Two years of owning an iX

[4x4E30]

It has been 2 years since I bought my first e30, a 1989 325iX. Originally found it on eBay and when it did not sell there I found it on Craigslist. When I got it it was a very stock ( still is) automatic. I let my wife know before I bought it I would be doing the 5 speed swap. Over the past two years I have spent countless dollars and hours making this in my opinion the ultimate iX. As time has gone on I am finding there seems to be no end to making the be all end all e30!

Some of the upgrades made are Mtech1 steering wheel, iS front lip, blacked out grill, rear fog lights, map light rear view mirror, 13 button OBC, sport seats, rear headrest, 5 speed conversion, Radio w/ speakers, tires, tented windows, power sunroof, all countless mechanical general maintenance.

Im still chasing a strange idle issue, something to do with valve adjustment computer or car has never overheated but it leaks oil at the base of the head.

I have thought about selling it but I don't think I could bring myself to do it. anyway Just wanted to give a shout out to the iX crowd and introduce myself after two years of owning an iX.

[TehRaydarlover]

Looks nice!

[Stuffy]

Looks clean af, rad!

[steven g]

Very well done and good work on the upgrades. I have had my 2 E30s for about a year.

[litu]

Nice, i love that color

[4x4E30]

Thanks everyone! The idle issue has been driving me nuts. I'm about to take it to a shop.

[imwhyteyo]

Describe the symptoms. I'm sure someone could help you source it and fix it

[fresh_TD]

Check both the sensors that plug into your thermostat housing..I had idle issues replaced the sensors and profit

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[4x4E30]

Thanks for the assistance

Thanks for the reply on my idle issue. Being new to the forum I did not want to post an issue that has been well covered already. But if anyone would like to assist me in tracking this down i would greatly appreciate it.

Symptoms are

Very low idle just above 500 on tach and very slight stumble, seems to accelerate just fine.

Most times when starting for the first time in the mooring or after the engine is completely cool all the dash waring lights stay on until you give it gas and raise the RMPS then they go out.

I have also noticed with the car idling at 500 rpm the lights are dim because they brighten when you raise the RPM. Also seems to be affected by using more electrical accessories like fan and headlights.

When you raise the RPM from idle it dips below 500 then raises back to just above 500. Symptoms of running rich?

Also has poor full fuel consumption around 15 MPG in town

What i have done

Coolant temp sensor and switch ( blue and brown)
new ICV
New TPS
new FPR
New Plugs, wires, cap, and rotor
New o2 sensor
I have two AFMs
I have a 173 and 153 ECM
Checked all vacuum lines and replaced the Intake manifold gasket
adjusted valves to OEM Spec
replaced timing belt

I know I'm forgetting something I have done but any advice would be helpful.

i am starting to suspect a fuel issue...... Injectors? Head gasket is leaking oil but no overhearing.

after all the shot gun trouble shooting Im very tempted to take it in there is a shop near by here in Libertyville, IL called The Werk Shop. From what i have read they should be able to get it worked out.






New

[Twomato]

The Werk Shop is solid, Don D. will fix it for you. They can be pricey, but they are the best in the area.

[ndfspd67]

Beautiful car! How was he 5speed swap? Any ix specific tid bits i should know for mine?


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[4x4E30]

Beautiful car! How was he 5speed swap? Any ix specific tid bits i should know for mine?


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It was a weekend long weekend job. I know better and I'm sure i will get blasted for saying this but I bought an entire kit from a junk yard came with the used clutch and yes i was inpatient and due to lack of funds for a new one installed the used clutch. NO NOT DO THAT!! Plus plan on getting a new slave cylinder. I found out that the VC on the manual tranny I bought was no good and had to take it off. I was not sure what I was going to do then I realized the bad half of the transfer case , were the VC is, can be swapped with the same half from an automatic transfer case. I made a gasket and has not leaked yet. I remember the Pedals being a pain and the top bolt on the transmission that holds the starter being a nightmare. You will need lots of extensions for your ratchet.

I plan on replacing that clutch soon and this time i plan on buying a transmission jack from harbor freight. I can't explain how in the world i got the thing in the car by myself but i will never do it that way again.

[ndfspd67]

Thank you for all the info!! That is a huge help


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[hendrixvodu]

i approve very much ! well done sir looks very mint!

[m3madness]

I enjoy seeing a clean IX sitting stock! Very nice car my friend!