Is there a way of overcoming this dilemma by re-locating the pairing button perhaps?

Dunno mate. Getting rid of the cradle didn't mean enough to me to research it further. After all, it's a fiddle little space with few uses.

replaced serp and ac belts ,and all pulleys,
I now after 4 months got a squeak free car :):):)

Installed diag software I bought from the Romanian bro...
Got it up and running, navigated around in all the different programs to familiarize myself with them. Hooking up for the first time next week...

In other news: Realized I sent my flares to my old address where we had been renting. Hit up my bud that's currently living here, and he said they've arrived... Picking them up on Monday...

finally installed my lft rear lock actuator I got last summer,(old lock was still working, but last your it was getting tired so I got a new one). took all 4 door panels off and checked all cables and linkages and lubed them up including the handle mechanism all were really dry but good to go now. hopefully they don`t freeze up this winter. just to let you know these panels a very easy to work with, just make sure you know where the clips are and always use the plastic clip removers, and for the wood trim start at the narrow end first and work your way up to the wider end ,also unclip the inner door handle cable first,take out the bottom light, switches, and if you have the lighted door handle be careful not to break the light holder too make sure you unplug it. takes about 5-10min to pull panel off .

Finally installed my black Alcantara sport rear seats, I had the stock Cream Nappa ones there for a few months.


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There should be a rule about posting such an update without pics....... :)

Agreed! Flogging at a minimum.

Thank you for those links! I've found couple of them already, but also there were couple new ones in there. My question for you US guys is, is your INPA in English? Because the version I have is mostly in German, and I don't understand a lot of stuff :rolleyes:

same here

http://www.ecstuning.com/Search2/51168215943/ES86833/

In my case I have Dynavin so I wasn't using the pairing button any longer.

Judging from mine its relatively easy to disassemble and pull the button out. It would have to be relocated or left laying loosely somewhere though so I doubt it would be worth it. I'll screw around with mine tonight and see if I can take it apart (its getting tossed anyway) and give you guys any suggestions. I despised the way it looked and how useless it made the top cubby.

Went up to Sams Euro Car Care on Saturday and he took apart my BC's to adjust them correctly now that they have settled properly. I was experiencing some bad rubbing on dips in back and in front so he took them apart and set my bump point to be right above the quarter. We adjusted the dampening correctly and all I can say is wow. I will NEVER consider a different coilover as long as BC makes them for future cars (this is coming from someone who has used FK koni sports and KW v3s on several cars). The car rides a thousand times better than it did stock and doesn't rub besides on exceptionally bad dips.

He also installed my new steering wheel surround, changed my oil and cabin filter, fixed my squeaking driver side seat, and installed my new B pillar covers on the passenger side. Definitely grateful I found him and I DEFINITELY recommend him to anyone in the MA/NH area looking for an exceptional tech.

New adjusted and level height (don't mind the filth weather has sucked here):
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/g4...4=w566-h754-no

^^Clean work and perfect OEM+ stance Olek.

Thanks in advance. I've been wanting to sort out the top level of my center console for some time now, as it squeaks badly when I rest my arm on it (annoying) and the phone cradle is basically redundant. Thought I would attack the whole thing once I found a replacement pocket. I had forgotten about the pairing button though....Maybe there's a way of incorporating the pairing button in the console lid (as opposed to the pocket)? That would keep it out of the way, yet handy if needed.

Alternator, upper radiator hose and coolant temp sensor o-ring...hope it stays leak free..good to be back in my x after a week of driving an E39, it really makes me appreciate the X even more.

Looks awesome!! I want me some of that stance... :drool:

1. New Plugs - friendly tip: I installed NGK Iridiums about 15K miles ago. the stock gap was about .32 or so. When I pulled these to replace them (dont ask), they had opened up to almost .40. Not sure what they are supposed to do but....

2. Oil Change with Pennzoil euro 5/40 - If its good enough for Ferrari.....

3. Had that busted rear O2 sensor replaced (phew) so no more codes

4. AND..... finally installed the style 63's with new tires and a pretty awesome new color job. These wheels were a wreck and the place I took them to did a phenomenal job stripping, fixing, painting and reinstalling the tires. They even threw on a set of the new style center caps (PS- go buy some, they look so much better)

These are the 19" staggered set, and I LOVE the wider/lower profile tires. Having said that, they seem to be MUCH heavier than what I replaced and the car definately feels sluggish. Not sure if its the new plugs, the new o2 sensors, or the extra weight.
The only downside is between those 4 things.... my mileage is down about 3mpg :(

We'll see if it comes back up after everything settles in.

What do you think of the wheels?

http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g7...psiurqw20i.jpg
http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g7...psrrdfidxl.jpg

http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g7...psstesrtvm.jpg

http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g7...pspp6wcmfu.jpg

wheels look awsome, but that jack your using isn`t the safest , you should invest in a shop jack . just my honest opinion.

Hah! I've had that since 1996. We've worked on a TON of cars together. But yeah, it's probably time for a new one. Let's see it would have been may or June of 96 when I got my DL, so maybe next years 20th anniversary.

jgold, love the black Style 63's, trust me the bit of "sluggishness" and extra weight is worth the awesome look you have now! Agreed on the center caps they really make the wheels look new, I got a new set last year

Today was wash, dry, clay, wax, windows and vacuum. She's clean. Attachment 66617


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changed out the power steering reservoir and the 2 hoses attached to it. also dropped stiffener plate and installed heat pad on oil pan ready for next winter ,just in case. and also tightened this bolt which was extremely loose could spin the bolt by hand . and this is why I like working on my own stuff,not only to save money but also having a piece of mind thats its done right.
heres a pic of the loose bolt NOT GOOD. i`M PISSED. these bolts look like they go through the transfer case to hold it in place just behind the transmission.

actually this bolt here #4 in pic that hold the transfer case.

Productive couple of hours today!

LR window regulator / vapor barrier
Rear air bags
Oil change
Reset adaptations
Rotated 315's

^That is efficiency JB.

A lift and a close friend at BMW certainly sped up the process. :)

Fresh oil and filter, clean and wax job.

Made a steal off CL today!! Set of OEM style 87's, and a set of staggered style 214 20's (chrome reps with Atturo AZ800's mounted at 75% tread) for....




Wait for it...





$700... BRING IT!!! :D

New Eisenmann Exhaust, Race version $1K, $1400 savings.

Shut the eff up.

So what are you going to do with 2 sets of 87's and that junky chrome set lol

Damn two nice scores Mam and Jay.

I just ordered my new wheels and F/R rotors and pads. Getting them mounted up Saturday and possibly getting my brakes done too if I have enough time on my friends lift.

Got a set of lightweight staggered wheels with almost new Hankook Ventus tires for $600 off e-bay. Seller installed on his X a few weeks B4 his GF "dead-centered" a tree @ over 40mph (total loss X).

Killer deals come up every now and then....

Upgraded rail chip to rail and boost type
 

Upgraded rail chip to rail and boost type.
Obviously a diesel X5.
Already had a rail chip on it .
Bought a little more expensive one from the UK.
Does boost aswell as rail.
Turned the X5 into a monster.
In love all over again.

On garagejournal.com you would have earned a "you suck!"

Well done (typed while seethingly jealous...).

Hey Bandit - what brand chip? I've been looking but haven't settled on anything yet.

I thought all the chips for the E53 diesel were only for rail as they don't have electronic boost sensing or control?

Not sure yet, lol... probably get the 87's refinished and pass them along to someone. The 214's I might play around with, maybe refinish them in glossy black, see how the look on my X?!

Did I just hear "NEW WHEELS"??!! Can't wait for an update....

:D:D

My 1st contribution/post in this thread.

Called the insurance company to get a claim as some d1psh1t decided to key the hood while I went to grab coffee this morning. I understand fender benders and all....but keying, ugh

I should have one Saturday if all goes as planned.

I'd say gunmetal powdercoat on 87's but not sure if it would flow, is your X tinted?

Either way would be nice to get a set refurbished, I do think the 87's are best on all iS models (whereas for a non iS I think the 168's are better as they draw more attention)

@jsoto, sorry to hear about keying, people still do that shit nowadays? To random strangers? And my wife wonders why we take the train to the city...

Yes you would. Suckage seconded.

I remember back when I had my 86 gmc truck, I just did I complete body and paint job ,I don`t even think is a week and someone keyed both sides of the truck, so I know how you feel.

Why, oh why do people stoop to such levels? It is a sad indictment. In my opinion it's not the damage, it's not the inconvenience of going without the vehicle while it's repaired, and it's not even the money. It's the disappointment.

Feel sorry for you mate. That completely and utterly sucks that some fuckwit would be so utterly and completely.....well....fucked up enough to wantonly vandalise your property in that way. I feel the same way about those who paint graffiti on others property, those who vandalise pretty much everything....any act of senseless property destruction.

They deserve to be shot with a ball of their own shit.

I finally dipped the wheels on my X5 today. Really hard to find the darn thing in Europe.

I finally dipped the wheels on my X5 today... Came out really really sweeeet, however I messed up a tiny spot on one of the wheels.
https://scontent-fra3-1.xx.fbcdn.net...d4&oe=55874B28

Did not paint the 4.8is body kit yet because I'm trying to justify to myself that I need the car painted San Marino Blue.

Well, what didn't I do should be the question..... As I mentioned a while back when I bought my X it had a scratch in the starter. The dealer agreed to fix, but kept putting me off because he didn't want to take it a part since it was running so well. I can't remember, but some of you pro's here (thanks for the tip) warned me that over time it could damage my flywheel. So after almost a year of waiting I finally "womanned" up as in put my foot down and got it repaired. Only seven days out and two drives, I was heading out for a good day with the fam and since I was in the area was going to stop by the Indy that did the work because the start was a little rough I had noticed a whinning/ squeal when I got it back. Well...on the way there the battery light comes on and a warning about the coolant. I was right down the street from him! Keep in mind I don't know what half of this stuff means because I thought it meant my a/c:D get it coolant = cool?( I am learning very quickly!! The hubster is schooling me). But I called him and he said to stop driving right away and let it cool for 30 mins! So I parked under a shade tree at a gas station and waited it out. Talk about a PITA to drive!!To make a longer story shorter, my belt popped- sucker was dry rotted, had to replace belt, water pump, water pump pulley (it ate the plastic), switch, thermostat, and coolant. And let's not forget the starter. All within 7 days. No wonder the dealer didn't want to take it a part. He must have felt like something was gonna happen and sometimes that's just the way it is. Better then rather than when I was out far away. Welp, glad that's out of the way now.

Before you say why didn't the Indy tell me that, because I asked, he said that when he's given specific instructions from the dealer or customer he has trained his crew to do only that because ppl start to think that he is just trying to get money, (his instructions came from the dealer) but if you tell him let me know what else you see then he does. He learned that that keeps down confusion with his customers. Whatev...but he did great work so far.

Replaced the temp controller for the electric fan I installed in place of the clutch fan. Temp controller and fuse link fried. Correct fuse didn't blow. Going to try a lower amp fuse. Lucky I smelled it. Prompted buying a fire extinguisher that I should have done years ago.

Closed the rear upper door last week & the license plate light cover fell out.

New one came today, now I need anther :(

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...psbvind1qy.jpg

Because the clean one and old one will drive me crazy.

Drove it. Still smells like burned oil and has a highway vibration. Other than that, just fine!

Washer her while the driveway was shady early this morning. Too hot to do once the sun hits when you live in Vegas.

Last 2 days we had this.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...psctpzxqgy.jpg

2:45am today:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...psz1sfyrds.jpg

This afternoon:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...psxktoqynj.jpg

I would be the exact same way!

If it was ever that hot here in June the only thing that would get me outside would be to put the "For Sale" sign in my front yard.


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there heat atleast you don`t get the humidity part with it , but yes that is still hot though.

Made some headway on project, replacing TC guides valley pan, re-locate oil separator, all new gaskets, seals, new plugs, etc.
http://i1349.photobucket.com/albums/...pszckrtbyh.jpg

Didn't take mine out into the heat today. Kindest thing I could have done.

Heading to Flagstaff next weekend to help my niece move into her new place!

Pressed the central lock button yesterday nothing happened.

Thought nothing of it.

Tried it again today nada. Pushed hazard dead.

Searched, found the bottom falls out, pulled the switch, it was broken. Super glued & fortified with electrical tape. Saved 45 bucks.

A blow torch is also "dry heat" but I don't want you hitting me in the face with that, either. 😉


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good one lmao :)

Hey Fans!

Been quiet for a while,but my X is getting there slowly ;)
Installed a few parts,during the winter.
-IS Flare fenders,also Lemans fenders in the front.
-AC Style top spoiler
-Giovanna wheels,with some spacers
-Eibach lowering kit
-SMD LED angel eyes etc...Winter was long haha..

Last weekend she won the "Best X of the show" award,was soo proud of my lil' girl :)

Damn I wish I could snag a set of euro headlights somewhere for less than $2k :(

Replaced rotors and pads front and rear this weekend. They hubs were disgusting and rotors were nearing the end. Plus I installed my new wheels and wanted it a bit more open.
Going to lower the front a tiny bit more and switch to a 25mm in back from a 20mm.

New shoes:
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/88...o=w566-h754-no

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rk...gC4WvE=s754-no

^Csulik in Hungary, looks great! But you are missing the lower rear LeMans flare sections that attach to the rear bumper, no?

Csulik--love the color! Mods look great!

Feen love your setup:thumbup: what are your wheels specs?
Bobby,yeah,i have them sitting in the garage,i didn't installed them yet,it looks better this way for me:dunno:

Thanks!

20x10 | 20x11 Rohana RF2

My Punch List....
 

My 03' just hit 101K. I plan on keeping the X and driving it as a 2nd vehicle now.

Last week I had the rear air suspension bags, the front and rear control arms, and the radiator replaced, the folding mirrors fixed for the 3rd time, and the drivers heated seat bottom replaces (BMWNA picked this up).

This week I'm having the hood and fenders painted (Road rash)

played with inpa first time and made the engine run rough and had the engine,abs,traction control lights and possibly more on. and me :wow: . I don`t know what the hell I did but I cleared the memory and all is good now . took her for a ride no lights came on running smooth again.
I was able to heater,a/c controls working ,temp of oil and coolant ,battery voltage,vanos stuff (don`t know much about that). also I remember seeing something about adaptations :dunno: plus vin and day the x was built on too.
to say the least I was freaking out a bit (few curse words as you can imagine )

Not much, just got back from a beautiful family vacay in the Hocking Hills. Had a good time, but rained most of the time we were there. Was going to detail the X while out there, but no go. Trying to upload a couple pics, but for some reason can't upload the same way and same quality I used to. What gives?? Any tips from anybody? No update on front arch extensions or 10.5's on front. No time! :( Will somebody please tell me when life will start slowing down a bit again?! Here's a link for a coupla pics till I figure out how to upload again...

Postimage.org / gallery - ghgj, IMG 5333, IMG 5336, IMG 5341ed4

Lovin your mods!!! :thumbup: Awesome job....:thumbup:

@ 525iT_Feen

:drool::drool: Now that's sexy done right!! Just so right.... :thumbup:

Ordered the Genuine BMW waterpump from Bavauto.

The Meyle Germany (China made) unit I ordered on 4/30/14 started leaking after 1 yr and a few week. The Bavauto rep credited the $111.95 paid over 1 yr ago to the new OE pump purchase.

Gotta love good customer service!

Got a Genuine BMW t'stat to install with pump (12yrs and 200k miles on OE t'stat is long enough).

Thanks!

I'm pretty happy overall. Gotta switch a few things around (spacers and such) and then i'll get some proper pictures.

- Olek

GORGEOUS PICS Matt!!! Meat on a stick ahhhh I'm hungry now

Available to help with install if you want

Thanks Brian, will keep in mind when I "go in".

Seeing it's the 3rd time in 5 years doing the waterpump, should be able to do it with a blindfold.

Let me know when you get into the TC guides and rad install. If you want help and/or a 2nd set of eyes, I'm there.

Thnx Bud,lovely color on your beast:thumbup:;)

GREAT HWY SHOTS! Love the bug hits on the windshield....:bustingup

That looks GREAT!

LOL, lots of bugs got killed that day... :bustingup First time ever for me and highway shots! Definitely love the pics myself, me and my bros are planning a rolling photoshoot soon... :thumbup:

Thanks! We ate waaayyy to much last weekend, I think we grilled every meal, lol... Definitely gonna have to give the food a rest for a bit...

Are your flares color-matched to your vehicle, or is it just the lighting?

New left motor mount. Also registered here, which can only mean good things to come for my 4.8.

Yup,they are matched to the body;)

Maintenance wash


http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m...pslflpvued.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m...psrcvmooky.jpg

Had to glue the headliner up at the rear of the sunroof opening. No big deal except it stretched out the cloth cover around the lip when it caved in. I'll have to figure out how to get that adhered to the edge again.

2002 X5 3.0 281,150 miles
2004 325i 120,600 miles

Well, I rebuilt the transmission, replaced the front shaft coupling, valve cover gaskets, left front axle boot, auxiliary fan, upper radiator hose assembly, battery, left front lower ball joint, oil & filter....runs GREAT!

2001 X5 4.4 v8 180K miles

Almost forgot...drivers door handle carrier.
Total parts cost ~ $600 US

Thanks E-Bay!!

Had drivers side doors stripped and repainted. The clearcoat was peeling in a few spots..

Much better now

Pup

All new fluids...all of them:thumbup:

Busy day!!! 😉


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I installed Dice/Audiovox Mediabrige from my E83 X3 in to the X5.

I removed the factory cd changer and used same hookups for the Mediabridge with correct Dip switch setting. Tested and works well. I want to sell the CD changer but not sure if anyone uses it anymore.

Need to buy another for the X3 now.

I swear by the mediabridge. Got one with Sirius module when they first came out, still working great. I still have my CD player. I put it with other relics I can't seem to discard.

Yes. I used it in the X3 for 1 year so far. I only use A2DP and it works well. In X3, Calls and Aux were handled by BMW OE. I don't use the mediabridge's Aux, USB for flashdrive or iPod/iPhone

Hand washed, interior detailed, clay, and a coat of wax.

painted 1 of the side trims by rt rear window that was flaking off the aluminum. I did too good of a job , I used satin black ,and its still not faded enough to match the others ,oh well a year down the road it should match again.

Dropped it off to get the AC checked out since my car is a rolling sauna. Turns out the evaporator and something else is bad. It's money but it'll be nice to have AC again. Oh and I finally got around to putting new tires on it. Went with Nitto 420s on my stock sport wheels. It rides pretty quiet and sticks pretty good now.

^Gives you an excuse to drive the E30 though. ;)

I need to have mine evac'd and recharged as well. Doubt the previous owner ever did it and mine has started to be slow to cool on first start of the day.

Finally got her wheels put on. 275/35/20s all around. 30mm spacers in the front, 20mm in the front. Got her wash/waxed today. Also installed led interior lights.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...5a6155c161.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...65d787c3d8.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...a0cd095215.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...dcbc5a6d73.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...f7230782fe.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...3dee63d813.jpg


2002 BMW X5 E53 3.0i

"If you ain't first, you're last"

Am driving it, a lot since my son is home. 92 miles round trip commute. When he goes back to South Bend next month I will have the Rack check the tires, that came from them indirectly from a wholesaler in town. I've got shaking in the steering wheel and floorboards when going over about 65 mph. My shop that put on the new CV joint claims it's an out-of-round tire, but the tire guy denies it. I'll pay the Rack to road force balance them and tell me if there is a bad tire. My experience has been that they stand behind their product.

Also want to make sure my PVC system is working without any issues.

How far out is your speedo? I run 275/45R20's all-round on mine and the speedo is spot-on.

That's nearly 2 inches differences in diameter!
275/45-20 4.9in 14.9in 29.7in 93.4in 678 0.0%
275/35-20 3.8in 13.8in 27.6in 86.6in 731 -7.3%

(Noting of course that 275/40-20 is the 'standard' size in that range for an e53, and does read a fraction 'fast' on the speedo)

Bingo. I clayed and waxed it this morning after dropping the X5 off bright and early.

^Josh all good on the AC. I'm one of those guys that honestly it doesn't matter if its a nasty bill, to have PROPERLY working Air conditioning is worth every penny. I never screw around with $100 recharges, etc. If I have a problem I get it fixed completely so my air conditioning works. You'll appreciate it once you get it back.

Mrcarter20, why did you go with the non OE tire size on the 20s? 275/40 is the stock size, something looks off with those smaller tires. And again your speedo must be off too if you installed the wrong size.

Yeah I agreed. I am excited to get it back and having it totally functional. It's just a bit of a bummer since it's double what I was budgeting for. So the new steering wheel and avin will have to wait. But hey, I won't be roasting any more going from a hot ass house to a hot ass car.

Just for the wikipedia..

I had mine evac/recharged about 2 weeks ago on a '03.
It was at .70'ish lbs, which is about 20% less than where it should have been.....spec calls for .97 lb

Cleaned up after the oil pan gasket replacement
 

how hard was the oil pan gasket to do ? by the way the X looks nice.

It really wasn't too bad. Most of the work was actually getting to the oil pan. (Removing axles and dropping subframe) If you are ever considering doing one, I'd say go for it. I did it and I'm only 16. I was really considering doing a DIY thread. I'm mad I didn't. I have another one to do. So, when I get around to it I'll give making a DIY a shot.

when I was under neath there I thought you would have to raise and support the engine up. but if that's all there is to it , ya I would definitely jump into it for sure. next year I am going to do some front end work ,so I might just tackle it then.

The engine doesn't actually have to be raised. Just supported so it doesn't move when the subframe drops. I got a engine support bar at harbor freight for roughly $80. It's quality and worked very well.

Why on God's green earth would you want to own 2 E53's at 16, talk about eating up all your free time with maintenance work LOL, at least you are smart and both are 3.0's

Just messing, the Alpine one does look clean.

haha Yeah, It keeps me busy. The other is my Dads and there isn't much to do on it. But, I have the whole summer on my hands. I've operate by the saying "Take care of your BMW and she'll take care of you"

Just got back from long drive adventure
- Windy City to Downtown Pittsburgh - over night only
* punctured tire, ended up replacing all four
- Pittsburgh to Baltimore + Washington + Ocean City
- Downtown Cleveland - over night only
Just the tires delays ;)

Now enjoying late night dim sum at Chinatown

Put New BMW Center caps. The old ones were in very bad shape and had to go.

Swapped out all 18 interior bulbs to LED.
2015 EAST Maps Disc
Added missing Rear passenger door lock pin grommet

Where did you get your lock grommet? I need one but am too cheap to pay $16!

Looked up the part # on eBay. It was 8$ shipped from California for a small plastic piece but yeah had to fix the annoying space :)

yet to come in the mail the Nav screen replacement - 99$ shipped. should have an install update in few days.
LQ065T9BR51U

Hope it has the right viewing angles... mine didn't. Stupid e39 screen. :)

yeah. the correct part # was ordered but you never know. eBay/China stuff is a marriage made in hell. :)

Hope I get the right screen with no dead pixels to start with.

Yep, I ordered the right part number as well... got e39. And the first one they sent me had a dead pixel too. :(

Hopefully your luck is better than mine. :thumbup:

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...e00e3a4532.jpg

Full scale test of blacked out wheels with yellow lip (yellow will be faded on the final solution) matching yellow on the roof rails.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...5ce5198d88.jpg

Backpack rack that folds up

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...c61935876c.jpg

And holds four large Milwaukee tool boxes:

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...824dc06ddf.jpg

(When I lean them the other way they entirely clear the tailgate!)

I plan to show a DIY for the folding rack it took me a few days to figure it out the first time but easy to copy now the math is all worked out. I combined a 2" ball hitch (on sale $15) and a steel 500# capacity rack (about $55) both from harbor freight and some brackets meant for conduit mounting struts (about $10 in hardware).

To make things exceptionally pretty I used spring nuts inside and short bolts from the outside: no visible nuts.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...c3cc30fb27.jpg

The holes and bracket are set up so that I can attach the cage horizontal or vertical but also can put the hitch in upside down (to use the cage as a work table or seating like tailgate situation). I will be adding decking boards soon to make the sitting part a little more comfortable than the 3/4 inch steel on 4" centers!

Oh: also discovered a great eater egg yesterday: the PO installed a Bluetooth module I was unaware of! Holy crap that's a nice accidental discover. I was looking for the wire to reconnect my footwell lamp and found a mystery cord coming from my console and going under the dash. It ends at the audioxox BT module that allows headphone jack input, old school iPod input (displays track on MiD) and Bluetooth including phone call integration (though I need to replace the mic. which was apparently up by the mirror: just a phone jack looking connector hanging there now)

Oh: also after replacing the HiD bulbs, aimed the headlights so they point the same direction. Need to polish some haze out of the driver side: looks like the pass side housing was replaced at some point because it is crystal clear.




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Can I ask why the yellow? Makes aa bmwbmw loollook likelike aa xiviccivic

We are all individuals with different tastes. It doesn't matter why or what we think.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...09a76a9727.jpg

Or a Ferrari. Trust me the civic effect will be loonnng gone when done. The electrical tape is only to help judge quantity and shade. My "best 50¢ thread" covers in detail why yellow to start with (ties into visibility for my back pack carrier) plus happen to love yellow as an accent color. The pic above being one of the many photos used as inspiration.

I'll be the first to admit it looks cheesy for now. The final will be posted. It won't.


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Or a Lamborghini.... I do like the effect, though! Especially when they are rolling. Can't wait to see the finished wheels!

TODAY
 

My list for today...

Swapped rear tires for 315 35 20 for a test (thread is elsewhere).

Replaced spark plugs and coils (3 different brand of coils and 2 different brand of spark plugs came out!) Also found out the top radiator hose does NOT like to be leaned on....

Replaced upper radiator hose assembly...:D

Installed AIRAID air filter

Installed JL Audio sub. Will install amp when sun goes down.

The lambo can pull it off because it is a loud and brash car. It drives around screaming for attention. A X5 does not. Now if you dumped the X5, threw on fender flares, and put on 20+ wheels that are at least 10inches wide you might be onto something. But at stock height on 17s it just isn't going to cut it.

Funny i said Ferrari, I actually searched Lamborghini but on my phone I thought I saw the Ferrari logo and 2nd guessed myself before posting.

Still can't wait to see it done!

andrewwynn,
I was just studying your flip up back pack rack. That is very clever.
Looks like maybe no cutting to make but did you have to drill 2nd hinge pin hole in the cheap draw bar?

When it is flipper up what stopps it from falling forward into the bumper ?

Thx for sharing your work
J

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n...pspgwkwqpp.jpg

gave her a good scrubbing....

well polished up the headlights. not perfect. maybe one day I will take them off and wet sand them and clear them. but this will do for now.
top and bottom pic are before and the middle one is after.
was going to wash the beast but holy crap at 25c I changed my mine ,I`ll wait until tonight when it cools of a bit hopefully to 18c.

Looks really tough! Love the look of your wheels/tyres combo. Is it just the angle of the pic or does your front left tyre need some air?
What did you use to mount the spot lights - I've been thinking of doing something similar or perhaps put one of those LED light bars on my nudge bar.

That's a winter temp for me.... When it's 40C+, then it's time to sit in the shade with a beer and wait for things to cool off a bit..;)

The mounts are still in stock from bmw for the aux lights!!! There's only something like 20 left in inventory!

I will be making a specific thread soon to show how to copy this back pack rack. I had to drill 3 holes total. There is no cutting and no hinge; I was going to make it hinged so i could flip up/down with a simple pin-pull but i also want to be able to flip upside down so decided to pull the pin and disconnect; re-install either upside down or vertically. The trick is all in precise spacing of the holes for the pin so there is no rotation forward or back when vertical (or up or down when horizontal).

I also added a threaded 1/2" (12mm for non us types) hole just aft of the 5/8 main hitch pin in the car's receiver, so i can put in a threaded bent rod (think hand operated bolt) and remove 100% of play in the trailer ball, no more 'kathump' when i go over bumps.

looks like a funny reflection of the sky on shiny tires.

What did you do to / for your E53 today??
 

I Added an optical-only solution back-up lens! see my thread here.

sample pic from the prototype:
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...538ebba175.jpg

Notice that through the window i can only see to the bottom of the windshield of the car behind me but in the backup lens I can see half way down the grill.

Also notice that in the lens, in the center is MY rear window wiper base. The thread linked above shows a step-by-step how i built it.

What did you do to / for your E53 today??
 

Wrote a complete description of my backpack rack you can view view that here

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...729dd90a00.jpg


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I got my hatch springs today from Slovakia. Man I should have installed this long ago. It is going to be so nice now to just be able to pop the trunk. Although I fully expect someone is going to smack themselves in the face when trying to open it manually now.

for 20 or 30 bucks , I got mine about a month ago, every time I load up my tools ,its like this is sweet. and closing the hatch ain`t a big difference to me any ways.

Sounds like an upgrade in my future also very cool to see somebody else using their X5 for hauling tools. I get wrinkled noses all the time when I mention using for tools. Is this an additional spring as well as the air cylinders or just stronger cylinders. I've been wondering what's the point of the trunk button when the trunk releases automatically when unlocked.

Video? Photos?


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Are these 'springs' the upgraded bump stops for the hatch? Or are they more powerful gas struts that lift the hatch without manual help?

Neither. These are springs that go on your existing struts.
BMW x5 E53 Automatic Opening Trunk | eBay

this looks awesome. Any downside?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pm7QTXfUnys

Well... My pass rear brake caliper was occasionally seizing. I knew brake fluid was overdue, which I had in my mind, just never had time.
So last night, I prepared brake fluid flush.

Lifted the car, removed all wheels, remove as mush brake fluid from reservoir, filled with new fluid, connected pressure bleeder. Everything is set.

Pass rear, which is the furthest from master cylinder, connect hose and wrench to bleeder.
Tried to unscrew bleeder... no go. Tried little harder.... snap... ha...... skip this side for now and move on to other calipers.

All other bleeders are free. Except the problematic pass rear caliper.
Well.... since the broken bleeder is not leaking, I guess I need to get new remanufactured caliper. sigh....

I would spray it with penetrating oil and let it sit for a few hours and spray it again and let it sit overnight, drill a small hole so that you can try to turn it out with an easy out bit.

Only the color ;)

2002 X5 3.0 282,300 miles
2004 325i 121,000 miles

Use shrink wrap tubing to make it black. I'm going to add this function to my window I was hoping to find/figure out a local fix.


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Replaced MKIV DVD reader. Not too bad a job. I was a bit upset since it used a T8 bolt, which i unfortunately didn't have! 5 min job became 1 hr due to driving to el home depot.
Thankfully the DVD drive wasn't too expensive, gotta love dealer hook-ups!

V32 SW, OEM 2015 Maps, and a new drive! Now it's a near-bullet proof unit.

Up next is fixing the classic cupholder "holders"

http://i924.photobucket.com/albums/a...ps7apqlqnx.jpg
http://i924.photobucket.com/albums/a...psqegy3fwn.jpg

for the first time in a week , i drove it :):)

Could you just use one? I just don't want someone getting wacked in the face? How hard is it to close now?

I tried 1 spring and when the lid was closed it sat crooked because of the pressure of only having 1 spring ,so you will need to use both of them.Also I don`t find it pops up that badly myself.

Mine pops open but the hatch only travels up enough for the struts to take it the rest of the way up. Very easy to close. The springs are not that stiff and the hatch is within about 6 inches or so from closing before there is any resistance.

50/50 mix of acetone and ATF (automatic transmission fluid) wins every face-off I've seen to unstick frozen bolts. I used not long ago to remove the anode from an electric water heater.


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^^This. Although highly flammable its about 3x better than Blaster or penetrating oil

Thanks for the ideas guys.
I thought about extracting the screw, but since I was dealing with sticky caliper initially, I will just replace the caliper with reman unit.
Just don't want to spend more on this stupid screw.

Transmission
 

Dropped it off at the transmission shop. Local very reputable and I've used him before. Hoping it's low on fluid or bad filter but we all know it's going to be worst case scenario. Lol!

You could cut some of each spring off but the trick is how much to cut. I have to get these. I never understood why there is a trunk button that doesn't open the trunk. I just figured my '01 has weak gas struts


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http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...0df8c0b928.jpg
Got to finally use my new roof rack system.

Bringing 9x 8' 2x4 and 6x 8' long baseboards.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...eab51d9714.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...74a1edab23.jpg.

A close up of the infinitely adjustable angle bracket. It can be positioned anywhere even outside the main roof rail to grip 4x8' sheet goods.

My original design for framing lumber was to use a conduit clamp on each side and a threaded rod to hold them toward the load. I bought some solid angles and was able to find an even better solution. On one set of boards I simply pounded in a set of shims and the other I put a bolt through to "bite" into the 2x4s

One nice accidental invention: the cross bars though steel have a little flex so the load and the roof rails get less jolting when hitting bumps.


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The right rear window made an ominous "CLICK" when I raised it today.

So I'm pretty sure the regulator has one or two more operations before failure. Makes sense, truck is 12 years old and I just did the lr last month. Going to not touch that window until I have new parts in.

Good idea. It's much easier to deal with before it breaks.

- Replaced rusted brake lines, master cylinder, brake fluid flush
- Replaced leaky rad, coolant, belts
- Replaced 2 bad coils, 8 spark plugs
- Tranny oil flush, replaced tranny filter
- Replaced both hood latches, cables
- Oil change

Grand total of CAD$2700 plus tax.... this thing is worse than having a mistress:wow:

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...9c4e853da6.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07...ec2d83c5f8.jpg
Finally done with big basement waterproofing job and packed up the mobile shop
I think the 10' conduit on top was added after. My 7 year old calls it the "turret"


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was it a big job ,they usaully are.
your 7 year old must be playing COD or watching someone playing it.

Correct on COD. Job was insane. 60 yr old house no drain tile no sump pump. Every big rain made floor wet pine framing all rotted pretty much perfect storm disaster. Sister executor of estate and needed fixed to sell. Worse: floor had been painted with incompatible paint that sloughed off when mopped!

The walls were mostly but not all waterproofed but no seal at wall-floor junction just a layer of paint so it leaked. I cut a 1/4 x 3/8 groove into the wall-floor junction to install some synthetic rubber sealant now have to wait for a strong rain to see if hydrostatic pressure builds enough up the wall that the wall leaks.


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thats crazy. cheaper though doing it yourself.
my son is 15 and he has been playing COD since he was around 6 or 7 .I try and play I`m lucky to get 6 kills online, he gets around 20-30 average.

air suspension button flickered Inactive Warning.
 

dreaded self leveling inactive showed up..had the accumulator error code, vehicle would not move off of the middle setting when high level pushed...green light flickered as though it was instructed to do by the ehc2 control module. through trial, error and a few visits to two independent shops, searching through on line articles for self education, arrived at buying a used eBay unit from a salvage for $225, whole black pot, swapped it out, took it to have the vehicle re-set at the BMW Dealer who set it and said all was well...drove away and within two blocks, the dreaded red lights came back..took it back and they re-set it again, this time maybe doing additional height calibrations...not sure but since then, all is well...
Also did the air compressor piston change from the Andy guy on eBay. $41 kit, real easy to change, so now I have the original pump unit as a back up.. moral of the story...if it flickers but doesn't move, if you get the light and code is accumulator ...it is most likely a worn air compressor piston ring...the ring is Teflon, likely to keep the noise down and it obviously wears fast..so, get it fixed if it has a leak because the system will call for the compressor..love this beast..

Replaced an instrument cluster bulb. Same bulb every two years, right behind the external temperature. At least this is the easiest cluster I've ever encountered to pull.

2002 X5 3.0 282,600 miles
2004 325i 121,000 miles

I'd install the pump back on the car that has the new Teflon seal and keep the spare as a backup. Yes if you get accumulator filling error its 100% the compressor, I had this almost 3 years ago and got a working compressor off a 35k mile X5 and its been flawless.

First long heavy tow trip with the X5. Used the Prodigy RF with a rental trailer. I'll start another thread for the nuances with all that. Once I dropped off the trailer, I noticed a slight growling/grinding noise on uphill left turns, slightly loaded, steady throttle. Turns out the right front outer boot let loose. They were good before I left. Lucky for me, one of the guys at the track owns a shop nearby. The X is parked until Wednesday morning. Hopefully a new boot and repack will save the joint. Overall though, with a loaded trailer weighing in at about 4,500lbs, it towed quite well.

Tried painting my peeling steering wheel trim. That was a disaster. Removal and reinstall was easy. Followed all typical painting steps but I think the primer I used had some sort of reaction to the plastic. Wasn't like a fish eye from grease/oils. More like a chemical reactions. Tried to work through it by layers and sanding but it never came out good. Looks like I'll be ordering a new one. I hate painting...

That sounds like the story of my life. At least you have a legitimate reason to buy a whole new piece now.

Depending on the shape of the piece some heat shrink tubing will work wonders to fix this sort of problem and at $2/ft typical price but have to be happy with limited colors such as black. They do have both matte and gloss black however. I'm not home to look at mine to see the part but need to do the same for my door handle trim and was planning on the pvc shrink wrap it will outlive me.


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When I bought my X I noticed at some point the previous owner had tried to remove the plastic trim on the inside of the hatch (maybe to get at the 3rd taillight). Unfortunatly they broke every plastic tab on all three pieces to do so. Today I replaced them with brand new ones. I am hopefull that will take care of the rattle I was hearing sometimes when driving

^Did you order from the dealer? Those pieces are expensive. I have one piece with a few broken tabs, just my OCD is telling me to replace it.

My OCD is why I did it for sure but the pieces are expensive. I do work for a dealership so I get them a little cheaper;)

fitted my new bonnet emblam , what a pita that was :)
and another pdc module in the boot , shame it didnt fix the pdc problems i still plagued with

Steve

i desperatly need to wash it , the roof feels like sand paper , its horrible

I had my hood and front fenders re-painted and then added XPel Ultimate Paint Protection....

replaced 16:9 screen successfully today. It was listed for 124 USD with best offer option. I offered 99$ and they took it. Came from China in 10 days.

Viewing angle is good and no dead pixels. took me 90 minutes but I was multi-tasking.

Yesterday, or more precisely Saturday, said goodby.

I wasn't really ready, but was kinda forced into it by family members who just couldn't trust such an unrealiable vehicle. Too bad - new brakes, front calipers & hoses, recent tires, and does NOT smell like burning oil any more. But it did have a nasty vibration at speed - my next stop was Tire Rack to get a road force balance.

No more, I have a leased 2016 X3. Nice SAV, but I will miss the E53 with each lease payment!

BTW, got only $3K for my 2002 3.0i with 139K miles in trade. Oh well, I did take the tan Weathertech liners.

Any offers?

Did they at least throw in lube?

Finally found the time and patience to replace Depo headlights spider shroud:D
See relevant thread http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...ml#post1045450

That looks so much better.

*goes outside to look at my depo's disapprovingly*

^Yeah but JB your angel eyes are sooooooo nice now

Fernando nice work on making her look more "individual" :)

Thankjs:thumbup:
I just hope the CCFLs hold out for a while ,as before if any bulb blew ,I could replace it without opening headlight.
Had the Depos for a number of years and no problems,so pleased with them ,just always picked on the spider shroud and took a long time to do anything about it ,but thats old age for you :D

Washed & these came.

Wrap it in vinyl or plasti-dip it.

New Hood Gas Struts and Driver Door Seal

The maintenance is covered during the lease. The only items not covered are the run-flat tires (if cut) and headlight bulbs (!).

I can change those...

I meant the trade in price ;)

Put on new wheel center caps and lugs nuts. It sort of completes the look since I had the wheels refinished a few months back:thumbup:
Looks better for sure. Now if I could just keep the wheels clean...

Yup, $3K only and we started at $2.4K. KBB trade was about $3.4K, but they did make it up on the other end with student discounts, etc. KBB retail was about $4.6K.

I guess it is a 13 year old car with 140K miles, and that's what they're worth.

Doorspeakers
 

Try to fit a 8" speaker in the front door of my e53
want more mid-bas, trying to fit a modified JBL 2118H in my front door.

Just looked up mine for grins: 2002 E53 3.0, Premium Pkg, Towing Pkg, DVD, Premium Wheels, 283000 miles!!!

KBB private party selling price was $4395 to $4695 range for Fair to Good conditions.

I would have to say you got dinged a bit for your geographic location, because I sure have you beat on the mileage factor.

Added couple of missing plastic interior pieces. The gaps were bothering me so had to buy and cover them up :)

Bump stop for rear hatch was cracked up but still in place, so put an order for Part 51247141879. Small rubber piece 19$ :-|

He sold it to a business that buys and sells cars for a living. They got it as cheap as they could so they can turn around and sell it for double. It makes sense to low ball in that situation, it just doesn't make sense to accept. Shit for 3k I would have bought it and I don't need it.

Completed LH Depo headlight mod!

^Oh how I envy the serviceability of you guys with pre facelift headlights. But I do prefer the look of the LCI's... lol.

Looks good though, nice work.:thumbup: