BMW Z3 Diary

BMW Z3
Maintenance Project On A Shoestring

The Diary of the BMW Z3

To Living the dream...if we are allowed to!

2022__________________Well ! Almost________

Click on Cover For Chapters

2.2 Straight Six
5 Speed
Manual
Convertible
Titan Silver
2171ccm 170HP
125KW
Petrol

My Diary Of An
BMW Z3

Z3 2002 Engine 2.2
5 Speed Manual

Well! What can I say, we had another year of caution and a hold on travel and in most cases with restrictions and uncertainty. So further work on the Z3 had been placed on hold during this time.

Many of us are now suggesting that further lockdowns are out of the question and we will take the hits when they happen. A start as we mean to go on to live the dreams we can only dream about at the moment. Come to think of it, it has not been like that for most of one's life? It seems...Governments around the world are increasing restrictions on us, Why? We need this debate, sooner than later!

So! What is on the todo's list for 2022 looking to be rectified this year?

1.   Sort out the drop in the front bumper and rectify (I have replacement brackets now - a job still pending)
2.   Prepare and respray the back bumper                 (I have the equipment, a job still pending)
3.   ~~Sort out some small minute dents in o/s door, (when funds permit - tap out may get specialist perhaps)?~~
      (again not urgent) Rear o/s wing has a slight dent, (not too noticeable, may need a skim of filler and a touch up)
4.   Mirror indicators, fitting and wiring up, (Have units) motorised mirror direction switch has also gone down -
      could be the fuse? ~~A need to tighten O/S door handle also~~. the mirror cowling could do with a respray N/S too!
5.   ~~A/C Auxiliary pump replacement fitting~~   - (Fitted ) Needs to be topped up with A/C gas
6.   ~~Oil Change & filters - (have oil and filters)Transmission oil change, (pending purchase of latter - Also better weather)~~
8.   Front and rear springs - (have replacements) need a few other replacement fittings) - change or upgrade pending
9.   ~~Re-do the running lights/front indicators~~, (Have replacement of the replacements LEDs for the main beam- pending)
10. ~~Redo the immobiliser switch & connections (again, waiting better weather)~~
11. ~~Sort out a seperate fuse panel~~ ~~for radio unit, (purchase new parts - pending better weather)~~
12. Fit replacement O/S seatbelt (I have replacement - the other one has seen better days, again job Pending better
      weather) This will have been the second attempt...

31.01.22 - Just checking the Z3 documents and it is that time of the year again, where an MOT is due within the next few days. The brake sensor has also presented it's trick right on time, by indicating via illuminating it's light on the dash, even though the brakes have been checked and are OK. Can't remember what I did to rectify that the last time... I know it is a bad earth somewhere; it is a reoccurring weirdness that most BMW's have, one way or another. Probably 'Katie' is looking for some attention due to her being stuck in the garage for the past year of Covid lockdowns....? Politicians, media, left and woke have much to answer for!
Reading back on the diary; I checked out and revisited one of the solutions to the bad earth light indication, brake sensor dash light, by disconnecting neg- earth and pos+ leads and placing a spanner between the two battery terminal clasps or leads, (note: Battery should be Totally Disconnected). See if this works for the second time, hopefully this will drain any residue current from the main control module. Do you know something, I must label the wiring if and when I put this problem right again....or at least place a reminder note for myself or end up like now, keep chasing my tail...! (update - no didn't work this time).

Changing the subject completely. Towards the end of last year and early this January 2022, I managed to secure another garage, mainly to declutter the garage that houses the Z3 and there are a couple of small sheds at my residence also, one of the small sheds needed to be relinquished as I had been using it for free via a very generous neighbour for at least the past year and a half. They have now moved away from the area and the shed needed to be used by the new occupant to the property. The situation was good while it lasted and this shed was seen as only a temporary storage measure. Without it and at this point in time, storage had now become a problem and even I had noticed reluctantly, that my shed contents was starting to burst it's boundaries and infringe across the line into my residency and this was after a clear out. So! Another garage it had to be. Ideally, I was looking for something at least twice the size, but that was not going to be as in terms of one building, this is mainly down to the costs and the lack of availability within my current location. I did manage to secure another garage, when the opportunity arose and luckily it was literally a stones throw from my other one, it was the same size and it looked near enough identical and it proved to be dry, this was a bonus, so it fulfilled the storage problem for now, close and easy access for redistribution of items between the two, this had helped me with easier access to everything including my vehicle, without having to go through the contortionist motions, just to get in and out of the vehicle or just accessing the boot/trunk or the workshop bench etc. at the rear of the garage. Some of the tools, books, paperwork that do hold minor value are now less prone to water damage, they are also considered to be a little more secure, especially with the now fitted security door bars and the HiTech 24/7 alarm fitted, another item I had found stored within an old dusty box waiting for the right time. One can still not guarantee non access to spiders, toads or four legged vermin, however they are more preferred than having the 'unwanted, selfish, human, lowlife, two legged variety' or oppotunist bipod, any day. There are still some moving jobs from the shed, however non urgent and can be continued within the warmer weather.

