My new daily - 525ix Touring

[AndrewBird]

Hello, my name is Andrew. I just recently picked up a 94 525ix touring. It is a 5-speed and has all kinds of nifty euro options on it. I've mostly been fixing a lot of the minor problems it has and thoroughly cleaning it. My plans for it are H&R springs/Bilstein struts, some kind of 17" or 18" wheels and then basically just enjoy it. I've already done a few things to it and will let the pictures explain.

Picture from the for sale ad
https://db.tt/0n49ttNR

First picture I took, in the rain
https://db.tt/bh9pjP7r

Cleaning the seats. Started out gentle and ended up using Superclean to get them clean. They were NASTY.
https://db.tt/BjAWWW4i

https://db.tt/80S0Zoo1

https://db.tt/I4f4uDdJ

https://db.tt/Nmup9xja

https://db.tt/3ucGdr2F

Center console cleaning
https://db.tt/cA4HikVS

https://db.tt/kQfWKJRy

Clean carpet
https://db.tt/xFeHNx2M

Interior (mostly) clean
https://db.tt/Ge47Pt5e

Headlights were all hacked up by previous owner. He opened up the hole in the reflector, glued HID bulbs in place with Gorilla Glue, then filled the back of the reflector with blue silicone.
https://db.tt/oNHozPS6

Excess, unneeded headlight wiring
https://db.tt/4LwpabGR

Need a new cabin filter BAD
https://db.tt/WwY0mi63

https://db.tt/J2vDpJKf

All red tails
https://db.tt/5fkv0YPH

Smoked
https://db.tt/UTTUqiEt

5-channel amp and Luke box install awaiting 10-channel crossover
https://db.tt/vplk7220

https://db.tt/mwOGSuAL

Hacked up, horribly soldered stock radio wiring
https://db.tt/2MZ9VK71

10" Obcon Sharktooth woofer
https://db.tt/x3cHLJDK

Sublevel control flush mounted.
https://db.tt/429tA7Pu

https://db.tt/le7q6diq

Trim painted black with Rust-oleum black textured paint. All the rest of the trim to follow.
https://db.tt/BkCpyEGG

First meet, AbeBQ 2013
https://db.tt/T9Xw1UTl

And for those wondering, I'm active on R3vlimited and am the one putting an M42 in my MGB-GT (hence the signature). Josh Anderson (admin over at R3vlimited) is my brother-in-law. I've helped him with his car since he got into E30's way back when.

[BoldUlysses]

Welcome, Andrew! Great pick up. She looks beautiful! :thumbup:

[ShapeShifter]

Very cool, seem like you are not wasting any time.


Enjoy!

[Leonator134]

Diggin' it! Looks cool!

[Binjammin]

Janders is your brother in law? :confused

[Layne]

My plans for it are H&R springs/Bilstein struts, some kind of 17" or 18" wheels and then basically just enjoy it.

I think you're going to find that only factory shocks will fit the ix. Why would you lower an awd anyway? That's just silliness. You can probably use some type of 3 series wheel. You need a much higher offset than any other e34. Close to 45-50mm if I recall.

[Mishimoto]

Awesome touring! Subscribed for updates.

[TouringGuy]

Cool touring.


I want to see pics of this MGB GT!

[janders211]

Janders is your brother in law? :confused
I am married to his brother.

[Binjammin]

I am married to his brother.

All things considered, I think it's more odd that a guy 2/3 the way across america is your brother in law.

[AndrewBird]

Janders is your brother in law? :confused

http://www.r3vlimited.com/board/member.php?u=7421


I think you're going to find that only factory shocks will fit the ix. Why would you lower an awd anyway? That's just silliness. You can probably use some type of 3 series wheel. You need a much higher offset than any other e34. Close to 45-50mm if I recall.

From what I've found, standard Bilstein's will fit. And why not lower an AWD car? Just because it's AWD doesn't mean it's only for driving off-road or something. :rolleyes Besides, H&R Sports hardly lower the car at all. I just want to get rid of the fender gap and stiffen it up a bit.

Stock wheels are 54mm offset, but I'm fairly certain I could fit up to 20mm spacers all around, so something in the 40-45mm offset will work, which is e36, e46 and 1-series fitment.


Cool touring.


I want to see pics of this MGB GT!

http://www.r3vlimited.com/board/showthread.php?t=198933

[Binjammin]

Why are most of the pics in your r3v thread missing? :(

[AndrewBird]

Oh, sorry about that. I need to go back through and fix them. They were hosted through an account I no longer have.

[Binjammin]

This is actually of relevant interest to me. I have a friend with a 77 Midget we've been restoring together for years. At one point it was running, and long story short (when I wasn't there) the maiden voyage ended with a burned piston and scored bore, on a fresh engine build. We debated what to do with it, I mentioned m42 and also a 2 rotor, but she wanted to stay with the stock 1.5. I'd really like to see all the pics of the m42.

