Discussion
Well it looks like it could be a while before I have a UK registration and can drive the 02 again. It hasn't stopped me from having a good poke around and assessing exactly what I have though and making some plans for the direction I'd like to take it.
If I had the cash, I would have loved to do an s14 conversion but they're just too expensive nowadays. I've seen untested 2.3's make £8k+ and then there's at least that amount again, were I to rebuild it and fit a carbon air box. A cheaper option would be an m42 or m44, which would give me a free revving 16v and around 140bhp. I had an E21 316 running the same conversion, albeit with a close ratio gearbox and 4:1 final drive, which was much quicker than the numbers suggest. Another option might be to bin the twin 45 Webers and go ITB's and DTA management instead? Although it's running and driving pretty well, the lumpy Schrick cam and head work mean it's a bit all or nothing. There's a low down flat spot that I could map out and improve drivability. The cost of ITB's is pretty high though, especially when you then factor in standalone, fitting and mapping. There's no rush though. The only immediate mechanical upgrade I have planned is a new exhaust and race manifold from Martelius. I have to say they've been terrific and rather than just send any system that fits, they took the time to ask my exact engine specification, what I will be using the car for and whether I had any specific wants? They're building me a free flow system with a slightly smaller primary, so as to try and not lose any torque. It's only a 1600 after all. The 4 branch is also being ceramic coated which might be a bit overkill for my car, but who doesn't like a bit of overkill every now and again? Especially with those new Webers and the cam cover I'm fitting. It should look pretty sweet under the bonnet. I also need an aftermarket washer reservoir as the OE one doesn't fit with a fancy exhaust manifold fitted. Anyway, I'm hoping the exhaust will arrive next week some time?
The other thing I just remembered is the twin carb linkage! It's currently a bit Heath Robinson so I'm going to fit a period Magard set up. Luckily I found a used one online and the carbs should operate much more smoothly once fitted. I'm also wondering if I should be running an air box / filter? I've heard differing opinions so if anyone knows for sure, please chime in.
https://martelius.com/en/
Inside I would like a kind of period race car look and feel. I may not fit a roll cage but ideally it'll be like an older version of what my E30 M3 was. I've already ordered some new seats from Cobra and went for their Interlagos. I did quite fancy the RSR but they're a bit too narrow for someone of my generous proportions. I'm dieting for the Interlagos as it is!
I've already fitted a period Personal 3 spoke steering wheel but what I really need is a new carpet set. I had thought about trying to clean up the original one but it's just too far gone. Instead I figured I would remove the whole interior and take the opportunity to clean and paint the whole floor. Once I've done that a new carpet and seats will transform things. I've also managed to find a period Britax race harness that wasn't stupidly expensive. I'm on the hunt for a passenger one but there's no urgency. I certainly won't be paying £480 for the one of eBay!
https://www.cobraseats.com/seats.html?pid=39&c...
Much as I like the (Indianapolis) alloys currently fitted, I also have some genuine 02 BBS in 13x6 and I think they'll be a better look. I want to stay with 13's as they just look right to my eyes. The suspension is Bilstein all round, with custom springs that are much firmer than stock. I do want it a bit lower though, so may have to have some springs made? Another inch lower would be perfect. I won't be going to the expense of coilovers though, as there's just no need.
I think I need to change the registration to my old MIG plate from the M3 too.
