FIRE!!! damage - what would you do?

[Ray316i]

Hi Guys,

I am mid way through doing some work for the next MOT - new wing, suspension and odd bits of bodywork. This morning I welded some new metal into the passenger foot well. Working under the car, I was really very pleased with the weld. It wasn't until I stood up that I realised my mistake. The car was full of black smoke and I could see the odd flame. I threw a bucket of water into the footwell. Flames were now coming out of the glove compartment. It took two more buckets of water to douse the flames. I feel like such a muppet! and absolutely gutted!javascript:emoticon(':eek:')


So what's the damage. It all seems very localised around the glove compartment -but new glove compartment, wiring loom and all junctions in/above the glove compartment and new carpet. All of the wire insulation has burned away. It seems like a load more work. There is no evidence of damage in under the bonnet or a 10 cm's away from the glove compartment. I have never tackled this kind of electrical work before and feel a little daunted. I am hoping for a bit of realism about how practical it is to fix. I have looked on ebay for bits of loom and it seems straightforward to get. Could I simply splice new sections in? Cut the bad out and replace with good? Do I need to consider anything else before starting? On a positive note I fancied replacing the interior - so may-be this is the time?

Cheers, ray

[Sanchez]

Seams like a the safest bet is a new complete wiring loom.

Not an easy job but ask youself this. Is the car a keeper/hobby/daily and can you throw time and cash at it???????

[Ray316i]

Yeah, I would very much like to keep it - only 60000 miles and a great car. Can't afford to spend that much cash, but probably have the time.

[Ray316i]

Another question. I have new rear suspension and a wing arriving today. Do I send these or keep and commit to fixing?

[Sanchez]

Its your car your choice and others can voice their opinion.

60k car with little rust is worth fixing. After all this site is about the love for the e30 and keeping them alive.

Some will frag some will fix.

I would fix if I had the the time. Personally a 2nd hand loom would be best as theres less risk of an electrical fire cause if you try fix the old loom and dont do it well you could burn your car to the ground.

[harry_p]

new loom for sure.

I'm sure one of the fraggers on here will get you one for sensible money and will give way more peace of mind than a chopped / repaired one.

with the dashboard and carpet out you can see the majority of it, e30s are pretty simple compared to modern stuff!

[Ray316i]

Thanks guys - it helps to have some support - although still feel an absolute dork.

Anyone know where I can get a second hand loom, glove compartment and housing, carpet and may-be dashboard. I will go and take a pic and upload the damage. Thanks again ray

[jonny323i]

Where are you based

[Brianmoooore]

Awaiting pics.

[JM2012]

Sorry to hear that mate! hopefully someone is local to you that may be able to help.

[Andy325i]

Gutted for you Once you get all the damaged bits out it will look a lot better. Get it saved as long as you have the time and space to do it. Where are you based? Sure there would be a local zoner near that may help you for a few beer tokens

[Ray316i]

Scottish Borders - don't see many e30's around here. Consoling myself with a bottle of wine.

[Sanchez]

You want to come to this
http://www.e30zone.net/modules.php?name ... 76#2639776


Put a wanted advert up for the bits you need.

Topblag(Colin) is a top bloke and is coming to Selkirk and im sure if you fill his wallet he will bring some goodies for you.
http://www.e30zone.net/modules.php?name ... c&t=240948

[Ray316i]

So grateful for your help with this. Selkirk is in my diary and thanks also for the contact.

Feeling a little better today. This morning I stripped out the damage. I have uploaded two pics. One shows the bad bits cutout. The second pic shows some of the damaged parts.






I have decided to fix. To feel better about the repair work, I am considering improving the interior. It was actually in very good condition, but the 'comfort' model was not actually that comfy. Do you know if there is a wiki or other link showing sensible second hand upgrade options.

Cheers, Ray


ps - lesson learned remove all carpets before welding

[Sanchez]

Ray does this mean you would like a place on the E30zone stand?

It doesnt matter if your car doesnt make it(well of course it does) but I need to now ASAP your reg/name and e30 model for the form to be sent out on Tuesday. If its not on the list it aint coming in but if it is then you have a chance. 8/9 weeks to fix it.

Please PM me details.