Search found 52 matches

by dalemiller
Wed 13 Aug, 2008 14:42
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Has anyone fitted the chrome boot lock surround to their Z3?
Replies: 8
Views: 1107

Came as standard on mine - can't do without it! Every Z I've ever seen without one has minimum light dents/ripples in the paint from closing boot.
by dalemiller
Tue 12 Aug, 2008 21:24
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: oil light on after ignition turned off ?
Replies: 10
Views: 998

Mine does this too, occassionally the light stays on for a few secs. No change in oil level etc! I think it could be a sensor... not losing any oil!
by dalemiller
Tue 12 Aug, 2008 14:17
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: hi all first post . please look
Replies: 17
Views: 1271

Honestly, 112k miles on a well-maintained BMW is nothing, seriously. My 3 series has done 101k in 3 years & runs like a swiss watch... company car so fully maintained & that's the key IMO.. take £100 off each for any dents, check history fully & drive a combination of A/B roads & mot...
by dalemiller
Tue 12 Aug, 2008 09:06
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Gear knob replacement
Replies: 15
Views: 2621

I can better all of you on this - I hit my GF in the mouth when removing the gear knob.

The many years I had waited. :twisted:
by dalemiller
Mon 11 Aug, 2008 22:24
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Coating cracked off springs?
Replies: 0
Views: 240

Coating cracked off springs?

Hi guys


So I've noticed the coating is cracking off my springs - the springs are intact & look fine, solid etc - just the plastic outer coating is coming away.

Is this serious, will it compromise the spring / sign that the spring is on it's way out? Don't want it snapping on me :shock:
by dalemiller
Mon 11 Aug, 2008 22:19
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 - 17" wheels?
Replies: 17
Views: 2444

My friend uses 4 x Z3M front wheels on his 1.9, looks great & doesn't stick out. IMO 17" is the best size for the Z, 18" absolute max. :D
by dalemiller
Mon 11 Aug, 2008 22:18
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: subwoofer
Replies: 3
Views: 658

I've just fitted a roadstersound 65 system, fits where the factory sub went, uses a JL audio 6w0 sub. I've also replaced the fronts & tweeters with Infinity Kappa 50.7cs components, and am running them from a JBL 504e amp. Scored the model 65 on ebay with the sub for £60. oh yes. I would have pa...
by dalemiller
Mon 11 Aug, 2008 22:09
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: hi all first post . please look
Replies: 17
Views: 1271

Still sounds like a good buy, miles less important than condition & how it's been looked after. If you get a good feeling about the owners, the history etc I would go for it. I would also arm yourself with some details of cars with less mileage to try to get the price down. £3750 would be my top...
by dalemiller
Sun 10 Aug, 2008 10:51
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: looking to buy 6 cyl
Replies: 14
Views: 1364

So there's the answer!

2.8 late model, or 3.0 2000 MY if you can find a good one!
by dalemiller
Sun 10 Aug, 2008 08:59
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: looking to buy 6 cyl
Replies: 14
Views: 1364

Yep, I think the best choice all round is a '99 or '00 2.8. Tons of torque, which (surprisingly) means it isn't that far behind the M up to around 80 or so - you'd be surprised how quick they actually are... Plus, the servicing & parts is much cheaper - not to mention insurance. I have a facelif...
by dalemiller
Fri 08 Aug, 2008 22:16
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: looking to buy 6 cyl
Replies: 14
Views: 1364

2.8 all day long. Double vanos M52TU, engine is much more driveable (I've had both).. leave engine standard for best reliability IMO, if upgrading anything do subframe bushings, strut brace & suspension. I get around 32MPG from mine, and it pulls like a train, better than the M in the real world...
by dalemiller
Fri 08 Aug, 2008 11:29
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Any advice on a good independent in Newcastle
Replies: 2
Views: 559

Hi Matt


Prestige German Cars in South Shields, ask for Jon. I use them, they're pretty top notch. He's a BMW master technician, really knows his stuff!


