RE: Got My 325 iX !!!

["Derek van Veen" <derek@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Answers to your questions:

1)  You might as well have the water pump replaced at the same time as the
timing belt.  Most of the labor cost is in getting to the parts.  Make sure
that they replace all the seals in there as well--oil leaks onto the timing
belt = shortened life.

2)  Yes.  You want the Bentley Manual.

3)  I like the Pirelli P4000.  They're good in the wet and pretty quiet.

4)  Sounds like they gave you the wrong muffler...the 325iX's were all 2.5L
motors w/ dual downpipes and exhaust.  You may want to ask for the correct
one, or get your money back and buy a SuperSprint (costly but effective and
long-lasting--not too loud).

5)  See # 4

6)  I've heard good things about the K&N, but I also am concerned about
sucking warm air into the motor rather than cold air.  Perhaps you should
try using a K&N filer in the stock airbox?  That's what I'm planning on
doing.

7)  I'm planning on getting a chip as well.  I'm putting my money on Jim
Conforti's chip, rather than BA or Dinan.

8)  Alpine makes a nice changer that uses a small wired controller as well
as a wireless remote.  Runs through your FM radio (just program a station to
an empty band--usually the lowest or highest).  It's the CHM-S655RF and
should cost about $250-300 installed.  You can mount the controller/display
to the dash trim under the tach/temp gauge next to the steering column.

9)  I've been using an aftermarket battery for some time and have had no
problems...touch wood.

10)  Try a wrecking yard first (when in doubt, be cheap).  BMP or BAS may
have trunk lids (although I've not seen them listed in the catalog).
Otherwise, you may have to go to the dealer and get violated.

11)  BMP is nice (http://www.bmpd.com) for performance stuff.  Join BMWCCA
and get the Roundel as well...lots of valuable info.

Regards,

- -Derek van Veen
 '86 325es

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