This is a car being built to conform to 3 different sets of rules, so there may be features that won't make sense to some. It is primarily being built to compete in Targa Newfoundland, however it will also be used for a lot of drag racing, and some road racing when time allows.

Before I share my build, I'd like to acknowledge the examples that I've used to help me with this project.

- Bimmerworld E46 World Challenge car
- Bryan Watts E36 M3
- Ryan James E36 M3 (In primer at that point)
- Chris Lewis E46 M3
- PTG E46 M3 GTR

Thanks to these individuals and teams for taking the time to share.

360 degrees of 330Ci:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-33-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-34-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-35-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-36-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-37.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-38.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-27-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-28-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-29-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-31-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-32-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-33-1.jpg

The cage is pretty much complete, however there is still more gausetting, seam welding, and sheet metal work to be done.

any more details on what you have in mind?

That the first time I have seen that chassis do a barrel roll! Very nice.... Thanks for the nice mention as well. Good luck and let me know if I can help in any way. If you were close by I would come over and seam weld that puppy for you.:D

Chris

Where's teh jaffster love? lol

You should make an animated gif of those pictures.

Do you have a closeup of the rear shock tower/bulkhead area? Whats that big column?

Also, are you running full rear coilovers?

Engine plans?

any more details on what you have in mind?

Could you be more specific? This is a ground up rebuild where 90% of the stock components will be replaced.

That the first time I have seen that chassis do a barrel roll! Very nice.... Thanks for the nice mention as well. Good luck and let me know if I can help in any way. If you were close by I would come over and seam weld that puppy for you.:D

Chris

Thanks Chris!

If I wasn't 1200+ miles away, I'd take you up on the offer. :D

Where's teh jaffster love? lol

You should make an animated gif of those pictures.

Do you have a closeup of the rear shock tower/bulkhead area? Whats that big column?

Also, are you running full rear coilovers?

Engine plans?

Steve,

80% of the design was finalized the fall of 2006. By October of 2007, everything was pretty much decided on and most of the bars had already been cut and fitted. If your cage had been completed earlier, "the jaffscage" might have been mentioned. :stickoutt

Good idea with the GIF.

Rear suspension will be stock configuration with Moton Clubsport dampers. (You can see the bump stops still mounted to the bottom of the car)

The entire stock rear bulkhead and parcel shelf has been removed from the car. Considering that every rear suspension pick-up point has been tied into the cage, we didn't see a need for the stock rear bulkhead so we cut it out to reduce weight. We then tried to minimize the amount of material used to build a firewall for the trunk-mounted fuel cell. This placed the "wall" behind the rear shock mounts, which left the rebound adjustment knob on the damper out of reach. The solution was to create a semi-circle recession that you could easily access the dampers from inside the trunk:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-71.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-72.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-75.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January2008Chassis-76.jpg

The engine will be a fully built M54B30 with a Euro S50B32 intake manifold.

Interesting, thanks for the pics.

You going with a carbon roof I hope :)

Interesting, thanks for the pics.

You going with a carbon roof I hope :)

Your welcome.

Yes a C/F roof is planned, although it may be from an alternative source. (Not MS or Vorstiener)

Ok ... who'll be the first to make an animated gif of that thing on the rotissary :) Make sure to morph them into each other so it's smooth! (I'm at work, so I don't have the software here!)

edit: I see Steve beat me to it :)

Ok ... who'll be the first to make an animated gif of that thing on the rotissary :) Make sure to morph them into each other so it's smooth! (I'm at work, so I don't have the software here!)

edit: I see Steve beat me to it :)

I don't have the software for that, but if someone is interested in doing this I can re-shoot the car at lets say 15 degree increments. :)

By the way, I believe I owe you some pictures of your car...

OK if you are SERIOUS about drag racing, eliminate all unnecessary brackets IMMEDIATELY!!

OK if you are SERIOUS about drag racing, eliminate all unnecessary brackets IMMEDIATELY!!

Chris, those are still needed for the fuse holder and battery hold down.

Nice try.:D

Chris, those are still needed for the fuse holder and battery hold down.

Nice try.:D

You should be using a battery that is so small that it won't fit in the stock holder (unless the rules don't allow it). I also believe that most race cars eliminate the fuseable link, but I could be wrong on that. I cut out a many brackets as I could and it was like 7 lbs. total. I am still cutting them out. Took 5 lbs the other day. Working on 4 lbs of personal fat that needs to go as well.

Chris

You should be using a battery that is so small that it won't fit in the stock holder (unless the rules don't allow it). I also believe that most race cars eliminate the fuseable link, but I could be wrong on that. I cut out a many brackets as I could and it was like 7 lbs. total. I am still cutting them out. Took 5 lbs the other day. Working on 4 lbs of personal fat that needs to go as well.

Chris

We are on the same page Chris. My fabricator and I spent over 2 days removing brackets and unessessary sheetmetal from the car. Here's a small sample of this:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/January08CarBuild-18.jpg

Probably the biggest PITA was the multimedia bracket on the left side of the trunk...we ended up having to do a bit of welding to fill in the holes. LOL

Battery is a PC680 with custom bracket. (Stock bracket got ditched) I also have to run a rear mounted battery cut off switch for drag racing. (More pictures of that later)

Last week I was having fun with the wiring harness:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/WiringHarnessThinning-4.jpg

What is left:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/WiringHarnessThinning-10.jpg

What was removed:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/WiringHarnessThinning-11.jpg


This weekend I'm hoping to finish with the undercoating:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/Undercoatingremoval-6.jpg

How did you mount your DME Chris?

Are you allowed to run stand alone ecu?

Are you allowed to run stand alone ecu?

I am.

1st of all I'm dizzy!
2nd...Enjoy some video clips

E21 http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-3190043459717464646&q=bmw+dragster&total=2423&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=0

E30
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2918015015876927915&q=BMW+drag+race&total=1244&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=2

E34
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-3568559649105545890&q=BMW+drag+race&total=1244&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=9

E36
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-5844732630465763158&q=BMW+drag+race&total=1244&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=7

another view http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=7431742723719329013&q=fast+BMW&total=2787&start=10&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=7

Engine bay http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=1625229224845772485&q=Fastest+BMW&total=399&start=30&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=8


just for fun, bitchin scooter: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1Z9oC2hdTg

Perhaps you enjoy the trusted Wankel http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKrQzkl65lE

Crazy Audi...turn up the volume http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=4292626232047272481&q=general+lee+audi&hl=en

I know there is a video of some crazy Z3 coupe dragster that does the gnarliest launch I've ever seen...think top fuel, but harder..I can't find it though.

