What do you guys think, I got this for a clean £1000 but it needs work......Idle control valve and air intake pipe need doing, also the head gasket looks like its letting some moisture in.....also sounds abit tappety.....needs adjusting.
My Darling E30 325i se TURD model
Moderator: martauto
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ChelseaBoy
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What do you guys think, I got this for a clean £1000 but it needs work......Idle control valve and air intake pipe need doing, also the head gasket looks like its letting some moisture in.....also sounds abit tappety.....needs adjusting.
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ChelseaBoy
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Did I mention, the Central locking doesn't work, this morning the ABS light came on and the brakes don't feel right....
There are some positives....
No cracks in the dash board
Leather interior in good nick, no tears, but plenty of wear
all the dials work
intermittent wipers work (How rare is that?)
full stainless steel exhaust (Magnex is well fitted)
BBS Rims
Not much tin worm, especially in the usual places (When I say not much, I mean its superficial)
OBC works fine
All electrics work (except central locking)
It has a cobra alarm
Full tool kit in the boot with the BBS centre cap removal tool.
I do need a spare parcel shelf, as it seems there is just a MDF board there at present....I shudder to think the ordeals she has been through with her patchy history, but she is in the right hands now...safe and sound
There are some positives....
No cracks in the dash board
Leather interior in good nick, no tears, but plenty of wear
all the dials work
intermittent wipers work (How rare is that?)
full stainless steel exhaust (Magnex is well fitted)
BBS Rims
Not much tin worm, especially in the usual places (When I say not much, I mean its superficial)
OBC works fine
All electrics work (except central locking)
It has a cobra alarm
Full tool kit in the boot with the BBS centre cap removal tool.
I do need a spare parcel shelf, as it seems there is just a MDF board there at present....I shudder to think the ordeals she has been through with her patchy history, but she is in the right hands now...safe and sound
Listen mate you've got yourself a very clean e30 which, as you expect for a grand, needs a little work. Idle control valve is about £60 at ECP, the head gasket isn't a massive issue as long as the head isn't warped, it should just need a skim. As for sounding tappy, I don't know many that don't.
The leather can be treated and look like new and the other bits are just niggles that can be sorted.
As said before you're not too far from Steve (e30topless) and he knows his stuff - I'm only good at making things pretty.
The leather can be treated and look like new and the other bits are just niggles that can be sorted.
As said before you're not too far from Steve (e30topless) and he knows his stuff - I'm only good at making things pretty.
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ChelseaBoy
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Falkster: If you're good at making things pretty, then I suppose if you're offering your services, perhaps you can make hr look pretty for me while I spend some time with my new born?? I can send you list of jobs for you price up? All elbow grease based ofcourse....like re-vamping that tired leather, or sorting the engine bay, or cleaning the throttle body, or getting new carpet in there? I also need a standard parcel shelf putting in, its currently got some sort of MDF thing going on
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borisdblade
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Looks like bargain to me!
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ChelseaBoy
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More like Handy Andy mate.....the guy just hated the car, said the bbs rims look silly on an E30.....had absolutely no taste...I think he bought it to rally in as its got Eibach springs and shocks which are in very goos nick, huge callipers and grooved discs.....I think he just didn't have the funds to pull it off. The last time it was taxed was in 2008
Well you've got a great platform to make a minter. No need to worry about shocks and brakes so there's a grand saved already.
My opinion only but I think the way it looks is the best way to keep it as far as the body goes. What size are the BBSs?
My opinion only but I think the way it looks is the best way to keep it as far as the body goes. What size are the BBSs?
haha ye the Craig who was locked up in Avid Merrions cupboard.Falkster wrote:More likely that scouse tw@t that won big brother!!jaymos wrote:Was Tommy Walsh the last owner?its currently got some sort of MDF thing going on
vier Türen sind für Menschen mit Freunden.
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ChelseaBoy
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Falkster: Yeah, thats what I thought....good platform for a great little car. The rims are 14", so look kind of silly...but ashamedly, they are growing on me, they look more and more retro everytime I look at them, with bulging rubber its just so 80s. I want it resprayed to black, as I always wanted a black one, the plan is to change colour every couple of years just to give her a new set of clothes and a change for myself.....
Thought they looked a little small, you can find some nice 15" ones on eBay.
Your choice for painting but a total paint job (colour change would look sheeeiiiite if only did the outside) would be like spunking 4k against a wall for no reason.
It's not everyones colour choice (doom blue) but it suits the car unlike most cars and with a couple of days of hard graft would look the pods!!
Save the money I buy me a prozzy!
Your choice for painting but a total paint job (colour change would look sheeeiiiite if only did the outside) would be like spunking 4k against a wall for no reason.
It's not everyones colour choice (doom blue) but it suits the car unlike most cars and with a couple of days of hard graft would look the pods!!
Save the money I buy me a prozzy!
