Three years ago, I bought a '80 635, euro from a co-worker. I paid $2000 for it. The body is in very good shape. The problem, the engine is only running on 3 cylinders. I had planned on starting this project right then but two things happened. First, the busiest time of the year for me just started, no time. Second, we(myself, wife, son and a friend of his) went on a week's vacation to the mountains. In a freak accident, we rolled our Jeep almost 6 times down a hillside. This was on a trail we knew well. I ended up in the hospital for 3 days with a crushed right hand and a shattered left thumb. I lost 4 months work. My wife broke her right arm and had her head bashed a bit. She lost 6 months work. Thank God the boys were basically un hurt. I'm telling you this so you will know where my head is at. Between the physical and mental trauma, there is the monitary devastation. Doing mechanical work is very hard, frustrating and downright discouraging. Well, I decided to suck it up and tackle the job.
About a month ago, I found a wrecked '80 635, euro about 150 miles away. The head had just been redone and it had a 5 speed. Lots of good parts. I bought it for $1800.
The plan: First, transfer the engine and 5 speed. Second, the interior, mine is in good shape but it is tan I don't like tan and the other is black.
Where I am today: All I have managed to do is remove some of the wiring and accessories from the engine. I may have to cut part of the nose to get the engine out.
I hope you all will bear with me. This is somewhat of a spiritual journey. Words of wisdom and comments are welcome.

all i can tell you is to carry on if you can.i myself sustained a freak,near fatal accident in which i was traveling at least 60mph and a dead tree falling, decided to hit the roof of the car and leave some serious injury to the head and neck.i still do my own work,but it takes a lot longer than it used to and there's some things i cant do if it requires contorting the body.i have to stay moving and cant sit still.i've always a car to mess around with and people ask how i can still do it.it's therapy.

Wow crazy storys, have fun with your rebuild/renovation. :redspot

Doing mechanical work is very hard, frustrating and downright discouraging. Well, I decided to suck it up and tackle the job.



Well, what can I say, who knows what is 'round the corner, what fate has in store for any of us???

It's really encouraging that you've not thrown in the towel :thumbup:

Look at it another way, you're already a 'special guy' - interest in practical well made tin (BMW) and you've got a pair!!!

Just imagine going through all of above and comming home to 1 and a 1/2 Pontiacs or Mustangs (over here I'd say Cortina or Fiat Punto!!).

Wow, that's a great looking project, and congrats on having the will to carry on with it. Can't wait to see it done.

Al

Welcome to Bill's toy box. I got quite a bit done today. The doner is up in the air. The exhaust, drive line, rear axles, differential and transmission removed. Now all I have to do is pull the bell housing and try to get the engine out. I got all the engine wiring off a couple of weeks ago. It has been a good day. :drink1

Ol 6er,

Keep going, man!! The ride will be that much sweeter when you get it going and running right.

By the way, I am looking for tan sport seats. Are you selling yours? Please PM me.


Thanks,
Alfonso.

just keep reminding yourself of the finished result.i have a newfound respect for the euro's after examining one.
dont forget i still need a few parts when you're done.i have a set of recaros i can throw in the deal.they came from a euro and dont have the floor mounts,but you'd already have them.if you dont need the seats,would you be interested in selling the mounts?i dont think i can retrofit them to the sport seat mounts.

very very cool project... keep us posted... :D

Well, I didn't get a lot done on the 6 this weekend. It's spring barrel tasting (I live in centeral Wa. wine country), need I say more? I needed to change the brake fluid on the 525, so I put in a ss brake line kit also. I did manage to get the instrument cluster out thanks to dm635's phone call telling me where the screws were. It's interesting the way these two cars were federalized. Please look at the pictures. Pic. 1 is the diagnostic panel from the grey car, note the 0-2 sensor light that doesn't exist on this unit, and the panel is in english. Pic. 2, note the seat belt light in upper right, they glued a little icon over an unused hole and hung a bulb behind it. Pic. 3 the diagnostic panel from the bronze car. Note how the upper right spot was hogged out and a piece of plastic glued in with a bulb stuck in behind.
The whole seat belt warning system was added by splicing into the existing wiring. This is getting to be really interesting. All for now, Bill :drink1

hey bill,i enjoyed the conversation also.the german face plate i have looks the same as the U.S. models.maybe someone could post a pic of what the U.S. spec face plate looks like,so you can compare.

Sorry to hear about your wreck. Im glad you have all recovered.


The nice thing about BMW and the six, is that it is so well thought out. I can pull the motor on my 633 in an evening. I have done it enough, I know exectally what I need.

Good luck. If you have any questions let me know.

I almost bought one that was sitting at a used car lot, 1985 with 88k on it...thing was mint...I got nervous about finding parts...

Bill,
I can appreciate a good weekend barrel tasting, might have to trade some rare finds. I miss the Northwest (grew up in Seatte). The only wineries then were Chateau San Michelle, and Columbia Crest. Neither of which do we see much of here.

Looks like your curiosity is pulling you deeper and deeper into these cars, I know the feeling. In the process of replacing the clutch on my '85 now, been working on it for the last few months, no manual, no schematics, just a bit of common sense and the willingness to dig in. It has worked out well, I am impressed with these cars. Can't wait to get mine back on the road, but only get about an hour of work time on it a day (if that). And let me know what you plan on doing with the tan interior, I don't have the choices you do, and need seats. Keep it up.

BTW, a glass of wine can make any job work better.

Well, Shark Bait, from wine country Wa. to wine country Ca., you know what they say, "curiousity killed the cat". I have always looked at it this way, logic will win out. You shouls come back some time, lots of good small wineries up here. They are giving you guys a run for your money.

if you indulge a little too much of the squashed grapes,dont start pulling anything electrical.you may go back with a clear head and wonder what the hell have i done and where does this go.

O.K., O.K. I only went to one place. It's was my neighbor and good friend. This is the first year his little winery has been open. He also has a '74 3.0s Bavaria that needs a motor. Got it at a abandoned car auction. Someone ran it out of oil and toasted the crank. :drink3

Well, I finally got the chance to do something in the shop today. It rained all day (greatly needed). This kept me from the yard work. All I managed to do was clean up part of the shop so I could organize the parts as I take them off the wreck.. I did manage to remove some of the wiring on the front end. It's going to be slow.

i've been on the front for days myself.attemping to attach the worn out bumper bellows and then finding that the air dam needed shifting over and adjusted.of course then taking out each bolt and anti seizing them.each little job always turns to another and another and.............

