'87 Vert For Her

[m2d2]

I mentioned earlier this car will never achieve show car status. However, tonight, my friend is lending me his paint gauge so I can determine in which areas I can perform more extensive paint correction. Currently, I have no knowledge of which panels have original paint and which ones have been resprayed. In the meantime, I decided to perform a light polish to address the superficial water spots, haze, and spider scratching. I experienced the best results with Rupes Uno Advanced, which is a one-step polishing solution on a yellow foam pad. The results were as anticipated, with some improvement, but many of the deeper scratches and defects still persist.

[e30vert]

Much better! Just dont go with anything too abrasive. These 30 year old clear coats can only take so much .

[m2d2]

Thank you! Last night, I conducted a paint thickness measurement and obtained readings ranging from as low as 2.XX mils up to 30 mils and even exceeding that (referred to as "Overfill"). It appears the paint thickness is inconsistent throughout, leading me to believe that the entire car might have been repainted at some point.

On a different note, I've placed an order for the L.C. Wylie R134a conversion since I've been unsuccessful in getting the R12 system to function (it was worth a try). While I'm in the process of removing the front bumper once again, I've decided to switch to a late model valance with an IS front lip. I've gathered several parts in my online shopping carts from various websites, but the late model valance has been the most challenging to pin down. Firstly, I need to ensure I'm selecting the correct part number, which I believe to be # 41331961227 (corresponds to the late model, euro valance), or the late model US valance equivalent (part #?). I think I've read every late model valance conversion thread in existence at this point. If either of these part numbers can serve as an appropriate replacement, I would greatly appreciate any recommendations regarding the best place to make the purchase.

[m2d2]

After browsing through various forums, I encountered mixed experiences regarding the removal of the evaporator in convertibles. However, I decided to give it a shot. It didn't take long for me to realize that there wasn't enough space, primarily due to the location of the battery tray. In order to create sufficient clearance, I had to move and flex some panels. As I began removing the center console panels, I discovered numerous spills and food remnants accumulated over 30 years of use, not to mention bugs, cut wires, and broken screw mounts. Against my better judgment, I made the decision to strip everything out. I thoroughly vacuumed and shampooed the carpets and deep cleaned all the panels. To be honest, I had some assistance from my trusty companion, Harvey, who you can see pictured below :) On a serious note, my wife was a great support and helped me out, despite being grossed out by the whole situation.

Anyway, now everything is clean and ready for installation. Moving back to evaporator removal, I managed to unclip a zip tie holding the main harness beneath the passenger-side dashboard and was able to wiggle the evaporator out to some extent. I couldn't remove it completely, and was about to give up when I decided to remove a few metal retaining clips along the bottom of the dashboard. This freed up an additional 1/8" to 1/4" of space, which was just enough to extract the evaporator entirely. I was astonished by the amount of mud, dirt, and debris that had accumulated on it. Considering its condition, I highly doubt the system would perform optimally without replacing it. While I could have rinsed it off and cleaned it, I've taken the advice of a good friend and HVAC professional to go ahead and replace it instead. I suspect that for those who have converted their R12 system to R134a and been unsatisfied with the results, this could potentially be the issue.

[m2d2]

Few more pics of today's projects

[e30vert]

You could post a Parts Wanted Advert in this portion of the forum for the late model valance. https://www.r3vlimited.com/board/for...d/parts-wanted

[m2d2]

Thanks! I just did that.

[m2d2]

While waiting for the arrival of mechanical parts, I've been tinkering with the car. Fortunately, I successfully installed the new evap core without causing any damage, which is a relief. (For future reference, I have provided details on the installation process for vert owners, here). As for the interior, I decided to replace the old rear seat covers with new LSeat covers. However, I quickly realized that this task required professional expertise to ensure the best possible outcome in terms of appearance. In preparation for an audio upgrade, I'm collaborating with @e30dreamin to construct a sub box and felt inspired to incorporate some wood paneling in the trunk. While the seats were removed, a friend graciously helped scrub-a-dub-dub decades of accumulated dirt and grime.