Dale
by dalemiller
Tue 05 Aug, 2008 16:02
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Will wheels fit a Z3 roadster Ok and what do you think?
Replies: 8
Views: 1084

Noooo - don't do it! Not nice at all IMO!
by dalemiller
Fri 01 Aug, 2008 16:37
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 prices taking a kicking
Replies: 55
Views: 5910

Z3 prices taking a kicking

Anyone else noticed the drop in prices of the Z3 at present? Obviously petrol & tax isn't helping, but seems our cars are seeing fairly significant drops :(

Still, who cares - even more reason to keep them mint & drive them hard, hard, hard! :twisted:
by dalemiller
Fri 01 Aug, 2008 16:35
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Best way to remove boot badge residue?!
Replies: 6
Views: 656

Thanks guys... I've tried all that, and also thinners etc but no luck!! I'm starting to get worried I will need to get it sanded & re-finished :(
by dalemiller
Thu 31 Jul, 2008 14:12
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Any tips for good driving roads in France?!
Replies: 5
Views: 567

Any tips for good driving roads in France?!

So.... going to the Nurburgring again this year, but going to go via South of France & Switzerland this time 8-)

I've heard people talking of the driving enjoyment to be had in France, so any recommendations of good places to visit? Preferably without cameras or police? :twisted:
by dalemiller
Thu 31 Jul, 2008 14:04
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Best way to remove boot badge residue?!
Replies: 6
Views: 656

Best way to remove boot badge residue?!

So I recently took off my 2.8 badge during a hardcore debadging ceremony 8-) but have been left with some very tough residue on the bootlid. It's really on there!

Anyone got any tips to remove, or recommended adhesive removers etc?
by dalemiller
Thu 31 Jul, 2008 14:02
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: How to improve fuel economy on a 1.9 Z3????
Replies: 32
Views: 8922

Here's what I did recently, and my economy on my 2.8 went from 30 to 34 MPG;

Mobil one fully synthetic oil
New fuel filter
Redex fuel system treatment.

No need to expensive petrol or anything, I use ASDA unleaded (includes the detergent & is cheaper!)

Just my $0.02, but it worked for me!
by dalemiller
Mon 28 Jul, 2008 10:14
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: ProjectorZ II
Replies: 49
Views: 7330

Hang on...! When I emailed you a few weeks back asking about RHD PZII you said that you didn't do them, but could send me a set with the light pointing straight which would pass a 'local inspection'! Obviously, I didn't bother & instead bought the ebay ones. They are fine, but the CCFL's are poo...
by dalemiller
Fri 11 Jul, 2008 08:45
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Insurance and Strut Braces
Replies: 67
Views: 7516

Sorry for triple post - not sure how that happened! Seems a very grey area with More Than, but as you say if they're not prepared to list it on your schedule, then it's time to worry. I for one don't like taking the word of someone in a callcentre in India that it's ok and they've 'put it in the not...
by dalemiller
Thu 10 Jul, 2008 23:07
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Insurance & IE subframe bushings?
Replies: 1
Views: 390

Insurance & IE subframe bushings?

Has anyone declared the subframe bushings for insurance purposes, and if so, any tips on how to describe them to mindless callcentre robots?!
by dalemiller
Thu 10 Jul, 2008 22:54
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Insurance and Strut Braces
Replies: 67
Views: 7516

Exactly - and my More Than schedule didn't have anything on it - that's why I called back when I got my docs. They said I should cancel as it was within 14 days, they had checked with the underwriter & the strut brace (strut bar on their system) was classed as performance/handling upgrade.
by dalemiller
Thu 10 Jul, 2008 22:54
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Insurance and Strut Braces
Replies: 67
Views: 7516

Exactly - and my More Than schedule didn't have anything on it - that's why I called back when I got my docs. They said I should cancel as it was within 14 days, they had checked with the underwriter & the strut brace (strut bar on their system) was classed as performance/handling upgrade.
by dalemiller
Thu 10 Jul, 2008 22:54
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Insurance and Strut Braces
Replies: 67
Views: 7516

Exactly - and my More Than schedule didn't have anything on it - that's why I called back when I got my docs. They said I should cancel as it was within 14 days, they had checked with the underwriter & the strut brace (strut bar on their system) was classed as performance/handling upgrade.
by dalemiller
Thu 10 Jul, 2008 22:19
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Insurance and Strut Braces
Replies: 67
Views: 7516