[janders211]

All things considered, I think it's more odd that a guy 2/3 the way across america is your brother in law.
It's not me - I am not on r3vlimtied.

OP- car is looking great, and coming along nicely.

[AndrewBird]

Why are most of the pics in your r3v thread missing? :(

Got the first 4 pages fixed. I'll do the rest when I have more time.

[pugnut87]

Very Cool Touring!! And better yet an IX with a 5 speed. Awesome.

[PorscheH6]

Sweet, another Andrew in the house.

Nice ride.

[mgoods50]

Wow. I'm foaming at the mouth! Very niiiice!

subscribed for aspiration :)

Great job cleaning up the hacks too. I hate that!

[Binjammin]

So, uh, I just went through that whole thread of yours and I have to say it's impressive. I've got a couple questions though... first off, why did you stand the engine upright? It looks like it would have saved a ton of work if you'd left it angled like stock... the second, and I didn't see it addressed anywhere... how are you going to adjust for the lean of the tranny with the shifter?

[AndrewBird]

I stood the engine upright for clearance. The MG engine bay is really narrow and there was no way it was going to fit slanted and still clear the hood. And hood scoops are hideous.

Shifter will simply be a matter of custom linkage, which I would have to make anyway.

[Elekta]

457488

What's going here? Can a sub fit and still be flush with the carpet?

[AndrewBird]

This was mostly just a template to get the angle. The actual box isn't finished yet, so I'm really not sure what it will look like, but I do know it will stick further back than that.

[AndrewBird]

Made a new shift boot and e-brake boot tonight. The vinyl I found matches my M5 shift console almost perfectly.

https://db.tt/pvg381jI

https://db.tt/t8PIOPrX

https://db.tt/Fy3YbcPp

https://db.tt/6Ia65eVY

[mgoods50]

Hey slow your roll, bro- :)

What are you using to make such nice things? How about a pic of the flipside :)

Freekin awesome, btw.

Tell me more about the Euro appointments, please.

- - - Updated - - -

Ugg- I can't read... "M5 console"...

[AndrewBird]

Using a Viking Emerald 118 sewing machine, nothing special. No pics of backside, but nothing really to see either. Looks just like stock.

I have quite a bit extra vinyl and plan to make up a few shift/e-brake boot sets and sell them. More on that once I get them made.

[mgoods50]

I realized you were talking about the shift surround. But I was so focused on the bends in the base I got sidetracked until I re-read and saw M5...

Nice work. I've been contemplating buying a machine for this and that, but my wife's Dad is a [real] tailor. The kind that makes suits to order etc. He did some work for me for my M3. Regardless- good for you, and obviously quality work! Kudos! :)

[Hoolie]

Some people here uses Bilstein front struts for S60 or was it V70 AWD cars.. They're not cheap either..

If you can get a deal on the OEM ones from the dealer im guessing it will be alot easier. IX parts isn't something you just sumble upon.. Rare even here in europe.

You can use most 5x120 BMW OEM AWD wheels.. Ie all the X cars.. The X5 19" are popular..

Have a peek on the front drive shaft and drive axels.. The front shaft needs to be inspected.. They can pop out and eat the splines :(

[moroza]

Ooh, nice car. I wonder if an S52 will fit on your special oilpan, and if the center diff can take it (I recall reading that the 325iX viscous center wasn't too durable)?

[AndrewBird]

Some people here uses Bilstein front struts for S60 or was it V70 AWD cars.. They're not cheap either..

If you can get a deal on the OEM ones from the dealer im guessing it will be alot easier. IX parts isn't something you just sumble upon.. Rare even here in europe.

You can use most 5x120 BMW OEM AWD wheels.. Ie all the X cars.. The X5 19" are popular..

Have a peek on the front drive shaft and drive axels.. The front shaft needs to be inspected.. They can pop out and eat the splines :(

I will likely end up running stock struts (so I can retain the LAD rear struts) and running H&R sport springs. UUC has the springs for $219 a set.

Wheels are high offset (54mm), but I'm fairly certain e36 wheels and 1-series wheels will fit very nice. X5 wheels won't fit as they are a different centerbore and run larger diameter bolts/studs.

I've already inspected the entire car. Both front axels are in good shape, as are their boots. I have one that is starting to show some cracking, so a new boot/repair kit is on the list. Front driveshaft looks good as well.


Ooh, nice car. I wonder if an S52 will fit on your special oilpan, and if the center diff can take it (I recall reading that the 325iX viscous center wasn't too durable)?
Not so sure about S52, but I'm fairly certain a US S50 would fit easily.

All that being said, my radiator decide to blow this weekend. Started leaking VERY badly along where the plastic end tank meets the aluminum core. Mishimoto for an e36 is ordered and will be here Wednesday. I also plan on replacing my motor mounts as I suspected they might be worn/sheared, causing the hose to pull on the radiator more than they should. The sticker on the radiator had a date of 2002 on it, it is a Behr unit.