What was removed:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/WiringHarnessThinning-11.jpg



That is simply amazing!!!! So much CRAP!!

Looks like a great build - subscribed!

That is simply amazing!!!! So much CRAP!!

Looks like a great build - subscribed!

Thanks!

The chassis is staying street legal, so there are a couple more wires that could be removed in a race car.

Finished up stripping the rest of the undercoating off last week:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-9.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-10-1.jpg

More undercoating to add to my collection:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-11-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-12-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-13-1.jpg

Total in the container: 10 Lbs.

Another 2.2 Lbs was removed previously about a year ago, and another 2 lbs was removed after the 10 Lbs was weighed.

So there's just under 15 lbs on the bottom of an E46 Coupe

Lightweight firewall :)

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-5.jpg

Photo for Chris:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-6.jpg

Working on the dash:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-30.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-31.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-32.jpg

What came off:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-33.jpg

Tomorrow I'm having the dash dyed.

Fuel system work:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-17.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-18.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-20.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-22.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-24.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-27.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-28.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-29.jpg

Nice work.

Today was prep and primer day.

I started by taking a light wire wheel over the bottom of the chassis to clean up a few odd rust spots and remove some remaining undercoating from hard to reach areas. I then wiped down the entire bottom of the chassis and engine compartment before setting up to spray the etching epoxy primer.

Here I'm finishing spraying the bottom:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-36.jpg

Boy did I ever stink up my shop! I don't recommend doing this outside of a real paint booth.

Finished results:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-37.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-38.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-39.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-40.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-41.jpg

I'm really starting to like the color.

I think you forgot to take the rear upper spring mounts off ;) .

I think you forgot to take the rear upper spring mounts off ;) .

No, I didn't forget them. I left them on after I cracked one trying to remove it.

I'm really starting to like the color.

Looks a bit like the inside of a commercial airliner. I like it also. :thumbup:

Carlos.

Cool. I might just pull a Wonger and paint mine outside :)

For anyone that is interested, this is the primer I used:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-42.jpg

One of the fuel pump brackets and related "Canuck Style" fasteners:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-44.jpg

Installation into ATL "Black Box"s:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-46.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-45.jpg

The filter elements are offset to allow clearance for the trap doors:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-47.jpg

Back into the fuel cell they go:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-49.jpg

I had to do some trimming of the fuel cell foam to get everything to fit nicely:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-50.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-52.jpg

Back into the car:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-53.jpg

As a side note, all the 30+ fittings for the fuel system came labeled and indexed to a custom fuel system diagram; a really thoughtful detail from Jason at Bimmerworld. Every time I get a box from them, there's always a little detail that makes me smile.

Fastening clamps for the fuel supply and return lines, as well as brake lines:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-43.jpg

Those suckers are expensive!

Finally! I get to start putting this thing back together!

Rear trailing arm bearing installation:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-54.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-55.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-56.jpg

Re-enforced bracket installed:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-57.jpg

Back on the chassis:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-58.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-59.jpg

Decided to mount up a wheel to check clearances. This is without a rear spring installed, so the upper control arm is basically sitting bottomed out at it's point of maximum compression. The wheel spins freely:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-64.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-67.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-71.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-72.jpg

I don't expect to ever have the rear suspension bottomed out like this, but I thought it would be a good idea to check it anyway.

Road racing tire:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-76.jpg

Yes, it's tight:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-75.jpg

But it clears:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-78.jpg

The custom fender well work has paid off. :D

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-79.jpg

Front suspension re-assembly:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-82.jpg

Specs:

- Moton Club Sport Dampers
- Eibach Springs
- Ground Control Race caster/camber plates
- Ground Control E46 M3 front swaybar w/adjustable endlinks
- Bimmerworld FCABs (Solid mount)

I got this suspension as complete ready to bolt on package from Bimmerworld about 2 years ago. It has outpeformed my expectations in every way, including at the drag strip. Springs for drag racing initially will be 8" tall 220 Lb/in on front, and 6" tall 350 Lb/in rear. These will probably be changed once I get some track time, but you have to start somewhere as a baseline.

The hardware on the Ground Control endlinks is purdy:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-83.jpg

Installed strut:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-84.jpg

Before:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-37.jpg

After:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-85.jpg

Solid engine mounts from Bimmerworld:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-86.jpg

That rotisserie make it look so easy to do suspension work on. :drool:

Too bad you couldn't use one with a fully dressed car.

That rotisserie make it look so easy to do suspension work on. :drool:

Too bad you couldn't use one with a fully dressed car.

Well, other than removing the front bumper assembly, it could technically be mounted pretty easily, and it can hold 3000lbs, but I would not feel comfortable spinning a fully assembled car.

It does make working on basically any aspect of the car super easy.

Looking forward to using it while I spray the chassis in a couple weeks.

That rotisserie make it look so easy to do suspension work on. :drool:

Too bad you couldn't use one with a fully dressed car.

It is convenient, but as I add parts to the car it get's more difficult to rotate. (You have to increase clamping force to keep the car stable) Once I get the fuel/brake lines finished, I'll probably be putting the frame on jack stands.

If this is a dedicated drag car, then why the front sway bar? I always removed the front sway on the past couple drag cars I had.

Drag Car with Moton's? Seems a little overkill, but either way I love the build, excellent work, interesting to see things built upside-down.

If this is a dedicated drag car, then why the front sway bar? I always removed the front sway on the past couple drag cars I had.

Drag Car with Moton's? Seems a little overkill, but either way I love the build, excellent work, interesting to see things built upside-down.

This is a car being built to conform to 3 different sets of rules, so there may be features that won't make sense to some. It is primarily being built to compete in Targa Newfoundland, however it will also be used for a lot of drag racing, and some road racing when time allows.

;)

Opps, sorry I did read that awhile back, must have forgot. Thread title is very misleading.

Thanks Brian. :)

If this is a dedicated drag car, then why the front sway bar? I always removed the front sway on the past couple drag cars I had.

And that front sway bar is HEAVY! It will come off for drag racing, but I want it to be in place to facilitate fitment of other components on the front end.

Drag Car with Moton's? Seems a little overkill, but either way I love the build, excellent work, interesting to see things built upside-down.

