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RE: ALLDATA



>>>>Bob Duckworth<<<<    wrote:
>>>>Excuse me if I missed this thread, but has anyone had any  
experience with thes CDROMS?
Thinking of plunking down my $$ but wanted to call for backup  
before I jump.<<<<

Bob:

I have found the ALLDATA CD to be a valuable "augmentation" to the 
usual shop manuals for my 7 serires.  I certainly would not reccomend 
it as an ONLY source of info.  I was somewhat disappointed by the lack
of search or other navigational tools.  Some of the sub-sections are not 
where I would logically expect them to be but after using the program a 
little, you can usually find what you are looking for.

The wiring diagrams are good, but sometimes small print is hard to read. 
The photos depicting locations of components (all black & white) are nearly 
useless, no contrast or poorly scanned.  Drawings and diagrams on the 
other hand are pretty good, especially useful if you have a decent laser or 
deskjet printer.  Allows you to print instructions, diagrams etc. and take it
right out to the car, sure beats trying to prop open reference books.  Helps
to keep the books in better shape, although my keyboard gets dirty faster.

The parts & labor feature, while by no means complete, gives you some 
idea what to expect cost wise, as well as OEM part numbers, and the labor
figure gives you an inkling of how long it will take you.

For the $50 I get access to ALL BMW models for my particular year (the 
CD itself covers 82 to 87, Acura thru Yugo).  If a guy had multiple models of
the same year it would be a particularly good deal.  I assume you can buy 
access to additional years/models at a reduced cost??  Also be advised that
the software takes about 6MEG on your hard drive, but installation is a snap.

If you are expecting WizBang grapics and a multimedia experience you will 
be disappointed.  But I consider it money well spent.

HTH
Kevin   
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