Search found 2132 matches

by Del
Tue 20 Sep, 2016 22:35
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Kwik Fit MOT – ABS & ASC+T lights on like a Christmas tree
Replies: 18
Views: 5015

Re: Kwik Fit MOT – ABS & ASC+T lights on like a Christmas tr

If the ABS/DSC etc. lights come on and stay on, it means either that the system has identified a fault or that something external has happened to “fool” the system into believing it has identified a fault. My understanding is that rotating wheels (which are jacked up and free of the surface) with th...
by Del
Sun 18 Sep, 2016 08:33
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Kwik Fit MOT – ABS & ASC+T lights on like a Christmas tree
Replies: 18
Views: 5015

Re: Kwik Fit MOT – ABS & ASC+T lights on like a Christmas tr

The shock for me was that my ABS system has not been troublesome in the past and the garage said that the lights came on when they drove it from their outside car park to their ramp – a distance of about 10 metres. Also, the manual says the ABS system does not initiate below 5 mph – so I found it a ...
by Del
Sun 18 Sep, 2016 08:24
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Clattering noise from the front.
Replies: 44
Views: 14928

Re: Clattering noise from the front.

+3 for a timing chain issue. Many small Vauxhall (Opel elsewhere in the World :D ) petrol engines are renowned for poor quality timing chain kits and can get noisy from 40,000 onwards. Typically they are quiet when the engine is cold and get noisy when hot when they sound like a diesel engine. The n...
by Del
Fri 16 Sep, 2016 21:46
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Kwik Fit MOT – ABS & ASC+T lights on like a Christmas tree
Replies: 18
Views: 5015

Kwik Fit MOT – ABS & ASC+T lights on like a Christmas tree

Dropped the Z3 off for an MOT today (no warning lights on dash) and get a call later saying that the car had failed owing to some ABS fault. It was alleged that by the tester simply driving the car from the MOT car park to the ramp (about 10 metres) for the emissions test, the ABS & ASC+T lights...
by Del
Thu 15 Sep, 2016 16:00
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Torsen diff and brake rollers at MOT centre
Replies: 11
Views: 3358

Re: Torsen diff and brake rollers at MOT centre

Had these on my car (from this BMW specialist firm) for the past 4-years.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/BMW-E36-Z3-FR ... eKilV4bE_w
by Del
Thu 15 Sep, 2016 15:55
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Clattering noise from the front.
Replies: 44
Views: 14928

Re: Clattering noise from the front.

Sounds like they haven't got a clue and don't want the work. :(
by Del
Wed 14 Sep, 2016 17:29
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Torsen diff and brake rollers at MOT centre
Replies: 11
Views: 3358

Re: Torsen diff and brake rollers at MOT centre

Removing the rear disc can be OK if you squirt a small amount of your favourite penetrating fluid around the disc retaining screw and in the gap between the disc and the hub (where the wheel bolts go in) followed by a few sharp taps around the face of the disc/hub to send a “freeing-up shock” into t...
by Del
Tue 13 Sep, 2016 09:42
Forum: The Gallery
Topic: KL's 2.8 progress
Replies: 26
Views: 13244

Re: Zed 3 newbie

Hi and welcome - nice looking car :)
by Del
Sun 11 Sep, 2016 21:52
Forum: Let's talk
Topic: What the..........
Replies: 8
Views: 5888

Re: What the..........

John Wilson wrote:on busy motorways (in this country) we sometimes put it up.
I agree, a longish journey on a busy motorway is not so pleasant with the roof down. My favourite are warm Spring days when the sun is not scorching hot, when you can smell the hedgerows and hear the birds :D
by Del
Sun 11 Sep, 2016 21:48
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Wheels Refurbed :o)
Replies: 1
Views: 867

Re: Wheels Refurbed :o)

They look great and gun-metal grey/silver looks a bit more subtle than black. :)
by Del
Sun 11 Sep, 2016 11:37
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Rear brake shoe fixing
Replies: 1
Views: 844

Rear brake shoe fixing

Has anybody found a simple solution for this issue? My rear brake inside backing plates are in quite good condition but there is a small amount of rust where the brake shoe retaining pin goes in, sufficient to stop it holding properly. There are many generic brake “washers” on the market but they te...
by Del
Sat 10 Sep, 2016 10:24
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Leaking rear diff
Replies: 9
Views: 2050

Re: Leaking rear diff

GL5 rated gear oil for the diff (GL4 gearbox) - the standard 1.9 diff will hold a fraction under 1 litre (75W-90) so you only need 1 bottle :) I would tend to go for the Castrol/BMW recommendation. :)
by Del
Sat 10 Sep, 2016 10:12
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: help 1 series
Replies: 11
Views: 2487

