Search found 137 matches

by Gareth 161
Mon 18 Dec, 2023 17:25
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 Hood replacement - are the BMW dealers having a laugh
Replies: 61
Views: 27074

Re: Z3 Hood replacement - are the BMW dealers having a laugh

Resurrection of an old post! Have just put a crack in rear screen and unfortunately it’s not a zip in one. Also hood is pretty poor overall so time for a new one but wondering if any recommendations where to get a replacement hood? Am down in Cornwall so not sure where the nearest fitter would be bu...
by Gareth 161
Sun 16 Oct, 2022 12:38
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 1.9 Water Pump removal
Replies: 6
Views: 4191

Re: Z3 1.9 Water Pump removal

Thanks Andy and will have a look at some of the other plastic parts which as you say are probably getting brittle as well although where do you stop!! Managed to cut a part of the mesh away from the front of the auxiliary fan and it was stuck. After a bit of persuasion and wd40 it now spins freely w...
by Gareth 161
Wed 12 Oct, 2022 14:22
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 1.9 Water Pump removal
Replies: 6
Views: 4191

Re: Z3 1.9 Water Pump removal

Hi A sort of related question? Yesterday whilst having mot done and with engine left running on ramp for some time with no air flowing past,the outlet pipe at top of radiator cracked off leaving about 10mm stub. Obviously not the best scenario whilst undergoing an mot but they managed to reconnect h...
by Gareth 161
Wed 24 Nov, 2021 10:19
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Front Grills
Replies: 5
Views: 2381

Re: Front Grills

Further to my original question, now have a more serious problem in that bonnet release lever not working so can’t open bonnet as need to do an oil change.
Any easy way to open as presumably need to take off the front grills which at least will make it easier to use the chrome pen!
by Gareth 161
Tue 16 Nov, 2021 21:01
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Front Grills
Replies: 5
Views: 2381

Re: Front Grills

Thanks and looks like a could go either way as long as I end up with two the same. Probably easier to paint the black one with a chrome paint pen which I have seen on eBay.
by Gareth 161
Tue 16 Nov, 2021 16:57
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Front Grills
Replies: 5
Views: 2381

Front Grills

For some reason my front grills are not the same? Both have chrome oval outer but one has chrome fins and the other black fins? It’s a 3.0 2000 year roadster and obviously would like to replace one of them to make it correct. Also wondering how many of the 3.0 roadsters were still on the road as hav...
by Gareth 161
Sat 16 Jan, 2021 12:52
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Collapsed front end!
Replies: 7
Views: 3152

Re: Collapsed front end!

Hi Well springs now fitted and came from (BMW) so not the cheapest but at least all back on road now! Not sure if slightly lower on the front than before or just an illusion as garage ordered them using reg no so should be correct ones unless a previous owner put on something different?. Was trying ...
by Gareth 161
Thu 14 Jan, 2021 14:51
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: How To: View the original options list for any BMW online
Replies: 28
Views: 11197

Re: How To: View the original options list for any BMW online

Hi
Not sure how old the links are but don’t now appear to be working for me anyway.
Is it still possible to do a check on the original specs of a z3?
Thanks
Gareth
by Gareth 161
Thu 31 Dec, 2020 17:04
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Collapsed front end!
Replies: 7
Views: 3152

Re: Collapsed front end!

Thanks but had to reverse it to get off the road but no bangs just rubbing noises from the tyres so hopefully ok. Good point about the alignment as had not considered that. I think the garage are going to try and get a pair from bmw on Monday and failing that I have found some on autopartspro.co.uk ...
by Gareth 161
Wed 30 Dec, 2020 22:54
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Collapsed front end!
Replies: 7
Views: 3152

Re: Collapsed front end!

Thanks Robert for the reply. As far as I know she has been on original standard height springs and always went over speed bumps well(unlike my previous z4!). Found a pair of springs on eBay but a little wary of those as not a recognised make. I am assuming it is a spring or springs as can’t think wh...
by Gareth 161
Wed 30 Dec, 2020 14:35
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Collapsed front end!
Replies: 7
Views: 3152

Collapsed front end!