I found quite a lot of sludge in the bottom of the overflow tank. I'm thinking it must be stop leak, which leads me to believe the previous owner new of the problem and tried hiding it for a bit.

https://db.tt/J7qACvyS

I also got this overflow tank:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003C0176G

Along with a few fittings that will allow me to plug the factory spider hose into the bung on the bottom of the tank. I'll be plugging the upper port and connecting the smaller overflow hose to the port on the filler neck. I plan to mount it where the stock bottle would be, since the e36 radiator is narrower and there should be room. Will make for a clean install. Pics to come once installed.

Not exactly sure what I plan to do with the level sensor. I might just jumper it and tie it up somewhere out of the way.

[Playgunz]

Good stuff Andrew, can't wait to see when your done.

[stevenc3828]

Hello, my name is Andrew. I just recently picked up a 94 525ix touring. It is a 5-speed and has all kinds of nifty euro options on it. I've mostly been fixing a lot of the minor problems it has and thoroughly cleaning it. My plans for it are H&R springs/Bilstein struts, some kind of 17" or 18" wheels and then basically just enjoy it.


Hello from the UK and a fellow 5 speed 525iX Touring owner from across the pond.

Shoot me a message on here with your email address and I'll send you the 525iX reference document I and fellow iX owners have put together. It is a large document with lots of pictures, comparisions of parts, unique parts etc.

BMW offered "low slung sports" shock absorbers, spring and arbs. Part numbers are on BMWfans.info or realoem for all but the springs. The iX document has spring part numbers. I have this setup on my own e34 and find the ride and handling much better without being harsh or allowing too much roll. Rear shocks are as per rwd e34.

You can order parts direct from BMW Germany http://shop.bmw-classic.com/index-ClassicDE-WFS-en_EU-EUR.html

I have 8j wide 17 inch Alpinas from an e36 on my car with 245/45 r17 tyres. The front tyres rub a touch on full lock so 235/45 may be a better option
461455


Alpina offered the B10 Allrad with 3.0 m50 engine of 86mm stroke = http://www.alpina-archive.com/?page_id=179
461454

[ishcan]

Drool. iX and 5-speed. Glad to see a rare car get the proper treatment.

[Binjammin]

All that crap in the radiator, is it slimy like? Or is it like sediment?

[AndrewBird]

Hello from the UK and a fellow 5 speed 525iX Touring owner from across the pond.

Shoot me a message on here with your email address and I'll send you the 525iX reference document I and fellow iX owners have put together. It is a large document with lots of pictures, comparisions of parts, unique parts etc.

BMW offered "low slung sports" shock absorbers, spring and arbs. Part numbers are on BMWfans.info or realoem for all but the springs. The iX document has spring part numbers. I have this setup on my own e34 and find the ride and handling much better without being harsh or allowing too much roll. Rear shocks are as per rwd e34.

You can order parts direct from BMW Germany http://shop.bmw-classic.com/index-ClassicDE-WFS-en_EU-EUR.html

I have 8j wide 17 inch Alpinas from an e36 on my car with 245/45 r17 tyres. The front tyres rub a touch on full lock so 235/45 may be a better option
461455


Alpina offered the B10 Allrad with 3.0 m50 engine of 86mm stroke = http://www.alpina-archive.com/?page_id=179
461454
I plan on running H&R sport springs with either stock struts or the sport ones you speak of. Figured I'd see how the springs do with stock struts, then upgrade if necessary. Might take it a step further and do something custom, but we will see.

I generally get all my parts from Blunttech. Steve is a good guy and has great prices.


All that crap in the radiator, is it slimy like? Or is it like sediment?
It was a rubber/gooey consistency. Kind of like congealed beef fat. It was fairly solid, but you could mush it with your fingers. Nasty stuff.

[struka]

holy crap that is an insane solder on the radio. WOW

[AndrewBird]

Got the new radiator installed this weekend. Everything works great! Car actually sits about a needle's width below halfway on the gauge, even with the AC on high in 80º weather. And that is with no engine fan.

Bottle I used. With the fittings I used, everything is plug and play, no extra hoses needed.
https://db.tt/2lJdsOFD

https://db.tt/4DV0hVdZ

https://db.tt/gUo9bZa0

https://db.tt/ZRRPa8st

Bottom stock hose plugs right in.
https://db.tt/xOIJXa5P

Not sure if I like how this turned out. Too many clamps, just looks messy. I'll figure out something else soon.
https://db.tt/qVRxyGuO

Stock upper gasket needed a slight trimming.
https://db.tt/9mfNLH2u

https://db.tt/1N2neQAw

https://db.tt/ekXILA5E

I'll make a new thread explaining in detail what parts I used and how I did it and post the link here.