If I had the cash, I would have loved to do an s14 conversion but they're just too expensive nowadays. I've seen untested 2.3's make £8k+ and then there's at least that amount again, were I to rebuild it and fit a carbon air box. A cheaper option would be an m42 or m44, which would give me a free revving 16v and around 140bhp. I had an E21 316 running the same conversion, albeit with a close ratio gearbox and 4:1 final drive, which was much quicker than the numbers suggest. Another option might be to bin the twin 45 Webers and go ITB's and DTA management instead? Although it's running and driving pretty well, the lumpy Schrick cam and head work mean it's a bit all or nothing. There's a low down flat spot that I could map out and improve drivability. The cost of ITB's is pretty high though, especially when you then factor in standalone, fitting and mapping. There's no rush though. The only immediate mechanical upgrade I have planned is a new exhaust and race manifold from Martelius. I have to say they've been terrific and rather than just send any system that fits, they took the time to ask my exact engine specification, what I will be using the car for and whether I had any specific wants? They're building me a free flow system with a slightly smaller primary, so as to try and not lose any torque. It's only a 1600 after all. The 4 branch is also being ceramic coated which might be a bit overkill for my car, but who doesn't like a bit of overkill every now and again? Especially with those new Webers and the cam cover I'm fitting. It should look pretty sweet under the bonnet. I also need an aftermarket washer reservoir as the OE one doesn't fit with a fancy exhaust manifold fitted. Anyway, I'm hoping the exhaust will arrive next week some time?
The other thing I just remembered is the twin carb linkage! It's currently a bit Heath Robinson so I'm going to fit a period Magard set up. Luckily I found a used one online and the carbs should operate much more smoothly once fitted. I'm also wondering if I should be running an air box / filter? I've heard differing opinions so if anyone knows for sure, please chime in.
https://martelius.com/en/
Inside I would like a kind of period race car look and feel. I may not fit a roll cage but ideally it'll be like an older version of what my E30 M3 was. I've already ordered some new seats from Cobra and went for their Interlagos. I did quite fancy the RSR but they're a bit too narrow for someone of my generous proportions. I'm dieting for the Interlagos as it is!
I've already fitted a period Personal 3 spoke steering wheel but what I really need is a new carpet set. I had thought about trying to clean up the original one but it's just too far gone. Instead I figured I would remove the whole interior and take the opportunity to clean and paint the whole floor. Once I've done that a new carpet and seats will transform things. I've also managed to find a period Britax race harness that wasn't stupidly expensive. I'm on the hunt for a passenger one but there's no urgency. I certainly won't be paying £480 for the one of eBay! https://www.cobraseats.com/seats.html?pid=39&c...
Much as I like the (Indianapolis) alloys currently fitted, I also have some genuine 02 BBS in 13x6 and I think they'll be a better look. I want to stay with 13's as they just look right to my eyes. The suspension is Bilstein all round, with custom springs that are much firmer than stock. I do want it a bit lower though, so may have to have some springs made? Another inch lower would be perfect. I won't be going to the expense of coilovers though, as there's just no need.
I think I need to change the registration to my old MIG plate from the M3 too.
My only problem is I know absolutely nothing about turbos. Actually that's not my only problem but it's certainly one of the bigger ones. That said, a low pressure set up used to be a common mod on US e21's, so there may be some used kit available? I'm sure there will be some info out there at least.
Meanwhile, I want to sort the linkage on the Webers and get the Magard fitted.
Meanwhile, I want to sort the linkage on the Webers and get the Magard fitted.
Well the DVLA are exceeding all expectations and proving to be utter knobs when it comes to registering the 02. Evidently the email from BMW wasn't worded just how they want it. It would seem common sense is in short supply with the DVLA. Anyway, as I can't use the thing I figured I would use the time to start the jobs I have planned.
The reason I opted to import an 02 from Greece was the hope there would be much less corrosion to deal with. As a result, when I felt the carpet in the driver side footwell was damp alarm bells started ringing! The carpet is pretty stinky anyway, so I had already planned to replace it with a new aftermarket one. So after undoing eight 10mm bolts I lifted out the front seats and removed the carpet, seat belts, centre console and anything else that was in the way. It only took about ten minutes to expose the whole of the floor and inner sills. What was also exposed was a hole in the pedal box that had been allowing all manner of crud into the cabin. It's not a big deal to repair, as it appears to be quite a common problem, but I'm glad I found it before any rust was able to take hold in the floor pan and sills.
What I'm thinking is that I should clean up the floor with a flapper wheel and / or wire brush and then paint it with some sort of rust inhibiting paint? There are so many products available now though, that I'm unsure of the best solution, so any advice would be much appreciated. It just needs to be something I can do on a DIY basis, as I don't have the cash to pay someone else to do the job.
