MarkLG1973
Zorg Addict
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2021
- Points
- 49
- Model of Z
- 1999 Z3 2.8
I’ll bear that in mindLooking good - can you put me down as first reserve if ever you decide to sell.
Ownership Log - T515 BJB
- Thread starter RickyBobby
- Start date
MarkLG1973
Zorg Addict
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2021
- Points
- 49
- Model of Z
- 1999 Z3 2.8
A couple more jobs off the list.
Rear shocks replaced with OEM Sachs to match fronts. While I had the wheels off I noticed one of the anti-roll bar links was almost completely off the end of the ARB
Need to get the tracking checked, but other than that all sorted on the suspension.
A very brisk drive over Holme Moss, and happy to confirm the car’s handling is now vastly improved.
Rear shocks replaced with OEM Sachs to match fronts. While I had the wheels off I noticed one of the anti-roll bar links was almost completely off the end of the ARB
Need to get the tracking checked, but other than that all sorted on the suspension.
A very brisk drive over Holme Moss, and happy to confirm the car’s handling is now vastly improved.
Last edited:
MarkLG1973
Zorg Addict
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2021
- Points
- 49
- Model of Z
- 1999 Z3 2.8
While I was doing the front suspension last week I noticed a minor oil leak from the back of the cylinder head, which was dripping directly onto the exhaust
A quick Google suggested that the valve cover gasket was the likely cause. Another order from Eurocarparts…
The valve cover took some persuading to get off, and as expected the original gasket had degrading into a hard, brittle material - replaced with new, with a bit of red RTV sealant for good measure.
Since I had the coils out I thought I’d take a look at the spark plugs, and glad I did. God knows when they were last changed
Nothing left on the electrodes on all 6 plugs.
The engine’s now pulling noticeably more cleanly and crisply at the top end
A quick Google suggested that the valve cover gasket was the likely cause. Another order from Eurocarparts…
The valve cover took some persuading to get off, and as expected the original gasket had degrading into a hard, brittle material - replaced with new, with a bit of red RTV sealant for good measure.
Since I had the coils out I thought I’d take a look at the spark plugs, and glad I did. God knows when they were last changed
Nothing left on the electrodes on all 6 plugs.
The engine’s now pulling noticeably more cleanly and crisply at the top end
MarkLG1973
Zorg Addict
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2021
- Points
- 49
- Model of Z
- 1999 Z3 2.8
Back to work next week, so that’ll probably be it for a little while.
A few jobs left to look at as and when time allows, but that’s most of the major stuff out of the way.
A few jobs left to look at as and when time allows, but that’s most of the major stuff out of the way.
car is looking good
MarkLG1973
Zorg Addict
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2021
- Points
- 49
- Model of Z
- 1999 Z3 2.8
Finally got the ABS/ASC issue sorted!
Initially tried reading the fault codes on a handheld code reader (C510 I think?), but it was showing 4 codes which wouldn’t reset. Then got a USB cable and tried reading the codes on INPA.
After repeatedly resetting the codes another one would come up, usually different from the last, so it looked like the ABS ecu was on the way out. From research online it looks like failing solder joints are the cause, but it’s impossible to get into the module without damaging it.
Next option was to find an ABS pump with the same part code - the ECU’s attached to the back of the pump and can be detached and swapped out. Managed to get hold of one off an E46 for next to nowt on ebay which went straight on.
INPA was now just showing 2 codes - a duff rear wheel sensor and missing gearbox ECU. Looks like the replacement ECU was off an automatic and was looking for an auto gearbox ECU that wasn’t there. A bit more Google-ing, and recoded the ECU to my VIN, which cleared the fault.
Swapped out the wheel sensor and finally all faults cleared and no more lights on dash
Came across another pump and controller sourced from a Z3 with the same part code for grand sum of £20, so have bought that as a spare in case I get any more problems.
Next job will be to replace the track rods - haven’t been able to get the tracking done since doing the struts and bushes due to the adjusters being seized solid. Replacements on the way, so possibly next weekend.
