I have a 2003 330Ci and I definitely accepted that it’s not an M3, but I got a great deal for it, low mileage garage queen, with hard top, and maintained religiously. Now I refreshed the suspension, tires, brakes and all the engine gaskets and it’s a beauty to own.
Absolutely agree... My stock E46 performs very well on the way its built.... Just minor body accessories with no mechanical modifications what so ever.
Mate. This is the second video I've seen of yours. And I gotta say, good job. Maintenance takes precedence over mods 100%. My daily e46 has a laundry list full of shit done. It's entirely common problems sorted, and I love it more and more just having it run properly. Mods I thought I needed were actually lost performance due to garbage disa, intake boot tears, vanos seals, as well as more pedestrian issues like coolant tank reservoir and steering gear rebuilds, etc. Just now, having things near 100% OEM and happy makes it feel like a brilliant new ride. My 330xi brings me so much joy. Even in northern Canada with abhorrent snow, it's an absolute gem. Appreciate the video. Liked and subbed
I’ve done a good handful of mods on my E46 and all were great choices (headers, Cat-Back exhaust, tuning software bigger rear diff gear and unfortunately CAI with silicone boot but I may change the intake back to stock one as all it really changes is sound, I also had minor mods done that improve air flow under the hood. Thing sounds like a diesel truck and still getting 30mpg.
Appreciate your content. I hope more people watch this. I’m tired of seeing e46s with wheels+coilovers but had a catastrophic failure. It’s starting to fill the group forums. Keep doing what you do
Literally the exact videos I've been needing. Im doing the entire coolant system this week as well as replacing the front fenders, and front clip and bumper because I hit a deer. So glad to have found this channel...STOKED! Thanks Sixty4motorsport!!!!
just bought my first e46 4 days ago, as i look for build ideas for it this video pop up on my youtube. had to say this changes a lot of things and knock some realization in my mind about my new car. little story - when i bought this car it comes with a modified set of wheels and coilovers, and surprisingly some annoying problems with it. most people said that its a common thing those problems because its an old car. made me think im fixing the previous owner mistakes. thank you for your information sir bless up and stay safe.
Thank you.It's always important to remember that we all have different passions, so just because your passion is different from another persons, it doesn't make it less important!
I’ve had my e46 325ci sport for over 7 years and agree with everything you say regarding maintenance. Mine is standard apart from replacing the tired Sachs dampers and springs with the Bilstein B12 sport setup (which retains factory MSport ride height) and an AFE cold air intake which makes it sound like a baby CSL and I would recommend to anyone :-)
@@hippotesttokill750 Not hard, of course you have to take the diff out of the car open it, drain the oil. Use break cleaner and find two pieces of steel fairly thick that can fit where the spider gears are. Then you weld em all together, clean with a metal brush and break cleaner again, close it up and add oil :)
@@hippotesttokill750 it's not hard at all. I had a shop weld it for $150 here in TN. Unfortunately the car was totalled last weekend. I only had 300 miles on the s54 swap before some drunk ass lady decided it was a good idea to take her side by side vehicle on the highway at 10pm.
2003 / 325i / 5MT / 233XXX miles / daily driver; I really enjoy the videos, Michael. And I appreciate and agree with your point - focus on basic maintenance items and make sure you have a solid base on which to build. I've taken that approach - and I've learned so much about the car and about DIY jobs. It's been very rewarding. It's all about having a goal - mine is to see the car make it to the 400 Club.
Man... TY! I've had my M3 since I bought it new back in 2005. I've just started looking at mods and both you and my mech have both said 'don't fix what's not broke'. Yes, I want to make sure my maintenance is spot on and yes, I've been dreaming of some cool rims, etc but personalization while keeping it relatively stock can be done and man... I've had 15 years of amazing fun with this pup. Definitely will keep your words in mind and things in perspective. Thanks again.
I agree with you wholeheartedly. Bought my E46 in early 2018, and this summer I just started upgrading it’s appearance. The new Apex Arc 8 wheels I purchased in June, wrapped in Pilot Sport AS-4’s, along with a Destroyer Gray paint job my car is currently receiving will be fully enjoyed because I took care of my maintenance firsthand. It’s not fun spending thousands of dollars on projects the human eye won’t immediately detect, but it’s nevertheless mature, and necessary. All of my suspension work and under the hood issues have been fully addressed, and now it’s time to spend a few bucks on projects that are actually pleasurable, and more centered on personal preference. Blessings to everyone here reading… Keep Forty-Sixin’! 👊🏽🙌🏽💯
Great video and solid tips. I spent month searching for the correct E46. any car with personal modification and "performance mods" i skipped and last week just bought an e46. I'm gonna throw shit tons of money at it. cause imma keep it forever !! :D such a great car.