- - - Updated - - -

Here is a write-up on the radiator install:

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2003202

[Danni540]

Sweet Touring! I used to have an iX once, automatic though. It was rear ended so I parted it out. Still have all the iX specific stuff except the oil pan. Sold it. Converted the engine to RWD spec and sold that one too. Was relieved to find out the M50 doesn't have a different oil pump like the M20 iX cars do.

These cars do wonders in the snow! With proper snow tires there's no stopping them. Really want another one before next winter...

[johnqh]

"Got the new radiator installed this weekend. Everything works great! Car actually sits about a needle's width below halfway on the gauge, even with the AC on high in 80º weather. And that is with no engine fan."

that may not be a good thing. The engine temperature may be too low when the car is moving. The optimal temp is the middle. Neither too high nor too low is good.

[Binjammin]

he could always move to a higher temp thermostat. that radiator may just be WAY more efficient than the stock unit.

[HornetE34]

AndrewBird, What type of paint did you use on the tails? Did you just spray with red over the orange???

[sse34]

Have any pictures of your tails on the car? I have Been thinking about doing that for awhile and wonder what it looks like on a green touring like mine

Besides that car looks good and awesome job on the boots they looks great

[AndrewBird]

"Got the new radiator installed this weekend. Everything works great! Car actually sits about a needle's width below halfway on the gauge, even with the AC on high in 80º weather. And that is with no engine fan."

that may not be a good thing. The engine temperature may be too low when the car is moving. The optimal temp is the middle. Neither too high nor too low is good.

Even while driving around, it stay right around 1/2. Not too cold by any means.


AndrewBird, What type of paint did you use on the tails? Did you just spray with red over the orange???
I used VHT Night Shades. They make a transparent red and a transparent black. Sprayed the amber parts only first, then the entire taillight with the black. Masking took the longest. I plan on tinting my front turn signals and side markers at some point.

Red:
http://www.amazon.com/VHT-SP888-Red-Nite-Shades/dp/B005257R0O/ref=sr_1_sc_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1371206276&sr=8-3-spell&keywords=VHT+Night+Shades

Black:
http://www.amazon.com/VHT-SP999-Nite-Shades-Cover-Translucent/dp/B000CPCRS6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371206276&sr=8-1&keywords=VHT+Night+Shades


Have any pictures of your tails on the car? I have Been thinking about doing that for awhile and wonder what it looks like on a green touring like mine

Besides that car looks good and awesome job on the boots they looks great
I'll try and get a picture tomorrow.

[stevenc3828]

http://img96.imageshack.us/img96/4483/overallu.jpg



Are you going to cut the stock engine bay headlight covers to suit this setup?

Do the left hand drive 525iX's not feature the alternator cooling ducting?

[NickSmith]

Wow an IX touring and 5spd?! What a unicorn. Glad to see it's getting proper treatment.

[Wishno87]

The belt is supposed to go under the idler pulley. Otherwise looks like fun!

[AndrewBird]

Are you going to cut the stock engine bay headlight covers to suit this setup?

Do the left hand drive 525iX's not feature the alternator cooling ducting?
Not sure what you mean. The headlight cover is not in the way of anything.

And it should have the alternator cooling duct, but it was missing when I bought the car. Haven't gotten new ones yet.


The belt is supposed to go under the idler pulley. Otherwise looks like fun!
Thanks for the heads up, I didn't realize. lol

[AndrewBird]

Picture of the tail lights:
https://db.tt/69zm4Ily

Took a video of the rear auto leveling suspension working. Car was loaded with a dresser, welder, 80cu. ft. gas bottle and a German Audio Specialties subwoofer box.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnjQdGkrIuA&feature=youtu.be

Also have a question. My rear seat belts are a little funky. The side belts are fine, but the center belt is weird. The receptical is on the wrong side of the the DS recepticle, so the strap goes over the top of it. Then the buckle side is upside down. Here are pictures:

https://db.tt/NCGlmqts

https://db.tt/thwB32A7

The brackets are 1-piece, so they can't be installed differently or anything. What is going on here?

[sse34]

Lawls that's a fail I thought you was Oxford hahahah it's blue!!! But thanks thy look good

[AndrewBird]

Yup, I'm Orient Blue Metallic. I was wondering how a picture of my car would help you decide how it would look on your car. lol

[cddallara]

I'll check my rear seat belts out in a moment. In the meantime, pic(s) of your 'LukeBox'? :D

[AndrewBird]

Well, currently it's just an E30 10" box sitting in the back. lol I'll be picking up my Touring box at the E30 picnic in Washington in a few weeks.

[cddallara]

Ah, ok.

I didn't pull the seat bottom out, but my belts are the same from the topside. The middle one is 'outboard' of the driver receptacle. Never gave it much thought before...

[AndrewBird]

How very strange. It doesn't make any sense the way they are.

[AndrewBird]

Lots of updates!

