Search found 689 matches

by colb
Wed 17 Apr, 2013 18:34
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Help - z3 won't start!!
Replies: 14
Views: 1858

Re: Help - z3 won't start!!

First what model Z3 1.9 or 2.0 + To remove the plug caps I find that getting a firm hold on the metal part and pulling whilst turning and slightly tilting the cap works for me they are a tight fit. As to your starting problem it could be any number of faults, best get a code reader on it to see what...
by colb
Sat 13 Apr, 2013 17:50
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Two years on
Replies: 9
Views: 934

Re: Two years on

"headlight illumination panel ie just below the pull out knob is always lit up"

I think this is normal, just noticed today mine on my 1.9 always lights up with ignition on.

Colb
by colb
Fri 12 Apr, 2013 17:48
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Zizi's in for an MoT today
Replies: 4
Views: 559

Re: Zizi's in for an MoT today

I would check the inlet side for any air leaks that would make it run lean and confuse the exhaust sensors, possibly a duff Maf could cause this as well.
When my 1.9 did this it was the Maf. A OEM Bosch Maf cured it.
Colb
by colb
Mon 01 Apr, 2013 10:07
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: air con regasl near Birmingham?
Replies: 5
Views: 5531

Re: air con regasl near Birmingham?

Read Money Saving Expert for review on Kwik Fit AC Service!!!!
http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/sho ... ?t=2541767

Colb
by colb
Mon 01 Apr, 2013 09:27
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: air con regasl near Birmingham?
Replies: 5
Views: 5531

Re: air con regasl near Birmingham?

Google is your friend, just did a search and came up with this for your area and they will come to you. Recharge £50 on their site.
No connection with them, so no recommendations.

http://www.coolcaraircon.co.uk/

Colb
by colb
Sun 31 Mar, 2013 22:00
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 specialist needed!! ... Mid Wales... anyone close??
Replies: 10
Views: 518

Re: Z3 specialist needed!! ... Mid Wales... anyone close??

Were the parts changed OEM parts or pattern parts?
My experience with cheaper pattern parts was not good, only solved my problems with OEM Maf and crankshaft sensor.
Are you positive you have no air leaks on the inlet side of things?
Get the codes read before you spend anymore on parts.

Colb
by colb
Sun 31 Mar, 2013 21:26
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 specialist needed!! ... Mid Wales... anyone close??
Replies: 10
Views: 518

Re: Z3 specialist needed!! ... Mid Wales... anyone close??

Good idea to start with changing the fuel filter to see if that makes a difference. Best way forward is to read the codes to see if there are any codes set, may well point you in the right direction rather than spend on throwing parts at it in the hope of getting lucky and solving the issue. I would...
by colb
Sun 31 Mar, 2013 20:41
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 specialist needed!! ... Mid Wales... anyone close??
Replies: 10
Views: 518

Re: Z3 specialist needed!! ... Mid Wales... anyone close??

I'm down South in Newport, what problems do you have?

Colb
by colb
Sun 24 Mar, 2013 00:14
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Fitting Pillar Pod Instruments
Replies: 1
Views: 220

Fitting Pillar Pod Instruments

Thinking about adding oil pressure and battery condition gauges to my 1999 1.8 only place seems to be the windscreen pillar using a double pod. Has anyone done this if so any specific pod used and where did you source it. Pics would be useful if you have done this. Planning on using an electric pres...
by colb
Sun 24 Feb, 2013 17:01
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: rough idle
Replies: 30
Views: 6922

Re: rough idle

If the MAF is showing no response to throttle openings then it's probably toast, you could try cleaning it with electronic spray cleaner to see if that makes it respond. If that shows no change then it is surely toast and replacement will be required. From my experience buying aftermarket MAF's is a...
by colb
Sun 24 Feb, 2013 11:33
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: engine part enquiry
Replies: 3
Views: 395

Re: engine part enquiry

The pump operates on start up and pumps air into the exhaust to lower the emissions hitting the exhaust sensors as the mixture will be richer than normal when the car is started. As soon as it warms up and the mixture leans out to normal the pump will cut out. Similar pump on my 1.9 but in a differe...
by colb
Wed 20 Feb, 2013 21:15
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: emissions light on
Replies: 6
Views: 404

Re: emissions light on

It might require more than one driving cycle to make its mind up on there being no fault before it resets the light. Quick way of getting rid of the light is to plug it in to a diagnostic and check for codes, there is bound to be at least one if not more codes that have set the light on. Read the co...
by colb
Sun 10 Feb, 2013 22:47
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Shaking steering wheel + clunking noise
Replies: 9
Views: 4662