Initially tried reading the fault codes on a handheld code reader (C510 I think?), but it was showing 4 codes which wouldn’t reset. Then got a USB cable and tried reading the codes on INPA.
After repeatedly resetting the codes another one would come up, usually different from the last, so it looked like the ABS ecu was on the way out. From research online it looks like failing solder joints are the cause, but it’s impossible to get into the module without damaging it.
Next option was to find an ABS pump with the same part code - the ECU’s attached to the back of the pump and can be detached and swapped out. Managed to get hold of one off an E46 for next to nowt on ebay which went straight on.
INPA was now just showing 2 codes - a duff rear wheel sensor and missing gearbox ECU. Looks like the replacement ECU was off an automatic and was looking for an auto gearbox ECU that wasn’t there. A bit more Google-ing, and recoded the ECU to my VIN, which cleared the fault.
Swapped out the wheel sensor and finally all faults cleared and no more lights on dash
Came across another pump and controller sourced from a Z3 with the same part code for grand sum of £20, so have bought that as a spare in case I get any more problems.
Next job will be to replace the track rods - haven’t been able to get the tracking done since doing the struts and bushes due to the adjusters being seized solid. Replacements on the way, so possibly next weekend.
MarkLG1973
Zorg Addict
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2021
- Points
- 49
- Model of Z
- 1999 Z3 2.8
A productive morning- finally got round to fitting the new track rods. Also replaced the front roll bar drop links that I'd mis-ordered when I did the front suspension overhaul.
Just to round things off replaced the gearbox oil. Almost defeated by the filler bolt which hadn't moved in 22 years, but just about managed to get it moving. The stuff that came out didn't look to bad, and can't say I notice any change in the gearshift, but at least I know it's been done
Got the diff oil ready to go, but that'll have to wait for another day.
Hoping the current mild weather hold outs for a couple more weeks before it gets put away for the winter.
Just to round things off replaced the gearbox oil. Almost defeated by the filler bolt which hadn't moved in 22 years, but just about managed to get it moving. The stuff that came out didn't look to bad, and can't say I notice any change in the gearshift, but at least I know it's been done
Got the diff oil ready to go, but that'll have to wait for another day.
Hoping the current mild weather hold outs for a couple more weeks before it gets put away for the winter.
- Joined
- Nov 25, 2012
- Points
- 178
- Location
- Newport, South Wales,UK
- Model of Z
- Z3 M43 1.8 (1999) and Z4 E85 2.5 (2003)
Good reminder to those contemplating a gearbox oil change, always ensure you can get the filler plug out first before draining it, as you found out they can be a bit tight after 20 odd years. Same rule for the diff plugs. You will notice an improvement in your grearchanges with new fluid in it, just give it a little time to do its work in the box. This fill for life business is a load of bull, nothing lasts forever, as long as the car got through its warranty period with BMW thats all they were interested in. You will find the diff oil will still look quite clean when you drain it, mine was and it was the factory fill as far as I know. Peace of mind knowing exactly whats in there and the gearbox now.
MarkLG1973
Zorg Addict
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2021
- Points
- 49
- Model of Z
- 1999 Z3 2.8
With the suspension done, next on the list is the brakes.
They’ve been working well enough, but definitely due a refresh. The pads to fairly recent, but the discs are looking pretty scruffy, and no doubt the seals, etc are all original. Was just going to start with the fronts, but with 2 weeks off I decided to push the boat out and placed another couple of orders for the gear to do the rears as well.
All 4 calipers now off the car, cleaned up, new pistons and seals fitted. Front discs are Brembro, rears on the way.
Hopefully everything arrives before the weekend, and I can get it all back together next week.
They’ve been working well enough, but definitely due a refresh. The pads to fairly recent, but the discs are looking pretty scruffy, and no doubt the seals, etc are all original. Was just going to start with the fronts, but with 2 weeks off I decided to push the boat out and placed another couple of orders for the gear to do the rears as well.