Couldn't of said any tip better than this 🙏👍🏿🙌 I've loved an 01 BMW E46 320ci for the last 8 years. I call this black coupe Barry. He has only cost me fluid changes and a happy buffing arm to his pain job. So direct without the computer influence 🙏❤️🦘 Great channel mate 🦘
First time I saw your channel and I gotta say , you are probably the only one who spoke about not modding an E46 , and what you spoke of really makes a lot of sense , I mean BMW engineers had done all the mods properly with the given hardware, basically a 325i to be converted into an M3 , it ain't just the engine or transmission but rather everything else must be changed 👍🏻 I am facing one problem with my 2003 E46 , and I wonder if you can identify the issue . It only happens after I turn on the AC , when I come close to a stop or slow drive , once the car goes to idle , it shuts down , and after I turn it back on , it shuts down again , but if I try to drive it and prevent it from doing so , it starts reving up and down , as if I'm flooring the pedal then releasing instantly, it stays that way for about a minute or so while driving until it goes back to normal . As I said , it happens 99% of the time after I turn on the AC
Thank you. Really hard to diagnose these issues without using a diagnostic tool. If you do this it should throw up any error codes to more accurately pin point the issue.
Cool, thanks! Fun Fact side note; my High School metal work teachers' name was Alan Watts. (Not the same person you're referring too), and my grades for metal fab took a downward turn after I ALMOST sent him, to the ER by not removing the chuck key in the lathe before I turned on the lathe. It flew out of the chuck like a bullet and missed his 'noggin' by a few inches. 🙄
@@Sixty4motorsport wow, yeah heavy machinery. I own a 2002 325i with the m54 and love it. Every time i think about wanting to mod for power, i think of all the things ive replaced and still figure something else will need fixing so then why push it. Im worry about oily plug number 6, a power loss with popping is new at takeoff under 2k rpm. Gotta recheck all my vacuum and other possible leaks. It's always fun searching you tube hunting the problem. I'm always nervous it will end up being something i cant fix myself without proper tools and space to do it. Much more i could be sharing but i always tell myself i may be starting to ramble lol
Def agree. I own a 05 330xi, threw a nice set of brakes, suspension, and halos, it’s perfect! You have to accept when you own one that it’s not an m3 or and AMG. it’s a cheap luxury car, if well maintained you will have 100x more fun than in an m3, save loads of money and still get looks on the road!
Mike you seem to be a really nice chap. Like someone to work with on a E46 in a garage on Saturday evening, talking about life and shit and watching the bottle go empty... Greetings from the other side of the globe :)
You are more than right and I have a passion for cars and I want to become and get all the knowledge about cars that you have specially on bmw’s or at least know how to do good maintenance and just keep those beautiful cars alive
Man I wish there were more guys out there like you saying it to all the young kids like me in their early 20s to keep it cherry if its mint. I daily my 2002 325i facelift everyday with 114k miles. I've restored it and babied it because she's so clean compared to any car I've gotten for less than $5k. Originally I was gonna modify my E46 but thankfully I didn't mod it or I would've spent more than I would have in the past three years of owning it. Great video on telling us future and young owners to keep it simple than follow the herd of modding our E46s to be like everyone elses. One day I'll get an M3 just to take it tracking at Laguna Seca raceway, my home track when I get out of college.
Just bought a 2004 E46 330ci Manual convertible, I reckon the value of them is about to go through the roof, so I'm glad to get in now, while I can afford one. Great content mate, I'm looking forward to making some killer content with mine in tropical Queensland when it arrives in a couple of weeks. Your videos have given me a few things to think about, good stuff.
