Another Not-an-E30 thread... The Worst Spec w201 16v, but I still have to save it

[2mAn]

I didn't choose the best car to start with as I got this car on a trade. Neglected paint, cooked interior plastics and a non-runner... My sickness involves 'saving' neglected cars and this one certainly checks the box.

I call her Carmen because it makes it easy to build a relationship with them. I was told that this 'ran when parked' in late 2023. These were the pics sent to me, and also where it has sat for a few years...












Closing in on 200k


Seats are 'deflated' which I'm pretty sure is common with these as my brothers feel this way too.



SLS has been deleted and overall its complete, just needs love.



There is THIS headache I have to address, in addition to getting it running. I started a different thread as I wasnt sure how I was going to fix this since the hose is NLA.



Not sure whats missing here, horn?



Hope I can get this hose...



I was able to hear it turn over so I know the motor isnt locked. However, it has a dead battery and I didnt hear the fuel pump kick on. I decided those were two easy purchases to make to start the progress, so I ordered 2 fuel pumps...

and the next day, shes on her way to my house.



This is where she will live until she can move under her own power. Luckily, no issues with street parking here.



When I was finally able to get under the car I decided to take pics of the goodies. Magnaflow exhaust, custom? I dont know of any aftermarket Magnaflow 'kits' for a 190e






and Bilsteins, not sure about what springs those are. They dont appear aftermarket. Certainly not H&R.

[2mAn]

So armed with two new Delphi fuel pumps I jacked the car up and got the cover off... expecting to see two fuel pumps this is what I was greeted with. Not sure if this is an early/ late model thing or if someone decided that 1 pump was enough, but this is what Im faced with:



I'm still waiting for the fuel filter to arrive, then I will get back down there and replace both at the same time. At that point, some fresh fuel and the new battery will get connected.

Will it be THAT easy? We'll find out one of these days!...

[reelizmpro]

Hey Simon, cool pick up. I was going to pick one up when they were dirt cheap but just decided to stick to what I knew. These do look awesome though. What did you trade ?

[MrBurgundy]

Those missing wires should be to the fan resistor thats located behind the bumper on the drivers side.

[2mAn]

Those missing wires should be to the fan resistor thats located behind the bumper on the drivers side.

Thank you! Now if I could just find one... it sounds important afterall...

reelizmpro I had an Alfa Romeo Twin Spark motor that needed reassembly complete with a full bottom end rebuild kit that included 10:1 Pistons, Carrillo rods, all the gaskets, bearings, etc to go into the Block that was fresh from the Machine Shop. Cylinder head also has been rebuilt with new valves, porting and a sport intake cam. Lots of money invested that just needed reassembly and then a decision on fuel injection.

[Northern]

I've been waiting for this thread, I don't think it's as bad as you say

[82eye]

always liked those. hydraulic shop can probably make a new hose up.

[MrBurgundy]

Yeah these are really fun cars, especially w the dog leg. You're really going to enjoy this car- temporarily

[2mAn]

Took that sketchy hose out and unwrapped it... check valve is in 2 pieces and this hose is NLA. I wonder if I can replace the check valve and move on to the next headache

[Northern]

I'd probably try to replace the plastic hose with something rubber and use a regular straight check valve like the Volvo or Ate one that is the same size on both ends:

https://www.fcpeuro.com/Parts/?keywords=Brake%20Booster%20Check%20Valve

[E30SPDFRK]

Yeah just remove the plastic hose from the metal ends and use E30 rubber hose and 318i check valve.

Hose 34331115926
Check valve 34331151534

[2mAn]

Thanks Byron! I can finally wrap up my order to Bluntech. Nice to save this car using E30 parts. I will enjoy sharing that “hack” lol

[moatilliatta]

What did you trade?

[2mAn]

What did you trade?

I had a full Alfa Romeo Twin Spark motor build. Block & crank were fresh from the Machine Shop, a full rebuild kit with higher CR pistons, Carrillo Rods, a fully rebuilt head with new valves, mild port work and a sport intake camshaft. Had a LOT of money into it, so getting this car (and another 16v m102) was worth it since it gives me something thats a bit easier to turn around and get some money back. The Motor actually sold today on BaT for $3652, quite a bit less than a S14 would go for...

[Dj Buttchug]

Always wanted one of these cars. Excited to see the progress.