Jeeez, has it been over a month since I managed to do anything??? Anyway, I had a short day today and decided that I HAD to do something with the car. In an hour and a half, I removed the entire rear interior, plus the pass seat!!! Piece of cake!!! Pics. to follow. Bill :drink1
P.S. since no one had posted, I decided to edit. Not nuch to look at but a lot of cleaning for me!!!

nice new dining room table

looks good.i need a black interior.mine is white on the outside and blue inside.someone told me that was a not so common color combination.

Actually, our '91 525 is white with dark blue interior. Not bad combo. The black is what I'm keeping for the finished product. Bill

i'm enjoying this thread! good luck with the conversion.

i guess my liking of a black int goes back to the '70's muscle car days.if it wasn't black,it just didn't look right.i had an '80 2 door volar'e with the white blue scheme.for being that type of car,it looked pretty good after i slapped some factory ralleys on it.

Sorry to hear about what happened but hey, it could have been alot worse.

Injuries suck but you can never really recover just sitting around forever. Obviously follow your doctors advice. Don't try to push it too much or do anything that causes pain, as it just makes things worse.

In time with perserverance (sp?) you will find your strength and energy will return and you can tackle the tough projects. Just stick with it.

Good luck!

Well, the thing is, I hate tan/biege and that is the colour of the good car. Black goes with everything, so I'm going to put it in the good car. Other thing, the black is the sport interior and the tan is the luxury or comfort (whatever) interior.

Everyone. Time is flying by and I have not said anything. The summer months are my busiest, work wise. I put in many 14 hour days, all I get to do is eat, sleep and work. This will end sometime in October. I hope to get back to the car then, I really want to drive it next summer. I do get a few munutes to check the boards and email. Hang in there, I haven't dissappeared!!! :drink1

bill,my advice would be to try and spend even just a little time on it occasionaly just to keep your interest up.just chipping away at it small chunks at a time,add up.the longer a car sits untouched,the easier it is to forget about them.that's just my perspective though.you my find that when you get started(even after a long day)you'll get into it.the hardest part is getting started.

Hi folks!! Not much of an up date (work is still crazy), BUT I found a instrument cluster that had not been federalized beyond repair!! Nice kph speedo!! I then contacted the guy and he had a 'test' cluster in German that had not been messed with either. Now all I need is a analog clock and I'll be happy with the dash parts. More as soon as I can. :drink1

I like your 6 seires. :)

Glad you like it. I had an '82 320i, nasty car for it's size. Not bad score for being 14!! You have a potentially good project in front of you!!! 320's are MADE to drive.

hey bill,at least go turn a wrench on your 6 every once in a while so you don't lose interest.doesn't need to be a big job,just enough to keep the feeling going.
i drove a 318(big brother to the 320) for 6 yrs.,they're great cars and love to rev..too bad the 6 doesn't have the same tossable feel.the 6 though,more than makes up for it in other areas.i haven't had the nerve to push the 6 the way i did the E30.but believe me,i still push to the limits. i'd take the 6 over the 318 anyday.comparing the 2 is a moot point.the 6 wins,hands down.

The busy time is winding down. I wanted to take it easy this weekend, but young son started bugging me about the car. Needless to say, we got the motor out of the doner!!!:redspot
Dave, you were right. It would have been really easy and sat on my ass all day. Now I have reason to continue the project.

Congrats! I remember what a task that was.

There are ulterior motives to this. My first love (sorry, not BMW), is a 1954 Willys CJ3-B, other wise known of as a high hood jeep. My wife and I bought it 24 years ago. It was the first rig we bought together. Rolling it 3 years ago is the accident I talk about. Well, I finally have the funds to start the reconstruction of it. I want both it and the 6 to run again. The 6 will take less time and effort, so it will be first, but it is really the 3-B that I want to take out and play with. Is this understandable??

it is understandable,it's tough when you have 2 projects and have to divide your time.they are at opposite ends of the spectrum.1 off road that will take on anything mother earth throws at it,crawling and digging away at a staggering 3mph,and the other that wants to take on anything on the road while cruising in the triple digits.i need a 4 by 4 where i live with the the snow season upon us,but the volvo wagon with lock up diff has gotten us to town(and beyond) in the ice and snow in comfort.the hardest part is usually just getting out of our long,inclined driveway.

Here we are, Thanksgiving weekend, I HAD to do something. Well, previously, I had to put a new tarp up for a door on the shop to hold whatever heat I can generate in, got that done. I managed to change out the rear interior and door panels. Not bad, concidering how busy I've been. Going from tan (I hate tan) to black changes the whole look of the car. There is something about "bad ass" that fits. Pics. later. Bill:drink1

Dad we just need to take the bad motor out now and put the good one in and get it out of uncle mikes shop. I say we start on it tomorrow but never know what your gonna want to do.

sounds like an offer you can't refuse.jump on it,you wont regret it.

haha he hasnt read what i put yet

What year is your parts car? Looking for some body panels if they are in good condition. PM me.

Keep up the work on the old 6.

well its a 1980 and i would say only the back half would be good the front right is gone due to a accident and the front left might be tweaked cause of that accident

Well, my son and I managed to get a few things done today. The weather has been lousy (cold and rain), but I can't complain, we have been in a drought and the water is needed.
We got the car moved closer to the heat source. Got it up on stands and managed to get some of the wiring, hoses and the like pulled.
At least it will start to go faster now (providing we have the time).
One nice thing is being able to learn on the doner, it will make this one much easier.
Will post pics. soon.:)

Damn ! man you have a nice barn there to do the job I just can dream of a place like that Keep up ,and keep us informed

Things have been going slow. Since last post, the exhaust, driveline and misc. stuff has been pulled. I get tired of removing things and start putting the stuff on the car that I want, that makes me feel like I have accomplished something. I found an analog clock on e-bay, now all the things I want for the dash are here, I think it's going to be cool when done.:)
For some reason, my computer won't take the program for my camera, I may have to download photos on my son's and email them to me so I can post. I will when I figure it out.

