Search found 789 matches

by siwilson
Thu 29 Aug, 2013 14:24
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Z3M Wheel Paint code?
Replies: 15
Views: 4004

Re: Z3M Wheel Paint code?

No doubt in my experience regarding wheel refurbishing, you get what you pay for. Very true and not always obvious when you first get the wheels back. In my experience the longevity of the finish is just as important as it looking great for the first 6 months. I have used Lepsons in Gilingham and a...
by siwilson
Wed 28 Aug, 2013 12:33
Forum: The Beauty Parlour
Topic: BMW MINI AIR COMPRESSOR STORAGE ?
Replies: 4
Views: 1219

Re: BMW MINI AIR COMPRESSOR STORAGE ?

Yes, there are guides in the plastic 'well' and a velcro strap that holds it down. Part number for the 'well' is 51477894322
by siwilson
Tue 27 Aug, 2013 12:15
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Eisenmann Fitting Issue
Replies: 6
Views: 1561

Re: Eisenmann Fitting Issue

Indeed the race is different (well mine are), see here. Not direct on the pipe, but a bracket.

Image
by siwilson
Sat 10 Aug, 2013 12:34
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Rear Camber Adjustment
Replies: 12
Views: 2843

Re: Rear Camber Adjustment

Hi Si, I am thinking of the adjustment to stop the advanced wear on the inner of the rears, I have recently changed the tyres on the car and cannot help think that with camber correction the rears would be good for a few thousand miles more. A spare subframe sounds like a good idea. If you're worri...
by siwilson
Wed 07 Aug, 2013 18:53
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Rear Camber Adjustment
Replies: 12
Views: 2843

Re: Rear Camber Adjustment

I do have the Ireland system on a spare subframe that I never seem to have the time to fit. Looks the part, but I cannot comment on what it's like to live with yet. General consensus was that even though it's harder to fit and a one-way mod, this was the best route to take. However, I recently saw s...
by siwilson
Mon 29 Jul, 2013 08:47
Forum: Check your diary
Topic: BMWCCGB Zedfest, 26 – 28 July 2013, Silverstone Circuit
Replies: 216
Views: 70183

Re: BMWCCGB Zedfest, 26 – 28 July 2013, Silverstone Circuit

I enjoyed both Saturday and Sunday for different reasons. By happy accident I was miss-directed to the stand instead of the marshalling a car park on the first day and had no issues parking up. Day 2 was also a breeze thanks to the organisation and the lower numbers. Good to meet up with a few of yo...
by siwilson
Mon 15 Jul, 2013 06:51
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: WANTED: S54 M-ROADSTER
Replies: 28
Views: 3253

Re: WANTED: S54 M-ROADSTER

Mine is June 2001 on a Y plate and I pay the £280 for 268G/KM rate. Y plates came in March 2001 when the tax changed from the old PLG category. My old E39 is an X and that gets PLG. Mine is number 24 form the VIN registry, so there must be a few earlier ones somewhere. If you can find an X registere...
by siwilson
Mon 15 Jul, 2013 06:42
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Reluctant manual Softop!
Replies: 16
Views: 1242

Re: Reluctant manual Softop!

Just curious, but why did you disconnect the hardtop wiring? This is designed to be left in place when the hardtop is removed.

Did you sell the hardtop and fixing kit?
by siwilson
Wed 10 Jul, 2013 04:23
Forum: Performance
Topic: Rear shocks
Replies: 12
Views: 2404

Re: Rear shocks

How many mikes do you do Ray? If not many then leave it for now. Not even an advisory means it must be a very small weap. If you do replace then the rear shocks do have a significant impact on the comfort of the ride as well as handling. I might look to a blistering upgrade, but to the B6 OEM replac...
by siwilson
Mon 10 Jun, 2013 10:01
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Retro fit cruise control to //M? HELP
Replies: 26
Views: 3848

Re: Retro fit cruise control to //M? HELP

That stalk/switch you have is definitely wrong/butchered. I just had a look back at when I fitted cruise to my S54. The S54 is fly by wire, so if anything would have a later switch it would be that and it doesn't. I used the '926' switch with the 6 wires. I just did some goggling and could not find ...
by siwilson
Fri 07 Jun, 2013 10:40
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Rear strut brace
Replies: 11
Views: 1324

Re: Rear strut brace

I have the full Strong strut Setup and yes it performs exactly as Mike says. You can fit it with any lowered suspension setup, but be prepared. I'm not slammed (hate that look), but down about 25mm (KWv3) and the body brace hits almost every speed hump. The butt strut also grounds on narrow country ...
by siwilson
Wed 05 Jun, 2013 10:03
Forum: Performance
Topic: Fitting Coilovers - Will I be needing wheels spacers?
Replies: 3
Views: 1596

Re: Fitting Coilovers - Will I be needing wheels spacers?