03.02.22 Managed to get a spot for the MOT today 11am, why I always get anxiety before and during an MOT I don't know..., it is like crossing an assult course or going for a driving test, everytime. So, with tyres topped up, all lights checked out, brakes inspected, (they all work), fluids topped up, (no drips) the Z3 was ready for it's test. A good run to the garage with no major failures and the Z3 sounded and ran great. A good thorough test and what seemed to me a good PASS and a number of compliments to the vehicle to boot! It couldn't have gone any better even with the 'Canadian' brake dash light illumination. I can; now arriving at home, collapse into a chair with a coffee and biscuits. Great feeling... Why is there this dread before an MOT, it is....crazy. At least I have another 12 months....

25.02.22 - There is a list of jobs to be carried out and now the weather is reasonably mild with the Covid barriers having been lifted, I am hoping for a few clear opportunities in the weather; as to carry out these tasks, considered to be long time over due in my book.

I am looking to sort out some wiring for my accessories; such as the webcam, (recently stripped down to diagnose a problem that proved to not be a problem other than a break in the live wire feed to the cigarette lighter - yes I do still have one of those commodities, not normally used other than for the accessories...I will be converting the webcam to a USB connector and this will be linked to a spare addition of USB hub unit, (image below) and this will be mounted behind the centre console with easy access. The wiring will also be linked to the ignition switch for start-ups and ignition key shut down, the hub unit will be hidden away behind the console panel, see illustration below). There are the front headlights with running light strips, (these turn from indicator amber to clear, the amber is working OK however; the white running lights are not working - possibly a poor earth, and another reason for sorting out the wiring). Continuing, I will also be installing a new car battery, (the old one was the original that came with the car and has done quite well considering we are on year 5, (How time flies...). Unfortunately; the old battery does have a dodgy pillar and this could fail at anytime, most likely at the most inconvenient time, hence the replacement) and in addition; a new quick release earth clamp will be added onto the new battery, since the old battery 'neg' pillar is slightly deformed and fitted with a mis-fitting shims? The list goes on... install a replacement AC Fan; as the original one has not worked since I have had the car, this job has been put off, over and over again. The A/C, will also need to be re-charged at some point; now one of the inner seals has been replaced within the latest A/C unit, this had previously prevented it from a successful recharge after other attempts of sorting this system out, as readers are aware. There is the Bad earth on the 'Canadian' brake light on the dash, (one of those repetitious problems I have also had; for those that have been following my entries will know - hopefully the re-wiring should solve this problem too)? There is the oil change and not forgetting the checking of the brake shoes/pads and dust shields, as some noise is coming from one of the axles, to what I believe from the rear however; difficult to pinpoint, whilst within the driving seat. so there is plenty to sort out.

Some may think all this is all going to cost a fortune to sort out, not really; as over the past 2 years, during Covid, being housebound most of the time, a number of the items have been accumulated via online ordering as and when they have become available and when the finances allowed; this has allowed the costs to be spread across the 2+ years without any of the urgency and really, we are not talking of any substantial cost amounts of items by any means, so allowing to keep to the philosophy of 'working on a shoestring'.

Prior Used - Condenser Fan Unit
to replace the non working
unit - Breakers - picked this up very cheap on eBay, Seller suggests it to be working?
We will see - can make a claim if it doesn't work...

<<< I only need the fan unit, or just the viscous fan coupling, however the shroud, fan and coupling is the complete unit, as long as the unit works, this will be the plus.
Note: On searching the 'new ones' proved to be ridiculously priced in the £100s - not happening!

Note: Check out some of the review items within the purchases and tool sections
Within this pulication.

Replacement car battery

Almost forgotten about the horn replacement

all pending fitment
The expense will come mainly in personal labour and time

Interior Rewire Fusebox

USB Cable for webcam

26.02.22 - Nice day today, sun is shining and it is reasonably mild for the time of year, an opportunity not to be missed, it is afternoon however, such a small window for tackling the wiring and installing a small auxiliary fuse box for those additional accessories one accumulates, such as the: exhaust cut off switch, radio unit, USBs on centre console, centre console arm rest, USBs and one or two others I have put in and unsure what they were for....

I must say, it has been a headache, the small USB hub is in, however the wiring will take some more time, mainly because the wires are unlabelled, so will take some sorting out. It has taken most of the afternoon to get one's head around it and some of the connectors are attached to a fashion and will need to be more secure. As the light goes down it will need to be continued at the next opportunity...

So far, the problem also arising is the crimping process, not all of the crimping has been successful, even though at the time the connections seemed solid, some wires also required soldering and shrinking, some other connections had slid off the terminals of third party switches, so one of those irritating scenarios that many of us experience and never usually admit to... (past caring as I get older).

I am waiting on the replacement condenser fan before attempting the new install. I may even just swap over the VISCOUS FAN COUPLING instead of using the complete fan and shroud. As I speak, a knock on the front door, (pause) - just received the Condenser Fan by Courier and on unpacking, the fan looks ok and as it was described on eBay, I will need to test the fan functionality when I have the chance.

After some thought, I may be jumping the gun here, as the A/C Unit needs to be charged first, an uncharged A/C compressor, clutch, may not activate and therefore the non-activation of the A/C Condenser Fan, so the purchase of a replacement fan is possibly premature... well, we shall see, I have it if needed...

Front - Recent Replacement
(install pending)

03.03.22 - Tested the recent purchased fan and it operates well, stripped it down, cleaned it where possible and lubricated the unit, re-assembled the unit, re-tested, and all is good and ready to install. (Note: I had purchased a fan previously, if one remembers, see the previous diaries, unfortunately I neglected to check the connecting electrics plug before purchase, requiring a 3 pin rather than just the 2.) I will check the old one on the Z3 again, (only, as I love doing this job 4-5 times) just to see if there is any life in it, even though it has been confirmed dead for a while - well, I live in hope of it's resurrection or a miracle, I believe I am overdue for one now... preferably on the more important things in life, though, did I just swear?).
Not sure whether to get the system recharge first or just install the newer fan....? decisions, decisions..... most likely I will fit the fan...sleeping on it until the better weather.

09.03.22 - Another small window this afternoon, a little windy, coldish', decided to continue with the wiring i.e. concentrate on the new battery installation and quick realease fitting, I was waiting on some battery sized wire terminals and they have now arrived. Now spliced, diced and connected, with a good sort out of 'stuff' from the boot/trunk. I also connected the miniture switch for the engine cut-off, (this had not worked for a while, seems like it was down to a faulty switch with an led, swapped this for a two terminal, non-LED switch, much smaller and discrete, however, I am still working out a location for it, something to decide on, works when connected up...
A new earth strap has also been fitted, with the connetion to the new fuse box under the centre console to the car chasis, so a very productive afternoon. I may install another strap under the right driver's side panel; just as an over-kill and because I can.

The next job will be the Auxillary fan fitting, watch this space, (some images maybe available on or during the fan installation given better weather, of course....).

12.04.22 Just as one is ready with the right mindset to complete these auto jobs the weather continues to be unagreeable, where is the summer? This entry is only to convince those that have asked and to let them know that I am still alive, for now at least and hopefully will be starting soon.....we are getting to a slow start this year...after the big world reset.

23.04.22 Today St. Georges Day, it seem not many are recognising it, this is such a pity, the weather is good today and I am hoping to complete a number of jobs on the Z3 today. Sort out a noise coming from the rear offside wheel, oil change and the A/C condenser Fan replacement.

The car is levelled up upon the trolly jack and spending at least 15 minutes looking for a hook for the wheel nut caps and realised I didn't need it as I had changed the nuts when I had purchased the new wheel spacers, so off to a good start.... Considering it has not been that long since I had the wheel off, the nuts were tight!

Well! That was tedious, the interior wiring has now, or near enough been completed and all seems to be working as it should be. Behind the console it is like a students closet, of smelly socks and underwear to coin similies/ metaphor or two one can be reluctant to explore this area; as one fears what one may find.... ; hopefully not many will see this 'chaos' of jumble of wires, may tidy it up with some plastic split coil if it is at all possible, as one is confined to a very tight space. The fuse box and USB hub has not been secured down, mainly due to the lack of space, or anchoring points; fortunately it is still accessible, serviceable and safer than before and one can also describe them as being hidden. Note: The USBs within the hub are for the more permanent functionality accessories; so there is no need to keep connecting or disconnecting them from the hub, (only two USB connections in this hub and yes they are fused to the new fuse box with 2 amp fuses linked to the ignition circuit). The interior chocolate block connector under the steering column has also been removed and the wiring behind it has also been thinned out, zip-tied to tidy it up, also reattaching the front panel afterwards. So what is left on the current agenda, one may well ask? For those interested, I will need to install the new battery with a new quick release connector, (waiting for crimp terminals) change/fabricate the earth connector to the fuse box, wire up a new switch for the immobilizer, (replacing existing switch) and then move on to the engine compartment to do the long awaited oil change and possibly install the fan unit, once I have checked the old one for life, even though I have done this a number of times already...

Replaced Battery Done!

Done! Done! Done! Done! Done!

Handbrake off, I eventually managed to get the hub off after a good 30 minutes, this was due to the pins that held the brake shoes within the inner hub had fallen out into the hub and the shoes had jammed tightly in an awkward position, preventing it's removal. With brute force and the use of the 'Birmingham Screwdriver,' (mallet/hammer) I had eventually removed the hub. I may also add, and it with not even one swear word....

