Discussion
Just brought it the final couple of miles home, complete with Blue Peter number plates. 
What should I spot at the garage up the road but a facelift tii. The owner was just as shocked as me!
I’ll take some pics of mine once I’ve given it a bit of a clean.
What should I spot at the garage up the road but a facelift tii. The owner was just as shocked as me!
I’ll take some pics of mine once I’ve given it a bit of a clean.
Edited by 1602Mark on Thursday 23 May 06:06
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
I'm not sure why, but this thread appears twice in my bookmarks, and every post within it is duplicated ...odd?
Anyway, you posted above about carb linkages, but then linked to Arto Martelius' exhaust site. I know the other chap on PH who did his "tii" recently bought a Martelius system. I used to have one on a prior vehicle.
From my experience, if you buy a system from him, and even though it's shipped all the way from his shop in Finland, he's a good chap to deal with if anything may be wrong.
Aside from that, loving the car you've bought and I shall watch with interest.
Anyway, you posted above about carb linkages, but then linked to Arto Martelius' exhaust site. I know the other chap on PH who did his "tii" recently bought a Martelius system. I used to have one on a prior vehicle.
From my experience, if you buy a system from him, and even though it's shipped all the way from his shop in Finland, he's a good chap to deal with if anything may be wrong.
Aside from that, loving the car you've bought and I shall watch with interest.
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.
I didn't realise that they made a 1600Ti......!
A new badge seems to have appeared on your 02...
Really like the car; a friend has a 1502, that has some rust issues,( in 'colorado orange ?) and also a pile of spares ( seats, interior etc from a 2002 IIRC)
I have always like the 02, but if I had one I would be tempted to 'improve' it like yours.
A new badge seems to have appeared on your 02...
Really like the car; a friend has a 1502, that has some rust issues,( in 'colorado orange ?) and also a pile of spares ( seats, interior etc from a 2002 IIRC)
I have always like the 02, but if I had one I would be tempted to 'improve' it like yours.
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.
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