Whilst out for a drive yesterday, suddenly heard a bang and sounded like I had run over something but on having a look, the front had collapsed and tyres rubbing wheel arches which does not help steering! Managed to get off the road and lifted onto recovery truck and recovered to local garage althou...
by Gareth 161
Sun 13 Oct, 2019 15:55
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

Thanks and luckily I did pull a boot lace through when I pulled the old wire out which for me is unusual as I normally don’t think far enough ahead. Will see how much bmw part is or will make up my own switch. Pulled the outer casing off the old wire and it was almost worn through in several areas i...
by Gareth 161
Sun 13 Oct, 2019 12:34
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

Success !!! Managed to get to connector and short out the 2 pins with the black wires and all now working. Obviously the wire has broken somewhere but as braided, very difficult to see where. Micro switch is ok but can’t really be re used as wires are sealed inside so will pick up a new switch and a...
by Gareth 161
Sat 12 Oct, 2019 18:26
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

Tried it again and had the occasional pump cutting in but only for a few brief moments. Does the motor in the pump ever fail and is there a test for the motor? I hate car electrics! Just managed to sort the window winder motor on the forester as common fault is water getting into motor and rusting t...
by Gareth 161
Sat 12 Oct, 2019 12:33
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

Managed to pop out between showers and checked the 30 amp fuse1 which seems ok(of course I managed to drop it into engine bay and had fun retrieving it!). Cut out the micro switch and temporarily joined wires together but still no joy. For some reason no movement at all now so something has changed ...
by Gareth 161
Fri 11 Oct, 2019 21:46
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

Thanks but unfortunately looking at the forecast, it might be a few days before it is dry enough to venture out!! However will update position when possible
Gareth
by Gareth 161
Fri 11 Oct, 2019 16:06
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

That’s no problem as it was a good full response but it’s been many years since I understood technical things like that! In simpler terms, could it be the micro switch at fault if the roof stops halfway up or down or does it just get it moving initially? If it ever stops raining I will try and get t...
by Gareth 161
Thu 10 Oct, 2019 17:32
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

Thanks for the comprehensive reply but I think you lost me after the first couple of lines! However will check the fuses just to check but I am thinking that you might be right re the micro switch as seems to be a common fault. Have just seen the article where a maplins micro switch has been adapted...
by Gareth 161
Thu 10 Oct, 2019 14:53
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

Just come back from 2 weeks in the sun and roof playing up more than ever. Am assuming it’s electrical as apparently it has rained here a bit over the last few weeks which would not help electrical connections. I can hear the micro switch clicking but when it does actually move a bit it then stops p...
by Gareth 161
Mon 01 Jul, 2019 15:27
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

Count me in please for one as long as it's fairly easy to fit!
by Gareth 161
Mon 24 Jun, 2019 15:13
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

Thanks and I am beginning to think it is the micro switch as plays up more when been sitting in sun and that would fit in with other descriptions. Sounds a good idea to join wires near switch as didn’t fancy tracing wires back. Perhaps before I buy a new one, will try shorting wires together to conf...
by Gareth 161
Fri 14 Jun, 2019 12:31
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

I suppose another option is to join the wires together where they join the micro switch as that’s fairly easy to get to?
by Gareth 161
Fri 14 Jun, 2019 10:57
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

Hi Robert
Have traced the wire from the micro switch down to the hinge but do you know how I access the plug as not sure which piece of trim to remove and don’t want to start taking out the wrong bits!
Thanks Gareth
by Gareth 161
Thu 13 Jun, 2019 22:32
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

Thanks Robert and that might a good first move to eliminate one possible cause although I do hear it click when lifting roof back the first few inches so assumed it was ok. However as it seems worse when been sitting in full sun on that side, possibly it could be the culprit and presumably does not ...
by Gareth 161
Thu 13 Jun, 2019 16:29
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

Thinking about it, I did move the pump when I changed the aerial grommet so possibly disturbed something although can’t remember if the problem started after that or not?
by Gareth 161
Thu 13 Jun, 2019 16:24
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

I think pump is ok and T handle in right position I assume as if I turn it back, then I can operate roof manually but it just seems strange that if I keep trying by pushing the various buttons and roof back it will eventually work electrically although will sometimes stop halfway which is why I thou...
by Gareth 161
Thu 13 Jun, 2019 15:10
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Re: Roof issues

Thanks Adam will get some and try, also will try on headlights as one has gone a bit cloudy. Had a quote for new roof of just over £700 and not much less for taking roof off to put in new window as stitched in and not zipped. As roof is getting a bit tired, if I can’t clean it up enough to see throu...
by Gareth 161
Thu 13 Jun, 2019 13:49
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Roof issues
Replies: 31
Views: 13053

Roof issues

I am having trouble with my electric roof in that sometimes it takes many attempts to get it to work whilst other times it works first time. This is from either the opening or closing position. Have read the posting on how to replace micro switch which looks a possibility but is there any way of che...
by Gareth 161
Thu 13 Jun, 2019 13:13
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Exhaust!
Replies: 6
Views: 3386

Re: Exhaust!