Re: help 1 series

You have my sympathy. My daily driver is a modern, German turbo diesel. Great car with great economy but so overly complicated with various sensors and other electronic aides surrounding the “common rail” injection and combustion process. You never know with a vague error code like this whether it j...
by Del
Thu 08 Sep, 2016 22:29
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Rust compared to SLKs
Replies: 5
Views: 2021

Re: Rust compared to SLKs

I’ve renovated my Z3 against rust. The only problem areas are 1) the ends of the outer sills – where it spreads inwards and downwards, 2) behind the front bottom (sill side corner) of the front quarter panels where there is a strengthening piece behind where dirt and moisture gets trapped and 3) the...
by Del
Wed 07 Sep, 2016 19:27
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 gone bang :(
Replies: 30
Views: 5851

Re: Z3 gone bang :(

Around 4 hours work (professional time) to replace a head gasket? To replace a timing chain (I've done it on another transverse engine) is a bit of a mission and can take a mechanic 5 hours. A BMW timing chain would be expensive as would be the kit including new guides and tensioner - as I said abov...
by Del
Wed 07 Sep, 2016 19:01
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 gone bang :(
Replies: 30
Views: 5851

Re: Z3 gone bang :(

Just to add another view - 80k is low mileage – is the engine OK apart from the head gasket? The timing chains on these M44s are bullet proof and even the timing chain tensioner was totally reliable having been updated from the M42 predecessor. Timing chains are only really a “problem” on some newer...
by Del
Fri 02 Sep, 2016 09:14
Forum: The Gallery
Topic: Project Z
Replies: 8
Views: 6244

Re: Project Z

That clear blue sky and landscape makes me suspect it is hot where you are - hopefully you have air con in the car :D 8-)
by Del
Fri 02 Sep, 2016 09:11
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 2.8 cooling fan question
Replies: 5
Views: 1764

Re: Z3 2.8 cooling fan question

If you are talking about the mechanical, viscous fan, it shouldn't be particularly noticeable in the transition from free-wheeling (cold) to locking (hot conditions e.g. summer traffic jam) when it runs at the same speed as the engine. As Gazza says, if the temperature gauge is sticking at 12-o-cloc...
by Del
Wed 31 Aug, 2016 22:36
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Chrome Roll-Bars
Replies: 9
Views: 3569

Re: Chrome Roll-Bars

The bars you mention certainly look nicer than the OE black ones. However, it is exhaust grade T304 tubing and as the bottom line of the advert states, it is for styling and not roll protection. The only shiny metal ones I have seen (that presumably offer the same protection as the standard OE ones)...
by Del
Wed 31 Aug, 2016 19:22
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Magnetic sump plug
Replies: 5
Views: 1480

Re: Magnetic sump plug

First came across these in the 1970s when I first started “playing” with cars. My understanding was that the idea came from old school aircraft engines. I haven’t come across them being used for decades and I haven’t been tempted myself – preferring regular engine oil and filter changes. Any visible...
by Del
Wed 31 Aug, 2016 19:09
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Questions on remapping and stainless exhausts?
Replies: 2
Views: 828

Re: Questions on remapping and stainless exhausts?

I have had both done on my 1.9 (M44 engine). The remap was done by a reputable local firm. They did what they called a “stage 1” remap which was designed for a naturally aspirated, standard engine. The BHP increased from the standard 138 to 152 – one or two other forum members have had a similar job...
by Del
Sat 27 Aug, 2016 20:25
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: oil filter tool m44 engine
Replies: 5
Views: 1790

Re: oil filter tool m44 engine

Picture of the one that works on my car - looks like 74mm 14 "flutes"
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Filter-Wrench- ... ilter+tool
by Del
Sat 27 Aug, 2016 20:11
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: oil filter tool m44 engine
Replies: 5
Views: 1790

Re: oil filter tool m44 engine

That looks like the correct one - i.e. 14 little flats on the inside. Mine is a make called Wolf's Head model WH903 and it has the 14 flats.
by Del
Fri 26 Aug, 2016 19:17
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Brake discs
Replies: 6
Views: 1732

Re: Brake discs

As you say, they all have to comply with modern standards. Eicher is ECP in-house, budget brand. I haven’t tried that specific brand but usually with budget discs they “rust-up” quite quickly and don’t have the protective, rust resist coating which preserves the non-friction surfaces. Personally, I’...
by Del
Tue 23 Aug, 2016 07:16
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: windstopper mesh D.I.Y.
Replies: 7
Views: 1981

Re: windstopper mesh D.I.Y.