Thanks!

You would be surprised how flexible these dampers are. There are meaningful changes made with each click, and the "can" pressures add a range of about 150 Lbs to the dynamic spring rates. Once you start running faster than 12s in the 1/4 mile, chassis dynamics on launch become just as important as power delivery.

Opps, sorry I did read that awhile back, must have forgot. Thread title is very misleading.

The thread title was doomed with any of the 3 potential names. I'm going to road race, drag race, and rally the car. There aren't any ground up BMW builds that cover all three diciplines, so I chose the outstanding feature that differentiates the car from the rest of the builds here. In that regard, I find it an apropriate title. :)

This is one hell of a build. How much do you estimate you'll have invested when it's all said and done?

Amazing. I would like to see more photos, and hear more plans (anything you can remember, including interior :) ).

This is one hell of a build. How much do you estimate you'll have invested when it's all said and done?

Thanks.

Cost: Everything on the chassis is available on Bimmerworld's website...I'm affraid to add it all up. The engine (which I'll detail later) has a mix of parts from Bimmerworld and VAC Motorsports.

Amazing. I would like to see more photos, and hear more plans (anything you can remember, including interior :) ).

Thanks.

More photos will follow.

This is one hell of a build. How much do you estimate you'll have invested when it's all said and done?

We don't add things up here. :D

We don't add things up here. :D

Thats a good rule to follow...all it does is make you depressed lol

We don't add things up here. :D

+1

It's generally a bad idea if your going racing ........

I added mine up and then I printed the page and ate it. If I told you I would have to kill you. You know how it goes.

The car is in my wife's name so that makes it OK.

Chris

I understand the need for a fuel cell, but how did you choose that location?
How many gallons? What size fuel pump is in there?

Hey buddy that thing is looking great, hurry up and get it done and bring her down this way, we can have some fun with it. you figure out the final paint yet? nice job on the cell also.. see you soon

Ryan
Bimmerworld Racing
WCTC Car Chief

Haha, nice to see your car finally going back together. I've been following your build for about 2 years now, sooooooooooooo long!!! :stickoutt

Just curious, considering all the impressive cagework, I was surprised you did something kinda simple with the front shock tower braces. Having seen what you can do, I was honestly expecting some BMW Motorsports style stuff! Why so simple?

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-40.jpg

Like this:
http://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x115/mkodama/DSC00116-1.jpg

or like that:
http://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x115/mkodama/DSC_0175-1.jpg


Good luck with the rest of the build! Keep up the excellent work!

-Miles

The upper strut mounts on those cars were designed for a custom strut mount, and to allow for quick spring changes. Unless the OP is planning to custom design an upper strut mount/camber plate, it wouldn't make much sense to copy the Motorsport design. What he has done will work perfectly fine for supporting the stock strut towers while allowing him to use off the shelf suspension pieces.

We don't add things up here. :D

Darn tootin'!

I added mine up and then I printed the page and ate it. If I told you I would have to kill you. You know how it goes.

The car is in my wife's name so that makes it OK.

Chris

That's pretty funny, I should do the same.

I understand the need for a fuel cell, but how did you choose that location?
How many gallons? What size fuel pump is in there?

It's a 15 gallon cell that was positioned at the center of where the spare tire used to be. It was located heigth wise to fall no lower than the rest of the floor pan.

2 fuel pumps, both Walbro 255 Lph.

Hey buddy that thing is looking great, hurry up and get it done and bring her down this way, we can have some fun with it. you figure out the final paint yet? nice job on the cell also.. see you soon

Ryan
Bimmerworld Racing
WCTC Car Chief

Thanks Ryan!

I've got to go pay the bills, so no work for a little bit.

Paint...still on track. ;)

Haha, nice to see your car finally going back together. I've been following your build for about 2 years now, sooooooooooooo long!!! :stickoutt

Just curious, considering all the impressive cagework, I was surprised you did something kinda simple with the front shock tower braces. Having seen what you can do, I was honestly expecting some BMW Motorsports style stuff! Why so simple?

Good luck with the rest of the build! Keep up the excellent work!

-Miles

Hi Miles,

Thanks for the comments.

Before the strut towers were done, I had the chance to see a number of well built E46 chassis in person, and talk with the people that race them. This included a couple of versions of PTG's M3, and Bimmerworld's E46 World Challenge cars.

In both cases, they were using suspension settings and geometry that were well outside of my parameters. (Remember the drag and "street" component of this build) Something that is very visible in the MS images you've shown, is that the top of the strut tower has been substantially relocated.(They have moved it over 2 inches upwards and slightly inwards) PTG's M3 GTR cars have this done to an even greater degree, where they fabricated the entire shock tower from scratch in a jig. So the design of the shock towers in these cases is quite different than that of my chassis. I need to mantain a rather high ride height for Targa Newfoundland, so at this point, the above modifications don't makes sense.

It may not be extremely flashy, but it's plenty strong. :)

Just curious, considering all the impressive cagework, I was surprised you did something kinda simple with the front shock tower braces. Having seen what you can do, I was honestly expecting some BMW Motorsports style stuff! Why so simple?Isn't this a drag car? Front suspension doesn't mean much - just to go straight and spring/dampers for weight transfer management. :dunno

More fuel cell stuff:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-88.jpg

From top to bottom:

- Fuel Cell Vent (-6 AN)
- Fuel Pump #1 (-6 AN)
- Fuel Pump #2 (-6 AN)
- Return from Regulator (waiting on fitting)
- Fuel transfer (-6 AN)

"Fuel transfer" is to link the stock fuel tank to the fuel cell for endurance events. I have the stock tank installed below along with some other stuff to figure out line routing:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-90.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-91.jpg

Got my dash back from being dyed:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-93.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-94.jpg

Those images were taken with a strong flash, so you can see how "satin black" it really is. :)

Engine compartment waiting for an engine:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-98.jpg

I need to fit the block back in to start fitting ancilaries and placing brackets.

Quick disconnects for charging the battery/running the electronics in the pits:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-102.jpg

And this is the car as of last Friday:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-95.jpg

There won't be many updates until June when I get back from a little adventure.

Nice...i'm hoping to have my car on jackstands next week as well.

So are you planning to run the car in 09?

Hi Miles,

Thanks for the comments.

