Hi all,
After my recent wanted ad and first post about going from an E46 to 197,and armed with the knowledge about gearbox issues, blowing manifold flexi's, clunking steering and the importance of a cambelt change, i finally made the plunge and picked this up on Monday 8)
Black wasnt my first choice, i think it looks understated on first glance (especially with the silver speedlines) but looking at the paintwork it has lovely metallic flecks.
Bank holiday monday came and i didnt waste any time with my new car ritual of a basic service;
Changed engine oil, filter, pollen filter, air filter and gearbox oil and had a good check of the suspension, brakes and underneath (always a nervous time for a new owner). Didnt get chance to use my antifreeze tester as i shattered the glass when trying to set it up (cut my finger good too!).
First impressions - its a very different place to be than the old E46 (to be expected), reminds me very much of my old 182 / 172 (which is a good thing).
No major plans, but after having a good look around it on Monday i have drawn up a list;
1. Brembos - these seem 'grabby' at slow speeds, i am thinking there is a siezed piston somewhere (the brakes are very good). The discs and pads are in good order, i have ordered some replacement pins and new brembo stickers. Thinking of re-painting in yellow as they are currently a flaky black
2.Replace air box as its currently drilled. Had a price from Renault of £71 inc vat - if anyone has one drop me a pm.
3. Have a blow behind the centre silencer (looks like the original 1 piece system is still on) along with a fubar'd center rubber mount. Plan to replace the mount (ordered one today) and unsure what to do about the blow (read the threads about cutting it out and replacing with straight pipe - unsure at the moment). May also fit exhaust tips to the rear. Any tips on which ones to get?
4. Full polish and wax, as being black has some swirling etc. I am no detailer but happy to give my DAS6 a whirl to tidy things up, Poorboys black hole and some Collinite to finish.
5. Grilles / Diffuser - these have been painted black (which i can understand) but the finish isn't the best, so will probably get these re-done.
Comments welcome roud:
After my recent wanted ad and first post about going from an E46 to 197,and armed with the knowledge about gearbox issues, blowing manifold flexi's, clunking steering and the importance of a cambelt change, i finally made the plunge and picked this up on Monday 8)
Black wasnt my first choice, i think it looks understated on first glance (especially with the silver speedlines) but looking at the paintwork it has lovely metallic flecks.
Bank holiday monday came and i didnt waste any time with my new car ritual of a basic service;
Changed engine oil, filter, pollen filter, air filter and gearbox oil and had a good check of the suspension, brakes and underneath (always a nervous time for a new owner). Didnt get chance to use my antifreeze tester as i shattered the glass when trying to set it up (cut my finger good too!).
First impressions - its a very different place to be than the old E46 (to be expected), reminds me very much of my old 182 / 172 (which is a good thing).
No major plans, but after having a good look around it on Monday i have drawn up a list;
1. Brembos - these seem 'grabby' at slow speeds, i am thinking there is a siezed piston somewhere (the brakes are very good). The discs and pads are in good order, i have ordered some replacement pins and new brembo stickers. Thinking of re-painting in yellow as they are currently a flaky black
2.Replace air box as its currently drilled. Had a price from Renault of £71 inc vat - if anyone has one drop me a pm.
3. Have a blow behind the centre silencer (looks like the original 1 piece system is still on) along with a fubar'd center rubber mount. Plan to replace the mount (ordered one today) and unsure what to do about the blow (read the threads about cutting it out and replacing with straight pipe - unsure at the moment). May also fit exhaust tips to the rear. Any tips on which ones to get?
4. Full polish and wax, as being black has some swirling etc. I am no detailer but happy to give my DAS6 a whirl to tidy things up, Poorboys black hole and some Collinite to finish.
5. Grilles / Diffuser - these have been painted black (which i can understand) but the finish isn't the best, so will probably get these re-done.
Comments welcome roud:
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