As well as fitting a new carpet and some sound deadening material I have also got to replace the OE rubber panel that covers the pedal box. My biggest concern though, is making sure the whole cabin is water tight. I want to be able to use the 02 in all weathers but sodden carpets, and all the problems they can bring, just isn't something I want to live with. I need to make sure any potential leaks are properly sorted.
This is the hole that needs sorting. I will strip, clean and lubricate all the pedal assembly.
The clocks are coming out to be replaced with the earlier 'silver dollar' type.
Much as I like these alloys, I'm thinking of selling them to fund the new carpets etc. Once they have a proper refurb' they'll be gorgeous.
I also have some genuine BBS Mahle to replace them which I think will just be better suited to the kind of look I'm hoping for.
The reason I opted to import an 02 from Greece was the hope there would be much less corrosion to deal with. As a result, when I felt the carpet in the driver side footwell was damp alarm bells started ringing! The carpet is pretty stinky anyway, so I had already planned to replace it with a new aftermarket one. So after undoing eight 10mm bolts I lifted out the front seats and removed the carpet, seat belts, centre console and anything else that was in the way. It only took about ten minutes to expose the whole of the floor and inner sills. What was also exposed was a hole in the pedal box that had been allowing all manner of crud into the cabin. It's not a big deal to repair, as it appears to be quite a common problem, but I'm glad I found it before any rust was able to take hold in the floor pan and sills.
What I'm thinking is that I should clean up the floor with a flapper wheel and / or wire brush and then paint it with some sort of rust inhibiting paint? There are so many products available now though, that I'm unsure of the best solution, so any advice would be much appreciated. It just needs to be something I can do on a DIY basis, as I don't have the cash to pay someone else to do the job.
As well as fitting a new carpet and some sound deadening material I have also got to replace the OE rubber panel that covers the pedal box. My biggest concern though, is making sure the whole cabin is water tight. I want to be able to use the 02 in all weathers but sodden carpets, and all the problems they can bring, just isn't something I want to live with. I need to make sure any potential leaks are properly sorted.
This is the hole that needs sorting. I will strip, clean and lubricate all the pedal assembly.
The clocks are coming out to be replaced with the earlier 'silver dollar' type.
Much as I like these alloys, I'm thinking of selling them to fund the new carpets etc. Once they have a proper refurb' they'll be gorgeous.
I also have some genuine BBS Mahle to replace them which I think will just be better suited to the kind of look I'm hoping for.
Edited by 1602Mark on Thursday 30th May 09:10
Thanks guys.
The choice of exhaust was after seeing how good Scotts turbo arched 02 looked.
I had planned on going with Cobra seats but that might have changed. I have a nice period bucket seat though and a period Britax 3 point harness that would go really well with it. I don't want a 'restored' look so used seats etc might well be a better option?
The choice of exhaust was after seeing how good Scotts turbo arched 02 looked.
I had planned on going with Cobra seats but that might have changed. I have a nice period bucket seat though and a period Britax 3 point harness that would go really well with it. I don't want a 'restored' look so used seats etc might well be a better option?
New exhaust and manifold arrived and am really pleased with the quality. Combined with the RamAir filters on the 45's, it should still sound fruity but a little quieter / more civilised than it is now. I hope anyway.
New carpet set and sound deadening should be here today so hope to make a start on sorting the interior this weekend. It's not the best quality carpet but was bought from someone who'd had it in storage for a year or two and came at the right price. Either way, it has to be better than what was in there. I'm just determined to make sure the cabin is clean, dry and leak free.
Hagen & Fred send their love.
New carpet set and sound deadening should be here today so hope to make a start on sorting the interior this weekend. It's not the best quality carpet but was bought from someone who'd had it in storage for a year or two and came at the right price. Either way, it has to be better than what was in there. I'm just determined to make sure the cabin is clean, dry and leak free.
Hagen & Fred send their love.
Yes, they did indeed make a 1600ti and am making mine a homage to the original.
Much as I like original 02’s I much prefer them when they’ve been tastefully modified. I’m trying to keep everything period, although modern rubber and decent brake pads are going on. I have been looking at ITB’s but it’s a lot of cash so considering an engine swap instead. That’s a way off yet though.