Before the strut towers were done, I had the chance to see a number of well built E46 chassis in person, and talk with the people that race them. This included a couple of versions of PTG's M3, and Bimmerworld's E46 World Challenge cars.

In both cases, they were using suspension settings and geometry that were well outside of my parameters. (Remember the drag and "street" component of this build) Something that is very visible in the MS images you've shown, is that the top of the strut tower has been substantially relocated.(They have moved it over 2 inches upwards and slightly inwards) PTG's M3 GTR cars have this done to an even greater degree, where they fabricated the entire shock tower from scratch in a jig. So the design of the shock towers in these cases is quite different than that of my chassis. I need to mantain a rather high ride height for Targa Newfoundland, so at this point, the above modifications don't makes sense.

It may not be extremely flashy, but it's plenty strong. :)
Plenty of thorough research I see! I never knew that about the PTG cars having moved the strut towers around; very interesting design idea. And of course I completely forgot that both of those cars had completely different strut towers than the stock road-going versions of them.:D



http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/MarchChassisWork-95.jpg


That garage is unnaturally clean and organized. It's so clean, that it is disturbingly so.

Have fun on your adventure, I look forward to more updates in June!:buttrock

-Miles

Nice...i'm hoping to have my car on jackstands next week as well.

So are you planning to run the car in 09?

Yeah, the plan is 2009, but things may come together for testing later this year. We'll see, it depends on the fabrication of some custom parts.

Jackstands are just for longer term storage. I'll have the chassis back on the rotissery again for more work in June. (More welding)

BTW, we are using the same power steering pump.

That garage is unnaturally clean and organized. It's so clean, that it is disturbingly so.

Have fun on your adventure, I look forward to more updates in June!:buttrock

-Miles

The shop isn't always that clean, but it certainly makes it more enjoyable to work on the car when it is.

I'll post pictures of the rest of shop sometime in the future, I'm very fortunate to have such a great workspace.

Nice. I just helped another Porsche guy get his setup, its getting more and more great feedback. I was setting up a gt3r at limerock and it had one as well, worked flawlessly. If you need specific info on how to install it for maximum efficiency, let me know. I have spoken in depth with an engineer who worked on it from the manufacturer that was contracted by siemens/vdo. I can also help you verify which unit/model you have, as there are different models. There are some fairly strict guidelines I was given to have the unit operate properly.

That exhaust is the BOMB baby!! Where did you get that?

Chris

That exhaust is the BOMB baby!! Where did you get that?

Chris

KK?

That exhaust is the BOMB baby!! Where did you get that?

Chris

It's his fancy-shmancy custom made Kromer Kraft exhaust.:shifty

That exhaust is the BOMB baby!! Where did you get that?

Chris

Thanks!

It is a KK exhaust, but I got it through James @ Bimmerworld. It really is too bad it's on the bottom of the car...

Props to you. After going to the track this weekend, and seeing this post it makes me wish i had the time, money and knowhow to do what you are doing. :clap

one of the nicest builds i have seen... Looks great man!

Fantastic project and documentation... :thumbup:

Subscribed and good luck :D

all I can say is WOW!!!

Props to you. After going to the track this weekend, and seeing this post it makes me wish i had the time, money and knowhow to do what you are doing. :clap

Thanks!

I didn't have the time, money, or know-how when I started either. But I started it anyway... and things kind of fell into place along the way. :)

one of the nicest builds i have seen... Looks great man!

Thank you. Paint should make it more enjoyable to look at shortly.

Fantastic project and documentation... :thumbup:

Subscribed and good luck :D

Thanks

Who needs luck when you have great support from the BMW community and fantastic supporting vendors.

As far as documentation goes, I have another thread that goes into much more detail than this one.

all I can say is WOW!!!

Thanks.

Good build but I am a bit confused. This car is geared toward drag racing? Almost all of the suspension and chassis work being done is counter productive for drag racing.
I mean I saw that you said it will do some road racing, but doing a "drag" build sort of renders the car useless on a road track - really what you have here is a road build that is going to go down the drag strip.

Good build but I am a bit confused. This car is geared toward drag racing? Almost all of the suspension and chassis work being done is counter productive for drag racing.

I normally wouldn't respond to a statement like this, but you are making a speculative statement at best. Your lack of experience at the drag strip shows.

Lucky for me, I have lots of support from the pros. :D

Do you have a thread on the motor build somewhere, or are you waiting to post up the real goodies?

Do you have a thread on the motor build somewhere, or are you waiting to post up the real goodies?

I have 2 threads that cover the engine; one is in great detail, the other is more of a highlight/update thread. (Neither are on this site) At some point I'll start posting the progress with the M54B30 engine over the past year in this thread. There are some "different" parts involved with it.

Man...I've got a lot of thread updating to do!

For those interested in the "drag racing" component of this build, I'm aiming at achieving consistent 1.5X" 60ft times. My best to date before the complete rebuild was 1.7X" times.

Not a whole lot to report on over the past couple of weeks. I'm waiting for a number of engine related pieces so I can finish welding mounting brackets on the frame. Once the welding is complete, the car will be painted and I can start final assembly.

I had a number of parts that were dirty/corroded, so I've been doing a bit of sand blasting and refinishing. Heck, I even sand blasted the throttle body to make it look purdy again after surviving a number of Canadian winters.

There are 5 engine related projects that are somewhat different from normal M54 build ups.

- Electric power steering pump
- Electric water pump
- Crank case vacuum pump
- Custom harmonic balancer
- S52B32 Euro intake transplant

The Euro intake transplant is proving to be a bit of a task, so I'm going to finish the build initially with the stock M54 intake.

One large PITA I've run into is getting the stock clutch/brake position sensors integrated into the new Tilton pedal assembly. Trying to use the stock engine management is a pain...

Are you allowed to run stand alone? It will make your life much easier.

Are you allowed to run stand alone? It will make your life much easier.

There is nothing holding me back from running a stand alone except for my curriousity. In either case, I will need the same safety features for both, as the car needs to be street legal.

On another note: The wrenches for -16 and -20 fittings cost a fortune!!!

thats just beautiful man IM lovin it

do work!!! its going to be really nice

Thanks guys.

There's been more work been done, I just haven't had a chance to get the pictures up.

Oh yeah...and then there's the engine...

:evil2

Have you made any progress with this?

My concern is that your car has a road race cage that doesn't meet even the most trivial of NHRA rules.