[m2d2]

After ordering new rear seat covers from LSeat.com, I entrusted a local upholstery shop with installing them. I have to say, they did a great job and the outcome exceeded my expectations. The fitment was perfect, and I'm genuinely pleased with how it turned out. I must commend LSeat for their fast shipping and great product.

In addition to buttoning up the rear seats, I received my R134a A/C conversion kit from L.C Wylie. With any luck, I'll have it installed by this weekend. I had a positive experience working with L.C. Wylie, as his customer service was excellent. The packaging and quality of the conversion kit were spot on and I can't wait to get it installed, especially with some hot weather around the corner.

While waiting for some mechanical parts to arrive from FCP and ECS for a thorough tune-up, I've been busy assembling the new audio system. Here's what it will consist of:

• Head Unit: Blaupunkt Frankfurt RCM 82 DAB
• Front Components: JL C2-525
• Rear Mids: JL C2-525X
• Subwoofer: JL Audio 10W6v3-D4
• Subwoofer Box: e30 Dreamin custom ported box
• 5-Channel amplifier: JL XDM1000/5

I'm somewhat disappointed by the sound of the 5.25" speakers but by all accounts there really isn't anything as good as the OEM premium sound speakers. Still, this will be a big upgrade over what I have now.

I've got a long ways to go but it's starting to come together and I'm quite excited about the progress.

[m2d2]

The e30 has been consuming my time lately. I've been knee-deep in tinkering with stuff! I conquered the A/C installation, thanks to the amazing L.C. Wylie kit and his top notch customer service.

I completed the rear bumper tuck and my wife graciously lent her artistic touch in sprucing things up by giving the calipers a makeover. The previous brown color behind silver wheels was about as fashionable as socks with sandals.

I still have a whole mechanical jungle to explore, not to mention cosmetic and audio upgrades, but have decided to pump the brakes for a minute and let my wife enjoy some time behind the wheel. What's the rush, right?

[bmwtool]

Thanks for sharing! I have a '91 convertible, also black but with the tan interior and a 5-speed. We left my Bronzit convertible behind when we left California, but found we really missed having one. Driving around on a summer day with the top down is like a mini vacation!

Thanks for the link to the LC Wylie A/C system. I will need to do that next summer.

[m2d2]

It's definitely worth it. For us it was especially important considering the black interior and how close we are to the clouds. I definitely recommend!

[m2d2]

Despite encountering some setbacks, I'm still making steady progress on this project. I successfully reattached the body molding/trim pieces and installed the 3D printed hatch trim coverings from Botter Manufacturing, which are fantastic. I took the time to clean and paint the lower side panels, effectively addressing the signs of wear they were showing.


The rear struts needed to be replaced because they lost rebound due to the use of lowering springs. Additionally, a frustrating issue arose with a shorting headlight switch, which renders the car undrivable at night unless I remove the associated fuse before turning it off. Furthermore, the ignition tumbler has completely worn out, resulting in my wife getting stranded three times in a single day while running errands in the e30 around town.


I'm truly astonished at the numerous shortcuts taken by previous owners/shops. From using screws instead of proper mounting clips to attach molding trim, to resorting to a zip tie to prevent the headlight switch from fully closing and shorting out, and even encountering broken window switches that don't illuminate. The overall quality of the headlight and radio wiring is also extremely poor and poses a safety risk.


Nevertheless, I'm determined to address these issues and continue working towards sorting out the car.

[e30vert]

People can really jerry rig some sketchy shit! It makes my skin crawl when I encounter those situations. The good news is once the issues are sorted out and repaired correctly without cutting corners these cars will not let you down.

[bmwtool]

I think only convertible owners can appreciate how sexy this is. Nice work! And I hear you about "shortcuts" previous owners take. My car was involved in a minor fender bender, and the front valance trim was partially replaced with drywall screws after.