If anyone has, or knows of, any spares please shout! I’d really like a pair of early bumpers.
Much as I like original 02’s I much prefer them when they’ve been tastefully modified. I’m trying to keep everything period, although modern rubber and decent brake pads are going on. I have been looking at ITB’s but it’s a lot of cash so considering an engine swap instead. That’s a way off yet though.
If anyone has, or knows of, any spares please shout! I’d really like a pair of early bumpers.
Had a few minutes spare so fitted the early style gauges this morning. I much prefer the way they look. Also made a start on cleaning the floor pan and taking it back to bare steel. I have a new, black carpet set and sound deadening ready to go in and hopefully the seats will soon arrive from Cobra UK. Best of all though, I solved the wet floor issue when I spotted the rubber drain hoses are missing from near the heater box. They're notorious for blocking anyway, so I just ordered a new pair from Walloth & Nesch in Germany. I'm really happy that I should now have a bone dry cabin once the whole new interior trim goes in.
Also fitted some air filters.
Also fitted some air filters.
B'stard Child said:
1602Mark said:
I fitted a set of those in a restricted area and it sucked the filter foam into the bellmouths and tore the filter rendering it uselessI’ve emailed them and asked them to send me more detailed and any reviews they might have from previous buyers. I’d certainly like to lose the servo although I’m thinking of going with an m42 engine swap, so the need to remove it (for the air filters) may be negated?
My BBS Mahle finally arrived last night. They were a bit of a steal and cost just a little more than I’ve seen people sell the centre caps alone for. They’re in great condition too. That said, I was toying with the idea of diamond cutting / polishing the outer lips? I’m just conscious of their value as a set of original 02 alloys.
I’ve decided to from the suspension by another 35mm all round. I’m not going to go with coilovers as this is predominantly a road car, so I will most likely just take a coil out of the current springs. There are unrated Bilsteins front and rear so there’s no issues there.
The new exhaust and manifold is going on today or tomorrow.
Hopefully the DVLA can finally register the 02 and allocate an age related plate, although my old MIG plate will most likely go on there eventually.
My BBS Mahle finally arrived last night. They were a bit of a steal and cost just a little more than I’ve seen people sell the centre caps alone for. They’re in great condition too. That said, I was toying with the idea of diamond cutting / polishing the outer lips? I’m just conscious of their value as a set of original 02 alloys.
I’ve decided to from the suspension by another 35mm all round. I’m not going to go with coilovers as this is predominantly a road car, so I will most likely just take a coil out of the current springs. There are unrated Bilsteins front and rear so there’s no issues there.
The new exhaust and manifold is going on today or tomorrow.
Hopefully the DVLA can finally register the 02 and allocate an age related plate, although my old MIG plate will most likely go on there eventually.
Sorry about the pics being on their sides.
Well the new manifold and exhaust system are on and it sounds much better. Mind you, the old system looked like it was made from old bean cans and pigeon pooh so hardly surprising. Quiet it ain't though! Certainly has a bit of a rasp to rival the induction noise from the 45's! The rear valance was straightened whilst we were at it and the centre exit tail-pipe clears it nicely. (When I say 'we' I actually mean the chaps at ARM and my overdraft facility!)
Unfortunately there seems to be an oil leak from the diff rear cover although it looks like a gasket failure that someone has tried fixing with silicon. The steering arm is also a bit bent and it really needs new track rod ends. Generally the mechanicals are pretty sound although we will work our way right through the car over the winter. Right now the plan is to do anything urgent and then just enjoy it for the summer months. The underside is nice and solid, although it really wants stripping right back and protecting properly, along with wax in all the cavities. That will be on the job list for the winter, along with a possible swap to an injected 16V.
