Restoring my first love

[Gopher325ix]

1988 325iX i bought in '93. If I ask some stupid questions, please be gentle. I'm a forum virgin. Car has not been driven in twelve years.

[Cowboy.Jim]

I'm rebuilding one as well sat for 8 years haha if you have questions just ask make sure you do the timing belt!

[Gopher325ix]

I'm rebuilding one as well sat for 8 years haha if you have questions just ask make sure you do the timing belt!

Before trying to start it? What year is yours?

[E30andy]

1988 325iX i bought in '93. If I ask some stupid questions, please be gentle. I'm a forum virgin. Car has not been driven in twelve years.

So what does it need? Any rust or just mechanical restoration? How about some pics?

[Gopher325ix]

MN winters with lots of road salt, so rust is an issue. Engine was fine when it went into hibernation. Interior is in very good shape with the exception of the drivers seat. Loose back and with a tear in the leather. The hood pivot arm is toast as well as the anchoring bracket that holds it. Will try to post some pics.

[DANGER]

After 12 years of sitting (plus however many more before being changed last), the timing belt has to be changed- to be safe, I'd do it before trying to start the motor.

[Kershaw]

Pour some ATF into the spark plug holes before you do the timing belt and let it sit there a while. Turn the motor over by hand a few times. Dump all old gas. Probably best to replace all the fuel lines. Bleed the brake lines and replace the brake rotors and pads. Do the timing belt, spark plugs, air filter, radiator, coolant, and battery, and then try to start it.

[Gopher325ix]

Thanks for the input. What is the rationale for the ATF down the spark plug holes?

[Kershaw]

ATF has detergents, it'll help clean up the cylinder walls and lubricate the piston rings when you go to turn the motor over by hand.

[Gopher325ix]

ATF has detergents, it'll help clean up the cylinder walls and lubricate the piston rings when you go to turn the motor over by hand.

Thanks