All 4 calipers now off the car, cleaned up, new pistons and seals fitted. Front discs are Brembro, rears on the way.
Hopefully everything arrives before the weekend, and I can get it all back together next week.
Attachments
Looking good pal
MarkLG1973
Zorg Addict
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2021
- Points
- 49
- Model of Z
- 1999 Z3 2.8
A productive day in the garage, with a couple of hiccups.
New front discs, hoses and refurb’ed calipers went straight on without a hitch.
The rears proved a little more bothersome - specifically replacing the flexible hoses between the chassis and the trailing arm. Managed to get the driver‘s side done, but had to cut my brake line spanner down to get it in. Finally managed to crack them open and got everything swapped out.
The passenger side was a non-starter as far as accessing either end of the hose went - I didn’t really want to start stripping stuff down, so that one will have to wait for another day. The nut on the caliper end of the was also seized onto the copper pipe, and I was a bit concerned about damaging the pipe. Did it in reverse, fitted the hose to the solid pipe, then threaded the caliper onto the hose - luckily everything lined up without any kinks.
Next up a full bleed of the fluid. Used my new Sealey pressurised bleed kit, which was such a breeze I went round the car twice and pumped a full litre of fresh fluid through the system.
Had intended to run an ABS bleed cycle, but a flat battery means that’ll have to wait.
Unfortunately the new rear discs haven’t landed yet, which will need doing sometime next week.
New front discs, hoses and refurb’ed calipers went straight on without a hitch.
The rears proved a little more bothersome - specifically replacing the flexible hoses between the chassis and the trailing arm. Managed to get the driver‘s side done, but had to cut my brake line spanner down to get it in. Finally managed to crack them open and got everything swapped out.
The passenger side was a non-starter as far as accessing either end of the hose went - I didn’t really want to start stripping stuff down, so that one will have to wait for another day. The nut on the caliper end of the was also seized onto the copper pipe, and I was a bit concerned about damaging the pipe. Did it in reverse, fitted the hose to the solid pipe, then threaded the caliper onto the hose - luckily everything lined up without any kinks.
Next up a full bleed of the fluid. Used my new Sealey pressurised bleed kit, which was such a breeze I went round the car twice and pumped a full litre of fresh fluid through the system.
Had intended to run an ABS bleed cycle, but a flat battery means that’ll have to wait.
Unfortunately the new rear discs haven’t landed yet, which will need doing sometime next week.
MarkLG1973
Zorg Addict
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2021
- Points
- 49
- Model of Z
- 1999 Z3 2.8
A couple more jobs have been added to list.
The battery’s dead. Despite spending a full week on the trickle charger there was nothing in it today. It’s currently on the fast charger, but not holding out much hope.
I’ve had a few issues with instrument cluster errors recently, which I’m hoping will be cleared by a new battery.
Distractions with battery issues also meant I forgot to change the clutch fluid while I had the pressure bleeder hooked up.
The battery’s dead. Despite spending a full week on the trickle charger there was nothing in it today. It’s currently on the fast charger, but not holding out much hope.
I’ve had a few issues with instrument cluster errors recently, which I’m hoping will be cleared by a new battery.
Distractions with battery issues also meant I forgot to change the clutch fluid while I had the pressure bleeder hooked up.
MarkLG1973
Zorg Addict
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2021
- Points
- 49
- Model of Z
- 1999 Z3 2.8
Used this to change the brake fluid. Easiest system I’ve used to date and highly recommended. About £60 on eBay/Amazon.
https://www.sealey.co.uk/product/5637206325/25l-brake-clutch-bleeding-system
https://www.sealey.co.uk/product/5637206325/25l-brake-clutch-bleeding-system
That battery was new last year from Tayna so it will still be under the guarantee - was the receipt in the paperwork I gave you?A couple more jobs have been added to list.