Interestingly, I just changed my insurance form the BMW Car Club scheme to More Than and saved £200. The only modifications More than were intereted in and I quote 'It is not modified to increase performance, speed or acceleration." My strut brace and Schnitzer suspension was of no interest to...
by dalemiller
Thu 10 Jul, 2008 09:36
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Insurance and Strut Braces
Replies: 67
Views: 7516

Just insured with Direct Line - no issues with strut brace, about £15 increase in premium. Don't trust More Than - said they could, then when docs arrived it wasn't on there. Called up & was told it wasn't covered. Cancelled my policy & went with Direct Line! They also have a callcentre in t...
by dalemiller
Thu 03 Jul, 2008 17:35
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Broken Rear Coil Spring
Replies: 11
Views: 1573

I've got a different issue - the plastic coating has started to crack off my rear springs, the springs themselves however are still ok! Is this normal? Car is a '99 2.8, 60k miles. Thanks!
by dalemiller
Thu 03 Jul, 2008 13:22
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: front bumper compatablity???
Replies: 2
Views: 444

Re: front bumper compatablity???

CARL TROUBLE wrote: hello guys n gals
are the newer facelift front bumpers (99 onwards ?) with side makers etc. compatable with the older models without. :?:
Sorry if this has been asked before :cry:
Yep, my friend fitted one to his 97 1.9, originally from a 2002 3.0. Looks great!
by dalemiller
Sun 29 Jun, 2008 10:07
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: ebay headlights....
Replies: 23
Views: 2106

Thanks, great info!! I've now got the lights seated correctly, and as I say the HID bulb bases are seated completely flush in the holders, so the bulbs should be perfectly straight. I need to do the full alignment, but the lights seem to be projecting at the right level on my garage door - I can rem...
by dalemiller
Sat 28 Jun, 2008 21:55
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: ebay headlights....
Replies: 23
Views: 2106

Ok so I've fitted the lights, but have a couple of questions.. I got the lights + the H1 5000k Xenon upgrade, but I had to file out the housing to make it fit. It does though, and the base of the xenon bulb is perfectly flush & looks good. 1. I know one of the adjustment screws moves the beam up...
by dalemiller
Fri 27 Jun, 2008 22:54
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Tail pipe trim -fitting and diff between 2.8/3.0 and 2.2/2.0
Replies: 10
Views: 966

mmmm your Z looks might clean Rob, liking the wheels too...

So, my 2.8 has the chrome tips but they're pretty dead. Given they were fitted from new, I should be able to split the old ones off & fit a new pair?

If so, it's off to the dealership tomorrow :D
by dalemiller
Fri 27 Jun, 2008 13:04
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Tail pipe trim -fitting and diff between 2.8/3.0 and 2.2/2.0
Replies: 10
Views: 966

Hi!

How do you get the old trims off?!
by dalemiller
Thu 26 Jun, 2008 15:44
Forum: Stock exchange
Topic: Wanted - Z3m gills
Replies: 6
Views: 1202

Wanted - Z3m gills

in any colour! Will consider any condition... Thanks!
by dalemiller
Fri 20 Jun, 2008 22:08
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: High pitch whistle when pressing accelerator?
Replies: 6
Views: 906

This may sound unlikely, but could it be radio interference? Maybe you disturbed something & have a feedback through the speakers?
by dalemiller
Wed 18 Jun, 2008 14:44
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: ebay headlights....
Replies: 23
Views: 2106

Just had a horrible thought.... has anyone had an MOT failure or any issues with the ebay lights & HID etc?!
by dalemiller
Tue 17 Jun, 2008 15:23
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z4 Ellipsoid Alloys on a Z3?
Replies: 17
Views: 2258

I have to say no! :?
by dalemiller
Tue 17 Jun, 2008 11:08
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Driver Window Creak
Replies: 2
Views: 297

I have this too.... I think it's a question of taking off the door panel & lubing up the mechanism/rubbers etc. I'm doing my stereo in the next couple of weeks so will have a look & post the solution - if I can find it!
by dalemiller
Tue 17 Jun, 2008 11:06
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: ebay headlights....
Replies: 23
Views: 2106

Thanks! Just ordered the kit, will post some pics when all installed....
by dalemiller
Tue 17 Jun, 2008 09:23
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: ebay headlights....
Replies: 23
Views: 2106

Thanks for all the info guys, this is looking better & better...