Re: Shaking steering wheel + clunking noise

Steering issue you have sounds safety related so don't drive it until you find out what's wrong and fix it. Steering wheel shake can be caused by a couple of faults, easy one would be the wheels need balancing. Worn ball joints can also be the cause of steering shake as can worn suspension bushes. A...
by colb
Sat 09 Feb, 2013 13:40
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: replacement ariel
Replies: 19
Views: 1954

Re: replacement ariel

Big Dave I replaced my oem aerial with a roof mounted aerial I found in Halfords for about £9, it is raked back a bit but looks OK until I get round to fixing the original and replacing. The replacement is not a powered aerial but reception is OK. Its a bit of a fiddle to fit, you need small hands t...
by colb
Tue 05 Feb, 2013 21:55
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Rear window
Replies: 8
Views: 1135

Re: Rear window

Have a look at this link, good DIY replacement with pictures.
http://www.zscca.org/techtopics/images/ ... ctions.pdf

Colb
by colb
Tue 05 Feb, 2013 18:33
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: How to change a starter motor (4 cylinders engine)
Replies: 3
Views: 3163

Re: How to change a starter motor (4 cylinders engine)

Excellent write up and very good pictures well done and thanks, one for the z3 knowledge base I think.

Colb
by colb
Tue 05 Feb, 2013 18:23
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: operating the roof
Replies: 21
Views: 4793

Re: operating the roof

WD40 might loosen the joins up a little but it won't last as its a water dispersant not a true lubricating oil, best put some 3in1 light oil on the moving joints.

Colb
by colb
Mon 04 Feb, 2013 21:56
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: operating the roof
Replies: 21
Views: 4793

Re: operating the roof

As the rear screen drops down into the space it will fold over itself and the rest of the roof will follow it down into the space. Lubricate all the moving parts of the frame you can see at both sides and pull the hood up and down so the oil gets in the joints, you want to use a light oil like 3in1 ...
by colb
Sat 02 Feb, 2013 21:47
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Where can i get these parts from?
Replies: 4
Views: 791

Re: Where can i get these parts from?

The aerial grommet is cheaper from the dealer than the ebay ones.

Colb
by colb
Sat 02 Feb, 2013 13:13
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Spare wheel woes
Replies: 9
Views: 1158

Re: Spare wheel woes

Yes it seems a bit pricy, the tyre will be of an unknown age until you can see the code on it so might be quite old. Older the tyre worse the condition of the rubber so could fail if put into use. Similar thread on failing spares on the forum.

Colb
by colb
Sat 02 Feb, 2013 13:01
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Air vent
Replies: 4
Views: 422

Re: Air vent

Have a look in the footwell by the pedals you might be able to see where the pipe fits to the heater blower outlet and get your hand in there to reattach it. Not sure if the lower panel beneath the steering wheel is removable to aid access. As to the loose pipe at the vent end maybe a nylon zip tie ...
by colb
Fri 01 Feb, 2013 18:13
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Anybody used carparts4less
Replies: 11
Views: 861

Re: Anybody used carparts4less

Yes, what the others just said, I have used both for bits and 4less are usually cheaper, their delivery is very good as well.

Colb
by colb
Mon 28 Jan, 2013 19:29
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 1.9 starting issues
Replies: 5
Views: 852

Re: Z3 1.9 starting issues

Best to check if it has set any codes, if it has it will point you in the right direction. I had to replace the Camshaft position sensor and the Maf on mine when I had starting and rough idle issues. Replace these with OEM parts, expensive but more likely to fix problems, tried pattern parts off eba...
by colb
Tue 22 Jan, 2013 18:55
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: To clear or not to clear- snow on a roadster roof
Replies: 5
Views: 841

Re: To clear or not to clear- snow on a roadster roof

Best clear it off if you are going to drive it, Police are likely to stop you and tell you to clean it off to avoid having great chunks of it suddenly slide off and cause a hazard to other road users. Been in the press this week here in Wales, also mentioned by Sally Traffic Radio 2 following a requ...
by colb
Fri 18 Jan, 2013 21:23
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: What did you buy your Z3 this week ?
Replies: 2088
Views: 410884

Re: What did you buy your Z3 this week ?

No that kit is in the pink box!

Colb
by colb
Fri 18 Jan, 2013 21:19
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Condensation in Boot
Replies: 43
Views: 23207

Re: Condensation in Boot

Re the condensation, how about putting some self adhesive sound deadening material on the recessed parts of the boot lid to prevent it forming on the cold metal. You should be able to cut it to the shapes of the recesses to make it look tidy.