Got my German Audio Specialties crossover and 10" subwoofer box installed.
https://db.tt/hAUgrAiz

Painted the chrome parts of the woofer black. The "shelf" on the top of the box is clearance for the cargo cover (which I don't have).
https://db.tt/ilO5LElU

Quick disconnect for easy removal for hauling cargo.
https://db.tt/vrKll1PR

Machined a mount for my floor jack that fits to the front cross member. Yes, the iX subframe is different than a RWD E34.
https://db.tt/ikqBm2Ow

https://db.tt/B5FWsapw

Muffler hanger was a bit rusty. Still need to get a replacement from the yard.
https://db.tt/tU4D4uUz

Replaced a BUNCH of hoses.
https://db.tt/lhuNfvbo

Cleaned my door panels and blacked out the belt line. Used Rustoleum textured paint on the beltline. Texture is very similar to the factory plastic trim.

SUPER dirty (and a bit overexposed).
https://db.tt/MN0MiCYV

https://db.tt/m7csR6gw

https://db.tt/1QzeEQXD

https://db.tt/bKvl64nO

https://db.tt/RwZ2wSk8

Built a glovebox organizer. I was tired of everything sliding all over through every turn.
https://db.tt/mq5EDFKZ

https://db.tt/DYJWEM32

https://db.tt/TQq3Dh5a

Made a new fuse box sticker. The stock one is in German and was useless since I don't speak German!


https://db.tt/uakUpuz7

Attended 5erWest for the first time and showed off the car.
https://db.tt/HXJBpM1g

I also replaced the vanos seals as they were dead. Currently need to replace a leaking water pump and what I believe to be a bad O2 sensor. All that will come next week once parts show up.

[Crabfish180]

I like your work :) nice glovebox organizer...
I got the same sub box as you with quick release for caego haulin :o

sent from my microwave using tapatalk

[shortbaldguy]

Man, I spotted that thing about a month ago sitting in the driveway next to the sweet little e30 and almost peed my pants!! I had no idea there were any 525ix's in the neighborhood. Nice car. I hope to see it around sometime.

[AndrewBird]

Yup, that was me parked at my brother-in-law's house, Josh (Hugo Stiglitz, admin over on R3vlimited) and his e30.

[sse34]

Would you considering making this glovebox organizer for me for some money? Let me know please via PM

[cddallara]

We have the same box, crossover, and sub! :D

Only difference is my box is dark grey, and I haven't painted the hideous sub yet.

What are you powering it with?

[AndrewBird]

I have this amp:

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_43835_Precision-Power-PPI-BK580.5.html

Made a custom panel out of 1/4" MDF to mount it on.

https://db.tt/IELU31fq

https://db.tt/Q74ovXit

[cddallara]

http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q4/cddallara/202E9D92-F257-45EA-8814-F62CCC83C6AB-4719-000003A941299159_zps52445fb1.jpg
:D
Luke fabbed up a couple quick brackets for it.

[AndrewBird]

A few small updates. Made a new fuse box sticker for the fuse panel under the rear seat.
https://db.tt/bOMXhifY

And hit a curb in the snow and bent/broke a wheel. :(
https://db.tt/CjDOvHuI

Currently running my (slightly bent) spare wheel, but this means I have no spare tire. Probably end up getting new wheels next summer and putting this factories on the shelf.

[Hoolie]

A few small updates. Made a new fuse box sticker for the fuse panel under the rear seat.

And hit a curb in the snow and bent/broke a wheel. :(


Currently running my (slightly bent) spare wheel, but this means I have no spare tire. Probably end up getting new wheels next summer and putting this factories on the shelf.

You can use X5 and other BMW awd rims as they have the high ET too...

Should be a tad easier to find in the US.. :)

[AndrewBird]

You can use X5 and other BMW awd rims as they have the high ET too...

Should be a tad easier to find in the US.. :)
I can actually get these wheels new for about $320 each, but I'm not about to spend that on these.

I've read people run x5 wheels, but they use 14mm lug bolts where as e34s use 12mms, so I'm not so sure they work properly, despite people running them. :sketchy:

E36, e46, 1 series, z3 and a few others all have similar fitment and the same center bore and lug spacing, so finding different wheels is not a problem. I'm looking at style 125's currently, but we will see when the time comes.

[AndrewBird]

Forgot about these pictures. Replaced the CV boots on the front left axle.

Dirty axle
https://db.tt/BbryKCJj

Clean
https://db.tt/oEqFkd2g

https://db.tt/m0ZFx0ul

Joint back together
https://db.tt/jnmEgUTa

Finished.
https://db.tt/mnYPsHG4

Also made up a tool kit to keep in the car.
https://db.tt/eu3sUDJR

https://db.tt/iNitxSXj

Sockets and stuff are in the bottom, then the rest is on a removable panel. Egg crate foam on the bottom of the panel and the lid to the box to keep everything from rattling. The orange case is a ratcheting screwdriver with a bunch of different bits.