If you figure that the tearing apart portion of a project is the half way point, then I'm almost there.
The trans. is out of the car (what a job!!!). The only things left to do are checking the rear end (ratio, leaks, etc.), and pull the engine.
Then the real fun begins, putting it all back together the way I want it!! It's getting close. I would LOVE to make Sharkfest, but I think it's a year off.

i would say that the tearing apart would be a good marker for halfway. good job on all the progress, im sure that your car is going to look great. i know that i cant wait to get the sense of pride after it is all done and being able to say that is really "my" car. although sometimes im a little worried about finishing a long tedious proceduce, because you get so involved into a situation and dream about the end result, but when you achieve your goal, you feel like you should still be working for it.
-jeff

You are correct to a point. I am one of these people who gets emotinally attached to their cars. So, am I ever done with a project? I have to say, no. So techinically this thread could go on forever (what a concept).

I see what you mean, my father is the same way, nothing is ever "really" finished. I wish i could be like that sometimes, i get so involved in something and then i miss the process when its over...but the end result is usually always worth it.
-jeff

Ol'6erGuy, I truly admire the trip that you have embarked on. Having that severe of an accident and then continuing to work on a fairly involved project such as this is truly something to be proud of.

As for the project, it looks like you are getting closer and closer to being able to drive it. I do have a question though, while you have the entire drivetrain apart, are you going to upgrade anything? Hedders, intake etc.?

BTW, put the wheels off of the doner on the bronze 6er. Amazing wheels.

BTW, put the wheels off of the doner on the bronze 6er. Amazing wheels.


sorry to hijack your thread. the donor car's wheels appear to be OEM 14" basketweave wheels. I have a set in good condition. Was planning to sell them on e-bay in the near future.


sorry for the interruption - back to the restoration

Have really enjoyed this thread. My sixer is box stock US spec and I have had it for 17 years. If you have not found analog clock I may have one from a euro 733. MY projects are backed up due to one surgery after another. Have two 2002's and one euro 323i in pipeline. Keep up the good work on the six. Spent time up in Ferry County, Washington (Curlew AFS) a lifetime ago.

You are correct to a point. I am one of these people who gets emotinally attached to their cars. So, am I ever done with a project? I have to say, no. So techinically this thread could go on forever (what a concept).
truely understand.nearly every car i've owned in the past 25 yrs,has each turned into a rolling restoration.after my injury,the 6 may be the last one(doubt it though).it takes a lot longer now to do some of the things that used to be nothing,like swapping V-8's in the old Nova in a weekend.in the end,all the busted knuckles,swearing,savaging for parts etc...,all seem worth it once you fire that baby up and hit the road.as long as you keep chipping away at it,you'll get there.

In many ways, I think it's the journey that is important to me. I love the creation/modification process. I can think back and can find projects that were close to ending and stopped because I didn't want the end.
I have had to lower my sights, for the time being, for the six. My goal now is to get it running, worry about the mods later, and to answer questions, I'm going to keep it close to stock. Some are monitary and others are personal, but it will continue.
As for the wheels, my thoughts exactlly. I don't really like the basketweaves, but I have them with new tires. I really want a set of 5 spoke Roundel wheels that the wheel exchange sells (don't remember the number). Very simple and conservative.
I WILL post some pics soon. Bill

The road often involves tiny steps, I took a few today. I have been sitting thinking about the best way to continue. Looking at the parts I have on hand, what I want to do and what is realistic. With this in mind, I started to reassemble. I put the differential from the doner in. The differential that was under the good car was a 3.07:1 open unit. This is standard for an auto car of this year. The doner, being a manual, should have had a 3.07:1 LSD, being that the standard trans was a c/r 5 speed (262c/r). Somewhere along the line the trans was changed along with the diff.. This is not suprising, the 262s had lousy synchros that could go out in as little as 50k mi. Someone, at least, did it with some thought. The trans used was a o/d 5 speed (265), one of the strongest and they took the diff also. The whole set must have come from a 633 because the diff is a 3.25:1 open. It will do for now.
I also need to do brake work, but it will have to wait until the car is running. I took previous advise and put the basketweaves from the doner on (the back for now), much nicer than those other things.
I haven't taken any pictures because the car is really ugly right now. It is covered with dirt from the winter wind blowing. If you want to see, I will take some and post.

Need a Racing Dynamics strut bar for an E12 based 6er?

Progress sounds good. I think id like to see some pics of this euro restoration. All restos are a little ugly at some point. Have you been able to start working on it more as the weather warms up a little more each week?

-Jeff

OK. Here are some pictures: This is what I mean by the dirt/dust from the winter winds.
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j117/Ol6erGuy/DSCN1084.jpg
Black sport interior, I'll replace the carpet later.http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j117/Ol6erGuy/DSCN1087.jpg
Gauges that will be replaced.http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j117/Ol6erGuy/DSCN1090.jpg
Spare parts on my computer desk.http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j117/Ol6erGuy/DSCN1096.jpg
The old Willys, my next project.http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j117/Ol6erGuy/DSCN1095.jpg

Wow. That is alot of dust man. Can you say spring cleaning?!?

I like the body color. Very nice seats too. The manual seat rail covers are kind of rare and look good. The German label for the fog light switch is excellent. Mine just has a pictogram. One step at a time . . .

Best regards,

Joe M in WV

'66 Volvo 122
'82 Avanti
'84 635 (euro)
'87 635 (us)
'99 VW Eurovancamper

you'll get there if even doing it a little at a time.we talked before about parts,how are the seats in the other car?
how close are you to firing that baby up?

There is usually not much interest in the Euro parts. I have tried selling parts from my 79 euro that I imported and there wasn't much interest.

There is usually not much interest in the Euro parts. I have tried selling parts from my 79 euro that I imported and there wasn't much interest.
I understand. I've seen some you have been trying to sell on ebay. I have everything as far as the dash is concerned. If you look at the picture of my desk, there are two analog clocks, the dash is total euro (kph and all), proper hazard and rear window def switches.
What I really need are the correct fog lights. Those are hard to find.
If you have the room, don't get rid of it, someone will want it someday.
Dave, are you asking about the tan comfort seats? If so, the whole interior is in great shape except for the rear speaker pods. They are heat warped but could be fixed.

I have one foglight rattling around somewhere, I must have lost the other one during the move, but it is just the beam and not the bucket.