Well I’ve modified my e46 but they’re all performance maintenance mods like oil catch can, oil cooler, a proper cold air intake, short throw, proper head gaskets that’s meant to hold boost “my cars n/a”, forged internals, bigger injectors, upgraded coil pack, aluminum coolant reservoir and radiator, silicone hoses, a proper tune etc its all to make sure my car runs properly and cold I’d say the best way to upgrade your e46 is to tackle the problems it’s having, e46 being overheating Then move on to go fast parts
You paid attention to your professor in your chemistry class regarding the stoichiometric ratios regarding air fuel mixture alleviating material science headaches associated with cooking the pistons into the block good job
We just readopted my lady loves old 323ci e46 she bought her with 80k on the clock years ago. It was in the care of well just say former friends who were supposed to be working on it and to put back in storage as we wished . So after a move to our new home with more space we decided to take this home get it away from the city and start the process of tearing down addressing issues and good maintenance. The former friends plagued this car with cooling issues and botched the job. what was discover was they had snapped the thermostat housing bolt the one on the very top , they did a electric fan conversion for there own taste and it wasn’t even their car to begin with to make that sort of decision I was disgusted say the least , another discovery was the collection of belts eaten to hell . So it’s been about 3 weeks since she has been home front fascia is off all the hack work is undone new bolt hole has been drilled and tapped and we will be going back to 100% stock parts. I know I am running on here sorry about that , as pair my wife and I love to wrench on our own vehicles we are mechanically inclined safe to say we know enough to be dangerous haha but while I have everything out would u have any other suggestions per maintenance?
Thanks for the comment and for relaying your experience (although a little sad). From what you have outlined your list could be endless. Start with what is obvious, but things like the expansion tank and upgrading the water pump to one with a Stainless impeller might be worthwhile while you have access. Check for oil leaks around valve cover, dip stick, oil filter housing etc. Check your hoses for the Crankcase Ventilation Valve (CCV), these are plastic and prone to failure and causing vacuum leaks. I hope this helps, and try to enjoy the experience of restoring something to the way you want it!
I've been using your videos to actually clean up my e46 that was exactly struts and coils. However every time you drive it, you smelt coolant. Stereotype up here. Started with metal coolant lines and bushings. Thank you again keeps my car out of the shop
The only mod I am makeing to my 325i SE is a catch can to delete the CCV. I find it looks good in black with black tinted windows and drives good as stand. I have one welding to do on the rear wheel arches, but that's all I want to do.
I was really good I understand everything that you just said this is my very first E46 it's a no for xI I wanted to look like a Mustang with a wide racing stripe so far my wheels are 18th instead of the stock 16 and my calipers are yellow and my tires letterings are yellow I enjoy working on this car ever since I own it I'm at 219000 miles now I'm still got to do a few more things the only thing I need left on working on this car it has something to do with the rear knocking noise as well as an oil leak other than that I have made this car passed emissions from watching these videos that was very helpful either you or anyone else thanks
Fantastic! Just spent 10,000.00 on a 325ci convertible automatic 🤮...just sealing the engine and replace suspension...I can’t do the work myself so...I’ll never sale her now...170k hopefully another 100 to go...or I could let her go for 2500😂
@@Sixty4motorsport on a more serious note. Your videos have been a blast to watch. Not only as guides or ideas but as content in general to just consume. Well editited and brilliant. Thanks for all the entertainment and look forward to the next video! 😁🔥
Basically dont mod it if you dont have the tools or the experience/money , regardless ill be modding mine bc ive been around cars and vehicles for years
Is a tune a modification or a personalization see that you aren’t changing anything but numbers on the car and when it creates ignition for the cyclinders
I found this video about 16 years too late😂 As much as I’ve been tempted to sell it, people, still to this day, always tell me to keep the car based on the mods I’ve done, and its condition. And to be honest, in my opinion, the newer cars don’t have the same lines like the E46. Yeah...it’s an expensive addiction, but I ain’t trying to go to rehab😁🥴
Listen to this guy! I have an '01 E46 M3 (6 speed) that is purely stock and v well maintained. It's worth far more than all those clapped out modded M3's that are so commonly seen. Drives far better as well. Start with a unmolested example. Spend your time and money bringing it up to as new original mechanical condition. Unless you're going to track it, you'll thereby end up in the sweet spot. If you want a track car, buy one that's already been tracked (these make terrible daily drivers). Also, use OE or OEM parts (not that Uro, etc Chinese crap). Trust me - cheap coilovers, loud exhaust, "cold air intake" (sic), crap stereos, etc will ruin one of the best M cars ever made. And, will greatly decrease your resale value going forward.