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ChelseaBoy
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Falkster: I am in 2 minds about it, but they will do the inside and outside so might be worth getting it done. JUst couldn't live with doom and gloom blue
like I said it's your choice but to do a good job you're looking at anywhere from £2-£4k for a total paint job and the lower figure would probably include you taking all the parts off (windows out, grill/lamps out, maybe a bit of prep).ChelseaBoy wrote:Falkster: I am in 2 minds about it, but they will do the inside and outside so might be worth getting it done. JUst couldn't live with doom and gloom blue
The colour is fine for an e30, it will look classy when it's shiny! If you've got that sort of money to spend knowing that you're never going to see it again and you're going to keep the car forever then paint it but if for one second you think a couple of years down the line you might sell it then it's not going to be worth it. You'd have spent a grand on the car plus, say, £2,500 painting it plus a further grand because your anal like me and always find things that need doing. This will give you £4500 in the car (which is still excluding anything getting replaced in the time you own it).
What will it be worth?
My opinion is, it will be a great looking car once it's minted without painting it. In the mean time you learn about them and may stumble upon a black one.
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ChelseaBoy
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Falkster: I think I am so sick of looking around, that I don't mind putting 4.5k into this car and just keeping it as a family heirloom, my boy will inherit this once he has cut his teeth on a couple of Minis and modern cars etc. and once I have lost all of mine 
I just don't ever want to buy another E30, I'll replace the whole thing if I need to, but I agree, it is the wrong way round of doing things, just can't be bothered with the chopping and changing etc.
The other option is that get this paint work properly revitalised so it looks brand new and just use it for a couple of years and then re-spray black and if before then the right one comes along, might just go for it.....
Really indecisive now, but its booked for a full respray this saturday she goes in, either to get this revitalised and save me 1500, by just the minor rust, scratches and imperfections removed or just a full respray...I'll see how it goes. MIght put it to a vote.....let the Zoners speak
I just don't ever want to buy another E30, I'll replace the whole thing if I need to, but I agree, it is the wrong way round of doing things, just can't be bothered with the chopping and changing etc.
The other option is that get this paint work properly revitalised so it looks brand new and just use it for a couple of years and then re-spray black and if before then the right one comes along, might just go for it.....
Really indecisive now, but its booked for a full respray this saturday she goes in, either to get this revitalised and save me 1500, by just the minor rust, scratches and imperfections removed or just a full respray...I'll see how it goes. MIght put it to a vote.....let the Zoners speak
Jesus you don't mess about. Personally you're doing things arse about face. You get the car running right, add anything you need to it and mint the interior THEN you get it painted.
Imagine in a few weeks time when it looks ace but still has a few issues, it goes to a garage or a zoner works on it and scratches appear. Not intentional but these things happen don't they. Mine picked up a few whilst it was getting it's twice yearly work done at my mates garage.
Why don't you have a drive over to me or meet at Steves before it goes in and we can advise (because we've seen it in the flesh) what you should do.
I know how you feel mate cos I'm the same, I have an idea and want it now!!!
The offer is there and I'm sure Steve would be happy to have a look over it too.
Imagine in a few weeks time when it looks ace but still has a few issues, it goes to a garage or a zoner works on it and scratches appear. Not intentional but these things happen don't they. Mine picked up a few whilst it was getting it's twice yearly work done at my mates garage.
Why don't you have a drive over to me or meet at Steves before it goes in and we can advise (because we've seen it in the flesh) what you should do.
I know how you feel mate cos I'm the same, I have an idea and want it now!!!
The offer is there and I'm sure Steve would be happy to have a look over it too.
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ross_jsy
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Is this the full respray by the best sprayer in Manchester for a grand by any chance?
Gotta say it, and don't take it as harsh, but if you are looking at spending 4.5k on a car with shady history why didn't you just go out and buy a sport with decent history that is in good nick and has history, not some ex-council mobile. And have something that won't loose you a shed load of money.
As I said, don't take it the wrong way.
Gotta say it, and don't take it as harsh, but if you are looking at spending 4.5k on a car with shady history why didn't you just go out and buy a sport with decent history that is in good nick and has history, not some ex-council mobile. And have something that won't loose you a shed load of money.
As I said, don't take it the wrong way.
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ChelseaBoy
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Falkster: Definitely mate, where does Steve live? I would love for you guys to give a bit of guidance on it and perhaps you're right, I should hold off on the spray job, its just that the last time I had an e30, I held off on the spray job and well....it just never got done. But you are right, the mechanical work must come first, the paintwork.....after.
ross_jsy: Yes, its the same guy, but I am paying him more for a proper job....I've seen his owrk and I am satisfied with it. I could have had a sport mate, I know that....I just didn't want one. I didn't want the kit (Bumpers and side skirts on it). I am even having the rubber spoiler removed from mine, so it just didn't appeal to me on any level. I wanted a bog standard 2.5i se model without the souped up sport grunt. As far as my car is concerned, any E30 that has had 4.5k spent on it, won't be a shed will it? Why would I care about history when I know the body is sound, the engine is reconditioned and the interior is clean and well maintained?? In any case, this is a labour of love, not about making money at the other end as I don't think I will ever sell it.
ross_jsy: Yes, its the same guy, but I am paying him more for a proper job....I've seen his owrk and I am satisfied with it. I could have had a sport mate, I know that....I just didn't want one. I didn't want the kit (Bumpers and side skirts on it). I am even having the rubber spoiler removed from mine, so it just didn't appeal to me on any level. I wanted a bog standard 2.5i se model without the souped up sport grunt. As far as my car is concerned, any E30 that has had 4.5k spent on it, won't be a shed will it? Why would I care about history when I know the body is sound, the engine is reconditioned and the interior is clean and well maintained?? In any case, this is a labour of love, not about making money at the other end as I don't think I will ever sell it.