I'm looking for the lights that bolt on to this.http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j117/Ol6erGuy/DSCN1097.jpg

Need a Racing Dynamics strut bar for an E12 based 6er?
Yes, I am. Right now, it's low on my list. Main objective is to get it running.

My six had the newer spoiler with the cut out holes for foglights, but I think the beam portions were the same, just like headlights fit in both types of buckets.

hey bill.tan would be alright.don't even need both seats,but would take them.primarily need a comfort seat on the passenger side for when ever the wife accompanies me on an extended drive.she complains about the lack of width the sports seats offer.i on the other hand,find them comfortable and have no fitment issues.
anybody around the Ky area with a comfort seat on the passenger side?my main passenger(when she does decide to ride) just may enjoy the ride a little more with the flat seat and not speak of sports in such a derogatory manner.

Today was excellent!!! The old engine is out, I got a start on cleaning the engine bay, and the poor old car saw the sun for the first time in two years.

Thats some awesome progress there bill! The body looks really good. I like how it looks like its set up for a rally with no weight in the front! What kind of orchard do you have there? Looks like youre really on your way to having that car on the road. So your goal is an unfederalized euro, bone stock fully restored euro? Good stuff.

-Jeff

The goal is as close to an un-federalized euro as I can get. I figure the hardest thing to do away with will be the real side markers. Getting rid of them will take some body work and paint.
The orchard is on land that has been in my family since about 1905. It now belongs to another who stewards it very well. The trees are a variety of apple called a ginger gold.

All I have to say is keep it up. Your story is an inspiration to those who would like to start projects of their own. It's been touching reading through your progress, I too can't wait for you to finish. Good luck! (although it seems you don't need it, just some time and encouragement)

The unfederalized car is going to be great. Were you thinking of doing paint for the car? I like the color, but if you were going to do paint, then deleting the sidemarker holes wont be as bad. That is going to be quite the car when completed bill. Too bad many of us here on the east coast wont likely ever see the car in person, unless you come out to a Sharkfest or something. The farm sounds like an interesting history though!

-Jeff

I would like to paint it sometime in the future, just to clean up the nicks and get rid of the side markers. It is in quite good shape for it's age, not too much rust and the paint cleans up well. The wax job on it was done about three years ago, of course, the car has been in the shop the whole time. It would be painted the original color.

I like how patient the car looks sitting there. The car knows. :)

Congratulations on the progress, and please keep posting more.

this is one of the best threads currenbtly going on BFC. Cool story, read the whole thing

Is it just me or do others feel a certain 'life blood' in the pieces of metal we call cars? They cry out to me for attention and I have to tell them, "all in time, be patient" and they are.

That reminds me of a book aI read once on philospy, about that which we create by hand and use by hand takes a certain amt of "soul"

Can everyone say "Christine"??:eek:

Is it just me or do others feel a certain 'life blood' in the pieces of metal we call cars? They cry out to me for attention and I have to tell them, "all in time, be patient" and they are.
funny you would say this.just talking to a car guy the other day and asked if i thought he was crazy for thinking a car has a spirit to it.he's thinking of getting rid of his 2002,and i'm trying to talk him into keeping it.he has a few bimmers and is going thru a spell where a couple of them are down and he want's to thin the fleet.
i forget exactly how i reponded,but if it's a car you truely enjoy,there is something un-explanable there.
glad to see the progress you're making.pulling the engine is a big step.

Like My L7, who has never broken down, it seems such a friendly, protective, car

The car in my avatar has something about it that even non-car people pick up on. It's kinda weird, and I don't talk about it much as it makes me sound like a lunatic. Whether it's a reflection of the energy, emotion and dedication we put into our cars or...something else *cue eerie music*, some cars just have some sort of vibe or something to them.

CRap, Im signed in as CP, how doid that happen? :confused: ?

Okay, anyway, you guys got me wanting an M6 again..what about that? Ive been clearing my inventory for a Ferrar 308..and its either a Ferrari or a M6...:confused:

Tough choice there, depends on what you want to get out of the car. Im not going to lie, i have no clue about anything italian. all i know is that you can find a solid M6 with reasonable mileage for about $8-$11 grand. $11 grand if there is really nothing wrong mechanically, and the body is in great condition. $8 grand if you got one thats strong mechanically, not so bad interior, not so bad body and a good bit of miles, but with a little elbow grease youll have a great car. But enough hijacking of bills thread for today.

Anything planned for this weekend bill? Car is cleaned up, engine is out, time to look at the motor or the frame and body?

-Jeff

I was looking at ones with around 50 to 85 K...dont want a resto, I want to slap a sachs kit and some BBS

all i know is that you can find a solid M6 with reasonable mileage for about $8-$11 grand. $11 grand if there is really nothing wrong mechanically, and the body is in great condition.

-Jeff

Errr...where is it you're looking? I've found some almost-project (needs body work, or needs serious interior work, essentially no records) ones for about 10-12k, good drivers (nowhere near me, of course...) starting between 12-15k with about 120k and higher miles, and then anything close to or below 100k miles seems to start at 17-18k and most are in the 20k and higher range. One that needs nothing is going to be in the 20k neighborhood, and those seem to be the most commonly available, for some reason.

I'm hitting classifieds of all kinds in at least three states, Ebay, AutoTrader, RoadFly, CraigsList, here, there, everywhere.

The good drivers have gotten snapped up seemingly within minutes of their being announced as available for sale.

To me, a good driver is something not perfect, but not in immediate need of any serious attention. A car to buy, drive, enjoy and not worry about getting that first rock chip because the first several are already there.

I know I should be able to get a very solid car for about 15k because I've seen them, I just can't get there in time. I'm half-tempted to say to hell with it and spend the extra few grand for something nearly perfect and get it overwith.

I'm not frustrated, no, not me, not at all. Sigh. :(

Not to worry about hijacking the thread. If it gets someone motivated, then go for it. I started this so I could express my feelings, desires, accomplishents, blah, blah. If any of you want to chime in with your hopes, blah, blah, blah, by all means do so!!!

Oh we will, post mroe pics, that ll get it back on track :D

Oh we will, post mroe pics, that ll get it back on track :D

Good call on that one, im excited to see what happens this on the next block of work you get done.