I honestly thought the noise was coming from the back dust plate, however this was not the case. I was surprised the handbrake had worked as well as it had....

The brake shoes had enough life on them; so it
just left to replace the new pins and springs I had
purchased for both back wheels earlier on, at the
beginning of the month... (see purchases).

Hub and brake shoes removed

I only had one injury this session, on the left hand, the dust plate had sharp edges, a good plaster patch held my hand in place and I continued reinstalling
the shoes, sort of... The dust plate holes that housed the shoe retainer pins were enlarged, probably down to rust erosion and the initial cause of the problem. I tried to use a washer behind the dust plate, this just kept dropping as it was awkward to position and to insert the pin through the shoe and the hole at the same time.

My only solution was to try and close the holes on both sides using a hammer and screwdriver, ideally I really needed to replace the dust plates, (this may be done later as they are currently overpriced).

The pins held and this left the springs to connect, again requiring brute force, as they were also new and I did spend a large amount of time trying to stretch them into place without dropping the brake adjuster. I did end up opening the adjuster, just to retain it in position. Not the best of general maintenance experiences, as it fought me all of the way.

OK! Everything was now all in it's place, the various parts re-greased and where appropriate, (as the Americans would say) anti-seized - I believe it is a copper compound and used for non-vital bolts that had proven to be stubborn.

The hub was ready for return and seemed tight on the shoes, so was not adjusted, as one would normally do. This didn't feel right for me however at this point I decided to accept fate...

The calliper cage was re-installed, appropriate grease distributed to prevent brake sqeal, slide bolts cleaned and greased, tightened, dust caps returned, rattle-spring inserted.

Well! It looks ok! The wheel spacer was re-installed, the hub was tested to see if it rotated, it went around. It was also test time for the handbrake and the hub went around, not so good.

I decided to adjust the bolts at the handbrake, the thread was much longer than the nearside after adjusting it and the handbrake proved to be effective so I was satisfied with that for now at least. It was ready for the wheel. Nuts tightened, jack down and a general tool clear up.

This just left the drive test, short test in front of garage and then the drive around the block. The noise was much lower, to non existent, however there did seem to be the occasional scrape. I put this down to the adjustment to the dust plate and dare I say, will settle down once evened out via use.... we shall see..... (will price some new dust plates).

All the jobs I had decided to do today didn't materialise as this took majority of my time. The next job will be the oil change.

24.04.22 This afternoon has been forecast rain and I was looking for an excuse and couldn't find one. The oil needed changing and it wasn't going to do it on it's own, so up to the garage...

I decided to place the car on the ramps, jacking one side up at a time, as the front was too low to drive up on them, I did try, however common sense kicked in. So a straight forward oil change, there shouldn't be any problems here... hah!

I collected all of the items I needed : So what was the first problem?

1. Oil Filter Housing - Couldn't open it, it was solidly locked down. I tried wrenches, I even had one of those silver caps one places on top of the oil filter cap, wrong size. I went through all the available tools I had, straight mole grips and the curved
(see purchases)

Curved Mole Grips, now that worked!

This is what I pulled out of the Oil Filter Housing, a near disintegrated filter, it hadn't been that long since I changed it, Or had it? Nahhhh?

Oil Filter Housing >>>

Disintegrated Oil Filter >>>

After pulling out the pieces with a hook it did cross my mind that some of the filter may have gone into the sump, hopefully not or hopefully yes, rather it goes into the sump than the engine, (don't even want to think of that!) at least with the sump, the filter bits and old oil should drain out when I release the the old oil.

Empty Oil Filter Housing

This did the Trick - Curved Mole Grips

Disintegrated Oil Filter >>>

Replacement Oil Filter

Replacement Oil Sump Plug

The filter kit comes with a seal, this needs to replace the old one on the housing.

The oil is ready for replacing and with the oil collector placed under the sump, the plug is removed, (yes it caught me on the hand and the oil was hot, hot, hot.....) >>>

With the dip-stick out, helps the oil to flow quickly.

During the wait; I prepared for the new oil and transferred it to the new 3 litre jug, recently purchased. With the new magnetic sump bolt in place, (Note: I filled up the jug at least twice.)
This jug was easy to manipulate, especially with it's detachable spout and worth the investment, good value for money, rather than lifting a 20Litre barrel as one can appreciate...

I checked the dipstick until it read Max on the markings.
The engine was started up for a few minutes to allow the oil to circulate and the level was checked again. Seemed OK..

This just left the general tidy up; collection and housing the tools.

This job was done!

The next job is fitting the replacement fan, I also have the 300db horns I want to fit - these job are for another day.

<<<20Lt Oil purchased around 2020 and stored First time used - The price has now doubled in 2022

MANNOL 20L Fully Synthetic Engine Oil EXTREME 5W-40 SN/CH-4 A3/B4 VW 502/505

Smaller Bolt Head than the original - however works...