Your main hoop is not tied into the floor pan with 6" plates, nor is your rear floor bars. They all meet in a node that is going right down ontop of a rear cross bar, but again you're lacking the anchoring plate. Your cross bar looks low and has to be within 4" of your shoulders. The door bar has to start that high. Your rear bars from the hoop back to the missing 6" plate has to be less than 45 degrees and 30". I believe the bars from the main hoop to the rear floor have to be parallel as well.

Just a heads up you should really pick up a NHRA rule book - little late now, but you may want to just make sure it follows the rules.

This build is awesome. I can't explain to you how much it makes me want to do this to my car.

From the first time I saw Targa Newfoundland on Speed I have wanted to do it. If you need a co-driver/navigator shoot me a PM!!! I would of course offer you a seat in my future Targa Newfoundland ride.

Have you made any progress with this?

My concern is that your car has a road race cage that doesn't meet even the most trivial of NHRA rules.

Your main hoop is not tied into the floor pan with 6" plates, nor is your rear floor bars. They all meet in a node that is going right down ontop of a rear cross bar, but again you're lacking the anchoring plate. Your cross bar looks low and has to be within 4" of your shoulders. The door bar has to start that high. Your rear bars from the hoop back to the missing 6" plate has to be less than 45 degrees and 30". I believe the bars from the main hoop to the rear floor have to be parallel as well.

Just a heads up you should really pick up a NHRA rule book - little late now, but you may want to just make sure it follows the rules.

If you've been reading up on the rules to make your own car legal to run, that's great. I'm looking forward to reading about it in your own thread. However, please don't polute my thread with assumptions that are unfounded and inaccurate. The chassis is 100% legal for NHRA drag racing, ASN/FIA road racing, and the Targa Newfoundland rally.

Your pictures make me drool! I cannot wait to see the finished product, this project seems top notch

Your pictures make me drool! I cannot wait to see the finished product, this project seems top notch

Thank you!

There has been a lot of effort put into this car by people other than myself. I'm fortunate to call a select number of professional road racers, and drag racers as friends.

Bimmerworld supplied me with custom cooling components directly from their E46 World Challenge racing program:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-15.jpg

The radiator has a cooling fin area 12" high, 24" wide, and 3" deep, for a total cooling area of 864 cubic inches. (Not including the end tanks) The stock 330 radiator for comparison has 600 cubic inches of cooling area. (Not including end tanks.)

As an interesting sidenote, I had originally recieved a True Cool oil cooler from VAC Motorsports as part of their Billet Racing Oil Housing w/cooler kit. This cooler has 1" wide oil journals fabricated into the fin assembly, so it's effective cooling fin area is 2" less than it's total width. Total cooling area for the True Cool oil cooler is 148 cubic inches. The World Challenge spec oil cooler from Bimmerworld (It is right off of one of the cars) has 225 cubic inches of cooling area. (Not including the end tanks)

I started looking at placing the coolers with the front bumper assembly bolted installed:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-3.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-2.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-1.jpg

It didn't take long to see that I needed more body work installed to properly locate the coolers. Front undertray and suspension re-enforcement:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-4.jpg

The engine bay with full front body work installed:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-7.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-6.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-8.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-9.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-10.jpg

Front bumper and underbody:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-13.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-11.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-12.jpg

Excuse the dirty body work, it's been sitting in storage for over a year.

So when do we get to see the hotness of the motor work you have been doing?

So when do we get to see the hotness of the motor work you have been doing?

How about now?

Starting tear-down of the stock M54 Block:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007361-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007385-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007397-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007405-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007406-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007411-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007420-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007421-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007422-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007423-Resized.jpg

Pressurizing the VANOS system with compressed air to drain oil:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007427-Resized.jpg

VANOS ready for removal:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007428-Resized.jpg

Removed:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007430-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007431-Resized.jpg

Removal of valvetrain:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007438-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007440-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007443-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007445-Resized.jpg

Cylinder head doesn't look too bad considering 70+K of hard use:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007446-Resized.jpg

Same thing for the bottom end:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007449-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007450-Resized.jpg

More disassembly:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007452-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007456-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007460-Resized.jpg

More tear down:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007462-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007464-Resized.jpg

Yup...it was loose to the touch:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007467-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007473-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/March2007477-Resized.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/M54Build-89.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/M54Build-91.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/M54Build-95.jpg

Ready for machine work:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/Project-13.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/Project-11.jpg

Stock oil pan getting baffled:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/Project-4.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/Project-5.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/Project-6.jpg

I actually found the fitment of the baffle kit to be pretty poor. It required some additional cutting and grinding to make it fit, then there were gaps in critical areas that will allow oil to flow freely away from the oil pump pickup. Looks like I've got to do a bunch more welding.

Some of the new parts to be used with the engine:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/BMWCustomPiston2.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/BMWCustomPiston.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/DSC_0115.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/DSC_0101.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/DSC_0131.jpg

For the machine work on the block:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/DSC_0118.jpg

Arrow rods:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/DSC_0124.jpg

Kromer Kraft Exhaust:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/M54Build-56.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/M54Build-57.jpg

It should flow OK:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/M54Build-63.jpg

Custom billet oil squirters (Thanks Bimmerworld):

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/M54Build-102.jpg

The machine work on these is incredible...like jewelry:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/M54Build-100.jpg

Electric water pump machined to accept AN fittings:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/October2007-22Resized.jpg

Custom made thermostat housing with AN fittings:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/October2007-20Resized.jpg

Note the machine work to accept the stock M54 gasket:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/Project-10.jpg

Trial fitment of block with headers and new intake plenum into chassis:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/OctoberPEI35of53.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/OctoberPEI36of53.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/OctoberPEI48of53.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/OctoberPEI47of53.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/OctoberPEI46of53.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/OctoberPEI44of53.jpg

Header clearancing check:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/OctoberPEI52of53.jpg

Do oil squirters break enough to really need a one piece version?

Is there a rule set that is keeping you from an S54?

It continues to look great, keep up the updates!

Headers: :boink :drool:

Awesome build.

Do oil squirters break enough to really need a one piece version?

Is there a rule set that is keeping you from an S54?

It continues to look great, keep up the updates!

Thanks!

Oil squirters have been known to break in high RPM M54s, although I'm speaking mostly of M54B25s. The M54B30 has a harmonic problem to start with, and I'm looking to spin this engine pretty high. I'm having a custom harmonic balancer made, but I thought I'd cover the bases with these oil squirters. FYI, the billet oil squirters are only available for M54B25s, there is a fair amount of additional work to make them fit the M54B30.