I am planning a full vid on the E46 headers. I have not installed a set so cannot comment personally on how good they are. BUT you get what you pay for and not just in quality but the R & D that goes in to performance gains. Header design is not just about making something that fits.
Surely the fact that you do your own maintenance and have no official records of it adds no trust to the next person who's interested in your car.. Right?
Although I haven't actually installed this filter (because I installed a VF supercharger kit which comes with its own), this filter kit is from AFE. They make a couple of versions to suit the E46 are readily available from ECS Tuning.
Or just learn the car inside and out and build the shit out of it to take a beating. Nobody wants to make their e46 non M just like an M3. A non M is better than an M3
Ive built my Subaru to take an insane amount of beating, but the number of supporting mods i need to upgrade my e46 really add up (my wallet isn't too happy)
Why do I get this recommended after figuring out 5 out of 6 of my pistons cracked? 0 compression on 5 cylinders! It’s either the guy that tuned its fault or I’m just suuuper unlucky..
I have a Z4(so basically an e46) with M54B25 and i wanna it faster than the M3. No matter what i takes... Is it mistake in your opinion? I'm gonna start with replacing intake manifold to M50B25 and headers to ebay headers. Then i will remap ECU and that will add 20-30hp Then when i have the money i will turbocharge the motor(stock internals) and will put it on another level.
![BUYING A BMW E46 [2022], Do these 3 things - FIRST!](/img/n.gif)
After watching video it simply made me want to mod my e46 even more
Why not!
😅😅🤣🤣🤣
I have a 2003 330Ci and I definitely accepted that it’s not an M3, but I got a great deal for it, low mileage garage queen, with hard top, and maintained religiously. Now I refreshed the suspension, tires, brakes and all the engine gaskets and it’s a beauty to own.
Well done, and good luck with your project.
Absolutely agree... My stock E46 performs very well on the way its built.... Just minor body accessories with no mechanical modifications what so ever.
Mate.
This is the second video I've seen of yours.
And I gotta say, good job.
Maintenance takes precedence over mods 100%.
My daily e46 has a laundry list full of shit done. It's entirely common problems sorted, and I love it more and more just having it run properly. Mods I thought I needed were actually lost performance due to garbage disa, intake boot tears, vanos seals, as well as more pedestrian issues like coolant tank reservoir and steering gear rebuilds, etc.
Just now, having things near 100% OEM and happy makes it feel like a brilliant new ride. My 330xi brings me so much joy. Even in northern Canada with abhorrent snow, it's an absolute gem.
Appreciate the video. Liked and subbed
I’ve done a good handful of mods on my E46 and all were great choices (headers, Cat-Back exhaust, tuning software bigger rear diff gear and unfortunately CAI with silicone boot but I may change the intake back to stock one as all it really changes is sound, I also had minor mods done that improve air flow under the hood. Thing sounds like a diesel truck and still getting 30mpg.
Cat back exhaust. Definitely
What other things did you do to improve air flow? I'm looking to get good gas mileage on my e46
Appreciate your content. I hope more people watch this. I’m tired of seeing e46s with wheels+coilovers but had a catastrophic failure. It’s starting to fill the group forums. Keep doing what you do
Thanks for watching!
Literally the exact videos I've been needing. Im doing the entire coolant system this week as well as replacing the front fenders, and front clip and bumper because I hit a deer. So glad to have found this channel...STOKED! Thanks Sixty4motorsport!!!!
just bought my first e46 4 days ago, as i look for build ideas for it this video pop up on my youtube. had to say this changes a lot of things and knock some realization in my mind about my new car. little story - when i bought this car it comes with a modified set of wheels and coilovers, and surprisingly some annoying problems with it. most people said that its a common thing those problems because its an old car. made me think im fixing the previous owner mistakes. thank you for your information sir bless up and stay safe.
Sometimes it's not just about fixing their mistakes, but getting the E46 to be how you want it.
I have stock M52 and M54 E46s, the more I drive, the more I enjoy! They are just great! Really appreciate your video.
my dad always talks shit to me and tells me to leave my e46 completely stock, so what u said in the end of this video was touching
Thank you.It's always important to remember that we all have different passions, so just because your passion is different from another persons, it doesn't make it less important!
Im about to buy an E39 but your videos are often directly applicable to the overall BMW ownership experience. Thank you.
