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Originally Posted by Eric S.,Nov 3 2004, 01:18 PM [snapback]223347[/snapback] |
Eric,
First repair encounter was a whole lot better than expected.
My car has 106k. You should go ahead and change your plugs, especially if you are unsure about the previous owners service habits. Also, please note my statement about the type of plugs.
Is this car your first BMW? It is for me... I am simply blown away by the way this car accelerates and handles.
I look forward to seeing your future posts -- especially since our cars are so similar. Hopefully, in the future, we can save each other some headaches.
Jim
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Jim -
I have checked and have replacement NGKs (as specified in the owner's manual) on my radar screen to order. At about $8 to $11 each they aren't cheap, but they're still cheaper than the NGK's my erstwhile Legend GS required, which were $17 special order only locally, and at least $13 to $14 via mail order/internet. I know my 540's previous owners did nothing but change oil and filters, so, if you're like me, get ready to change your O2 sensors, and change coolant and brake fliud as well.
I've seen instructions on the spark plug procedure and it doesn't look too hard. The only thing is how much to torque the new plugs (I have a nice set of 3 Craftsman micrometer-type torque wrenches and I'm not afraid to use 'em!!)
This is indeed my first BMW, and only my second European car (my first was a modified 1974 Porsche 914 2.0 back in the late-'80's). We can learn a lot from each other because our cars are so similar and at similar life stages.
Another "regular" here is "Happyguy", who recently bought HIS first BMW, a 1999 540i/6 Sport, much like mine (and yours). Make sure you keep an eye out for his posts, which are usually entertaining to read.
More Small World: Happyguy and I are both "moving up" from Honda Civics, although his was at least a sporting 1999 Si model, whereas mine was a fuel-sipping 1998 HX model. I recently moved and cut my commute from 75 miles each way to 15-1/2, so I can tolerate the drop in mpg (from 44 to 23-24).
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Eric,
Thanks for the tips. I can't remember...did you change the o2's yet? Are you going to as regular maint. or wait until they start acting up. As for the fluids -- definetly soon.
What are the first mods you are considering?
I am leaning towards the basics at first ... clear side markers, maybe angel eyes, etc.
Ok-Billb and Beelz give us your input here (thoughts, brands you prefer, etc. Please help us noobs ... Are these mods too "cheesy" ? Sorry couldn't think of a better word.
Anyway, yes we can definetly help each other and thanks for the info on "happyguy" I will watch for his posts.