I don't really have a rule set to abide to, so I could in theory have started with an S54. I chose to stick with the M54 because it will be a unique project when finished. There's a certain amount of satisfaction (and frustration) with doing things for the first time.

Oh man, I have definitely been waiting for this part to get posted. I'm am assuming that since you are/did timesert the head bolts holes in the block. I have seen more than one alu block strip out the head bolt threads before getting to the first torque step.

Oh man, I have definitely been waiting for this part to get posted. I'm am assuming that since you are/did timesert the head bolts holes in the block. I have seen more than one alu block strip out the head bolt threads before getting to the first torque step.


He he...you probably realize that most of the engine pictures are at least 6 months old, some more than a year...there's been more progress.

I have 2 cylinder heads that we are using for development purposes, which has been very interesting so far. Nothing has been bolted onto the block yet.

You bring up a good point about head fasteners, it's a topic that is getting more and more attention these days. The question for me though, is how many failures are on the M54 block specifically? I know this sounds bad, and somewhat unlike the theme of my entire build, but I'm going to wait and see what happens with my block when we install the head. If there is a problem, I'll address it then. One thing I've noticed is that head bolt torque ratings for M52/S52 engines seem to be higher than the M54. For example, the stock head bolts on my engine required between 56 and 59 ft/lbs to break them loose. The new Raceware stud's final torque rating is in this area. (Although applied clamping force is likely to be higher) I've seen final torque applied on some builds to be over 75 ft/lbs. This is definitely an area I'm concerned about though, as my peak cylinder pressures when using nitrous will be extremely high. If it's any indication what I've done in other areas of the build, I'm sure to find/use some interesting solutions if I do encounter a failure.

As a footnote: I do know of one other M54 engine that currently is using the same Raceware head studs that I have, and he's had no problems to date. He has 10:1 compression and runs over 10 PSI of boost. (Currently being outfitted with a custom 8 rib/16 psi pulley setup) I have heard of one M54 engine using ARP studs that had a problem with the head lifting under high boost. No definitive info has been provided on that case though...it seems to be shrouded in secrecy by the builder and non-disclosure by the ex-owner.

Here's a set of tools that I recommend everyone who works on engines to have:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-34-1.jpg

I use these on the chassis as well, and they are very helpful. The key thing here, is that they re-shape the thread if it's damaged, where a typical tap/die set will cut the protruding metal away leaving less "meat" in the thread.

Very nice!!!

Don

I've seen it happen a lot on the M52TU's. When I had to pull the head off of a '01 323, due to an overheat, I actually had one head bolt come out with the threads. But I think the issue with that one is that the overheating caused the metal to expand a little more than was intended. I actually ended up having to shoe horn another motor in because of how bad the cylinder walls looked. I actually think that the hg had blown and leaked water into the cylinders and they just let the car sit and rust up the cylinder walls. But that is a whole 'nother issue. I don't know, maybe give the guys over at bimmerworld a call and talk to them about it.

Very nice!!!

Don

Thanks!

That's a nice looking engine bay you've got there yourself.

I don't know, maybe give the guys over at bimmerworld a call and talk to them about it.

I might just do that, thanks.

I've seen it happen a lot on the M52TU's. When I had to pull the head off of a '01 323, due to an overheat, I actually had one head bolt come out with the threads. But I think the issue with that one is that the overheating caused the metal to expand a little more than was intended. I actually ended up having to shoe horn another motor in because of how bad the cylinder walls looked. I actually think that the hg had blown and leaked water into the cylinders and they just let the car sit and rust up the cylinder walls. But that is a whole 'nother issue. I don't know, maybe give the guys over at bimmerworld a call and talk to them about it.


Yeah, I've only had this issue with M52tu's and M54's that have been overheated.


Really cool build by the way! Your attention to detail is pretty astounding.

Yeah, I've only had this issue with M52tu's and M54's that have been overheated.


Really cool build by the way! Your attention to detail is pretty astounding.

Thank you.

The "Pro" cars I'm around put this thing to shame in the details department, I try my best to apply what I learn from them on my own project.

I've been working on a mock-up of the engine compartment lately...very tempted to assemble the complete car in primer for shake downs, then disassemble for revisions/paint. Still on the fence on this one.

Vacuum pump project is cancelled, I don't have the space and would prefer to put the money into a dry sump further down the road.

Some random engine pictures going back to last fall:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/OctoberPEI31of53.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/OctoberPEI32of53.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/OctoberPEI33of53.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/OctoberPEI34of53.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/NovemberPEI33of43.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/NovemberPEI37of43.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/NovemberPEI39of43.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/NovemberPEI41of43.jpg

More engine assembly.

In the image below you can see the billet oil squirters installed:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-37.jpg

The new Raceware main cap studs didn't fit:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-5-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-6-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-2.jpg

Making them fit:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-8-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-9.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-10.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-11.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-12.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-13.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-35-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-38-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-40.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-42-1.jpg

Ready for the oil pan:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-40.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-41-1.jpg

But the oil pan and a few other pieces needed a bit of work first:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-47-1.jpg

ATL fuel level sender arrived:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-19.jpg

Installation:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-31.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-30.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-32.jpg

Electric power steering pump stuff:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-15.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-18.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/May2008-17.jpg

what power steering pump you running

I want to say it looks like the Euro Mercedes pump.

what power steering pump you running

I don't know the OEM source for this piece, but it's available from Bimmerworld. I just finished making the lines and mounting bracket today, I'll post some images showing it's installation soon.

Man...I just realized I recieved this piece nearly 6 months ago...

Decided to mock-up the engine so I could figure out where all this non-stock stuff goes:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-16.jpg

Coolant system breather/surge fitting:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-18.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-19.jpg

Putting the engine into the car:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-21.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-22.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-23.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-25.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-26.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-27.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-28.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-29.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-30.jpg

Front frame support installed:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-31.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-32.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-34.jpg

Ready to sort out the coolant line problem:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-39.jpg

What problem?

Running -16 and -20 lines doesn't give you much flexibility; literally. Secondly, the electric water pump is external, meaning it has to fit somewhere that is low to maximize gravity assisted feed volume, and close to the engine and custom radiator to minimize flow losses.