Colb
by colb
Sat 05 Jan, 2013 17:19
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: What did you buy your Z3 this week ?
Replies: 2088
Views: 410884

Re: What did you buy your Z3 this week ?

Image
Some more Christmas money spent, will speed up changing my wheels on my fleet.

Colb
by colb
Thu 03 Jan, 2013 21:00
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: door handles
Replies: 3
Views: 275

Re: door handles

Sounds like the plastic is binding slightly just enough to prevent the internal spring closing it.
Try spraying some wd40 or silicone spray on the handle and down each side so it reaches the pivot points whilst moving the handle in and out, this might free it up.

Colb
by colb
Sat 29 Dec, 2012 11:47
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: 2.0 (1990) facelift Sarting problem
Replies: 12
Views: 1011

Re: 2.0 (1990) facelift Sarting problem

Trevor Have a look here for code reader & software http://bmtechnic.co.uk/bmw-diagnostic-cable/ You need a laptop to run this so its portable to plug in to your car, the INPA software is BMW specific, a lot of users on here use it. Personally I already had code reader software that I used on my ...
by colb
Fri 28 Dec, 2012 12:34
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: 2.0 (1990) facelift Sarting problem
Replies: 12
Views: 1011

Re: 2.0 (1990) facelift Sarting problem

I had similar problem on my 1.9 it set all sorts of codes and took me ages to trace the root cause, thought it was an air leak but failed to find one. Threw loads of sensors at it and finally changed the Maf for a new Bosch one, problem solved. Always replace sensors with OEM parts ebay bargains in ...
by colb
Sat 22 Dec, 2012 16:50
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: What did you buy your Z3 this week ?
Replies: 2088
Views: 410884

Re: What did you buy your Z3 this week ?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Liftmaster-Home-Garage-Tyre-Wheel-Storage-Rack-Trolley-/261104050275?pt=UK_Garage_Equipment_Tools_Tool_Boxes_Storage&hash=item3ccb03a063 For the 19.99 +postage one I posted If the link doesn't work search ebay by entering Wheel storage then page down the hits to find th...
by colb
Thu 20 Dec, 2012 19:53
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: What did you buy your Z3 this week ?
Replies: 2088
Views: 410884

Re: What did you buy your Z3 this week ?

Robert My wheels have a centre hole that gets covered by the plastic BMW logo filler badge when on the car. No centre hole maybe a rack would be the answer? Drawback is the price £99 + 9.99 post on ebay If your handy I reckon you coukld make one out of angle iron and either bolt it or weld it togeth...
by colb
Thu 20 Dec, 2012 19:18
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: What did you buy your Z3 this week ?
Replies: 2088
Views: 410884

Re: What did you buy your Z3 this week ?

Wheel trolly stand for my summer wheels, spent some of my Christmas money already.
ebay purchase £19.99 + postage.

Image
by colb
Tue 18 Dec, 2012 23:18
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: OIL SERVICE AND TIDY UP
Replies: 11
Views: 1114

Re: OIL SERVICE AND TIDY UP

Agree with Del's post. My Z3 is badged 1.8 1999 with a M43TU engine, fully synthetic 5W/30 but put some oil flush in before you change it to clean it out. Gummed up hydraulic valve lifters tend to be a problem and flushing will get rid of any deposits. The Opie Oil website will list recommended and ...
by colb
Mon 10 Dec, 2012 16:58
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Stalling issue on my new Z3
Replies: 17
Views: 1060

Re: Stalling issue on my new Z3

No wonder they are called S *tealers*, changing the sensor would take me 10 - 15 mins!!!!

Colb
by colb
Sun 09 Dec, 2012 13:55
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: How do I know my car's trim colour?
Replies: 7
Views: 1565

Re: How do I know my car's trim colour?

Pucker BMW site you can access for details of your build spec. Link: http://www.bmw.com/com/en/owners/accessories/electronic-parts-catalogue/electronic-parts-catalogue.html After following the link click on "Electronic parts catalog" in the lower right of the screen. (you will need to have...
by colb
Tue 04 Dec, 2012 18:32
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Stalling issue on my new Z3
Replies: 17
Views: 1060

Re: Stalling issue on my new Z3

Hi You are looking at two different types of sensors on ebay, the Febi one has no lead on it the loom plugs into this one. The other has a lead on it. Check which one you have on your car before spending out. I tried an ebay one on my 1.9, problem returned so bit the bullet and went BMW at about £87...
by colb
Fri 30 Nov, 2012 22:26
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: First time EML light?
Replies: 2
Views: 396

Re: First time EML light?

If the code comes back or the light lights up again, take the ICV off and spray some cleaner in it and drain it off before refitting if that fails to fix it start looking at the Maf sensor as a cause.

