Hello everyone,
I think it's time to introduce myself and my E30.
The car is a U.S.-spec 1991 325iA Cabrio, Brilliantrot, built in July 1990. I’ve owned it since 1997, so it’s been part of my life for nearly three decades. It currently has about 150,000 miles.
Over the years it’s been maintained well and has remained a reliable, largely original car. Now that it’s 35-plus years old, though, I’ve reached the point where many of the age-related restoration projects are beginning to surface. Fortunately, most of them are the kinds of things that happen simply because rubber, grease, and plastic don’t last forever. Some examples include:
One thing I’ve already learned is that finding the right information can be just as important as finding the right part. I’m always interested in factory procedures, experienced advice, and recommendations for quality OEM, aftermarket, or used parts sources.
I’ve documented a fairly complete maintenance and vehicle history (1995 to present). Besides all of the typical run-of-the-mill periodic maintenance, major items that have been addressed are new ragtop (twice), heater core, timing belt and tensioner (twice), and a full steering and suspension overhaul. Engine, transmission, and differential have never needed anything past standard maintenance. Aftermarket accessory items include an old school Alpine AF/FM/CD unit and an Alpine dual stage security system (1997), AC Schnitzer body kit, and a Schwarz rear seat wind deflector from Cabrio Supply (man, that works great!)
My hope is to preserve as much of the car’s originality as practical while keeping it enjoyable to drive for many more years.
I’ve attached a few photos of the car. I look forward to learning from the collective experience here, and hopefully, over time, contributing something useful in return.
Thanks for having me.
Paul
I think it's time to introduce myself and my E30.
The car is a U.S.-spec 1991 325iA Cabrio, Brilliantrot, built in July 1990. I’ve owned it since 1997, so it’s been part of my life for nearly three decades. It currently has about 150,000 miles.
Over the years it’s been maintained well and has remained a reliable, largely original car. Now that it’s 35-plus years old, though, I’ve reached the point where many of the age-related restoration projects are beginning to surface. Fortunately, most of them are the kinds of things that happen simply because rubber, grease, and plastic don’t last forever. Some examples include:
- Power windows that still work but have become slow and labored.
- Window regulators and tracks that will need to be removed, cleaned, inspected, and re-lubricated.
- Inner and outer window seals that have hardened and need replacement.
- Various weatherstrips and other rubber components that have reached the end of their service life.
- A number of cosmetic trim pieces that I’d like to restore or replace while they’re still available.
One thing I’ve already learned is that finding the right information can be just as important as finding the right part. I’m always interested in factory procedures, experienced advice, and recommendations for quality OEM, aftermarket, or used parts sources.
I’ve documented a fairly complete maintenance and vehicle history (1995 to present). Besides all of the typical run-of-the-mill periodic maintenance, major items that have been addressed are new ragtop (twice), heater core, timing belt and tensioner (twice), and a full steering and suspension overhaul. Engine, transmission, and differential have never needed anything past standard maintenance. Aftermarket accessory items include an old school Alpine AF/FM/CD unit and an Alpine dual stage security system (1997), AC Schnitzer body kit, and a Schwarz rear seat wind deflector from Cabrio Supply (man, that works great!)
My hope is to preserve as much of the car’s originality as practical while keeping it enjoyable to drive for many more years.
I’ve attached a few photos of the car. I look forward to learning from the collective experience here, and hopefully, over time, contributing something useful in return.
Thanks for having me.
Paul
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