The battery’s dead. Despite spending a full week on the trickle charger there was nothing in it today. It’s currently on the fast charger, but not holding out much hope.
I’ve had a few issues with instrument cluster errors recently, which I’m hoping will be cleared by a new battery.
Distractions with battery issues also meant I forgot to change the clutch fluid while I had the pressure bleeder hooked up.
MarkLG1973
Zorg Addict
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2021
- Points
- 49
- Model of Z
- 1999 Z3 2.8
Hi Garrie - I haven’t got the receipt unfortunately. If you come across it let me know.
The battery should be a bit bigger than the one they supplied you with - 53Ah where it should be 70Ah, so it may have been overworked.
I’ll see what it‘s like after a full night on charge.
- Joined
- Nov 25, 2012
- Points
- 178
- Location
- Newport, South Wales,UK
- Model of Z
- Z3 M43 1.8 (1999) and Z4 E85 2.5 (2003)
I noticed that you sourced parts from Eurocarparts always worth cross checking prices with their web only sister company Carparts4less as they are usually cheaper than Europarts and even cheaper using their discount codes that appear on their homepage. Worth signing up to their site so you get emails detailing their current discounts. Delivery has never been an issue, always very quick.
www.carparts4less.co.uk
Cheap Car Parts Online | Car Parts 4 Less UK - Big Brands, Low Prices
CarParts4Less.co.uk are one of the largest online car and van retailers with Cheap Car Parts for every make and model from leading high quality brands.
www.carparts4less.co.uk
MarkLG1973
Zorg Addict
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2021
- Points
- 49
- Model of Z
- 1999 Z3 2.8
Thanks for the tip off. I’ve had a look at their website previously, but always found their prices to very similar to ECP. I’ve just registered and got a 20% discount voucher, so will have another look.
If I’m in no hurry I’ve been ordering from AutoDoc, otherwise it’s ebay. Brake discs came from GSF’s ebay store and were competitively priced.
If I’m in no hurry I’ve been ordering from AutoDoc, otherwise it’s ebay. Brake discs came from GSF’s ebay store and were competitively priced.
I noticed that you sourced parts from Eurocarparts always worth cross checking prices with their web only sister company Carparts4less as they are usually cheaper than Europarts and even cheaper using their discount codes that appear on their homepage. Worth signing up to their site so you get emails detailing their current discounts. Delivery has never been an issue, always very quick.
Cheap Car Parts Online | Car Parts 4 Less UK - Big Brands, Low Prices
CarParts4Less.co.uk are one of the largest online car and van retailers with Cheap Car Parts for every make and model from leading high quality brands.
- Joined
- Nov 25, 2012
- Points
- 178
- Location
- Newport, South Wales,UK
- Model of Z
- Z3 M43 1.8 (1999) and Z4 E85 2.5 (2003)
Looks like you check all the suppliers I use, I do like Autodoc as you can search on oem part numbers, only drawback is they ship from Berlin so delivery isn't the fastest. Always worth checking on prices with BMW dealer as they can be cheaper in some intances, I use Sopers BMW at Lincoln, order over the phone and they post out to you for no extra charge. Always ask for the Forum discount when using them.
MarkLG1973
Zorg Addict
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2021
- Points
- 49
- Model of Z
- 1999 Z3 2.8
Things were a bit quiet with the Z3 over the winter, but to moving house and being otherwise occupied. Service and MOT a couple of weeks ago (nothing to report), in readiness for a trip upto Scotland to do NC500 loop.
Just back after clocking up 1400 miles in 8 day in some very varied weather so thought I’d share a couple of pics
Just back after clocking up 1400 miles in 8 day in some very varied weather so thought I’d share a couple of pics
They are never the same calipers!? How on earth did you clean them up so well?
At the moment I am still at the 'fix what needs fixing for an MOT pass' stage with mine, but once it's through I did want to service, clean up and paint the calipers. I was actually thinking I'd end up buying new ones, but if you can share your secret, you just inspired me to have a go at a full refurb!