I’ve had my e46 325ci sport for over 7 years and agree with everything you say regarding maintenance. Mine is standard apart from replacing the tired Sachs dampers and springs with the Bilstein B12 sport setup (which retains factory MSport ride height) and an AFE cold air intake which makes it sound like a baby CSL and I would recommend to anyone :-)
can u drop a link to those bilsteins
I ride the same coil overs. They’re great!
Damn, I just welded my diff......
Thats a nobrainer buddy
Haha, I have been driving with mine welded for the past 30k, lol :)
How hard is it to weld it?
@@hippotesttokill750 Not hard, of course you have to take the diff out of the car open it, drain the oil. Use break cleaner and find two pieces of steel fairly thick that can fit where the spider gears are. Then you weld em all together, clean with a metal brush and break cleaner again, close it up and add oil :)
@@hippotesttokill750 it's not hard at all. I had a shop weld it for $150 here in TN. Unfortunately the car was totalled last weekend. I only had 300 miles on the s54 swap before some drunk ass lady decided it was a good idea to take her side by side vehicle on the highway at 10pm.
2003 / 325i / 5MT / 233XXX miles / daily driver;
I really enjoy the videos, Michael. And I appreciate and agree with your point - focus on basic maintenance items and make sure you have a solid base on which to build. I've taken that approach - and I've learned so much about the car and about DIY jobs. It's been very rewarding.
It's all about having a goal - mine is to see the car make it to the 400 Club.
Changed the parts in my e46 330ci to m3, control arms, rear cradle and lsd, soo happy for what it is
Finding that equal balance is the key to having the e46 you want
Man... TY! I've had my M3 since I bought it new back in 2005. I've just started looking at mods and both you and my mech have both said 'don't fix what's not broke'. Yes, I want to make sure my maintenance is spot on and yes, I've been dreaming of some cool rims, etc but personalization while keeping it relatively stock can be done and man... I've had 15 years of amazing fun with this pup. Definitely will keep your words in mind and things in perspective. Thanks again.
I agree with you wholeheartedly. Bought my E46 in early 2018, and this summer I just started upgrading it’s appearance. The new Apex Arc 8 wheels I purchased in June, wrapped in Pilot Sport AS-4’s, along with a Destroyer Gray paint job my car is currently receiving will be fully enjoyed because I took care of my maintenance firsthand. It’s not fun spending thousands of dollars on projects the human eye won’t immediately detect, but it’s nevertheless mature, and necessary. All of my suspension work and under the hood issues have been fully addressed, and now it’s time to spend a few bucks on projects that are actually pleasurable, and more centered on personal preference. Blessings to everyone here reading… Keep Forty-Sixin’! 👊🏽🙌🏽💯
thats some great father advice keep up the good vibes!
Appreciate that
Great video and solid tips. I spent month searching for the correct E46. any car with personal modification and "performance mods" i skipped and last week just bought an e46. I'm gonna throw shit tons of money at it. cause imma keep it forever !! :D such a great car.
the intro made me a smile, thanks man
Couldn't of said any tip better than this 🙏👍🏿🙌
I've loved an 01 BMW E46 320ci for the last 8 years.
I call this black coupe Barry. He has only cost me fluid changes and a happy buffing arm to his pain job. So direct without the computer influence 🙏❤️🦘
Great channel mate 🦘
First time I saw your channel and I gotta say , you are probably the only one who spoke about not modding an E46 , and what you spoke of really makes a lot of sense , I mean BMW engineers had done all the mods properly with the given hardware, basically a 325i to be converted into an M3 , it ain't just the engine or transmission but rather everything else must be changed 👍🏻 I am facing one problem with my 2003 E46 , and I wonder if you can identify the issue . It only happens after I turn on the AC , when I come close to a stop or slow drive , once the car goes to idle , it shuts down , and after I turn it back on , it shuts down again , but if I try to drive it and prevent it from doing so , it starts reving up and down , as if I'm flooring the pedal then releasing instantly, it stays that way for about a minute or so while driving until it goes back to normal . As I said , it happens 99% of the time after I turn on the AC
Thank you. Really hard to diagnose these issues without using a diagnostic tool. If you do this it should throw up any error codes to more accurately pin point the issue.
Just bought an e46. New subscriber here 🤟🏻
Everything you said is right. More modifications are a special pleasure. But an added price to the initial car as well, that's true.
All the best!