Probably.

It depends on the coilover and your offset, but most lower the bottom spring perch so it is at the same level as the rim/tyre. I have KW and needed a 5mm spacer to clear it. I actually went with a 10mm to get a hub centric spacer. As it happens it widened the stance nicely.

Si.
by siwilson
Mon 27 May, 2013 07:25
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: which six
Replies: 7
Views: 1143

Re: which six

Questions to help you decide.

How often do you drive and what is your typical use for the 1.9?
Do you like the pre or post facelift?
What's your budget?
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After you consider the above, think of the sad empty feeling you will have if you don't buy an ///M :D
by siwilson
Mon 20 May, 2013 08:48
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Siezed tie rod ends
Replies: 15
Views: 1646

Re: Siezed tie rod ends

I have found that penetrating fluid and patience (lots of patience) are the answer to the most stubborn couplings.
by siwilson
Thu 09 May, 2013 09:45
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Rear tracking on an M///
Replies: 6
Views: 1739

Re: Rear tracking on an M///

How much toe out Robin? What's the tyre wear like?

A little could just be a worn trailing arm bush, but a lot might indicate a bent trailing arm. They are a 'sacrificial part' in case of a bang.
by siwilson
Thu 18 Apr, 2013 22:15
Forum: Performance
Topic: A word of warning - mods and insurance rip offs !!!!
Replies: 30
Views: 5139

Re: A word of warning - mods and insurance rip offs !!!!

The issue is that they only seem cheap the first year because you are paying part of a year. Then all your cars renew on the same day at full whack.
by siwilson
Thu 18 Apr, 2013 21:52
Forum: Performance
Topic: A word of warning - mods and insurance rip offs !!!!
Replies: 30
Views: 5139

Re: A word of warning - mods and insurance rip offs !!!!

Hi all. If you have more than one car try Admiral Multicar policy. My 2.0 Z3 just cost £289.36. Fully comp, european breakdown cover, legal protection, and personal injury. Yes I did tell them about the uprated suspension so that it listed on my schedule. This for both my wife and myself to drive. ...
by siwilson
Tue 16 Apr, 2013 11:42
Forum: Stock exchange
Topic: WANTED: Z3M splitter / flippers ACS replicas???
Replies: 19
Views: 2490

Re: WANTED: Z3M splitter / flippers ACS replicas???

I had a set of those US plastic replica ones on mine for a while. They came from Motion Motorsport and I had no issues with distortion.
by siwilson
Mon 15 Apr, 2013 07:37
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Front Speaker issues
Replies: 15
Views: 1020

Re: Front Speaker issues

Do you get any sound from the front footwell speakers or just the tweeters in the doors? Common faults with front speakers are 1. An aftermarket head unit was fitted (as has been said) and the amp remote power is not connected. 2. Faulty power relay on the amp of the front left footwell speaker. 3. ...
by siwilson
Sat 13 Apr, 2013 14:51
Forum: The Beauty Parlour
Topic: Genius ideas needed.
Replies: 9
Views: 1413

Re: Genius ideas needed.

I solved this issue by making a plastic washer and placing that behind the carpet for the fixing to screw into. Not come loose since.
by siwilson
Fri 12 Apr, 2013 07:20
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: M REAR mirror
Replies: 16
Views: 1377

Re: M REAR mirror

Interesting discussion from a US board on mirror options and why the auto-dim mirror fitted to US versions is not a great idea.

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showth ... p?t=371680
by siwilson
Sun 31 Mar, 2013 23:02
Forum: Check your diary
Topic: BMWCCGB Zedfest, 26 – 28 July 2013, Silverstone Circuit
Replies: 216
Views: 70183

Re: BMWCCGB Zedfest, 26 – 28 July 2013, Silverstone Circuit

Booked for Saturday and Sunday!

Si & Lynda
by siwilson
Sat 23 Mar, 2013 12:04
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Z3m roadster
Replies: 30
Views: 2491

Re: Z3m roadster

Averages are just that.

The one that made 323 was ///M Murfs
by siwilson
Sat 23 Mar, 2013 08:07
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Z3m roadster
Replies: 30
Views: 2491

Re: Z3m roadster

Last time is was at Evolve I saw a stock S50 make 323. That same day, my S54 made 324. Mine is stock apart from the Eisenmann race.

Stock the S50 is supposed to be 321 BTW

I think a trip to Evolve might be in order :D
by siwilson
Fri 22 Mar, 2013 08:54
Forum: Stock exchange
Topic: Hardtop Gauges
Replies: 10
Views: 1913

Re: Hardtop Gauges

The bolts that mount the hardtop brackets to the car are not that special, M8x12 with a washer. Bizarrely there are 3 holes per side, but only two bolts are used. The bolts that mount up through the front rail into the hardtop (1 per side) are special. RealOEM shows them as a Torx bolt M8x18, but th...
by siwilson
Thu 21 Mar, 2013 11:15
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Classic insurance
Replies: 11
Views: 1627

Classic insurance

Hi, What reputable companies are people using for 'classic' insurance these days?