Something from the MG forum that might help :D http://www.mgf.ultimatemg.com/group2/DIY/exterior/windstop_repair/index.htm Plus some stuff from Germany http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Mercedes-Wind-Deflector-Repair-Fabric-Cover-Mesh-New-Windstop-Cabriolet-New/131708208003?_trksid=p2047675.c100011.m1850&am...
by Del
Tue 23 Aug, 2016 06:38
Forum: New to zroadster.net?
Topic: Hello
Replies: 4
Views: 5610

Re: Hello

Hi & welcome from another 1.9 Arctic Silver owner :D Is the lumpy idle just when starting from cold?
by Del
Mon 22 Aug, 2016 09:01
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 Power.
Replies: 16
Views: 4731

Re: Z3 Power.

Are you describing a mechanical/gear symptom? If so, a transmission fluid change might well help - tends to get neglected on these cars.
by Del
Sat 20 Aug, 2016 09:46
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: What's it worth? 3.0 Z3 Sport. 21k miles, 2 owners, 51 pla
Replies: 120
Views: 26220

Re: What's it worth? 3.0 Z3 Sport. 21k miles, 2 owners, 51

Yes you are right, l missed that. I'm still surprised nobody's bought it with that mileage. I thought Sytner would have been on the blower to snap it up The 10-year MOT history for the car shows it had all sorts of tyre issues 10-years ago and worn ball joints - surprising for such low mileage :shr...
by Del
Fri 19 Aug, 2016 22:27
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: What's it worth? 3.0 Z3 Sport. 21k miles, 2 owners, 51 pla
Replies: 120
Views: 26220

Re: What's it worth? 3.0 Z3 Sport. 21k miles, 2 owners, 51

What looks like a dealer operating via a mobile phone via ebay doesn't exactly fill one with confidence :D
by Del
Mon 15 Aug, 2016 10:24
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Best tyres to eliminate tramlining
Replies: 26
Views: 9418

Re: Best tyres to eliminate tramlining

Lots of people have their own preferences. But the ones I have counted as appearing most on this forum for curing tramlining are Avon ZV5
by Del
Sat 13 Aug, 2016 19:30
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: What did you buy your Z3 this week ?
Replies: 2088
Views: 411308

Re: What did you buy your Z3 this week ?

Boosh wrote:A set of 17" style 89s
Nice looking wheels :)
by Del
Sat 13 Aug, 2016 19:29
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Anyone use a wind blocker ?
Replies: 26
Views: 6135

Re: Anyone use a wind blocker ?

handsomejackuk wrote:I aint got hoops so i assume i am stuffed....?
No, you need the mesh type which comes with its own stand-alone frame - I believe these are different for pre and post facelift cars :)
by Del
Thu 11 Aug, 2016 14:52
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: M44 Catalytic Converter
Replies: 4
Views: 1443

Re: M44 Catalytic Converter

Thanks for sharing Robert. I didn't have that vibration damper on my M44 (build date 5/1998). It may have been fitted to later models. However, I have had to replace the lower part of the metal shackle (bracket) at the gearbox as the lower section had typically rusted away.
by Del
Tue 09 Aug, 2016 21:49
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: MAF Sensor on ebay
Replies: 8
Views: 3359

Re: MAF Sensor on ebay

I have only tried a cheapo MAF (the probe only) on a old Nissan Micra that my daughter owned and which was shortly to be changed. Like many modern cars the MAF was integrated into the throttle bottle and was very expensive in OE form – which involved a new throttle body. It was better than the faile...
by Del
Tue 09 Aug, 2016 21:36
Forum: The Gallery
Topic: g8jka - New 2.8 Roadster Progress Journal
Replies: 59
Views: 34966

Re: g8jka - New 2.8 Roadster Progress Journal

Big job swapping all those panels but very satisfying to clean them up and deal with the rust
by Del
Tue 09 Aug, 2016 21:34
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Windscreen woes
Replies: 21
Views: 5165

Re: Windscreen woes

Don't forget the Z3 involves 20+ year old technology. The specs for some of the engine oils recommended in my handbook are now obsolete :)
by Del
Mon 08 Aug, 2016 08:43
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Anyone use a wind blocker ?
Replies: 26
Views: 6135

Re: Anyone use a wind blocker ?