Has anyone had any fault codes etc with the HID kit?
by dalemiller
Mon 16 Jun, 2008 10:06
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: ebay headlights....
Replies: 23
Views: 2106

Thanks guys, back after my hols & going to order the lighting this week :D

How easy are the HID conversion kits to fit? I'm not an expert on wiring etc, is it a job for the novice? If anyone has the basic steps to wiring these in it would be appreciated!
by dalemiller
Fri 13 Jun, 2008 13:25
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: IE Subframe bushings - recommended fitter?
Replies: 5
Views: 712

Cheers! Any other suggestions for fitters? Ideally in the North, but not essential!
by dalemiller
Thu 12 Jun, 2008 16:30
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: IE Subframe bushings - recommended fitter?
Replies: 5
Views: 712

I'm not sure if they have the tool, or if there were just guessing it would be ok & they would manage to do it!

Hence I'm on the lookout for someone who has experience of sorting them... don't want to have any issues with them 'messing' with the Z...
by dalemiller
Thu 12 Jun, 2008 14:21
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: bird poo !
Replies: 13
Views: 1328

Second the Autoglym kit - the level of protection is awesome! Just be sure to cover the paint when applying the spray, as it's very sticky when applying.....
by dalemiller
Thu 12 Jun, 2008 09:54
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: IE Subframe bushings - recommended fitter?
Replies: 5
Views: 712

IE Subframe bushings - recommended fitter?

Hi guys So I've ordered my IE bushings from the US, should be here this week :D I've spoken to my local indie, and they were a little unsure of the job, but did quote me to do the job. I've used them for other stuff before & they were ok, but obviously I want this pretty major job done right... ...
by dalemiller
Fri 06 Jun, 2008 10:14
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: ebay headlights....
Replies: 23
Views: 2106

Thanks guys, great info! I've looked at the Umnitza units, have asked them if they do RHD, if not I'll grab some from ebay. When you mention the H1 HID kit, are you talking about the 'white' bulbs (eg silvervision), or an actual HID upgrade kit? If it's the kit, can you get replcement bulbs? Anyone ...
by dalemiller
Thu 05 Jun, 2008 15:14
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Speakers
Replies: 5
Views: 925

What Z do you have? Do you have the 'u' shaped rear speakers? If so, the Sony Xplod speaker have recessed tweeters & fit behind the stock grills :)
by dalemiller
Thu 05 Jun, 2008 14:23
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: What are Z3s like to live with?
Replies: 22
Views: 2476

Hi Well, I have a '99 Z3 2.8 & an '05 3 series so I can compare! The Z does have scuttle shake, but replacing the subframe bushes with urethane (such as IE) all but eliminates it. Front brace & M series wishbone bushings also help massively to reduce front end shake. Total for all that (fitt...
by dalemiller
Thu 05 Jun, 2008 14:19
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: ebay headlights....
Replies: 23
Views: 2106

ebay headlights....

Hi guys This may have been answered before, if so apologies, but I've searched the forum & can't find an exact answer.. I'm looking at the replacement headlights currently on ebay, an example is http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/BMW-Z3-BLACK-PROJECTOR-ANGEL-EYE-HEADLIGHTS-E-MARKED_W0QQitemZ150250554221QQihZ...
by dalemiller
Thu 05 Jun, 2008 14:07
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Squeaky steering wheel...
Replies: 3
Views: 660

Hi guys


I had this too, and the dealership 'lubed up the rack & where the wheel contacts the dash'... not the most technical explanation, but at least it seems there's a fix!
by dalemiller
Mon 02 Jun, 2008 16:02
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Any Z3 forum users from the North East of England?
Replies: 9
Views: 1392

Hi guys


Based in Washington!!