No I haven't replaced the suspension yet - I have the bits - just need the inclination ;)

25.04.22 Today a test run within the local area and the Z3 is now running well, without the noise from the rear offside, so it has settled down.

27.04.22 Today is 'A/C fan day', extract and install, I was hoping for an easy run today, let's see how I do.....

As you can see again, not straight sailing, out of the fan I ordered within the time of getting this Z3, today, I find non of the fan units fit, even though they were advertised for this model. I ended up taking the radiator out, couldn't extract the condenser and there was a metal frame structure preventing the insertion of the replacement fans. Even considered coming up from underneath the vehicle.

Here is the replacement Fan, this is the two wired with two pin plug rather than the three pin. Both replacements suggested they would fit the Z3, unfortunately they don't not without damage to the housing. The auto-market scams...

28.04.22 I was not looking at the fan today, mainly just to check and sort out the potential problems arising with the previous efforts of maintenance. The rear reverse lights had stopped working, nearside indicator light and clear sidelight on the front bumper had also stopped working.

-The reverse lights was down to a fuse...
-The indicator light down to a broken wire, due to extracting the
headlight cluster...
- and the clear light/marker as in the picci >>> was disconnected, whoops!

All were repaired or corrected and at the same time, I also replaced the dull
light bulbs for a more 'white light' bulbs for the side markers. Looks good! >>

Topped up the radiator with the anti-freeze given to me the day before and
I bled the radiator, the whole job took at least half a day up to around 14:45.
this included tinkering with bits and pieces, as one does...

So what does that leave me to do now? Suspension and of course the A/C fan and also to charge the A/C. The jobs come and go....and some never end.... I may also be fitting new dust plates, we will see how it goes.

To cut a long story short, if at all possible; I ended up placing the cheap two wired fan in, just to fill the hole and put everything else back together. What a game, the times I stripped the lights down and put them back in for one reason or another. It was 9 pm and I had been defeated.

A neighbour was friendly enough to give me some water for the radiator and at the same time offered me some antifreeze, this gives me some hope for humanity a very nice gesture indeed. I did refuse at first, as antifreeze like everything else is becoming expensive; however he did insist and I accepted.

29.04.22 Out on my travels today the dreaded noise re-emerged from the off-side rear wheel, it is most likely down to the pin or pins releasing themselves from the dust shield/dust plate behind the brake shoes. I was not surprised considering how the pin holes were larger than they needed to be. The basic repair was not enough and therefore I have had to order two new dust plates, not great, considering the cost of living has sky rocketed, it is what it is... I have managed to get them reasonably cheap in comparison to some prices out there. 'Needs Must!' It will require me to spend most likely another day fitting the plates and reassembling the brake system, not looking forward to that, as my back took a beating at my previous attempt.

2*Rear Disc Brake Back Plate Pair for BMW 3 Series E30 E36 Compact Z3 NEW eBay £22.00 freeP+P - Location Lichfield-UK unit - china import

The question here is; do I cut the plates to get them around the hub?

07.05.22 After much deliberation and review of finances and debating my needs for using a car; without stressing my back out any more than it has to, I had decided to allow a local mechanic with a typical purpose equipped garage, also with a hydraulic lift; to do the job for me. Crawling on a mucky, damp ground or floor, just doesn't appeal to me at this time of year, especially after stripping the wheel down to correct the job once before, without success. I have made the commitment and the mobile mechanic will collect the Z3 and I am assuming he will also drop it back to me. As mechanics go, he has done some previous work for me in the past on various cars and he has proven to usually get the job done, reasonably priced, with at least 30+ years of experience to-boot. However, I did enquire around to other garages for prices and he had proven to be my best alternative; after varied quotes. So back to who I know, 'the proof of the pudding' so-to-speak and who will do the job to a satisfactory standard? (I do take each case at a time concerning my reviews, especially when other people work on my vehicles). So booked in for next Thursday morning, after the school rush, (12th May 2022). The car will only be used once or twice within this period on short journeys. I will be supplying the new back plates, shoe pins and springs. Price quoted, to do the job around the £45 per side, this was a good quote... So we shall see, concerning any additional costs that maybe added...it is never straight forward as one thinks on the day. (I will update the details after the job has been completed to add to my review). The list of outstanding jobs is still high, this one, unfortunately has not helped to diminish them.

12.05.22 Where do the days go? The time has come, the general unnecessary items have been extracted from the car, i.e. tools and personal belongings and the Z3 is ready for being picked up by the local mechanic, today... does anyone else feel the anxiety before they send their pride and joy to a garage?

