First time E30 owner, got some questions.

[cherry325]

19 here currently going to college, recently just picked up my first e30 (also have a e90 330i, but always wanted an e30). 1988 325i Vert, Zinno on tan w/ approximately 200k (broken odo). Just have a couple questions.

I'm pretty handy, I have a simple toolbox, drill, bits, jack, and 2 jack stands. I want to start doing maintenance on the car as much as I can by myself versus paying a mechanic. What would be some basic tools I should pickup?

For example, brakes are coming up soon, and I'd like to change the oil myself, any suggestions?

And aside from the bently manual (found it hard to follow/pretty old) what other literature would be useful for me to start reading?

Here's a pic right after I got it detailed a day after picking her up.

[rlddlr53]

What is in your "simple" toolbox?

[Joe G]

1) bentley is the e30 bible. Use it and you will go far.
2) ratchets (1/4", 3/8", 1/2" drive), metric sockets 8mm-22mm would be most commonly used, set of metric wrenches(same sizes as sockets), screwdrivers, vice grips, big c-clamp(for brakes), 8mm hex (right size for caliper bracket if my memory serves).

Also might want to get a couple more jack stands, some gloves, and safety goggles.

That should give you a good base line, but for the most part you'll really accumulate tools as you do more work. Its a pretty expensive endeavor to buy EVERYTHING you need all at once. Start small and add to the collection over time.

[Joe G]

p.s. nice vert.

[Pantless Spency]

pretty much what joe G said but don't forget your probably going to want to have 3inch 5inch and 8inch ratchet drive extensions. they come in handy for so many jobs. pneumatic tools don't hurt either ;)

[mkcman17]

did i just see this car at castro's?

[cherry325]

What is in your "simple" toolbox?

socket wrench w a variety of heads, nothing fancy

[cherry325]

did i just see this car at castro's?

yessir thats mine, i'm currently in the process of applying to transfer and taking 14 units so the major work i just decided to get out of the way at castros

[cherry325]

p.s. nice vert.

nice sig ;)

[MaksV]

Learn to love the bently.

depending on records and it being a 325i your gonna want to do

-timing stuff
-cooling stuff
-brake stuff
-suspension stuff
-cool junk.

in that order.

[cherry325]

All belts were replaced, plugs, fluids, ps pump/lines, rack, front and rear sways/links/bushings, shifter bushings, and wheel bearing. Next thjing up is brakes which I want to attempt to do myself. So what should I pickup?

[mkcman17]

yessir thats mine, i'm currently in the process of applying to transfer and taking 14 units so the major work i just decided to get out of the way at castros

yeah i think we met briefly while yours was on the lift. i built mine while taking full time last year, it can be done..just schedule weekends out and wake up early ;)

brakes are simple, i *think* you'll only need 19's, 17's, 7mm allen, flathead, and a c-clamp. but don't quote me.

[blefevre]

You will probably need a drill out kit when the allens strip out on the rotors.

[cherry325]

it looks like i'm gonna attempt the fan clutch first as the engine temp creeps up little by little at idle, any tips/advice? anything i should check/replace/adjust while i'm down there? thanks

[TurboJake]

You will probably need a drill out kit when the allens strip out on the rotors.

Allen socket, hammer, and torch. Works every time. Never had one strip out.

I've ripped down 3 rusty cars now too. Never had an issue. Torch bolt for 20 seconds. Whach socket allen in. Attach ratchet or impact. Out in a jif