And by the way, to whom it may concern and be paying attention. I am going to go look at yet another 6er on saturday morning. '83 633csi, 5 spd, burgundy with tan interior with a truck load of extras, literally. So if i end up getting the car, im going to have a ton of stuff that i really wont want and will be happy to pack and ship anywhere for the right price. Car comes with: Full M-interior, (cloth, not sure of color yet). Getrag 5spd, 535iA parts car(w/o front seats i think?), korman springs, type 32 wheels, half shafts, a few rear decks in good/mint condition, and other stuff. If i get the car im going to keep until further notice: Pretty much all the stuff listed above except the rear decks, so this means that i could be selling: Full used motor (Approx 130k) or just part it out, the manual trans, PO says it has a bad 2nd and 4th gear sync though. PO also said that there is a lot of other parts that come with that is too much to list which means a lot of things. And ill let you know how it goes down, and then ill start to list parts i dont want for sale on this forum and bigcoupe.com before going to the bay.

-Jeff

P.S. Trying not to get my hopes up again as usual, but this one is very promising!

this isn't the last burgandy one you went to look at is it?seems that to find 2 in that color would be a little dificult.i'm always looking for more parts.let us know what you do get.

this isn't the last burgandy one you went to look at is it?seems that to find 2 in that color would be a little dificult.i'm always looking for more parts.let us know what you do get.

No, im still not sure on what happened in the end to that last one. This is i believe the 4th burgundy one ive seen in my search for one. There was an 84 on ebay in california a few days ago, and an 83 in connecticut not too long ago either. This one apparently has lost the clear coat, but is still burgundy which is nice, and is a mild fixer upper, but all the parts that need to be fixed come with the sale, so i just have to do the work, which is fine by me if i dont have to search and spend extra for them.

-Jeff

got dibs on manual trans parts! Let me know, i'm still looking...

HAHA, what all do you still need for that conversion? Ill see what i can do for it.

-Jeff

I am waiting for a new sound insulation sheet that covers the firewall. I thought I could do a lot of things that didn't cost money until it comes. The pedal assy. is in. A very simple job, the panels are exactlly the same. Since I had to take the steering column out to change the pedals, what better time to change the instruments over. The kph speedo assy., check panel, and analog clock are in. I just about had a heart attack when I took the temp. control panel out. A small micro switch that controls the a/c fell into a million pieces. It took drilling out rivets, getting another switch (from the doner) and bolting in with screws (I hope it works). Here are some pics. this is getting to really be fun!!!
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j117/Ol6erGuy/DSCN1179.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j117/Ol6erGuy/DSCN1178.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j117/Ol6erGuy/DSCN1177.jpg

man, you are an inspiration. How did you get the dash to look so brand new?

Yep, the same setup I have in the 79, except my temperature control didn't have the red and blue fields because it wasn't AC equipped. If you ever have a defrost switch that fails, you can take it apart and there is a little metal prong that slides into the groove that keeps the switch down. I bent mine inwards a little and it started staying down in the off position again. It helps when you don't have spares!

According to realoem, the micro switch is still available (looking at it it's quite standard). As far as newness, I don't know, I just cleaned it up.

Check out what the UPS guy just dropped off. I love ebay, sooner or later, you will find what you want at the right price!! Totally euro headlights, with wipers!! No clue on how to wire them up, but that's the adventure, right??

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j117/Ol6erGuy/DSCN1180.jpg

looking good there bill.if the micro switch is any thing like the US models,mine came apart as well when unplugging the wires.it controls high speed on the blower fan.i was able to JB weld it back together.
i've learned quite a bit from you on the euro differences.remember when i was going to send you the check panel,completely different.
i have a feeling you're spending more time on your project.shouldn't be too long now.what's the green button on the dash for,AC?

I got the console bolted back in, didn't take any pictures. The interior is really starting to look like something. Dave, it's the rear window defogger switch. I lucked out and got it with the dash panel the the clock came in, again, you gotta love E-bay!!!

I drove one of these few days ago... I very much enjoyed it.
I wish you all the best.

Bump for Amibuggnu

yeah, whats up?

Not much is up. The summers are my busiest time, work wise. I haven't had much time for the car. I had a set back. I have been waiting for close to two months for the insulation/sound deadening piece that lines the firewall. I just found out that it is no longer available :mad . I did manage to remove the new one from the wreck, it's no longer perfect, but better than nothing :( .

how about using the adhesive stuff from Summit

G’day Bill<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p>
<o:p></o:p>
That’s a great read, it’s a book you can’t put down, and there are people all around the world who wanna know how it ends!<o:p></o:p>
<o:p></o:p>
I’m envious of your shed, and I’m envious of your know-how. I was laughing at myself while reading, coz here I am asking, “can someone please show me how to replace a light bulb??” which involves removing two little screws and a couple of plastic clips, meanwhile you’re doing an entire rebuild, pulling out engines, removing the steering and pedal assemblies, replacing the transmission, total wiring overhaul (that’s a big one), a completely new interior, etcetera etcetera etcetara! And you’re making it all up as you go!<o:p></o:p>
<o:p></o:p>
Your instrument cluster looks just like mine, kph style, although mine says ‘FUEL’ rather than ‘TANK’, and I agree with 323I Junkie, it does look exceptionally clean in that photo, but mine seems to be fairly clean too, I figure its pretty much a sealed unit so dust and grime hasn’t gotten in there yet (…with ‘yet’ meaning, the last 28 years!) But that statement has just made me realise, all the bulbs behind my instrument cluster having been going at it since 1978!! That is unbelievable! What great cars these are! (I better learn how to pull out that instrument cluster soon, coz the lights can’t possibly last much longer!)<o:p></o:p>
<o:p></o:p>
I’m also going to take 640CSi’s advice re the rear demister switch, coz mine is stuck out (hence that light’s always on too).<o:p></o:p>
<o:p></o:p>
Keep up the great work Bill, and keep in touch.<o:p></o:p>
<o:p></o:p>
Regards,<o:p></o:p>
<o:p></o:p>
Ellis.

how about using the adhesive stuff from Summit

I never thought about looking elsewhere. After this post, I checked out Summit, that stuff has possibilities. Thanks

glad I could help...some of the modern firewall materials are just straight superior