Well worth the anxiety it seems, my local mechanic could not do the job, kept the car for half a day, before returning it, one can only presume he has never done this particular job before, or it was not as straight forward as many with experience would conclude, so this was weird, or he had a more pressing job and it may have been more worthwhile to him from a time point of view...either way this was just speculation, so it looks like I may have to look around for someone else to do the job. Since the car was back early; I decided to carry out a few errands, it has proven to be sounding out more from when I had worked on it.

As mentioned before, the car had been returned back reasonably early, an opportunity for me to complete a few more errands; during my excursions, I did notice steam coming from under the bonnet/hood and ended up having to stop to investigate. The top radiator hose had come off due to high water pressure, (So, the zip tie had not worked, who would have thought! ;)). That was down to me dropping the original hose clip down into the bowls of the engine compartment during my other 'pooped' project of refitting and replacing the AC fan, with the hose clip hidden somewhere, never to be seen again. I looked high and low at the time, hence the zip-tie... On top of that, today, the fuel was also very low, and the car was running on fumes. I had only noticed this when the warning light had come on, it was a 'hold one's breath situation', you know the one! I had only topped it up a couple of days before too! (The cost of fuel is ridiculous). The petrol garage I'd pulled into had decided to close down temporarily, due to a software glitch at all of the pumps ? And customers were having to wait a good 10-20 minutes, (why no one had, had the courtesy to tell those of us waiting in lines, whilst they were having problems on the forecourt; is your guess!). I didn't wait; after 10 minutes, I did manage to get to 'another' garage via a song and a prayer, proceeded to top-up with some relief, petrol as well...! They didn't stock what would be classed as essentials; such as radiator hoses, clips etc. only mobile phone accessories.. again, really? I ended up going to a local car parts retailer to get some adjustable hose clips and then proceeded to fit one. As the problem was with the top hose it was a quick repair. The radiator had enough water in it, to get me back home, just! I was also close to home, so it wasn't too bad. On parking up; and after inspection back at my garage, there was no noticeable lasting damage to the cooling system from what I could see and I was ready to top-up the radiator however; it was still a little too hot for my liking and cold water could crack the head. A couple of cannisters with water in them, placed in front of the car; would be a good reminder for me to top-up when the radiator had cooled down and for when I went out again. I also needed a coffee at this point. Friday 13th was the following day, (Yes I Know....), by this time I was ready to see what else was going to land on me.... and yes, all this seemed to be another period of hit and miss and I was well overdue for some more, considering the non eventful period I had, had. Did I mention I had received a speeding ticket just a couple of miles over the speed limit, recently? 'Just don't figure.....'

13.05.22 With water now topped up, (the reminder seemed to work!) I had also asked around the day before, during my errands at one or two car retail outlets; as I was still looking for potential quotes for someone to take on the rear dust plate fitting, there was one contact based in Earlswood, about 10 miles away, (in fact there were a fair few, when googled, this one; I was told they usually worked on BMWs, so I contacted them.) ' They came across confident and as if they had done this job a few times before, they also had a pool car, as to get me back home and back to pick up the car on completion of the work, this was very helpful, as they seemed to be out in the sticks. This time the quote was £60 per side as long as there were no hiccups... It would have been more if, I had not already supplied the parts and they explained they would cut and manipulate the one piece plates rather than strip out the diff and hub arms. Not ideal and one could question the skills of 'fitter-mechanics' today in this country? Needs must! This kept the quote down. They can only fit me in by appointment towards the end of the month, (25th May in the morning), no real urgency here at the moment, the scraping noise is only periodically on any one journey, however; I would not consider using the Z3 any more than I have to before the job is done. Again, we shall see what further events awaits.

25.05.22 Today the Z3 goes to another garage, this one is based in Earlswood, early morning rise, drop off at 8:30am with explanation to the problem. With the supplied parts, wheel-lock socket left and contact detail recorded, the mechanic asks me if I want both or one side done. As I don't want the job to be half done and the car to be lopsided, metaphorically speaking, my answer was obviously for both sides, I hand him my keys and he explains what he would be doing, fair dues, he was confident, sociable and then he handed me the keys to the pool car, a red diesel BMW hatchback, to get me back home with the instruction that the Z3 should be ready around 4pm.

The garage site was situated out within the 'sticks', through the country lanes and was in a very picturesque area, a long drive of course stones and a parking forecourt with further driveway to the garage with a good number of various models of BMWs parked up, next to it. The garage was of good size, spacious and looked to be well equipped also. All this, on the grounds of another business, it was functionally and environmentally pleasing to look at, well, in my opinion. I even saw another Z3, same colour with black soft top, (now was that a good thing, my anxiety increased to the first notch at least....?) In situations like this, I imagine my car becoming a donor, or is that just me with paranoia that I have manifested to do with garages in general over the years? Shaking off that thought a little, I now await....