We both live at the same junction of the 62 (24). He lives Huddersfield and I live Halifax. Obviously I can't talk for him but he has already posted in your thread (e30topless).
I'm available any day or night this week so PM e30topless and see when he's available.
I'm available any day or night this week so PM e30topless and see when he's available.
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ChelseaBoy
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On my first drive from work today, I think I sort of fell in love with my E30. The body work isn't that bad at all, I will probably just get the current paint livened up now, get the rust sorted out, still want it looking mint when she comes out. Allocate that budget to mechanicals and extras 
I think I have got lucky with the purchase because everything about the ad, the sale, the previos owner was soooo dodgey. In the ad it said project drift car, the guy who owned it said he drove it, then he said he never drove it in 8 months of him owning it??? the head gaske is on its last legs I think and the engine sounds so tappetty that I think its been ragged about, hence I should spend the money on getting it sweet as...
And the interior is filthy (but in good condition), is there anone who can re-vamp my leather interior for a fee?? I saw some guy in wheeler dealers who did for Edd China for a Bentley. I need someone like that. Then the 14inch rims need a re-furb, and all sorts of bita and bobs to make her perfect enough for a perfectionist
I think I have got lucky with the purchase because everything about the ad, the sale, the previos owner was soooo dodgey. In the ad it said project drift car, the guy who owned it said he drove it, then he said he never drove it in 8 months of him owning it??? the head gaske is on its last legs I think and the engine sounds so tappetty that I think its been ragged about, hence I should spend the money on getting it sweet as...
And the interior is filthy (but in good condition), is there anone who can re-vamp my leather interior for a fee?? I saw some guy in wheeler dealers who did for Edd China for a Bentley. I need someone like that. Then the 14inch rims need a re-furb, and all sorts of bita and bobs to make her perfect enough for a perfectionist
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ChelseaBoy
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I know what you are saying Kieran, but there is something about the 14" rims that I am just 'feeling' at the moment. They kinda look patheticall retro...almost quite cool!
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ChelseaBoy
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Right guys...... Went to the body shop today and me being the perfectionist that I am it would make little difference price wise to keep the same colour or change it to gloss black. So gloss black it is. 2 weeks till she comes back. Will put pictures up of work being done when I check progress nxt weekend. Keep your fingers crossed guys
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ChelseaBoy
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Change of Plan Guys......
Bought another E30....oops.....but this might be the shorter route to what I want:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll? ... K:MEWNX:IT
So I need to get this road worthy now and sell the blue one....just wondering if I should swap everything across (I do want the 2.5 engine, leather interior and other bits because the blue one is sooo...erm...complete....or I can sell it and put the money towards a restore...what say ye?
Is it difficult to swap acros from a 325i to a 320i? I need a manchestr mechanic who knows what he's doing to sort this all out for me. I don't mind paying what is fair. Inside I am kind of kicking myself and excited at the same time .......finally a 2 door chromie with a sunroof in black......its what I have always wanted, just need to spice it up now. Any takers for the blue 325i as is please let me know...its got 10 month MOT, 6 months tax and is complete and on the road ready to drive (although a service is needed..oil looks dark)
Bought another E30....oops.....but this might be the shorter route to what I want:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll? ... K:MEWNX:IT
So I need to get this road worthy now and sell the blue one....just wondering if I should swap everything across (I do want the 2.5 engine, leather interior and other bits because the blue one is sooo...erm...complete....or I can sell it and put the money towards a restore...what say ye?
Is it difficult to swap acros from a 325i to a 320i? I need a manchestr mechanic who knows what he's doing to sort this all out for me. I don't mind paying what is fair. Inside I am kind of kicking myself and excited at the same time .......finally a 2 door chromie with a sunroof in black......its what I have always wanted, just need to spice it up now. Any takers for the blue 325i as is please let me know...its got 10 month MOT, 6 months tax and is complete and on the road ready to drive (although a service is needed..oil looks dark)
well done mate-
ChelseaBoy
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I know.....totally chuffed, its only a 320i though...any ideas on how to upgrade it to 2.5 performance??
Thers nothing wrong with a 320 get it on the road drive it for a bit and if you not appy throw a 325 lump inside. My 323 is not briliant as performance but i can live with it, for nowChelseaBoy wrote:I know.....totally chuffed, its only a 320i though...any ideas on how to upgrade it to 2.5 performance??
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ChelseaBoy
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True say. Just want the best for my babyandreia wrote:Thers nothing wrong with a 320 get it on the road drive it for a bit and if you not appy throw a 325 lump inside. My 323 is not briliant as performance but i can live with it, for nowChelseaBoy wrote:I know.....totally chuffed, its only a 320i though...any ideas on how to upgrade it to 2.5 performance??