The Alan Watts of e46, loved the video.
Cool, thanks! Fun Fact side note; my High School metal work teachers' name was Alan Watts. (Not the same person you're referring too), and my grades for metal fab took a downward turn after I ALMOST sent him, to the ER by not removing the chuck key in the lathe before I turned on the lathe. It flew out of the chuck like a bullet and missed his 'noggin' by a few inches. 🙄
@@Sixty4motorsport wow, yeah heavy machinery. I own a 2002 325i with the m54 and love it. Every time i think about wanting to mod for power, i think of all the things ive replaced and still figure something else will need fixing so then why push it. Im worry about oily plug number 6, a power loss with popping is new at takeoff under 2k rpm. Gotta recheck all my vacuum and other possible leaks. It's always fun searching you tube hunting the problem. I'm always nervous it will end up being something i cant fix myself without proper tools and space to do it. Much more i could be sharing but i always tell myself i may be starting to ramble lol
Def agree. I own a 05 330xi, threw a nice set of brakes, suspension, and halos, it’s perfect! You have to accept when you own one that it’s not an m3 or and AMG. it’s a cheap luxury car, if well maintained you will have 100x more fun than in an m3, save loads of money and still get looks on the road!
Mike you seem to be a really nice chap. Like someone to work with on a E46 in a garage on Saturday evening, talking about life and shit and watching the bottle go empty... Greetings from the other side of the globe :)
Thanks mate!
You are more than right and I have a passion for cars and I want to become and get all the knowledge about cars that you have specially on bmw’s or at least know how to do good maintenance and just keep those beautiful cars alive
Man I wish there were more guys out there like you saying it to all the young kids like me in their early 20s to keep it cherry if its mint. I daily my 2002 325i facelift everyday with 114k miles. I've restored it and babied it because she's so clean compared to any car I've gotten for less than $5k. Originally I was gonna modify my E46 but thankfully I didn't mod it or I would've spent more than I would have in the past three years of owning it. Great video on telling us future and young owners to keep it simple than follow the herd of modding our E46s to be like everyone elses. One day I'll get an M3 just to take it tracking at Laguna Seca raceway, my home track when I get out of college.
Thanks for that. It's all about getting the basics right first.
@@Sixty4motorsport No problem! Do you ever plan on restoring a E46 one day?
Well said great video , I love my e46 M3 getting serviced next wk so back on the road for another summer.
Right on! That's right here in Oz we are heading into Autumn and some cooler weather. Enjoy!
Just bought a 2004 E46 330ci Manual convertible, I reckon the value of them is about to go through the roof, so I'm glad to get in now, while I can afford one. Great content mate, I'm looking forward to making some killer content with mine in tropical Queensland when it arrives in a couple of weeks. Your videos have given me a few things to think about, good stuff.
mate, glad i found your channel... much love from nsw
Well I’ve modified my e46 but they’re all performance maintenance mods like oil catch can, oil cooler, a proper cold air intake, short throw, proper head gaskets that’s meant to hold boost “my cars n/a”, forged internals, bigger injectors, upgraded coil pack, aluminum coolant reservoir and radiator, silicone hoses, a proper tune etc its all to make sure my car runs properly and cold I’d say the best way to upgrade your e46 is to tackle the problems it’s having, e46 being overheating
Then move on to go fast parts
Thank you for the feedback. Sounds like an awesome build.
Do you have a ig on that e46
Keep it up mate. I got 3 x e46... still chasing that M3.. 😆
0:21 Thats How You Hook An e46 Owner In..
Same reason I posted what I did on your 5 top mods for e46
You paid attention to your professor in your chemistry class regarding the stoichiometric ratios regarding air fuel mixture alleviating material science headaches associated with cooking the pistons into the block good job
Loved it! Great points, and I especially loved the bonus talk at the end. 💖💖
Thank you, pleased you enjoyed.
Good God the coolant leaks.... same reason my cars down atm, new radiator and hoses and needs new pressure plate for the fan
Exactly!