- OK! Collected the car 15:30 paid over the quote for labour, by a great deal and paid for at least a litre of Brake Fluid, (this was a little dubious, in addition, I can normally get away with using much less brake fluid for a full brake change, let alone for just the rear, unless it was to fully to refresh the system, however I don't see any evidence, not even the bottle)? And there is VAT on top also. This is near the cost as if I was having the plates fitted via the conventional diff. method, in my opinion! Placing this to one side, I now have the scraping sound on both sides, I am a little disappointed! As soon as I got back home about 15 minutes later, I contacted the garage and the mechanic told me he would have it back in, sometime the following day when a pool car was available.

26.05.22 Good to his word the mechanic called me via phone, suggesting he would contact me later that day; as he was waiting for the pool car to return from another job. Some may suggest that I should have been angry about the problem however, this doesn't accomplish anything and nothing really surprises me today; or it is rare for anything to be plain sailing so, bearing in mind, this particular job of fitting dust plates, does occasionally require a good run to settle them in, mainly to adjust to the behaviour of the vehicle. The problem is really at starting off or slowing down at junctions or during cornering, this could also indicate that the problem may be with the brake adjustment and there is also the wheel alignment/tracking to consider too! There is also the heat being generated from the brake shoes and pads, transferring heat to the new plates, so! A number of things to be factored in. Would it have been any different if the dust plates had been fitted via the manufacturers install process, (installing the full one piece plate via the diff route)? Difficult to say, but most likely; not from my experience, as the vehicle weathers and forms to it's individual characteristics over time, adjusting to the dynamics of the vehicle. It is a trial and error process. By going via the diff. method would also make the job more expensive and increase the labour costs, possibly, (however this could also be debated). The added split in the backplate, could take longer, noting the cut does also allow for the distribution of stresses and reduces the chances of this scraping problem arising, in theory at least! Unfortunately not in my case, .... (nothing new there then!) Also note: Most later models of vehicles in general today, have gone over to the split plate design; for easy access and to reduce the cost of this type of repair and unnecessary replacement of already good parts, such as the wheel bearing, so do shop around and enquire if having to replace back dust plates, front and rear the prices can vary greatly, remember labour, VAT will also be added to the quote.

It is around 14:30; I received the phone call and I proceeded to drop the Z3 off, it was about an hour or two later, I received another phone call to say the adjustment had been completed and the Z3 was ready for pick up, the problem was down to having to re-manipulate the plates as, (suggested by the mechanic) they can be 'too flat' on the hub, perhaps requiring a very slight convex fitting. Another problem was aligning the various metal mechanisms within the hub without them catching on anything. Either way the problem was solved and it had been tested OK, at this point. The adjustment didn't cost any extra; fortunate, as the current cost paid already, was enough. The drive back was a big improvement, so we can put this down to another job done! (Credit goes to: AutoKraft Services Ltd, BMW Service Specialists, Earlswood and I am sure I will use them again if and when required and perhaps when the cost is more inviting).

30.05.22 Now I have the car back, I was contemplating some further improvements to the electrical system, as I was not too happy about the way some accessories were working/not working currently. Finding a suitable position for the fuel shut-off switch has also been a little irritating as there are not many hidden places to put it. This small switch malfunctioned a number of times and of course, caused a few delays within my travels, as this switch is a little too small and is fragile to function well it seems. It was also generating unwanted heat and I consider this to be a safety risk even though the switch is rated correctly, I will replace this for one more heavy duty. I also considered the A/C fan unit; requiring a separate switch on a two wired system, the daylight driving lights, the webcam too, as this does cease it's operation when one least expects it, as it cuts into auto-mode via the ignition and then decides to cancels, leading to shut-off. It most likely requires DC as it has not charged it's own battery enough and has depleted what change it had during it's time when stationery. This brings me onto possibly; a battery shut-off to prevent a battery drain generally. This made me consider a switch panel, OK, it does come with a push-start button and I may incorporate it into the Z3 or just blank it off, I haven't decided yet and will wait for it's delivery. It looks to be in-keeping with the style of the interior, possibly?

Other side of steering wheel X

Going back to 2018, the Start of the Renovation

Looking at the panel, I am getting to like the idea of a push-start. Wired up to also require the ignition key for security. The panel also came with a Relay. The problem arising is that there were no instructions or wiring diagrams.

Please go to the Workshop for more related details

24.06.22 - I Must say, I cannot believe it has taken me this amount of time from my last entry to sort out a wiring diagram for this switch panel, the various online video channels have not really helped either, as they have left some vital information out or they have customised their connections making it redundant to what I need. Many decided to not add a relay, also placing their vehicles at risk of possible overload and risk of fire. However I haven't really been in too much of a rush. It has allowed me to proceed slowly on the basis of trial and error to see what works and what doesn't. At the same time as to compiling a wiring diagram and I believe I now have an appropriate diagram needed to wire up this job safely.

Checkout Workshop pages 26-26c (for larger diagram)

I was also under the impression that when testing a relay, it should click, mine didn't and I ended up deciding to replace it. I now have two relays that don't click. I do get the bulbs to illuminate via both relays so I can only assume they both work as current is getting through?

