I edited the original picture for clarity as well

edit: I retract my statement about the reverse-beveling, it would require moving the big center camber plate hole as well

Negative camber would only support a stock height suspension, Having the car lowered beyond H&R and Eibach up front will require some adjustment, The car in question has G-Power front springs, There very aggressive looking and i've gotten used to it, Oh well, Time to bite another bullit, Thanks!

ok update!

ordered hub centric rings directly from BBS and an adjustable camber correction kit from Bav Auto.

Called up Vorshlag this morning but could not sell me a kit for an E31, due to lack of testing.

camber correction kit due tomorrow, rings due wednesday.

Awesome, Could you please post a link to the camber kit you purchased, I need one too, Thanks!

http://www.bavauto.com/assets/imglib500/camberkit.jpg

it doesnt have a direct link but you can follow the chain...

http://www.bavauto.com/img/open.gif (http://javascript<b></b>:SubmitMenuBar_onclick(1,'tclick.asp',657)) Suspension & Steering (http://javascript<b></b>:SubmitMenuBar_onclick(1,'tclick.asp',657))http://www.bavauto.com/img/open.gif (http://javascript<b></b>:SubmitMenuBar_onclick(1,'tclick.asp',221)) Front Axle (http://javascript<b></b>:SubmitMenuBar_onclick(1,'tclick.asp',221))
Upper Strut Bearings (http://javascript<b></b>:SubmitIt_onclick(4,2,2,0,0,0,'1991','850i/Ci/Csi',161,'Y','asgridyearmodel.asp','','','','','', '','','','','','','','','','','','','','223'))

http://www.bavauto.com/assets/inst_pages/ins054.pdf

I hope those come with a warranty, They look like the first round of kmac plates which had nothing but problems with the urethane bushing almost melting and then the bearings just pooring out, Hopefully bavauto got them right, Please update as i'm interested in a working/lasting set, May be there improved over k-macs first run, The one in the picture below are the only one's i've heard good things about.

I hope those come with a warranty, They look like the first round of kmac plates which had nothing but problems with the urethane bushing almost melting and then the bearings just pooring out, Hopefully bavauto got them right, Please update as i'm interested in a working/lasting set, May be there improved over k-macs first run, The one in the picture below are the only one's i've heard good things about.


crap...

+1 to what 8eights said Mo..... personally I feel you're overthinking this a bit. I have the static plates new sitting here and am on the fence as to whether or not to even install them. In speaking to Ed Raether (the originator of these plates) he's very up front and honest as to what they do. Giving some extra negative camber will help the quickness of turning and an improvement, but it's more suited IMO to track or autocross situations that my, and I would venture to say yours, will never see. Koizumi had them and ultimately didn't use'em with his setup that he's very happy with. I'll end up with expensive 245/40/18's on 9.5" rims in front, lowered Eibachs, CSI 27mm sway bar, and stock (initially because they're new)) shocks. Given the perceived increased tire wear and height increase conflict with the lowering springs, I can't see the necessity to install the static plates because of the way the car will be driven.

from what wuffer told me that those static plates can't adjust casters... and that's one of the problems with my steering issue.

i really wanna drive the car, but not with the steering the way it is.

i took it to a shop on saturday and it was diagnosed as a camber & caster problem, and i kind of agree b/c once i switched from 19's to 18's and the steering problem got a little better. but i really dont wanna buy a set 16's to alleviate the problem.

I get pretty much even tire wear with H&R fronts and 245/40/18. No camber plates for Mr. Koizumi, I simply don't need them.

OK you know that toein is what can be adjusted, and you know that static plates will add negative camber and perhaps improve the steering to your liking. Why not take a phased approach: Get some good tires on those 18" wheels and have them properly balanced, have the car aligned according to established BMW spec, and go from there? Then you can go with adjustable plates or address a steering box issue which may or may not exist, or look toward other possible causes. The car will certainly not be undriveable.

OK you know that toein is what can be adjusted, and you know that static plates will add negative camber and perhaps improve the steering to your liking. Why not take a phased approach: Get some good tires on those 18" wheels and have them properly balanced, have the car aligned according to established BMW spec, and go from there? Then you can go with adjustable plates or address a steering box issue which may or may not exist, or look toward other possible causes. The car will certainly not be undriveable.

Get some good tires on those 18" wheels - done thursday

properly balanced - done saturday

have the car aligned according to established BMW spec - attempted saturday, no camber or caster adjustments, they're fixed on the vehicle.

steering box issue - saturday - they said it was tight and no adjustment was needed.

the car is certainly drivable, but i want to be able to play with the car, and not be afraid that it might be wrapped around a pole or in a ditch somewhere.

......just trying to help stop the initial money drain Mo.......:stickoutt

......just trying to help stop the initial money drain Mo.......:stickoutt


i know... i really appreciate it...

i hope my post don't sound like im laying it on you guys... i'm just trying to get this car up to a decent enough condition that i can just worry about oil changes and tuneups.

i feel that this steering problem is the last big hurdle in this race. the sunroof feels like a bump in the road compared to this.

as soon as i get the camber plates and hubcentric rings in, i'll be bringing it to a shop that does work on loads of bimmers to do the bushings, alignment, and mufflers. then after that... dyno time!

crap...Sorry Mo!
I was trying to help you make the right decision, If you need adjustment upfront they will do it, I'm not sure about longevity, Wuffer has adjustables on his for quite a while now, May be he knows more about these.

Sorry Mo!
I was trying to help you make the right decision, If you need adjustment upfront they will do it, I'm not sure about longevity, Wuffer has adjustables on his for quite a while now, May be he knows more about these.


its cool... thanks for your help...

i looked and contacted Vorshlag, and they didn't have any.

K-mac's site really didn't provide much feedback

and i called up Bav Auto and they seemed pretty helpful and had them in stock. so i went with them, never had any problems with any of the stuff they sell, so i'm crossing my fingers.

after taking it to the shop this saturday, i have more confidence in this car than i had before. but just not enough from being frustrated.

i can't really express how much i appreciate all you guys input!

Because of a camber issue, I had to go with adjustable Camber plates (K-Macs, last generation) and was able, finally, to dial in the front camber with no issues to the -1.5 degrees that I wanted. I could not do so with the static plates because of the weird camber readings we were getting. The adjustables have now been in there for over 2 years with no issues. Just dont leave the front wheels hanging in the air for any extended amount of time.
I have never heard of an E31 with a Caster issue. Also, for what its worth, the rear has camber and toe adjustments and a proper 4 wheel alignment is required. If the car has been lowered, you must also use the sports alignment specs.
Finally, I would have the wheels Road Force Balanced - much more precise.

thanks wuffer!

what would you say an extended period of time would be? i understand that the weight of the wheels would be a factor, but can you give us an estimate?

i hope its not less than an hour...

Over a weekend...
Left mine hanging for three days since my heart attack came upon me after I had swapped out the upper control arms - had to wait til I got released to let the car back down with fingers crossed.