We just readopted my lady loves old 323ci e46 she bought her with 80k on the clock years ago. It was in the care of well just say former friends who were supposed to be working on it and to put back in storage as we wished . So after a move to our new home with more space we decided to take this home get it away from the city and start the process of tearing down addressing issues and good maintenance. The former friends plagued this car with cooling issues and botched the job. what was discover was they had snapped the thermostat housing bolt the one on the very top , they did a electric fan conversion for there own taste and it wasn’t even their car to begin with to make that sort of decision I was disgusted say the least , another discovery was the collection of belts eaten to hell . So it’s been about 3 weeks since she has been home front fascia is off all the hack work is undone new bolt hole has been drilled and tapped and we will be going back to 100% stock parts. I know I am running on here sorry about that , as pair my wife and I love to wrench on our own vehicles we are mechanically inclined safe to say we know enough to be dangerous haha but while I have everything out would u have any other suggestions per maintenance?
Thanks for the comment and for relaying your experience (although a little sad). From what you have outlined your list could be endless. Start with what is obvious, but things like the expansion tank and upgrading the water pump to one with a Stainless impeller might be worthwhile while you have access. Check for oil leaks around valve cover, dip stick, oil filter housing etc. Check your hoses for the Crankcase Ventilation Valve (CCV), these are plastic and prone to failure and causing vacuum leaks. I hope this helps, and try to enjoy the experience of restoring something to the way you want it!
I've been using your videos to actually clean up my e46 that was exactly struts and coils. However every time you drive it, you smelt coolant. Stereotype up here. Started with metal coolant lines and bushings. Thank you again keeps my car out of the shop
Hi. Which metal coolant lines and bushings did you opt for?
The only mod I am makeing to my 325i SE is a catch can to delete the CCV. I find it looks good in black with black tinted windows and drives good as stand. I have one welding to do on the rear wheel arches, but that's all I want to do.
Nice work, sounds Great!👍
Loving your videos! Keep it up :)
Pretty good well structured Video. Like it 👍🏼👍🏼
Thanks! 👍
Brilliant Video, all solid advice. Do you have a video going over how to diagnose the issues with an e46 or early warning signs?
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it. Not at the moment, but certainly in the pipeline.
Best advice right here
I was really good I understand everything that you just said this is my very first E46 it's a no for xI I wanted to look like a Mustang with a wide racing stripe so far my wheels are 18th instead of the stock 16 and my calipers are yellow and my tires letterings are yellow I enjoy working on this car ever since I own it I'm at 219000 miles now I'm still got to do a few more things the only thing I need left on working on this car it has something to do with the rear knocking noise as well as an oil leak other than that I have made this car passed emissions from watching these videos that was very helpful either you or anyone else thanks
Thank you
Fantastic! Just spent 10,000.00 on a 325ci convertible automatic 🤮...just sealing the engine and replace suspension...I can’t do the work myself so...I’ll never sale her now...170k hopefully another 100 to go...or I could let her go for 2500😂
Thank you oh mighty e46 god ❤️
Your welcome!
@@Sixty4motorsport on a more serious note. Your videos have been a blast to watch. Not only as guides or ideas but as content in general to just consume. Well editited and brilliant. Thanks for all the entertainment and look forward to the next video! 😁🔥
Thank you for your words of wisdom (John RR Mechanic).
Great video Uncle Mike. Keep putting out content.
Thank you, I will👍
I like it u r very honest 👌🏻👍🏻. And pls keep making more videos
Wish u all the subs in world 🤗
😀
Love the channel. Keep that e46 content cominggg
More to come!
Nice one mate. Yikes, I just ordered poly diff bushes 😬
Wish I had of seen this sooner. What other poly bushes am I going to need now 😏
Accept it for what it is? *takes bumper off to change it into a m3 bumper*
Understand what you're saying. However the M3 bumper was fitted to the car from new as a M sports pack.😶 and I didn't instal it as a later mod.
Love all your videos ! Good stuff !
Thanks so much!
Basically dont mod it if you dont have the tools or the experience/money , regardless ill be modding mine bc ive been around cars and vehicles for years
Keep it up brother really love these videos.
Thanks! Will do!
This dude is great 😊
Thanks man!
Great advice!
Glad it was helpful!
You’re the man!
Ok
Ay 🤕
LATWTTE 😂 Thanks for the TIPS !
Great advice except these kids out here dont have budgets and they didnt see the whole video because their twitter feed was blowing up
Thanks mate, really appreciate it!👍
Is a tune a modification or a personalization see that you aren’t changing anything but numbers on the car and when it creates ignition for the cyclinders
Loved it and totally agree to all you said.
Quality content and Channel mate!
Very good points.