I've used the OE mesh type and it is very good. I would say essential if you want to travel faster than 40 mph :D
by Del
Fri 05 Aug, 2016 16:34
Forum: The Gallery
Topic: g8jka - New 2.8 Roadster Progress Journal
Replies: 59
Views: 34966

Re: g8jka - New 2.8 Roadster Progress Journal

Very nice, very envious. At that price you just can't go wrong :) Probably better than a 3.0 as you'll save by not having to put in 2 litres of engine oil every 1000 miles (ducks to put on tin hat :D ).
by Del
Thu 04 Aug, 2016 19:17
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Impala Brown with unusual options
Replies: 16
Views: 3420

Re: Impala Brown with unusual options

No wonder it looks like a car of many parts
by Del
Thu 04 Aug, 2016 11:22
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Impala Brown with unusual options
Replies: 16
Views: 3420

Re: Impala Brown with unusual options

If it's very tidy and just over £2,000 - you couldn't really go wrong. You'd pay that for a Main Dealer major service on an M car these days The black hood doesn't really match - it needs beige or dark brown (if available) :D Have the lights been messed around with? They look smoked on the side and ...
by Del
Wed 03 Aug, 2016 12:53
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Better handling- where to start?
Replies: 29
Views: 6930

Re: Better handling- where to start?

As far as I could find out, the OE BMW “sport” suspension included the Sachs Advantage shock absorbers which are no longer made by Sachs. The standard Sachs shock absorbers which are widely available are Sachs Super Touring – which I have on my car. There is a mass of debate on online forums about h...
by Del
Tue 02 Aug, 2016 22:03
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Shopping list for service & cooling system overhaul
Replies: 9
Views: 2294

Re: Shopping list for service & cooling system overhaul

Changing the water pump is good preventative maintenance on these cars. For the other pulleys and tensioner, you just have to "take a view". Spin them by hand and if good, they should feel smooth, silent and there should be slight resistance so that it does not carry on rotating. When I re...
by Del
Tue 02 Aug, 2016 21:36
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Better handling- where to start?
Replies: 29
Views: 6930

Re: Better handling- where to start?

It is the Sport version so l don't know how much better that is. From what I've been able to find out, the BMW OE Sport option suspension was around 15mm lower and used an up-rated Sachs shock absorber (which is now no longer available in aftermarket form). Also, front ARB 25.5mm thick (standard 25...
by Del
Tue 02 Aug, 2016 18:49
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Better handling- where to start?
Replies: 29
Views: 6930

Re: Better handling- where to start?

Little 2 seater, soft top, sports cars generally age very well and the Z3 is no exception. I find, as it carries the German BMW badge and is relatively uncommon, that it tends to punch above its weight and generally gets remarks of admiration. The handling and ride are very important parts of the dr...
by Del
Mon 01 Aug, 2016 15:55
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Not sure what's going on
Replies: 4
Views: 1239

Re: Not sure what's going on

Having had a closer look at what I've got, one fuse map marked "E36 GB" does show that fuse 26 covers both the reversing lights and "Motronic" - which is BMW language for the ECU.
by Del
Mon 01 Aug, 2016 14:47
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Not sure what's going on
Replies: 4
Views: 1239

Re: Not sure what's going on

I've got several fuse box maps for the Z3/E36 range, which I have collected over the years, and all state that fuse 26 is for the reversing lights.
by Del
Sun 31 Jul, 2016 16:09
Forum: New to zroadster.net?
Topic: Newbie z3 3.0
Replies: 4
Views: 5056

Re: Newbie z3 3.0

My experience was when fitting new Brembo discs and Textar pads all round (both premium brands). The discs, like several other makes, had the anti-rust coating which quickly scratches off where the pads make contact. The fronts seemed to create an even scratch pattern across the discs very quickly. ...
by Del
Sun 31 Jul, 2016 09:28
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: 2.8 misfiring..
Replies: 21
Views: 5280

Re: 2.8 misfiring..

If you suspect that the cat is breaking up inside (as they sometimes do with age), give it a good thump with the palm of you hand - if it is suffering from this problem, it will be very obvious and sound like a load of marbles in a biscuit tin :D There is also often a similar rattle at certain revs ...
by Del
Sun 31 Jul, 2016 09:20
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Better handling- where to start?
Replies: 29
Views: 6930

Re: Better handling- where to start?

Mine (just a humble 1.9) gradually improved as I gradually renewed virtually everything underneath the car. Shock absorbers, all 4 shock top mounts, front control arms, all bushes, drop-links, track rods and coil springs - over a couple of years. It now feels fairly sure-footed which is what you wan...
by Del
Sat 30 Jul, 2016 18:48
Forum: New to zroadster.net?
Topic: Newbie z3 3.0
Replies: 4
Views: 5056

Re: Newbie z3 3.0

Has it had new rear brake discs/pads fitted recently? In my experience the back ones can take ages to bed in properly and just slightly uneven contact across the axle can cause this.