Has it really been the middle of July that I had an update? How time does fly. Not a whole lot has happened since then, little things that I could do in a few minutes. Besides work being crazy, I sent my son off to school. A nerve racking and time consuming process.
Oh yes, the car! Well, here is how it stands. I managed to put the sound deadning sheet from the wreck in, with the help of my lovely wife. The steering column took several trys. You see, the splines separated upon removal and it was a bear figuring where center was. I put the brake booster and clutch master in this afternoon. It's starting to look like something, even though it's completely covered in dust again.
I do have some interesting discoveries as far as auto to manual conversions go, at least E12 based. Two things that have to be addressed are 1. the neutral safety switch and 2.the reverse or back up lights. Let's look at 1.. Bmw uses the auto shifter for more than changing gears, it runs dash lights, reverse lights and the neutral safety switch. I have seen posts before on how to short out certain pins to fix this. Having a manual car to look at, I found what I think is the best way to solve these problems. I believe these things will hold true to E28 cars also, locations may vary. This I will post later as it is getting late and I will need to collect my thoughts on this one.
But, hey. At least it's moving foward. Bill

thanks for the updates and, ph

:needpics:

:D

good to hear that you are starting some work on the car again. What all did you do for the sound deadening. Is it just glued on some how?

-Jeff

The sound deadnening sheet was available when the guy I got the doner from rebuilt it. It is/was a molded piece that covers the firewall and down into the trans tunnel. After over a month on back order, I was told it was no longer available. I decided to peel the new one from the doner. It is not in the greatest shape, but better than nothing. afterall, when the engine is in, a lot of the flaws won't be seen. It is held on with contact cement. Here are a couple of pics.

Good stuff. The engine bay looks like its in good shape, and you have the pile of tools above the firewall, which is a good sign of getting things out ready to work on. good luck with getting the rest of it back together.

-Jeff

I had to bring this back to the forefront for one reason. I need your advise.
First of all, I apologize for not posting sooner, but I just haven't had the inspiration to do anything to the car. So it sits, but not for long.
The advise I need, Talking to my lovely wife on the way to church this morning I told her about an '83 633 that an acquaintance had that he wanted to get rid of cheap. My problem is that the last thing I need is another 6er. She said (hold on to your hats) she was interested. Her issue, she wants to fix up her 525 and not run it into the ground. The 6er would become her daily driver. What do you think, I don't want to sink tons into it but can get the car and make it road worthy for about $2k.
Am I out of my mind or just another 6er junkey??? :help :help :help

NEVER!!!! I would go for it. If you know the guy took care of it then you know whats going to happen, and then you can get into the E28 based stuff, which like you know all to well, are easier to find parts for cheaper. And you can't be out of your mind if youve already lost it my friend!!

-Jeff

I agree, $2000 is small price to pay especially if your wife wants it. : )

go for it my friend.it will only inspire you to lift another brow at yours.that is if you don't have to start grabbing parts from it.
hey,i need to return the favor for the christmas present.

Duuuuude. Doooooo eeeeet.

My husband made the mistake of telling me of a semi-abandoned E12-based 6er at the machine shop we recently used to do up the head on my Turbo RS.

It'd be pretty much a mess, but it's blue. I'm trying to figure out if I can hide it somewhere.

More 6ers = more better! It's a quality of life improvement! ;) Besides, think about it, what other car will offer the bang-for-buck, especially given the inherent beauty and refinement that defines a 6 series?

Well, my lovely wife made her decision and the answer is no--. Her reasoning is this: Purchase price plus fix it up funds equals a lot of work that could be done to her 525. I must say that I have to agree with her.
The result is this; no temptation for me and a nice 525 for her (I mean really, she loves that car). What else can I say??? :dunno

well,the 525 is a nice car.my son had one for a very short time(even though he'd planned on keeping it).we bought it for him knowing that the head was toast.had no history on the car,hoped for the best,and it paid off.
i had never paid much attention to the E34 until i drove his,but they feel like a good solid car.i wouldn't mind having a 535is 5sp

A little history on this 525. Purchased new from the local, traded in on a new X5. We bought it before it could be prepped.. It had approx 80k on it, it's a '91 525i (pre vanos). It now has 200k on it and still runs strong (who knows, maybe we'll be a test case). For a sedan, I absolutely love it. It handles, cruises, does what ever you want. I understand her reasons for wanting to fix it up.

sons was a 90 with the M20 engine mated to an auto.after getting it running(head repl),sorting out quite a few non-operational and neglected items,it became a driver again.where we found it,she may not have made it back out alive had we not taken the chance.wouldn't be the 1st time,but i've been burned taking that chance.

Well good to hear you are sticking with the 525. It would have been cool to set it on the back burner for a little bit and have another 6, but an E34 is a good looking car. Probably the next bimmer i would get (if it wasnt an 83 euro 635 5spd, same color combo as wolfie) would be an E34 535i, just like dm635 said. Still had the M30, still had the individual round headlights, and a pratical 4 door.

-Jeff

Nice Job;)
They should honour peoples like you to keep the legend of the e24 6-series alive.

I thought it was about time to let you all know what was going on. OK., here it is (I hope you understand).
This winter has been really hard on me, not that the weather has been bad here, it's just that I have been in a funk the whole time.
It took me until this spring to figure out what was wrong. I just had no desire to work on the 6er or the Jeep or anything. I could actually go into the shop and not see either one of them (bad huh).
In a previous post I spoke of a 6er that a friend had cheap. The problem with me was it wasn't a 6er I needed, it was a Jeep.
I had a talk with my wife just after our son left to go back to college. I explained to her how I came to the conclusion that I needed to have a Jeep that runs. Her comment was simply that she was wondering how long it would be before I said this (don't think you can ever out think them).
Four years, eight months and fourteen days after I got bucked off, I have a new Jeep and I am getting back on.
How does this relate to the 6er, you ask?? Simply this: Bill without a Jeep is an unhappy Bill.
I now have a place to vent, get away from it all and can come home and the mountain (6er) doesn't look so tall.
Hope everyone understands, happy trails,.
Bill

I've been resisting the 4x4 temptation for a long, long time (I have a Bronco and FJ40 fetish, myself). It's worse knowing that I could make use of something like that every single weekend, or more often, if I wanted. I've even looked at some disposable Samurais wondering how long one would last on some easy stuff. Bad, eh? ;) Luckily, I know Mike would kill me.

Anyway, I think it's cool and well-deserved. You'll be a happy Boy with a Jeep, and ain't nuthin' wrong with that.