A number of companies advertise, but when I enter the ///M they can't quote. not sure why, I have eons of NCB, no claims, no convictions or any other dramas and can't be considered a youngster anymore.

Cheers.

Si.
by siwilson
Sat 16 Mar, 2013 09:32
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: coil packs cheap or spensive, new or old?
Replies: 27
Views: 3837

Re: coil packs cheap or spensive, new or old?

If there is a misfire then the diags will tell you which cylinder. You can then move the coil packs around to see if the fault moves before spending on parts. A new coil pack is only around £30 from ECP so it's not worth skimping. I had a dead coil pack on the way to Gaydon a. Couple of years back. ...
by siwilson
Fri 15 Mar, 2013 15:22
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Hamann hardtops...
Replies: 337
Views: 63284

Re: Hamann hardtops...

I guess you have to ask yourself if it's worth spending 2k on a pricey hardtop if its a summer car? that will more than likely languish at the back of the garage :? I might be tempted as I use the Zed during the winter now but still not convinced vanity is worth 1200 quid more over an OEM top. I ne...
by siwilson
Fri 15 Mar, 2013 15:18
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Replacement Front Brakes Costing
Replies: 31
Views: 1848

Re: Replacement Front Brakes Costing

ATE is the OEM, so they are the same, just sold under their own brand as opposed to having a BMW badge on them. Remanufactured could mean what you say, but I suspect if they are sold as refurbished then they have been refurbished. Absolutely no issue with this. After all, the casting won't wear. Rep...
by siwilson
Sat 02 Mar, 2013 09:27
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: HID KITS?
Replies: 29
Views: 1938

Re: HID KITS?

I have an inexpensive HID kit in my stock housings. After several tests (road included), when properly adjusted there should be NO glare to oncoming cars and increased brightness. The Z3 reflector housings are some of the best I've seen. Also keep in mind some of the 1st HID headlight equipped cars...
by siwilson
Thu 28 Feb, 2013 13:36
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: HID KITS?
Replies: 29
Views: 1938

Re: HID KITS?

Apart from being illegal, they are not that great. I had a kit on my ///M for a while and while it looked like it was bright, the focus was not good. I have since pulled I for ultra bright regular bulbs and life is good. If yo want HIDs then you really need to go with projectors to get the correct f...
by siwilson
Fri 22 Feb, 2013 08:03
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Z3M V8 Conversion
Replies: 420
Views: 175306

Re: Z3M V8 Conversion

Mark,

Not sure of you saw this, but some good exhaust info on the LS1 conversion.

Si.
by siwilson
Sat 16 Feb, 2013 08:45
Forum: Let's talk
Topic: THE "Z" FACTOR.....
Replies: 2
Views: 979

Re: THE "Z" FACTOR.....

I just like the way it looks, drive and sounds. I never bought my M with the intention of keeping it forever, but I can't see myself ever selling it now. Maybe that's the Z factor :)
by siwilson
Fri 08 Feb, 2013 15:39
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Z3M V8 Conversion
Replies: 420
Views: 175306

Re: Z3M V8 Conversion

I have te 83mm Eisenmanns and they are just about the buggiest you could use without serious trimming of the bumper. Maybe side pipes re the answer :evil: As to southern boy comment on pressure and suction. The X section shown earlier in the thread generates this as the gas from the previous stroke ...
by siwilson
Fri 01 Feb, 2013 14:28
Forum: M Roadster and M coupé
Topic: Strange warning light
Replies: 10
Views: 1448

Re: Strange warning light

When I press the front fog light switch the "tyre" warning light comes on on the dash. Anyone else had similar. Seems obvious it is a bad connection somewhere but..... Its not a foglight switch it's for the TPW (Tyre Pressure Warning ) system. A short press and release is a test to see th...
by siwilson
Wed 30 Jan, 2013 14:04
Forum: The Lounge
Topic: Life after an M
Replies: 39
Views: 4328

Re: Life after an M

Keep the M and go buy a Focus diesel for when 2 seats are not enough.
by siwilson
Wed 30 Jan, 2013 14:02
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Torn Between Two Cars
Replies: 31
Views: 2637

Re: Torn Between Two Cars

My first Z3 was a 2.0. Very disappointing. it might be the better looker, but won't be as fun to drive.

IMO keep looking. there are plenty about.
by siwilson
Tue 29 Jan, 2013 10:33
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: What do you recommend for a front caster/camber adj set?
Replies: 2
Views: 636

Re: What do you recommend for a front caster/camber adj set?