Here's where I decided to place the coolant pump:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-43.jpg

I needed a bit more clearance from the headlight to make it work though:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-40.jpg

Zenon balast removed:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-41.jpg

Removing the headlight washer assembly:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-44.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-45.jpg

The finished result:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-42.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-46.jpg

Are you ONLY using an electric water pump?

We are using an electric water pump for the turbo cars, but as a supplement to the existing stock pump.

Are you ONLY using an electric water pump?

We are using an electric water pump for the turbo cars, but as a supplement to the existing stock pump.

Hi Jon,

Yes, I'm only using the electric water pump for circulation. Admittedly it will not flow enough GPH to support your kind of HP, but it's a proven combination for the HP I will be making. (In the 300 HP area) Most of the cars in the World Challenge Touring Car paddock run this pump at this power level, and I will running at slightly lower RPMs than they do.

A little further down the road I will be running a power adder which will require the dual pump scenario that you mention.

Very nice. I had thought you were going to be running ITB's for some reason. Are you planning on going to a different intake manifold?

Very cool! And a great way to remove load from the motor.

I probably should have just taken the easier route and done an engine like that, run a small radiator down low angled back...oh well.

Can't wait to see the car done...I'm trying hard to have my car on the track in September, so it should be done and ready to go by the end of aug...

Sorry to go off like this.
Steve, why not run a small radiator like that, angle it forward and duct the air flow out and up through the hood? That and have the rest of the front end blocked off to prevent excess air from flowing down under the car producing lift.
Back to the build.....

Very nice. I had thought you were going to be running ITB's for some reason. Are you planning on going to a different intake manifold?

I do have an S50B32 manifold that I'm adapting to the M54, but I'm focusing right now on getting the chassis done. The S50B32 manifold will not utilize ITBs, they have been removed to facilitate something else...

Very cool! And a great way to remove load from the motor.

Thanks! I've wondered why more people haven't done this...

I probably should have just taken the easier route and done an engine like that, run a small radiator down low angled back...oh well.

Can't wait to see the car done...I'm trying hard to have my car on the track in September, so it should be done and ready to go by the end of aug...

The low-mount radiator gives me some packaging options, especially with the intake system. For example, I considered getting an E46 WTCC intake, but decided against it due to drivability issues. (It doesn't work well in the rain) The oil cooler is getting some prime real-estate as a result. :)

I'm hoping to have my project done by next spring.

Sorry to go off like this.
Steve, why not run a small radiator like that, angle it forward and duct the air flow out and up through the hood? That and have the rest of the front end blocked off to prevent excess air from flowing down under the car producing lift.
Back to the build.....

I studied this idea, but found it too difficult to impliment with other components I have planned. I am going to focus on how to move air more efficiently out of the engine compartment though. One of my ideas may surprise people...

Started working on the coolant system and overflow tanks:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-50.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-51.jpg

The Canton 1.25 quart surge tank on the left is for coolant. It will be connected to the highest point in the cooling system via -4 AN hose to vent air and keep fluid topped up. In case of an overheat or coolant overflow, another -4 AN hose will route fluid to one of the 2 overlow tanks pictured. They hold 1 quart each. The second overflow tank will be connected to the transmission and differential vents via -3 AN hose.

Installing -3 AN fitting on diff cover:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-37.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-38.jpg


Installed the oil cooler:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-54.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-53.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-52.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-55.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-56.jpg

Steve, why not run a small radiator like that, angle it forward and duct the air flow out and up through the hood? That and have the rest of the front end blocked off to prevent excess air from flowing down under the car producing lift.


I wish it were that easy :) I'm running a turbo 2.8L, so I need a larger radiator, intercooler, and I might do a trick little oil cooler setup so I can have some more airflow in the center. The problem is there is not much room to angle both. So It'll be tough. Right now I am going to try and angle it back, and make a shroud behind it to have airflow out the hood...should help tremendously.

Locating the oil filter housing and fabricating -10 AN lines:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-59.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-60.jpg

Finished for today, I still need to pick up one more fitting on Monday:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-61.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-62.jpg

Interesting picture showing the location of the oil cooler in relation to the hood/air intake:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-63.jpg

Interesting that you went with an inline filter. How much of a pain in the ass is that to change in the paddock?

Interesting that you went with an inline filter. How much of a pain in the ass is that to change in the paddock?

The stock oil filter housing bypasses the oil filter at elevated oil pressures. At racing RPMs, there is little to no "filtration" being done. This is the primary reason why I went with the VAC distribution block and inline filter. It also gives me space for another project I've got on the go.

Cleaning the filtration element won't be to difficult, the housing and lines are positioned so you can pull the forward end cap off fairly easily. (No need to remove the housing completely)

After placing 3 separate orders for additional fittings over the past week, I decided to lay out some of the stuff off the shelf to see what I really had:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-67.jpg

That's not all the fittings either, just the ones I haven't used yet. There's a good number of them already installed on the car, on components, and on lines that have already been assembled. As expected, my inventory resulted in a small pile of fittings NIB that at this time I don't need. I can see it getting larger as the build progresses too, as a lot of times the best way to connect a hose isn't apparent until after surounding components are installed. At that point, I've usually already recieved what I thought I needed for the job. Live and learn.

I positioned the radiator surge tank and overflow catch-can with zip ties to fabricate the lines:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-73.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-74.jpg

Test fitting the 3qt Accusump:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-64.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-65.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-66.jpg

Accumsump positioned with electric valve installed and oil line assembled:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-69.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-70.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-71.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-72.jpg

Fitting the Accusump under the intake manifold was a little tight, but it clears:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-77.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-78.jpg

Engine bay as I last saw it this evening:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/July2008-76.jpg

Jebus, I am so not looking forward to doing this in the next weeks.

I see you liked where I mounted my steering pump ;)

Jebus, I am so not looking forward to doing this in the next weeks.

I see you liked where I mounted my steering pump ;)

It's taking me much more time than I expected...lots of head scratching.

My steering pump isn't mounted yet, but it's close. I want to place a few other things in the area first before I tack it into it's final position. As far as the general location though, yeah I like where you put yours.

is it just me or the lighting in you shop AMAZING?

is it just me or the lighting in you shop AMAZING?