I did order a relay tester, possibly a useful tool and addition to the toolbox for future projects.

The next task is to install the panel and connect the appropriate accessories...
job pending. It looks cloudy out!

26.06.22 - Today I am planning to dive into rewiring the accessories on the Z3, label and distribute to 2 internal fuseboxes and connect the new switches on the dash. I am between two minds of looking forward and dreading the process, as the crimper for the terminals can be, let us just say, a pain. There is of course the labelling too. So what are the details?

                        Task                                                                                                    Result
1. Switches are now attached to dash                                                      - Done
2. Add/attach and route running lights at headlight level and grill level. - Done Headlight Level - not working - pending
                                                                                                                  - Grill lights just didn't look right so decided not to fit
                                                                                                                    them.
3. Re-route the WebCam wiring-add switch                                             - pending (down to time)
4. Re-route Radio wiring                                                                           - pending (down to time)
5. Re-route Exhaust Cut-off to fuse box (has separate switch)
    suddenly not working                                                                            - possible fuse? Blown Motor? pending
6. Have a look at the push Start wiring on steering column                      - sometimes illuminates, sometimes not....weird!
7. Re-route wiring for the USBs and GPS hub                                          - pending (down to time)
8. Route A/C Fan re-wired using existing wiring 2 to 3 wire connector     - Done - functionality? pending (down to time)

Well it is a start - a little disappointed, as spent the whole afternoon trying to get the switches to illuminate, after painstakingly attaching the front headlight level running lights in place, even sorted out a new earth point under the dash. A circuit like this doesn't normally cause me many problems, however something has gone astray. (what's new?) Without my testing gear, I will have to re-visit this project another day and I will also need to label the fusebox, if and when I can get the circuits to work. Fuel Cut-out is working satisfactory, with a new switch. (this was not on the main fusebox circuit). Perhaps this is an tell-tale towards a identifying the problem? Cars.... at this point, love them or hate them.

see purchases for details

21.06.22 - BMW Z3 4th Anniversary - fifth Year

Check out new tool to open unit Click

A new addition to my Diary Click on to my - Political, cynical and truthful opinions Page - Check out this page

I have just noticed an email that caught my eye asking me a question on electric cars... I couldn't resist:

23.09.22 Well! I know this next item doesn't really have anything to do with the Z3, however I will record it here. From the 19th to 23rd of this month I have near enough, (last day), completed my renewal of my CPC for HGV, certificated and near done and dusted. This should cover me for the next five years and most likely see me out. I now have to decide on whether to renew my ADR, So far I have covered nine courses in the past two months to date, including others other courses, unrelated to driving, the ADR will now make it 18 so far Aug-Dec). The ADR requires 5 exams. This would take place towards the end of October 2022 and should allow me to recharge my study batteries before and if I decide to renew, there will be some discount for using the same company as of before and something one to consider. I use a very good company in Birmingham, CPC Nationwide Ltd and I do highly recommend them.

21.10.22 OK, ADR renewal commences 24th to 28th October 2022, once one has motivated oneself, to these government money making schemes, something we didn't need years ago until politicians decided to top up their allowances, (much like the BBC TV Useless Licences, but I am digressing), these driving qualifications, well, it can be difficult to give them up once one has achieved them, I am sure there are veterans out there that can appreciate what I am saying. These cards can be useful; if and when one needs them.... (it's like going to work and forgetting to put one's trousers on, well that's my analogy).

22.10.22 Someone has just asked me, 'what is ADR?' As far as I am aware, it stands for: In terms of Logistics/Transport:

ADR stands for 'Accord Dangereux Routier'

Click on the link for further details on ADR

For Further Information

'French; don't you know!', -no surprise there then...

Since one or two have enquired about the CPC, ADR & TACHO, I have included this description! Don't bother commenting on my photos, I know.....

29.10.22 I thank those that have given me welcomed moral support in terms of kind words and more so the interest in the subject. The ADR Course is now complete. I am feeling good in terms of a pass result for all, five course module exams, it was intense... and there is a wait for the results.

This exams are based on mainly the revision side and 140 questions each time a different paper if one has done it before, no mean feat between day 4 and 5, difficult based on one's ones short-term memory and particular learning style that is, for me at least, one would think I would be use to examinations, nope! It was apprehension all the way, on each exam, weird considering how many I have done throughout my life. A wait of a few weeks to confirm pass results and this will be valid for another five years. Whether I continue with it after that time, I will need to cross that bridge when I come to it.
So, now back to the uneventful routine for now, dark weather, rain and winter months for the time being.
10.12.22 Course CPC and ADR Updates, received both certificates and passes.... Wooo!

15.12.22 Another Christmas! Time is flying by, Wishing you all a Merry Christmas, let us see what the new year brings...let us hope it is better than the last ten years.....;)