J,
For someone whose idea of 'intricate close-up work' is reading the paper without my glasses, or fiddling with photos on my laptop, I am impressed.

This is like watching micro surgery...and, I don't quite get the reason for the work, but it is impressive. :thumbup: Good pics, by the way.
GL, mD

Hi mD! Thanks for the vote of confidence... keeping fingers crossed that I haven't made any expensive mistakes.

Rationale is ability to view ECU data and PLX Sensor Module (WBO2, Boost, EGT, etc) data at the same time. The default screen I have set to display an OEM appearing water temp gauge, that functions properly. With this heat wave we're having, I really want to keep an eye on temps. It can scan and clear OBD codes as well. Perhaps the PLX Devices website can explain it better.

Making headway on what I hope is the hardest part of the install. Gotta break a few eggs to make an omelet. ;)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ransplant8.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ransplant9.jpg

Cleaning up, dressing things in, cable strain relief, and etc. Going to cover the hole in the side, but wanted to show what cutting is needed.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ansplant10.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ansplant11.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ansplant12.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ansplant13.jpg

Houston, we have liftoff.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ansplant14.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ansplant15.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...ansplant16.jpg

Just have to dress in the truck-side wiring and we're good to go. Wanted to do a quick op-test though. Pleased with the turnout!

Wow! You are a man with many talents:thumbup:

very impressive...congrats:thumbup:

Thanks guys... blind luck and beer might have had a part in it. :p

was stuck for a minute on securing the gauge from turning or shaking within the cluster. Had a smoke and a drink and as I was playing with the PLX bezel, flipped it upside down and strung it back up the gauge's RS-232 cable. Slammed that on the cluster and it sat in there like a champ. Little plastic tack-welds on the PLX bezel for insurance. Idea in the head was have it secure, but serviceable.

....tempted to pull the trigger on two wideband jammies, a boost/vacuum thingamabob, and an oil pressure dohicky. Toss them all in the glovebox in a sort-of horizontal mini rack-mount deal and call it a day. Been kinda curious about fueling mixture for some time now.

Tri,

What's up man! Apologies for the late reply, I messed the thread update. Have not touched the pans, no leaks, knock on wood. *knocks fist on head*

edit: I take that back, I do have a leak. You might as well not call it that as it is VERY, VERY slight, coming from the rear main. When/if trans time comes, I'll tackle that. Not too concerned, as it's not even spotting the driveway, but I noticed it while under the truck. Haven't heard much about the pan seals leaking though. Are they high fail or known to go at x mileage?

edit2: hmm... maybe it's the pan leaking at a point near the rear of the motor, and not rear main? Damn.... time to go under the truck for another look.

At Bimmerfest this past weekend I was chatting with the VAC Motorsports crew, and one of the guys was stressing the importance of keeping the front driveshaft lubed (splines where it comes out of the transfer case.) So, that's what I'll be up to here soon. Also replacing both ping sensors, and the PCV valve (Dinan kit uses one from a 318ti, weird) Might inspect rear subframe bushings as well. No driveline thunks to speak of, but, I've never checked them out, and have been meaning to. Would appreciate pictures of pan gaskets R/R if you go that route sir!

Since last update, replaced the Brembo friction rings in the front, pads all around, and flushed brake fluid. Oil change every 5k.

On a separate note, got a code for clutch solenoid or torque converter.

I guess I won't powerbrake it away from a stoplight for a while. Hearing the steamrollers chirp off the line gives me a warm fuzzy though. :)

I wish killcrap & other O.G.'s would get in on this discussion: http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...-thoughts.html I sent him a message. :( I know, just get an X5M and dump the dinosaur, but I know if I could get a 5HP30 at home in there, I'd be able to turn up the power a notch or three.

Currently at 125k, (123k with S/C), and all things considered (imho) the truck is working great.

I am impressed.:thumbup:....tempted to pull the trigger on...;)