Your exhaust pipe set up is the same as I had on my 2000 3.0 z3 which was original and had reached a point where it needed replacing throughout. Looking at the oem pictures there did seem to be various different exhaust systems fitted which didn’t help as could not afford a complete system from bmw!...
by Gareth 161
Sun 20 May, 2018 21:27
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: 3.0 oil consumption
Replies: 31
Views: 8857

Re: 3.0 oil consumption

My 3.0 does seem to get through the oil a fair bit. Did have a small leak around rocker cover gasket but I think probably most is burnt as occasionally notice blue smoke. Has done mileage of 115,000 so would expect some wear. Currently touring in Spain and although oil level checked before leaving B...
by Gareth 161
Sun 28 Jan, 2018 13:51
Forum: Performance
Topic: Exhaust question
Replies: 5
Views: 5241

Re: Exhaust question

Yes they look interesting but expensive time you buy a case as well. Should never have sold my old rack with the proper z3 case. Definitely think bag is best option as looks fairly simple idea. Looking at the boot bag website there seems to be 2 different lengths of straps available. Any idea which ...
by Gareth 161
Sun 28 Jan, 2018 10:43
Forum: Performance
Topic: Exhaust question
Replies: 5
Views: 5241

Re: Exhaust question

Thanks for the info and I think a boot bag on the boot lid would be the way to go as very unlikely to ever find the boot rack and case again
by Gareth 161
Sat 27 Jan, 2018 23:03
Forum: Performance
Topic: Exhaust question
Replies: 5
Views: 5241

Exhaust question

I have a 2000 3.0 z3 but as it was one of the first of these built, it still seems to have retained the exhaust system in general from the old 2.8 z3 although slightly different as no joint in whole length of exhaust. I have cut the pipe just to the rear of the hanger by the axle and fitted a cheap ...
by Gareth 161
Sat 03 Jun, 2017 22:56
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Tyres
Replies: 16
Views: 8248

Re: Tyres

Still pleased with the Goodyear Eagle F1's I put on last year. As I replaced all 4 to get rid of part worn and mixed brand tyres, not sure if it was this brand of tyre or just the fact that I fitted new tyres, but the tramlining is still cured and grip is excellent. Have done about 4K since then and...
by Gareth 161
Thu 18 May, 2017 00:04
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Replacement aerial
Replies: 5
Views: 2518

Re: Replacement aerial

Update to aerial fitting- checked old Grommet and there is a ridge inside so loosened the fitting bolt at the bottom of bracket and pushed top fitting down a fraction so that the bulb sits on this lower ridge. Looks much better now and less likely to be broken again. Not quite so good on the exhaust...
by Gareth 161
Tue 04 Apr, 2017 14:28
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Replacement aerial
Replies: 5
Views: 2518

Re: Replacement aerial

Yes thanks for getting back to me. Followed the instructions from both the previous info and job was not too bad other than getting the bulb through the top of the Grommet which made me wonder if should be inside Grommet as looking at the very old perished one I found after it fell out of the wing, ...
by Gareth 161
Mon 03 Apr, 2017 22:21
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Replacement aerial
Replies: 5
Views: 2518

Re: Replacement aerial

Still confused as looking at several pictures of aerials fitted to cars, the aerial seems to be sitting on top of the Grommet with presumably the bulby bit inside the Grommet. However reading up on several forums and the instructions on this forum from mrscalex, the bulby bit should be pushed throug...
by Gareth 161
Sat 01 Apr, 2017 15:33
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Replacement aerial
Replies: 5
Views: 2518

Replacement aerial

Hi My aerial has broken off and top rubber bush all perished so decided to go to dealer and get the base and both grommets which surprisingly were not bad compared to second hand units on eBay. Unfortunately I had lost all the top of the aerial and am not sure about how far to push the new unit up. ...
by Gareth 161
Fri 20 Jan, 2017 20:43
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Best tyres to eliminate tramlining
Replies: 26
Views: 9413

Re: Best tyres to eliminate tramlining

Just an update on my tramlining problem. Bought 4 Goodyear Eagle F1's and problem cured. Not sure if due to make of tyre or just the fact that they are new tyres but either way very pleased and they are performing well. Will have to see what mileage I get out of them. Of course whilst there I had th...
by Gareth 161
Tue 17 Jan, 2017 00:11
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Which gearbox oil?
Replies: 16
Views: 6324

Re: Which gearbox oil?