[atl530i]

The tool box is a cool idea. Looks great

[TGreene]

Yeah, I like that a lot. Well done.

[inkacola]

All I have to say op is that I'm in like with your car.

[Teddy Bomber]

I can actually get these wheels new for about $320 each, but I'm not about to spend that on these.

I've read people run x5 wheels, but they use 14mm lug bolts where as e34s use 12mms, so I'm not so sure they work properly, despite people running them. :sketchy:


E36, e46, 1 series, z3 and a few others all have similar fitment and the same center bore and lug spacing, so finding different wheels is not a problem. I'm looking at style 125's currently, but we will see when the time comes.

exactly! . . on a "ix" you can use any E36 / E46 wheels with NO Problem at all . .


this was my old 525ix sitting on a set of E36 Rims . . fits absolutely perfect . . same lugs . . pretty much same et . . same everything . . my ALPINA B10 Allrad (a modified 525ix) uses the same 8x17 ALPINA rims as the early E36 ALPINAs came with . . .

http://img717.imageshack.us/img717/9059/img5274p.jpg

[Kinghorn]

Excellent craft work and skill on just about everything you touch! and quite the utilitarian touring you own. I'm just curious as to why I haven't seen this thread yet because it has amazed me...

So OP do anything recent to this sexy touring?

[AndrewBird]

Yes, I do have some updates, but have been busy with moving and a new job, so I haven't had time to post. I'll get some of the broken pictures fixed and post some new ones up soon.

[KingDavidsCourt]

I was not aware the touring came in an AWD... That's awesome.

Sent with a 0 and 1 creating smoke signal generator

[AndrewBird]

December

Found this weird ass buzzer someone wired in.
https://db.tt/jClu9rdi

https://db.tt/SOQuKPpL

Shitty soldering job.
https://db.tt/AbfqF0f0

Re-crimped properly.
https://db.tt/6l6xybCX

Made up a new rear fuse box sticker.
https://db.tt/bOMXhifY

Got a new control arm to replace the one I bent when I hit a curb in the snow. $190 form the mutterland. Ugh.
https://db.tt/eWfJZwip

https://db.tt/2KcpdQ8n

Sway bar mounts here.
https://db.tt/fIfvIKWs

- - - Updated - - -

January

Pulled all the suspension to replace the control arm.
https://db.tt/Id6OwePs

Was definitely bent...
https://db.tt/Mrg7oIRq

New one installed.
https://db.tt/fkzUcj2B

And here are some pictures of the front suspension for those who are curious. COMPLETELY different from RWD cars.
https://db.tt/9LtsLn8T

https://db.tt/cQ1uY4e0

The big hole you see is where the axle goes. Just kind of "snaps" into place, no bolts.
https://db.tt/0KpSQDTw

https://db.tt/7VExbaHr

https://db.tt/ghte2FiZ

The strut is clamped into the knuckle, much like an E46. The strut is obviously shorter than in a RWD car.
https://db.tt/kP8hvCkk

Got some snow tires, so I took them down to get mounted to a set of Hockenheims I picked up cheap. Two sets of wheels/tires with room to spare!
https://db.tt/MoVmWpb6

The wheel center cap nuts were blue, so I stripped them and powdercoated them black. They were beat to hell from someone using pliers on them.
https://db.tt/ggsye1Rf

Snow tires are MEATY.
https://db.tt/Z8LdZs4R

It's it's natural habitat.
https://db.tt/w3rJv7Hw

- - - Updated - - -

March

I picked up a set of Euro smilies for cheap and proceeded to clean them up and smoke them.
https://db.tt/VapSqKZG

https://db.tt/jTaAPNZK

https://db.tt/vFeYTvpJ

https://db.tt/CKVjHZ4V

Old lights.
https://db.tt/pq8gJxSK

New lights.
https://db.tt/ARdh3BB9

Also got new roundels. I HIGHLY recommend getting OEM roundels. The cheap aftermarket ones are garbage by comparison.
https://db.tt/t4tqk4LW

Figured out that my HVAC problems where cause by broken plastic around the front vent flap servos, so I made some reinforcements out of aluminum sheet metal.
https://db.tt/QjNHhPwG

Broken plastic. To find "home" the servos move in one direction until they hit something and stall, then move the other direction and do the same. The HVAC computer then moves the servo to where it needs to be based on these locations. Because the plastic was missing, the servos would turn farther then they were supposed to and get all out of wack.
https://db.tt/gXzY8OFy

Reinforcement test fit. Took some trial and error to get them bent correctly.
https://db.tt/lRCXCvOl

From further away to show the location.
https://db.tt/mt0wej2h

Then epoxied them into place.
https://db.tt/5CBtiOlY

https://db.tt/9cby4q55

Servo back in place.
https://db.tt/sxoaAUZW

https://db.tt/OJhNWnc3

The driver side was MUCH more difficult to get to, so I only took one picture. Note the messy application of the epoxy as well. Very little room to get in there.
https://db.tt/fKPIy6j4

It worked out great though. It's now been over a month with no issues.