The lighting is not quite as good as it looks in the pictures. (Check the EXIF data embeded in the images and you'll see how I did it) From a purely photographic point of view, I have issues with the color of the light present. There are 3 sources, all with different color temps making it tough to get a uniform "look". (Translucent panels on building, overhead flourescent lights, camera flash)

I will admit to having a pretty amazing shop-space to work in though. :D

Small update for today, plumbed the fuel cell to the bulkhead fittings in the trunk:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-1.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/Chassis%20Fabrication/July2008-12.jpg



Chassis so stiff that the front jackstand on the right of this photo isn't even touching the car? :D
You only need three points to define a plane anyways!

Amazing buildup! Keep it going!

Chassis so stiff that the front jackstand on the right of this photo isn't even touching the car? :D
You only need three points to define a plane anyways!

Amazing buildup! Keep it going!

Thanks!

Funny you picked that up. It's actually the rear right jack stand that is low because of a deviation in the cement floor. Without the engine in the car, it tilts to the rear. With the engine in the car...the back right corner is in the air. I suppose I could shim the jack stand, but as you can see the chassis doesn't care. :D

Small update for today, plumbed the fuel cell to the bulkhead fittings in the trunk:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-1.jpg

Did the fuel cell come with the black fittings ( aka - cord grips, cable glands, liquid tight starin reliefs) located next to the taped pieces marked L and R?

If possible can you take a close up pic? Im intrested in the markings on the fittings and would like to see if those two parts are those of companies my company competes against.

TIA

Did the fuel cell come with the black fittings ( aka - cord grips, cable glands, liquid tight starin reliefs) located next to the taped pieces marked L and R?

If possible can you take a close up pic? Im intrested in the markings on the fittings and would like to see if those two parts are those of companies my company competes against.

TIA

No, the fuel cell did not come with those fittings. (See pictures earlier in this thread) They were supplied by Bimmerworld as part of a comprehensive fuel system package that they put together for me.

I'll see if I can get a picture for you....

I put the chassis back on the rotisery to work on the bottom. I can't even begin to explain how convenient this is, highly recommended to anyone considering purchasing a rotisery for a car build.

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-2.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-3.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-4.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-5.jpg

With the exception of one collector flange, the Kromer Kraft exaust fits perfectly under the car.

Assembly and installation of more fuel system pieces:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-8.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-9.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-10.jpg

-8 return line from FPR connected:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-11.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-12.jpg

On another note, I had a re-think of how the purge tank is connected to the cooling system. I decided to connect a -6 AN line from the top of the radiator to the bottom of the surge tank, and attached the -4 AN line from engine's thermostat housing to the side of the purge tank. I just didn't see one -4 AN line I had installed being effective. The radiator is out at a welding shop having a -6 AN fitting welded to the top passenger side corner...it should be ready first thing in the morning.

I mistakenly shot the above pictures at ISO 800...a little grainy for my liking. Forgot to switch it back to my normal ISO setting after shooting a stock car race at night.

redonkulous

You couldn't use stainless hard lines in place of the AN hoses? I would be worried about debris getting kicked up or dirt getting into the braiding and rubbing through the teflon inner liner. Unless of course the an lines you are using are teflon coated (sort of like aftermarket brake lines).

redonkulous

Thanks!

You couldn't use stainless hard lines in place of the AN hoses? I would be worried about debris getting kicked up or dirt getting into the braiding and rubbing through the teflon inner liner. Unless of course the an lines you are using are teflon coated (sort of like aftermarket brake lines).

I have no worries about the routing of the lines, I've worked with braided lines in far more hostile evironments than the bottom of a car. the failures I've experienced were always fitting related.

Small update for today.

Fuel lines under chassis completed:

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-13.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-14.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-16.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-15.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-17.jpg

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-19.jpg

When I absolutely couldn't keep a line straight, I made a big effort to maximize the bend radius to minimize flow resistance. I've seen some pretty sharp bends put on braided lines under some cars...I can only imagine what that does to flow.

Decided to unpack the Stack dash I bought a while ago to look at the fuel pressure sensor. I've thought about selling this recently, and getting the new Pi dash. However, looking at all the quality components makes me think twice about selling it. Still undecided...

http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e29/PEI330Ci/M54B30%20Engine%20rebuild/August2008-21.jpg

IIRC the ID of the stock coolant bleed line is about 0.25" or so which isn't really different then a 0.22" ID on a AN-4 hose.

Awesome build by the way.

Are you going to run into interference with the fuel lines if you need to drop a diff?

IIRC the ID of the stock coolant bleed line is about 0.25" or so which isn't really different then a 0.22" ID on a AN-4 hose.

Awesome build by the way.

Thanks!

My main concern was efficiently being able to fill the engine with coolant. I'm confident the 2 lines will allow for good air and coolant flow.

Are you going to run into interference with the fuel lines if you need to drop a diff?

All the fuel lines are underneath or beside other components installed on the car. You can change the diff, or pull the whole rear subframe out for that mater without any issues.

Get an Aim MXL Por05.

Did you check clearance with the control arms?

All the fuel lines are underneath or beside other components installed on the car. You can change the diff, or pull the whole rear subframe out for that mater without any issues.

Got ya...looks tight, but glad there's enough room. I know we have a tough time getting out diff into or out of the subframe due to the clearance of our fuel cell. With your fuel lines between the cell and the back of the diff, I wasn't sure if you had enough room to pull the diff back and out of the subframe. It's one of those things you may not think of until it's too late, so I figured I'd mention it. :D

Get an Aim MXL Por05.

Did you check clearance with the control arms?

I think I'm going to stick with the Stack dash, it has everything included to run completely independant of the EMS.

I haven't put the upper control arm back on yet, but the position of lines were scouted with it on. Where the lines pass directly under the control arm I've place clamps....

Got ya...looks tight, but glad there's enough room. I know we have a tough time getting out diff into or out of the subframe due to the clearance of our fuel cell. With your fuel lines between the cell and the back of the diff, I wasn't sure if you had enough room to pull the diff back and out of the subframe. It's one of those things you may not think of until it's too late, so I figured I'd mention it. :D

Thanks for the heads up. I scouted this out ahead of time before the fuel cell cradle was welded in, lots of space. I actually had to test it out last week with the fuel lines installed to change the breather fitting on the diff cover. I thought I could use a straight -3 AN fitting connected with a 90 degree -3 hose fitting, but it didn't fit. Ended up doing a 90 degree fitting directly to the diff cover with a straight -3 hose fitting. If you look closely in the finished fuel line pictures you can see the straight -3 hose fitting...