Enjoy, man. :D

so, where we at with the six, goner?

so, where we at with the six, goner?

By no means!! The 6er is still alive. I just had to have something that runs and my main passion are my Jeeps. Now I have one, after four years, eight months and fourteen days (not that I am keeping track). I can go and play and come back to reality and work on the 6er. I hope you all understand, I mean it's a Jeep thing.

I understand, its like me and Trans Ams
I also have a four wheel drive, I dont rockcrawl or mud, by I go way out int he sticks and hike and mountain bike and take my doag, so I think i do know where you are coming from

Thats a fine looking jeep youve got there bill, what year is it? Im guessing its a little bit older judging by the big round headlights, those are my favorite ones. Im definitely not an expert on 4x4 or jeeps for that matter, but about 3 out of 4 jeeps (every model) ive seen has either "It's a Jeep thing, you wouldn't understand" or "If you can read this, FLIP ME OVER". Of course the latter is placed upsidedown and backwards on the windsheild. People love their jeeps, nice grab and next picture it better be covered in mud!

-Jeff

hey bill. sounds like you've got the inspiration that you needed. good that you got what you needed/wanted. good looking Jeep. you gonna get back on the 6 anytime soon?

I've been resisting the 4x4 temptation for a long, long time (I have a Bronco and FJ40 fetish, myself). It's worse knowing that I could make use of something like that every single weekend, or more often, if I wanted. I've even looked at some disposable Samurais wondering how long one would last on some easy stuff. Bad, eh? ;) Luckily, I know Mike would kill me.

Anyway, I think it's cool and well-deserved. You'll be a happy Boy with a Jeep, and ain't nuthin' wrong with that.

Enjoy, man. :D

I myself have had an FJ fetish as well...must be some sort of cross-pollination with old 4x4 lovers and old bimmer lovers. I think what we all have in common is a bit of the old nastalgia...rope swings into the lake, cold beers, and the color brown...and I'm not even that old!

To answer questions.
The Jeep is an '83 CJ7 Renegade, 4.2L six with 5speed. It's an old California/Arizona desert rig. The guy moved up here and it became too small/ too cold for him. It's about as close to original as they come, I didn't want anyone's mods, they always end up being done wrong for me.
I am going to get back into the 6er this summer. My best friend decided that I need to make the 6er a social project, that way he can come over, we B.S. a lot and work on the car.
Evlgt85--a bit of wisdom for you--give in, the dark side will welcome you. Don't consider Samurais disposable. I know they just sound like little rice wagons, but they are tougher than they look. By the way, there will be one with us in the mountains Memorial Day. It was a feature article in an off road mag several years ago, it cost better than $30 grand to build.

Shhhh!!! You're not making things any easier. I've seen some ridiculous little cheap Samurais out here that would make great budget entry-level toys. However, parking space is at a premium here (ten vehicles between the garage and concrete driveway).

I get a special kind of glare from Mike when we're out and I see an old Bronco or FJ, though. Hehehehe.

Must...resist...must...

My mother back in the St. Louis area has a 76 CJ w/the 301 (if I remember right). She got it when I was in high school, drove it a while, then parked it. It is now rusting into nothingness and the engine is long since seized. A real shame. :(

Nothing wrong with Jeeps, I've owned many.

I also spend most of my day moderating over at Jeepforum.com

Guess what!! I actually worked on the 6er this weekend!! My best friend came over from Seattle (I'm lucky if I see him twice a year any more) and we tore into it.
First thing, we needed to get the brakes working. The e-brake didn't work at all. The calipers were all somewhat stuck from non-use.
We started with the e-brake. After removing the calipers and rotors, we found the problem. The shoes must have been the originals. There was no material on the shoe. What do you do on a Saturday out in the sticks? You check out the donor car to find new e-brake shoes, that's what you do!! So, that's done.
Next on the list were the calipers and while we were at it, I had a Bavauto stainless brake line kit I bought on E-bay. The calipers all freed up easily. The brake lines turned into a nightmare!! Because of age, rust and various other types of corrosion, we lost three of the steel brake lines on the car. Again, the donor came to the rescue. I now have a working e-brake, stainless brake lines and working calipers. Not bad for a weekend with an old friend and BMW fanatic.
What this means is this, the engine is very close to being dropped in. I need to do some work on it and put the new mounts in the car. We then can get the car down the road to the engine, drop it in, get it back home and work on transmission, wiring and all that good stuff.
Stay tuned we are on a roll!!

it may sound cazy, but is the front spoiler salvageable with some body work? id be interested in it or possibly a couple of other things you may not need. let me know.....im in seattle east side btw.

it may sound cazy, but is the front spoiler salvageable with some body work? id be interested in it or possibly a couple of other things you may not need. let me know.....im in seattle east side btw.

Unfortunately, no. The air dam was torn in the wreck and I ended up taking a sawsall to it. The wreck took out most of the front. It also torqued the frame to the point that neither door wants to work correctly.
Let me know what you might need, but after this weekend's work, I am somewhat reluctant to part with too much.

Thats awesome that you got all that done! Good to know youll be able to stop after you get it moving again! Im sure having the help from an old friend makes you want to work on it even more. Cant wait to hear how the rest goes for you.

-Jeff

P.S. Did you ever sell that diff?

P.S. Did you ever sell that diff?

Yes, Rob bought it. He seems to be happy with it. It made the car a little doggy but the rpm's are down a bunch.

Im glad to hear that the deal worked out. I still look around to see if people are selling LSD sideloaders, are you still looking for one? If so ill be sure to pass on the word to you if i see one.

-Jeff

good to see this thread updated, i was getting worried!!

i know where your coming from except for me its XJ's i wanna get my hands on a 97-99 , i used to have a 86 and it was indestructable , had so much fun with it on and off road , then i bought a 96 ford explorer and realized they can't do what a jeep can , with out granade'n the motor now im back on the hunt for a XJ , just gotta get back to work and get 2-4 g's and im all set , sad thing is im forced to drive a civic at the moment and its slower than my explorer was on 32s , sooo sad it is!

Winter is the time of year that I actually have time to work on the car. The problem is that it is COLD. My shop is uninsulated, no floor, no door and poor lighting.
My brother in law took pity on me and told me I could use the small side of his shop if I provided the heat. I dug out a 150k btu propane space heater that had been stored away for the past eighteen years and spent a hundred bucks getting it running.
I got the side cleaned out, the car in and now have a place to work.