KW make an adjustable top mount. Have you looked at those?
by siwilson
Thu 24 Jan, 2013 19:55
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: rear shock bolts
Replies: 8
Views: 626

Re: rear shock bolts

18mm socket. Should be replaced each time it is removed, so BMW tend to stock them. They have been known to fail so worth changing. Search for a thread by Brynt.
by siwilson
Fri 18 Jan, 2013 17:55
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: wheel spacers
Replies: 5
Views: 378

Re: wheel spacers

H&R. The best quality, but not cheap. Watch out on the measurements. Some advertise a set of 5mm spacers as a 10mm spacer or widens the track by 10mm.

Defo go hub centric H&R part for 10mm ones is HR-2075725
by siwilson
Tue 01 Jan, 2013 10:26
Forum: Performance
Topic: Big Disc Upgrade
Replies: 4
Views: 1307

Re: Big Disc Upgrade

Zedonist wrote:Thanks Brian,

Brilliant information take it is only a few bolts p,us bleeding?

Do I need to replace the steel guards at the back, are the 3.0 larger diameter?

Rich
RealOEM shows the same guard across all models.
by siwilson
Fri 14 Dec, 2012 13:04
Forum: The Beauty Parlour
Topic: Rear Screen Scratch remover.
Replies: 15
Views: 3411

Re: Rear Screen Scratch remover.

hello phil, i have a new roof and window. the cleaner, polish i use is meguires plastix rx good stuff. use a new mf cloth to apply and another new one to remove. Mark +1, used this for years and it works great. also really good for cleaning the light lenses and number plates. Also your uPVC windows...
by siwilson
Mon 10 Dec, 2012 21:39
Forum: Performance
Topic: my new wheels 18 inch AC schnitzer reps - tyres?
Replies: 28
Views: 4329

Re: my new wheels 18 inch AC schnitzer reps - tyres?

Correct, if you add a 10mm spacer it effectively reduces the offset of the wheel by 10mm.

ET43 Wheel + 10mm spacer = Effective ET33
by siwilson
Thu 06 Dec, 2012 23:54
Forum: Performance
Topic: Subframe mounts - OEM or Poly?
Replies: 8
Views: 1667

Re: Subframe mounts - OEM or Poly?

Actually, the one area I think you need to keep OEM is the bush in the diff mount. it is the movement of that bush that does most of the boot floor damage and a stiffer bush there will only maker it worse. The stiffer subframe bushes actually help reduce boot floor damage by preventing the subframe ...
by siwilson
Thu 06 Dec, 2012 21:36
Forum: Performance
Topic: Subframe mounts - OEM or Poly?
Replies: 8
Views: 1667

Re: Subframe mounts - OEM or Poly?

If you get chance to change the bushes I recommend you do it. You will notice a more stable and predictable rear suspension response. The fact that your car is a 1.9 doesnt come into it. The subframe bushes dont squeek - that is associated with poly trailing arm bushes, as you say. +1. I have these...
by siwilson
Mon 26 Nov, 2012 20:05
Forum: The Lounge
Topic: Sensational in San Francisco - Gymkhana 5
Replies: 3
Views: 892

Re: Sensational in San Francisco - Gymkhana 5

That man has talent. I'll give him that :)
by siwilson
Sat 24 Nov, 2012 09:39
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Hard Top Fitting Kit Fitting!!
Replies: 7
Views: 509

Re: Hard Top Fitting Kit Fitting!!

Are the foam pieces supposed to come out easily?? I have tried but they seem quite happy to be there?? I think i can see at least one of the nuts that needs to be undone so thats a step forward. Thanks for the assistance so far, when it warms up i will go and continue the quest. Mick No, the are of...
by siwilson
Fri 23 Nov, 2012 23:13
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Hard Top Fitting Kit Fitting!!
Replies: 7
Views: 509

Re: Hard Top Fitting Kit Fitting!!

Don't touch the soft top frame.

The hard top kit bolts in using separate bolts. You won't see where it goes until you remove the angled foam trim pieces behind the b pillar.

The instructions are posted here somewhere. A search should find it for you.
by siwilson
Tue 20 Nov, 2012 14:46
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Favorite Mod?
Replies: 67
Views: 6953

Re: Favorite Mod?

For driving improvement: KWv3 coil overs 8-)
For sheer smiles : Eisenmann 83mm RACE :twisted:
Best bang for the buck: Earls braided clutch hose
by siwilson
Sun 18 Nov, 2012 13:02
Forum: The Gallery
Topic: My Z3M's Replacement
Replies: 80
Views: 37136

Re: My Z3M's Replacement

Gazza, no zroadster and maybe some of the Porsche lot too :) garyw I would subscribe to a thread discussing such a trip :) FWIW, My brothers 52 plate Steel Grey C4S is up for sale at PARR performance Gatwick at the moment. She's a real honey. http://www.parr-uk.co.uk/index.php/sales/911-996-carrera...