There are a few aesthetic changes too. The front bumper is a bit battered so it wasn't a tough decision to chop it about and make it look much cleaner / simpler to match the lines of the car. This included binning the overriders and shortening the bumper irons so that the bumper sits closer to the body. There were also a few holes to weld up and some dolly work to remove the odd ding or three. It just looks so much better and all it needs now is to be re chromed. Unfortunately it's just so expensive that we opted to try chrome powder coat first. I know it sounds like that chrome aerosol that Halfrauds used to sell but it's actually pretty good. The whole front end just looks so much nicer now. It's amazing just what a difference such a few subtle changes have made to the overall look. I'm really pleased.
I'm hoping the seats will arrive from Cobra UK soon, as they'll transform the interior. Especially with the new black carpet. I also asked ARM to fabricate a clutch foot rest like the one they did in the E30 M3.
Typically I forgot to take any photos but I'll pop over tomorrow and grab some.
Well the new manifold and exhaust system are on and it sounds much better. Mind you, the old system looked like it was made from old bean cans and pigeon pooh so hardly surprising. Quiet it ain't though! Certainly has a bit of a rasp to rival the induction noise from the 45's! The rear valance was straightened whilst we were at it and the centre exit tail-pipe clears it nicely. (When I say 'we' I actually mean the chaps at ARM and my overdraft facility!)
Unfortunately there seems to be an oil leak from the diff rear cover although it looks like a gasket failure that someone has tried fixing with silicon. The steering arm is also a bit bent and it really needs new track rod ends. Generally the mechanicals are pretty sound although we will work our way right through the car over the winter. Right now the plan is to do anything urgent and then just enjoy it for the summer months. The underside is nice and solid, although it really wants stripping right back and protecting properly, along with wax in all the cavities. That will be on the job list for the winter, along with a possible swap to an injected 16V.
There are a few aesthetic changes too. The front bumper is a bit battered so it wasn't a tough decision to chop it about and make it look much cleaner / simpler to match the lines of the car. This included binning the overriders and shortening the bumper irons so that the bumper sits closer to the body. There were also a few holes to weld up and some dolly work to remove the odd ding or three. It just looks so much better and all it needs now is to be re chromed. Unfortunately it's just so expensive that we opted to try chrome powder coat first. I know it sounds like that chrome aerosol that Halfrauds used to sell but it's actually pretty good. The whole front end just looks so much nicer now. It's amazing just what a difference such a few subtle changes have made to the overall look. I'm really pleased.
I'm hoping the seats will arrive from Cobra UK soon, as they'll transform the interior. Especially with the new black carpet. I also asked ARM to fabricate a clutch foot rest like the one they did in the E30 M3.
Typically I forgot to take any photos but I'll pop over tomorrow and grab some.
Nunga said:
Is it not perky enough with the current motor, or are you just badly bitten by the tinkering bug?
It's OK but typically (for dual carbs, lumpy cam and a distributor with points) it can be a bit all or nothing. Also, getting anything like 160 - 180 brake from an m10 engine is expensive, whereas an M44 are 140 brake from stock and can be had for peanuts and include fuel injection and all the benefits that brings. My MPG would literally double and it would just be a smoother, more responsive drive. Ideally I would have liked an s14 but they're just too much cash. BDS performance do a lot of mods for the M42/44 and 180 is easily achieved for a reasonable cost on an M44 running stock cams. 180 brake will make an 02 quite lively as they don't weigh much. I have been known to tinker.
Edited by 1602Mark on Friday 14th June 07:15
Edited by 1602Mark on Monday 17th June 05:51
@illmonkey - no it's had some paint and just looks more obvious in pics. It's nearly 50 years old though, so to be expected I guess?
I just need to get some early style door mirrors now.
I've also made a decision to go 1.9 twincam on ITB's once the summer is over. An m44 is a relatively cheap 190bhp and an 02 LSD should handle that.
I'm amazed at the attention it's been getting in the sun. Lots of positive comments and thumbs up. Certainly been fun putting a few miles on it.
I just need to get some early style door mirrors now.
I've also made a decision to go 1.9 twincam on ITB's once the summer is over. An m44 is a relatively cheap 190bhp and an 02 LSD should handle that.
I'm amazed at the attention it's been getting in the sun. Lots of positive comments and thumbs up. Certainly been fun putting a few miles on it.
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