Shop to do an E30 stereo install...properly?

[boy412]

I know this isn't rocket science, but I lack the time to do this myself. It would take me weeks...and OCD would take over.



Looking for a shop that knows older BMW's, will be able to figure out the current wiring situation (way too many previous owners have done a hack job with the electronics), and will put it to rights...using quality materials.

Any recommendations?

[dougsic]

I know this isn't rocket science, but I lack the time to do this myself. It would take me weeks...and OCD would take over.

I feel your pain. Started my install in June. Every wire had to be perfect - it got ridiculous.

I just finished about two weeks ago. So basically, I took the convertible off the road for the entire summer. I would have gladly paid if I knew where to take it.

Good luck!

[boy412]

Another 'vert! Nice. Mind if I ask you a few questions?

[nrubenstein]

Every single one of our E30s has required significant work to unfuck old stereo installs. Honestly, just find the time. It doesn't actually take long to do decently.

[boy412]

I want to search out all of the previous owners and kill them repeatedly. And slowly.



Started doing some preliminary excavation yesterday and OCD is already threatening to take over. This is what I want to avoid, so I'd really prefer to just take it somewhere and have it "un-fucked".

[John in VA]

If there's any original wires remaining you can use the ETM to decipher what you're working with: http://wedophones.com/Manuals/BMW/19...g%20Manual.pdf

[boy412]

Yes...I have the ETM for this car. The factory bundle of cables is still back there. Looks like only 2-3 were used the last time a stereo was installed. Someone with patience could probably splice a new stereo's harness in, provided the wiring is intact from that point "backwards" (to speakers, remote trigger, etc).

[gtdragon980]

Man mine is so fucked, I'm scared to try and fix it up. If there is anyone in the area willing to help me out and tell me what I need to redo this shit, I would totally appreciate it! And buy you some beer!

[boy412]

LOL...seems like there are a few of us in the area! Maybe someone should organize a "E30 stereo tech day". :D

[boy412]

Actually that would be pretty sweet! Just need to find a shop that knows E30's and has a decent range of goodies for sale. I'll post back if I find such a place (which was the whole point of this thread in the first place).

[Kershaw]

i've always only used the power and ground and reran all the speaker cables.

my current e30 is the only e30 i've owned where i was able to use the stock wiring.

[boy412]

That looks to be how this e30 is wired. Although the speaker wire looks like crap. I'm 99% decided on ripping it out and putting in something "nice".

I have some leftover Kimber 4PR that would be WAY overkill. But I can't stand seeing this Home Depot/Radio Shack cable in the car.