I found this video about 16 years too late😂 As much as I’ve been tempted to sell it, people, still to this day, always tell me to keep the car based on the mods I’ve done, and its condition. And to be honest, in my opinion, the newer cars don’t have the same lines like the E46. Yeah...it’s an expensive addiction, but I ain’t trying to go to rehab😁🥴
I agree. Got a 330 ci m sport. But I just want to get a little more horsepower 😊. Maybe not.
You’re spot on. 👌🏽
Very good video keep going 👍🏽
Thank you.
My car has 225hp. How can I make 25hp more with easy mods?
should I not delete the clutch delay valve???
Why?
@@Sixty4motorsport why not???
As someone with a Dinan E46 that has a ESS blower on top.. Not sure i agree with everything here.
I'm too poor to modify my car I keep the maintenance going
It happens, be patient your time will come!
Listen to this guy!
I have an '01 E46 M3 (6 speed) that is purely stock and v well maintained. It's worth far more than all those clapped out modded M3's that are so commonly seen. Drives far better as well.
Start with a unmolested example. Spend your time and money bringing it up to as new original mechanical condition. Unless you're going to track it, you'll thereby end up in the sweet spot. If you want a track car, buy one that's already been tracked (these make terrible daily drivers).
Also, use OE or OEM parts (not that Uro, etc Chinese crap).
Trust me - cheap coilovers, loud exhaust, "cold air intake" (sic), crap stereos, etc will ruin one of the best M cars ever made. And, will greatly decrease your resale value going forward.
i have no problem with my silver e46 with the other e46 in the car park... coz im the only wagon 😁❤️
what’s your thoughts on cheap stainless steel ebay headers for e46?
I am planning a full vid on the E46 headers. I have not installed a set so cannot comment personally on how good they are. BUT you get what you pay for and not just in quality but the R & D that goes in to performance gains. Header design is not just about making something that fits.
Real talk personalize it to how you want. it's your car n investment not theirs.
Im subbing. See u later
Thanks, appreciate the support.👍
Surely the fact that you do your own maintenance and have no official records of it adds no trust to the next person who's interested in your car.. Right?
Keep all your receipts for the parts you buy.
@@Sixty4motorsport Good point, didn't think about that
Jus so much potential it’s hard not to !
Although I haven't actually installed this filter (because I installed a VF supercharger kit which comes with its own), this filter kit is from AFE. They make a couple of versions to suit the E46 are readily available from ECS Tuning.
Or just learn the car inside and out and build the shit out of it to take a beating. Nobody wants to make their e46 non M just like an M3. A non M is better than an M3
Ive built my Subaru to take an insane amount of beating, but the number of supporting mods i need to upgrade my e46 really add up (my wallet isn't too happy)
@@johnseed4104 its worth it in the end though if everything is done right
Why do I get this recommended after figuring out 5 out of 6 of my pistons cracked?
0 compression on 5 cylinders!
It’s either the guy that tuned its fault or I’m just suuuper unlucky..
I have a Z4(so basically an e46) with M54B25 and i wanna it faster than the M3. No matter what i takes... Is it mistake in your opinion? I'm gonna start with replacing intake manifold to M50B25 and headers to ebay headers. Then i will remap ECU and that will add 20-30hp Then when i have the money i will turbocharge the motor(stock internals) and will put it on another level.
M50 inlet manifold won’t fit, so don’t bother with that.
@@desertmanification m50b25 fits and with tune much improvement
No it doesn’t. The M50B25 inlet is only an upgrade for the single VANOS M52. Please don’t waste your time or money trying to make it fit.
@@desertmanification you are wrong. Check "racemode" on facebook and yt. They can do 280hp from m54b30 using this manifold and tune.
@@PerfectBeast6Yes but he is telling you that it wont fit on M54B25
My E46 B3 is stock, not 1 mod
Nice! 👍
Keeping mine stock
Does a zhp count as a baby m3 ;)
Why Not!😎
listen to him ! i did it not worth it they play hard to get too much
Bmw go burrrr
Bmw e46, repeated 500x.
SNATCH! you sound like that PigFarmer! That is why I want an e46, because of that reason of MODIFYING
In the States the E46 M3 convertible is semi affordable. Im not really accepting mine isnt a coupe roll bar about to go in.
Same in Australia. Not a fan myself of the convertible, not practical in our hot sun.
👋
So modify