[Binjammin]

It's stunning how similar the setup of the front suspension is to the e46 xi cars. I'd not be very surprised to find out that things fit pretty close.

[AndrewBird]

April

Retrofitted the black flashlight out of a late model car (E38) into my car.
https://db.tt/5GcXqRdx

More info here:

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?2099479-Late-Model-Glovebox-Flashlight-Retrofit

- - - Updated - - -


It's stunning how similar the setup of the front suspension is to the e46 xi cars. I'd not be very surprised to find out that things fit pretty close.
While they are similarly designed, they are completely different and none of the parts are shared. I wish they were though, would make getting parts a lot easier (and cheaper).

You can use E46 outer CV boots though. They are the same or very close to the same size as E34ix boots. MUCH cheaper and more readily available though.

[Binjammin]

April

Retrofitted the black flashlight out of a late model car (E38) into my car.
https://db.tt/5GcXqRdx

More info here:

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?2099479-Late-Model-Glovebox-Flashlight-Retrofit

- - - Updated - - -


While they are similarly designed, they are completely different and none of the parts are shared. I wish they were though, would make getting parts a lot easier (and cheaper).

You can use E46 outer CV boots though. They are the same or very close to the same size as E34ix boots. MUCH cheaper and more readily available though.

hah I know, but what I mean is that like... you could probably get the control arms to bolt right up. They'd be wrong and wouldn't locate everything properly, but it would fit. That sort of thing. I'd be pretty surprised if the axles fit, but to be honest I wouldn't be THAT surprised, given how similar the e34 and e46 are dimensionally.

[chuddism]

Dude. Your craftsmanship is epic. I love that toolbox.

[AndrewBird]

May

Updated the vanos and replaced the unit with one I rebuilt. Had a heck of a time with a bad idle problem. Ended up being the stupidest thing. I accidentally put the little piston that is in front of the vanos solenoid in backwards. So basically the vanos was never turning off. I pulled the vanos completely apart and put it back together 4 times before I found the problem.

https://db.tt/VR3w0H4M

https://db.tt/59GrbtCc

June

Looked down today and saw this:
https://db.tt/q0IcujOz

E30 picnic is next weekend! I will be there with my car (but not in the show obviously).

[AndrewBird]

"Fixed" the crack in my bumper from the previous owner. I eventually want to replace it, but this will do for now.
https://db.tt/cst7vmWR

https://db.tt/wTQoTqlx

https://db.tt/RlLUEf10

https://db.tt/eMg9Zrh5

In the last picture you can see how the fog light mount was part of the break. It would move all over the place and was pointless to aim. Also realized both lights were missing several screws to hold them in place. Now everything is nice an solid again.

Also got my front axles rebuilt.
https://db.tt/1EUpDbGu

Borrowed a pair form Nando (over on R3V) to run while I had mine rebuilt. Only took a day, but cost $249 each. One was really bad and they had to weld some grooves and re-grind the joint. Should be good to go for a long time though!

[B10 BITURBO]

Congratulation with this 525ix

is there any info on how FEW,, 525ix are in USA ??

there is a colossal difference ,, manual vs auto.. the auto is unbeliveble slow
here in Iceland there are some of them left,, but many are in bad condition

[AndrewBird]

Been a while since I've updated. Lots has happened!

July 2014
Went on a drive up Mt. St. Helens
https://db.tt/meE8jX0n

https://db.tt/2qn19IAP

https://db.tt/J7KrxBGK

https://db.tt/zJ3e82ZL

https://db.tt/k5YBKhrG

https://db.tt/aehPiJkp

Started working on a small project. Lighted rings around the door locks.
https://db.tt/ZIkQPgdE

And then 5er West here in Portland
https://db.tt/fEP3LiFb

https://db.tt/y4CK6KjH

https://db.tt/nSHay3mQ

- - - Updated - - -

July 2014

Got some new wheels.
https://db.tt/5e2rr22Y

https://db.tt/53Pvxyal

Took a drive to the coast.
https://db.tt/eYQ9qlgm

September 2014

Got some new factory floor mats to match my front ones.