Need any help o that M30 , let me know. I am on my fourth right now! Rebuilding my first B35, the first three were B34's.

Heat in the garage is a goo thing.

D

Glad to hear that your gonna get back on the 6er! Whats next on the list?

-Jeff

I decided to change the carpet. Originally I thought it would be a bear and had left the gold carpet in with the black interior. The second reason was that the black carpet was severely worn under the driver's feet. The more I looked at it, the more I couldn't stand it, so about a month ago I pulled the black carpet from the parts car. Well after shampooing a ton of dirt out of it, I finally got it put in today.
Next on the list is to order some parts and a little work on the engine before installing it and the transmission. I need to see what funds I have.

Looks great Bill-

The black interior on these cars is tough to beat i think. I didnt think i was going to like the black interiors from looking at pictures, but when i got mine done, i loved it!

Those recaros look sweet too! They are in damn good shape.

What is the color of your car anyhow? It seems kinda rare.

-Jeff

Speaking of carpet, is there anyone who sells it, rather than pulling it used out of a parts car?

The color of the car is Brazilbraun-metallic. The previous pictures don't do it justice. As far as I can tell, it was only used three or four years.
A couple of pictures before I started tearing it apart.

Nice. the E12 based cars got some of the neatest colors.

Cant wait to see when the car is creating havoc in the northwest!

-Jeff

that car is the most amazing color i've seen. so unique

I've got to get motivated and install the carpet I purchased for mine. Changed my interior from blue to black, but didn't get the carpet at that time.
That was cool, I hope the guy that got the blue was happy. It's going in an Alpina car, so I'm sure he's going to be picky, I know I would.

Anyway, what's holding me up on the carpet is, I'm going to do some floor board undercoating and I haven't gotten anything yet. I plan on using some of that bed-liner coating for the floor. I used the aerosol(sp) bed-liner in the rear fender wells.

Glad your still plugging away there Bill. You'll get there.

Wow. How time flies. I must confess, I haven't been working the car all that much. The mountains have been calling, the snow has been outstanding, I can go and feel like I am flying.
O.K. so much for the mushy crap. I have been working on the car, must hurry brother in law would like it out of his shop.
The engine is right there to be dropped in. Had a few draw backs. Found that the p/o had nothing but water in it. It blew a soft plug when it froze up. Fortunately, I found no other damage.
I put the bell housing on and plan on dropping the engine in next weekend.

Bring on next weekend!! :thumbup:

Bill, I've just finished reading your whole thread from beginning to end. What an inspiration! I need to go back and reread parts of it whenever I get a bit frustrated with everything I want/need to do to my 6er. I need it to tap into a bit of your willpower and determination. Keep up the good work! It would be a priviledge and a pleasure to meet you, hopefully at another upcoming sharkfest...not gonna be ready for this one this year....maybe next year.
-Ray

Well, a mile stone on the project! The engine is in! Not an easy task for one person, a lot of sweat and, later on, cussing!
Had the day off, so I decided above all the other things that needed to be done around the place, the car was more important. Others may disagree, they may have said that the lawn needs attention or the irrigation needs to be fixed, nuts on them!!
Next on the list is the transmission.
Oh yes, that's my victory beer on the manifold!
Bill

Great work bill! Nice to see the heart of the beast finally home! Keep up the good work, im sure you will have it running in no time!

Wunderbar!!!

Im sure it feels great to have all that accomplished and installed, definitely not an easy task for one set of hands for sure!!!

You definitely deserved the brew!!!

-Jeff

Good stuff Bill, a milestone indeed! :thumbup:

You said you'd have the motor in this weekend, and there it is. You'll be cruising in no time!

Regards,
Ellis.

In fact, to get it in there on your own is a MAMMOTH effort. :eek:

Bill,
I happend to stumble upon this thread and thought hmmmm that silver donor car looks familiar. Then it hit me! Thats my old 6er! (actually it was a white ford explorer that hit me ;)
Good to see the project is coming along and that someone is using the best bits out of the old girl instead of them going to waste. Anyway just thought I would say hi and best of luck!

Well, a mile stone on the project! The engine is in! Not an easy task for one person, a lot of sweat and, later on, cussing!
Had the day off, so I decided above all the other things that needed to be done around the place, the car was more important. Others may disagree, they may have said that the lawn needs attention or the irrigation needs to be fixed, nuts on them!!
Next on the list is the transmission.
Oh yes, that's my victory beer on the manifold!
Bill


Bill,

Did you get the tranny in yet or have you been out playing with the jeep :lol:lol I heard you were pretty close, do you think you might make it to one of the runs this summer, I would like to meet you in person.

John C

In response to Esterblue: Your old car has been an absolute wealth of parts. The whole thing has morphed more than I had expected. Stay tuned.
Sprcpe: That is my goal, to have her running this summer. No, at the moment, the tranny is still laying on the floor. The Jeep is sitting, needing a carburetor. Between work, taking care of mom and getting young son (who you have met) through his last quarter of college, I have had shit for time for the car.
We canceled our plans for Memorial Day, and I am planning on some time with the car.

... dude your an insperation!! that car is beautiful!!! i ued under coating forn Kragens With sound proofing in it!

Well, here it is, Memorial Day. Under normal circumstances, I would be in the mountains with the Jeep sucking on a beer. Instead, we stayed home this year, had a BBQ at my house Saturday, went to church Sunday and paid tribute to those family members who had passed on before us, Today.
Young Son and I got the transmission in. It went very smoothly with two people. Now I can get to the drive line, exhaust and wiring components. The next big expense will be a radiator, at least, I have a lot to do before I need it.
Stay tuned.

Here it is, October and the only thing I have done to the car is bring it home. My brother in law was very kind to let me have it in his shop for so long, but he needs the space. With the weather turning, hopefully I'll slow down so I can get back to it. I had high hopes that it would be running this summer, well I'll just have to set my sights on next summer.
I am still here even though I haven't been on the forum to speak of.

hey man, in the words of a funny shirt i saw "manure occureth" You still really want to have that car running, so im sure it will happen! you could also look at it this way, you cant rush perfection!!!

cheers,

-Jeff