Bringing it back to the basics this week. Changing brakes on any car with disk brakes is a routine maintenance item and is certainly a job for a novice DIY’er. However, for something so routine, there are multiple ways to perform the job. However, even though there are multiple ways to theoretically get to...
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A great video from spain showing exactly how to rebuild an M20 head and how to install it back on the block. Three things I would recommend doing differently from the video: 1. Always send the head out to the machinist to check for warping and cracks instead of trying to do it yourself....
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There are two problems with the front sway bar link mounts on the E30. First, instead of the bushing shackle mounting by means of two bolts, BMW instead decided to use a slotted end, and one bolted end.   The problem with the slotted design is that the slot first needs to be inserted...
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A rear wheel bearing job, dependent on which tools you have can either be a fairly painless job, or rather difficult. What you will need to make it easy is: Basic range of wrenches Plenty of 3/8 extensions Socket set with ratchets Hex Key Bit Socket Set or Torx key bit socket set (depending on...
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If you have ever tried to find anti theft options for your car you probably know that you basically have two options: One time payment transmitter based systems such as Lojack – old style system, pre GPS and pre modern cellular network technology. These systems depend on the supplier to hide a transmitter in...
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What do stone chip rust spots, industrial fallout in your paint and brake dust have in common? Iron. In the last 10 years there has been an introduction of Thioglycolic acid or “Fallout removers” introduced in the automotive market. The existence and use of Thioglycolic acid isn’t new; foundries used it as far back...
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Recharging your own Air conditioning system is one of those things that seems difficult, but really is rather simple as long as you have all the correct tools and follow the correct steps. I will as in depth as I can describe how to properly pull a vacuum on your car, how to check...
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The auxiliary fan resistor is in need of replacement when the auxiliary fan does not operate at low speed. The aux fan should activate: When the AC is on (by way of selecting the AC button in the interior) When the radiator coolant temperature sensor reaches sufficient temperature to trigger the aux fan To...
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There is a lot of misinformation and misconceptions with rust proofing / under coating/ rust prevention; for which I hope to provide some clarity and direction. First, remember that rust is like an iceberg, you only see 10% of it. Moisture normally gets trapped for the longest duration of time in the places that...
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Hearing the Getrag rattle for the first time can be unsettling. This rattle is a common sound produced by Getrag transmissions, especially the 5-speed models found in E30s, BMWs, and GMs, when the car is in neutral and the clutch is not engaged. The rattle disappears when the clutch pedal is pressed or the...
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