Before
https://db.tt/oEsAMVqJ

After
https://db.tt/Woa0uDXF

October 2014

Fixed some of the hatch wiring. Everything is now fully functional!
https://db.tt/vElOM6iE

- - - Updated - - -

November 2014

Modified the rear wiper arm to fit a standard plastic end piece.
https://db.tt/27y29pvK

https://db.tt/5iepXIIZ

Just enough clearance.
https://db.tt/d2meppG7

Then this happened...
https://db.tt/dRllHVTb

https://db.tt/n8yCa3gF

Pulled the head off.
https://db.tt/zTyoB31H

Found out one of the bolts had broken. Probably installed improperly.
https://db.tt/hj6Mm6Tw

https://db.tt/GkWBvIpN

Pulled the head completely apart.
https://db.tt/dVWLpIvS

Tool I made for compressing the valve springs. This was a prototype. The one I used I made from steel.
https://db.tt/apVUjuZn

Got everything clean. Also had the head skimmed and disassembled ALL the lifters and cleaned them thoroughly. That was a TON of work.
https://db.tt/U4eLI2J9

Ready to go back on.
https://db.tt/zxiFGs85

All back together.
https://db.tt/P5YAosuN

Did I mention I did all of this in the parking lot of my apartment complex? lol

- - - Updated - - -

January 2015

My engine ground strap had seen better days...
https://db.tt/4ww71xT1

So I made a new one.
https://db.tt/XukQqmYS

February 2015

I moved this month, so DO WERK touring.
https://db.tt/0QCilTrz

https://db.tt/2hDxGpPm

Also made a loft bed from lumber, so more DO WERK.
https://db.tt/NFWRtUCI

https://db.tt/bh69nQuo

March 2015

Took a drive on a local twisty road named Germantown Road (no joke).
https://db.tt/c3XdjQ6H

And finally we get to today. Last time I changed the oil I cross threaded the drain plug, so I did an oil change to fix it.
https://db.tt/kk6D7J8E

While it was in the air, I pulled the front driveshaft to inspect the splines and grease them.
https://db.tt/4BBkXMS2

Dust seal.
https://db.tt/gFQLRSdF

If you don't keep the splines greased, they wear out. I was kind of worried about digging into this as I hadn't had it apart since I've owned it and was fearing the worst. Thankfully, the splines look great! One less thing to worry about.

Anyways, that's all for now!

[Old525i]

Outstanding work.

[amarino]

omg all that interior cleanup. I need to get on your level.

[The Night Rider]

Great work, impressive that you did the head work in the parking lot. Cool E34 too.

[S61Dan]

Awesome thread

[BleedsBlue]

omg all that interior cleanup. I need to get on your level.

+1

OP, I would love to buy a car from you some day. Ideal PO.

[mgoods50]

This is what MY touring WANTS to look like :)

Awesome- Love it all!

And, awesome you could do that in the parking lot. Too many complainers where I live. I can't even check the engine oil level without somebody complaining to the office.

[AndrewBird]

Thanks guys!

Yeah, the apartment complex was pretty ghetto, so I don't think anyone really cared. The office might have if they had seen it, but they are a bunch of worthless douches anyway. So glad I don't live there any more. lol

Just went to DEQ for the first time today and passed with flying colors. HC limit is 220, I tested at 84, CO% limit is 1.0 I got a .0628 and CO+CO2 (%) I think is a minimum of 6 and I got 14.6.

[stilljester]

I'm glad to see this car is getting some love; you are treating it right no doubt.

What the original factory radio installed? Do you have any wiring diagrams for the crossover & system you installed? I'd love to know more of the details, I'm a complete audio noob and need to do something in my touring.

[AndrewBird]

When I got the car, the original factory radio was installed and worked. I wanted more though. I got a box and crossover from GermanAudioSpecialties.com and installed everything myself. That involved removing the stock amp, wiring in an aftermarket stereo, wiring the crossover in and hooking a 5-channel amp up. It sounds complicated, but it really isn't. Lots of splicing, but otherwise easy. All the speakers are stock. I can honestly say it is the best sound stereo I have ever owned and rivals most systems I've heard in any car. I'm a personal friend of Luke and Justin at GAS and they make an incredible product.

What's funny, I just noticed it's my car pictured on their website under E34 touring.

[Worra]

A+ thread

[AndrewBird]

April

Was driving over the pass and stopped to take a picture.
https://db.tt/FZ9ZV4j8

Then I got the bad idea of clay/cut/polish/wax the car. SO. MUCH. WORK.

Before:
https://db.tt/rYHHD5ge

After:
https://db.tt/t2t1cnlG

Before:
https://db.tt/QcHuotRW

After:
https://db.tt/Xra100Rm

BEEEEEEEEEEEEEAD...
https://db.tt/8DxGMWDV

May

My GAS box was causing the outer fender panels to rattle, so I decided to sound deaden everything. Made a HUGE difference. Now I just need to get the tool kit to not rattle.
https://db.tt/7AP3AVhK

https://db.tt/vFhZwe1W

https://db.tt/VqsYkSJv

So sad to hide this beautiful thing behind the amp.
https://db.tt/jKoMrc0g

Also did the tailgate panel. I did do the other side of the car as well, but didn't get pictures.
https://db.tt/616sAk9B

Oh, and in case anyone was wondering, I used Peel & Seal roof flashing for everything.

http://www.mfmbp.com/i/Peel%20&%20Seal%20-%206x25%20PR%20(small).jpg

[Saloon34]

Great thread. Amazing work!