Thanks and will be good to know what you used.
Not sure if it makes a difference but my braided hose was made by HEL and not Earle's
by Gareth 161
Mon 16 Jan, 2017 19:58
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Which gearbox oil?
Replies: 16
Views: 6324

Re: Which gearbox oil?

Thanks for all the help so far. Will be checking with my garage to see if CDV actually removed when they fitted braided hose or is that a given? My problem is knowing what specs the oil should be as can't see any label on box and handbook just says filled for life! Which is little use. Was hoping th...
by Gareth 161
Sun 15 Jan, 2017 22:29
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Which gearbox oil?
Replies: 16
Views: 6324

Re: Which gearbox oil?

Even more confused now after looking at the net Bit worried that the Fuchs is gl5 which if I am reading things correctly, will eat up the bronze inards of the gearbox? Has anyone used the redline mtl 75-80 which is gl4 and per the sales write up will reduce the notchy feel and should give better wea...
by Gareth 161
Sun 15 Jan, 2017 14:07
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Which gearbox oil?
Replies: 16
Views: 6324

Re: Which gearbox oil?

Thanks for the info and will probably go with the Fuchs as half the price unless the Amsoil is twice as good?. Not sure what oil in there now as allegedly the gearbox oil changed before I purchased but no idea what was used. Hoping that the Fuchs might improve things as would be the cheaper option o...
by Gareth 161
Sat 14 Jan, 2017 22:18
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Which gearbox oil?
Replies: 16
Views: 6324

Re: Which gearbox oil?

Yes I was looking at the Amsoil mtf but it showed it as 5-30 which seemed a lot lower numbers?
If that is the right stuff, where can it be bought please.
by Gareth 161
Sat 14 Jan, 2017 20:43
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Which gearbox oil?
Replies: 16
Views: 6324

Which gearbox oil?

Having just recently bought a 3.0 2000 z3, am having the same notchy gear change as in my old 2.8 z3. On that one I changed the clutch hose and fluid together with putting in the Fuchs mtf oil which helped a lot. However have just done the clutch hose and fluid on new one but cannot see a label on t...
by Gareth 161
Sat 17 Dec, 2016 22:49
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Stainless steel exhaust
Replies: 14
Views: 3816

Re: Stainless steel exhaust

Just checked realoem and it does show a flap with vacuum tank for mine and I have the version with two pipes into one from the resonator back but there does seem to be various other options with twin pipes all the way back. All very confusing!!! Having looked at mine earlier, the resonator looks a b...
by Gareth 161
Sat 17 Dec, 2016 10:47
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 Exhaust, wrong one?
Replies: 8
Views: 3872

Re: Z3 Exhaust, wrong one?

Thanks for the info Geoff and possibly there are lots of variations in the pipe set ups from new.
As you suggest, will visit a local fabricator and see what they can come up with.
by Gareth 161
Sat 17 Dec, 2016 00:38
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Z3 Exhaust, wrong one?
Replies: 8
Views: 3872

Re: Z3 Exhaust, wrong one?

Possibly reviving an old thread but just came across this one in my search for a stainless exhaust for my 2000 3.0 z3 which also has 2 pipes which seem to go into one and then a single pipe to the rear box. Have not measured it yet but looks as if it could be 65mm. Like the op, I too am a bit confus...
by Gareth 161
Fri 16 Dec, 2016 18:18
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Stainless steel exhaust
Replies: 14
Views: 3816

Re: Stainless steel exhaust

I do like the sound of a Tvr s2 but too expensive and unreliable.
Wish I was still young in body as opposed to just being young at heart(wrong side of 60) but luckily no near neighbors
Will keep looking to see what is around
by Gareth 161
Fri 16 Dec, 2016 16:19
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Stainless steel exhaust
Replies: 14
Views: 3816

Re: Stainless steel exhaust

Have just been for a run(with top down and woolly hat on) to warm her up and looking into the pipe, the flap is open so seems to be working OK. I know that some stainless exhausts can drone a bit will try a local fabricator near me( Powells at Redruth) and see what they can come up with although not...