Colb
by colb
Tue 27 Nov, 2012 17:39
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Starting Problem
Replies: 8
Views: 1200

Re: Starting Problem

DEl is right about Carparts4less, Europarts are behind it and often the prices on Carparts4less site are cheaper, I just ordered front and rear discs, pads, drive belt, oil filter and some sump washers. With their current promotion for orders over £100 I got £15 discount. Ordered online Saturday, th...
by colb
Sun 25 Nov, 2012 17:52
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: BMW Car Club
Replies: 53
Views: 4954

Re: BMW Car Club

Just had a look, not seen it before, seems zroadster forum is more active with postings, have signed up so will be dipping in from time to time.

Colb
by colb
Sat 17 Nov, 2012 10:08
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Code P0135 after changing o2 sensor
Replies: 6
Views: 952

Re: Code P0135 after changing o2 sensor

http://engine-codes.com/p0135_bmw.html

Good info on this code on this site

Colb
by colb
Thu 15 Nov, 2012 18:31
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: M44-hose consuming touching plastic - need a measure!
Replies: 3
Views: 571

Re: M44-hose consuming touching plastic - need a measure!

The crankcase breather valve is fixed so you will not have any adjustment there to get the hose to clear the part causing it to hole. Not much scope at the rocker cover end either. Have you considered putting on some stainless hose cover over the offending hose, it will stop it getting holed but you...
by colb
Wed 14 Nov, 2012 22:24
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Code P0135 after changing o2 sensor
Replies: 6
Views: 952

Re: Code P0135 after changing o2 sensor

Sensor 1 Bank 1 is the one before the cat so you are looking at the right one. Are you able to view this sensor on a live data engine check programme to see how it is performing, if you can you should see the voltage its putting out rises and falls as it cycles. Regarding your heater problem, you ei...
by colb
Sun 11 Nov, 2012 20:49
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Headlamp Level Electrical Adjustment
Replies: 14
Views: 843

Re: Headlamp Level Electrical Adjustment

From the AA Site on MOT's new test for lighting Lighting Products on the lens or light source that obviously reduce the light's intensity or change its colour will become a reason for failure – applies to front/rear position lamps, registration plate lamps, stop lamps, rear fog and direction indicat...
by colb
Sun 11 Nov, 2012 16:20
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Headlamp Level Electrical Adjustment
Replies: 14
Views: 843

Re: Headlamp Level Electrical Adjustment

Might have been a good idea to give the ball connections a squirt with WD40 and then a squirt of light oil to ensure they swivel ok whilst you were in there, glad you solved it. I checked mine out the other day, just used the switch and watched the beam move on the garage wall, mine were working but...
by colb
Sun 11 Nov, 2012 11:24
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Headlamp Level Electrical Adjustment
Replies: 14
Views: 843

Re: Headlamp Level Electrical Adjustment

http://www.zroadster.net/forum/viewtopi ... tm#p319732

Link to thread for ETM downloads that Robert just directed us to.
Have a look through it for headlight leveling circuit diagram

Colb
by colb
Sun 11 Nov, 2012 10:46
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Headlamp Level Electrical Adjustment
Replies: 14
Views: 843

Re: Headlamp Level Electrical Adjustment

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=CM12&mospid=48078&btnr=63_0316&hg=63&fg=05 03 HEAD LIGHT VERTICAL AIM CONTROL 2 67168389947 $118.90 realoem shows the unit as No 3 in the diagram can't find any info on how it works from the dashboard switch regarding voltages it should b...
by colb
Sat 10 Nov, 2012 16:27
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Trying to remove O2 sensor (pre cat)
Replies: 3
Views: 605

Re: Trying to remove O2 sensor (pre cat)

Use a good tight fit ring spanner on it then clout it with a lump hammer, this should shock it free and start it turning, removed mine using this method for both the front and rear sensors. Due to their position I couldn't use the lambda socket I have, not enough room to use it. WD40 is also a good ...
by colb
Sat 03 Nov, 2012 16:00
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: o2 sensor question
Replies: 10
Views: 876

Re: o2 sensor question

The white wires should make no difference either way round should be ok for it to work.
Good info on Lambda here
http://www.lambdasensor.com/main/mindex.htm

Colb
by colb
Sat 03 Nov, 2012 12:55
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: o2 sensor question
Replies: 10
Views: 876

Re: o2 sensor question

Worth checking the wiring connection at the sensor and yes they can be a pain to remove. I changed mine not long ago with an aftermarket one and I'm not convinced its up to the job, I will be getting a Bosch replacement and putting that in. I monitior mine on my Engine Check Software live data and c...