Where to get parts other than the stealers??

[Nic_s]

So there are a few things on the 540i that needs replacing. For one I need a new viscous clutch and fan blades. BMW quoted me R850 for the blades and R3000 for the clutch. I'm sorry, but I refuse to pay them that kinda money as it's clearly overpriced. :nono:

So then my search began on finding these parts else where or maybe to go with an electric fan. My problem is that I don't really know where one could find these parts here in SA and I'm finding. I have found a few overseas places, but I have no idea what brands are good or not.

For the viscous clutch I found this: http://www.eeuroparts.com/Main/PartDetail.aspx?id=11527502804
(The blades are also like half what BMW quoted me)

and this: http://www.bimmerzone.com/BMW_Parts_Cooling_Fan_Clutch/PRT-11527502804.html
(This one's part number is the same as on RealOEM)

... but it seems that you should rather go for Sachs as some people on the net say that BEHR doesn't always work they it should. :dunno:

So I need a place/site that has a good reputation and you get these parts (Preferably Sachs).

Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[Spy007]

goldwagen, bimmerman, midas, Im sure some one here ahve a contact other places aswell>

 

[zaleonardz]

Lots of stuff to be had at Bemows as well.

 

[Nic_s]

goldwagen, bimmerman, midas, Im sure some one here ahve a contact other places aswell>

They will mostly carry aftermarket parts which I'm trying to avoid while avoiding BMW's insane prices. I mean really?? R3k because it's in BMW packaging... and then you can get it for around R500 from bimmerzone.

I just found that FEBI also makes these parts, but what would the quality be like?? I don't know what it will cost, but on the net it doesn't seem that it's cheaper than what I posted in my first post. Locally it should be cheaper, so I will go find out during my lunch today for interest sake.

I think I'll order from Bimmerzone. Has anyone else ordered from them and was it any good??

Thanks

---

Lots of stuff to be had at Bemows as well.

Sent them an email. Thanks

 

[moranor@axis]

i would way rather go electric... why just fix it when you can make it better?

 

[Nic_s]

i would way rather go electric... why just fix it when you can make it better?

Any suggestions as what type of fan to use and how to install it? If I just fix I can do it myself easily. An electric conversion will most like involve some modifying which I don't want to do either.

 

[moranor@axis]

i got no idea whats involved but there must be plenty of write ups on it i dont think it will be too tricky

 

[shanghailoz]

If the 540i is similar to the E36 328i (which I suspect it is), then I'd say remove it, and do the fan delete mod/electric fan replacement, but up to you.

Try the usual suspects for parts here - engineparts and bemows..

Good Instructions on removing/replacing the fan -
http://www.maxbimmer.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1347481
(and one which does it the long way, but with pics, which is useful for doing the short way)
http://www.beisansystems.com/procedures/e39_fan_procedure.htm


Should be a 2 min job from underneath allegedly.

 

[royco]

While on the subject of parts i'm looking for info of converting my standard 316i 1992 engine into a single turbo conversion. Is it worth the effort and cost.

 

[moranor@axis]

While on the subject of parts i'm looking for info of converting my standard 316i 1992 engine into a single turbo conversion. Is it worth the effort and cost.

how long is string?

 

[Nic_s]

I've already ordered from bimmerzone. Should get the parts this week.

I tried finding some good write-ups for the M60 motor, but didn't really find anything. In the end I decided to just keep it stock as I prefer it that way anyway.

Will report back once I get the parts :thumb: