Z3 Roadster (E36/7) Newbie with lots of questions. Long...

Just picked up a '98 1.9 5 speed with 68k. Just starting to go over all the things that need attention. I will definitely change the oil (Mobil 1 0w40?) flush the anti freeze and change the brake fluid. Anything else? I'm reading about the water pumps being a problem after 60k. Is replacement DIY? Should I be proactive about it?

Things bothering me right now:

Odometer lights are out. I have two tan 1.5w bulbs on order (my local dealer wanted $15 each. I ordered two on ebay for $6 shipped.)

Antenna is broken. (Dealer wanted $60.) Still looking for a source.

CD changer is not working, and this really has me stumped. There is a cartridge in there, but when I hit the eject button, there doesn't seem to be any power. I removed and inspected the connectors, changed its fuse, and still nothing. I also pulled the head unit and the connectors seem to be in place, though I'm not sure what to look for. When I hit the tape/cd button on the Alpine head unit, it only goes to tape. It doesn't recognize the cd changer. This unit is unused. I asked the previous owner if it worked in the past and she replied "it has a cd changer?!" Any ideas? (Yes, I know many will say buy a new hu with mp3 input, etc., but I would like to get this one working for now.)

Seatbelt guides are broken.

Sagging glovebox. I removed the 2 pound reinforcement plate. Going to either make a bracket or order the ebay kit (it's up to $35 with shipping. Worth it?)

I'm sure I'll have many more questions. Loving this car so far.

Originally Posted by CTHuskyinMA

Just picked up a '98 1.9 5 speed with 68k. Just starting to go over all the things that need attention. I will definitely change the oil (Mobil 1 0w40?) flush the anti freeze and change the brake fluid. Anything else? I'm reading about the water pumps being a problem after 60k. Is replacement DIY? Should I be proactive about it?

I would change or flush all the fluids - oil, transmission fluid, diff fluid, brake/clutch fluid, power steering fluid, coolant.

Not to start a religious war, Mobil 1 0w-40 is a good choice.

Yes, the stock water pump should be proactively changed. I change the water pumps and thermostat at 60K and radiator at 100k. See http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...cooling+system

Good cooling threads for the M44
http://www.318ti.org/forum/showthrea...hlight=cooling
http://www.318ti.org/forum/showthread.php?t=18066

Take a look at our web site and check prices. We might be able to help.

Howdy and welcome to the club.

I recommend going to amazon for the antenna. There are a lot of cheap after market antennas that are short and sporty. I haven't bought one yet but I have had no need. Make sure to get the right size grommet to prevent leakage.

I recommend going to: (they have a cool antenna that I want but you can find cheaper on amazon)
http://www.roadstersolutions.com/page43.html


ps- this post was written while wearing a cowboy hat

Originally Posted by lovemyz3

ps- this post was written while wearing a cowboy hat

Glad you warned him!

Originally Posted by lovemyz3

ps- this post was written while wearing a cowboy hat

Hopefully, in due time I will understand the reference.

Originally Posted by CTHuskyinMA

Hopefully, in due time I will understand the reference.

Sorry, just the smart a$$ in me coming out. No harm meant. Had quick fingers last night. Chuckled to myself when I saw your comment.

I also didn't realize you were the original poster. Shame on me for picking at the new guy.