This car has brought about much head scratching to solve its drivability issues - as yet unsolved. I must extend gratitude to forum members Tinuva and Blue Shirt for their advice and time helping me learn this new platform. BMW Fanatics are awesome
I checked the functioning of my DISA valve, fixed a massive vacuum leak - replaced the intake boot and temp sensor O-ring and cleaned the vanos actuator (it was a bit sticky). I also cleaned the ICV and throttle body.
I was getting erratic power delivery and intake CPS errors. I sourced an OEM CPS (had some aftermarket junk in there) and my CPS errors went away. The VANOS seems to be functioning well now, INPA command vs actual are tracking well. There is no longer that "bump" in power when one gets past 4000rpm. However, I do feel that it is down on power compared to how it had been when erratically functioning well. I have read on some dark corners of the internet that bad wheel speed sensors can cause drivability issues - so this is the next thing to fix. Which brings me to the 330i brake upgrade I did.
For reasons only known to BMW, the 330 has larger diff output shafts and requires the whole trailing arm assembly to be changed when upgrading to the 330i rear brakes. Upon installation, I noticed that one reluctor ring was missing, meaning the RR wheel speed does not read - cue no ABS, no traction control and unintentional sideways action at intersections. I think this may also put the car in a bit of a "limp mode" hence the slight lack of power. I f*$king hope so at this point anyway... My adaptations are well within limits and I am not getting any codes, except for 214 - Vehicle speed signal.
After my horrendous experience with aftermarket brake discs, I bought OEM from the stealerships as we cant get ATE locally. I also changed the diff and gearbox fluids while the car was in the air.
Next up, I installed my black nappa handbrake boot. Im not sure I like it, I will try installing a black centre console (just need to source black cupholders) to see if that works better, otherwise I'll go back to my grey handbrake boot.
I then managed to convince someone selling a non-runner township E46 to swap his M-tech 1 bumper with mine plus some change
paint is not that great, but not any worse that my original bumper and matches the rest of the cars paint...also fitted a pair of clear front indicators which really modernizes the car - will change the fender indictors and source the blanking plates for the front bumper.
Lastly, I found a set of 10mm spacers lying around, fitted them to the rear, but I feel like it could have another 5-10mm more poke...Has anyone here tried spacers on Style 68s? Im thinking 15mm all round, maybe 15mm in front, 20mm at the back...
As always, the touring has been super useful:
