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I got rid of the radio the car came in with due to the tiny screen size. I replaced it with an 8” screen size radio. Shortly after I was greeted with the airbag light staying on. Fortunately it lasted only 40 miles and went away. I still don’t know what happened.
I also replace the coolant expansion tank. The car still had the original one from 05/04/06. It started leaking form the cap.
old
new
In preparation for the suspension swap, I wanted to spray the strut pinching bolts for easy removal. To my surprise, when I tried to see how tight they were, they just came loose. No penetrating oil needed. Either they were not torque properly or they were well lubricated. No complaints here.
Thank you all for your advices on the suspension. I went with ECS coilovers. I will provide a review once I put enough miles on them.
Coilovers front and rear.
Old bilstein b8
The install went straight except for the passenger side. The steering arm would not drop enough for the old shock to be removed even after hammering it. Had to literally stand on the brake and push it down.
Managed to strip the Allen head in the steering tie rod ball joint. Ordered and replaced the outer tie rod.
Managed to wrap my disk in the process. Replaced both front right and left with new ones and new pads.
I still have the plastic radiator overflow tank. Any suggestion on an aluminum one?
I also need to raise the rear suspension. Currently on lowered Bilstein springs with Bilstein struts. Any recommendations for stock heights springs?
Thanks!
I upgraded my 2006 MSC with an M7 aluminum overflow tank, comes in red or black. It was one of the easier parts I've installed. It looks good in the engine bay.
I upgraded my 2006 MSC with an M7 aluminum overflow tank, comes in red or black. It was one of the easier parts I've installed. It looks good in the engine bay.
Received my seats and passenger occupancy seat emulator. Now need to fabricate seat brackets while waiting for driver seat 3.9 ohm resistor for airbag.
Wow, those new seats look great with plenty of bolstering! What brand? Genuine leather? I think the new wheels and tires will add even more to overall appearance and functionality. Also looking forward to an update on the suspension and brake refresh after you've done some miles. It's all coming together!
Wow, those new seats look great with plenty of bolstering! What brand? Genuine leather? I think the new wheels and tires will add even more to overall appearance and functionality. Also looking forward to an update on the suspension and brake refresh after you've done some miles. It's all coming together!
Thanks! I will definitely provide feedback on the suspension and brakes once I put them through enough miles. So far though, they are holding up great and performing above expectations.
The seats are Modified Street brand PVC not leather. Decided to give them a try based on favorable reviews. Will see how they hold up.
That looks great, how did you dechrome the headlight trim? Did you paint them?
The red seats look nice in your grey car with black interior. I have a red car with black /grey interior wondering if I should do the contrast color too.
That looks great, how did you dechrome the headlight trim? Did you paint them?
The red seats look nice in your grey car with black interior. I have a red car with black /grey interior wondering if I should do the contrast color too.
Great build.
I did not paint them. I simply replaced them with black ones I ordered. Your car being red, red seats would look great!
1- is Castor Edge 5w30 full synthetic the recommended oil?
2- better recommendation?
Thanks!
'been a staunch user of Castrol Gtx in my aircooled(s) for as long as I can remember. Since I'd purchased my R53 20+ years ago, It has been brought up on Mobil1 5w30 - full synthetic.
Now @ 100k mi, I had just switched back to Castrol Edge 5w30 full synthetic since 90kmi. I change my oil frequently. Went back to Castrol for no other reason than price and quality.
Last edited by Here2Go; Feb 13, 2024 at 10:30 AM.
Reason: Oops fat fingers 5w30 not 20
'been a staunch user of Castrol Gtx in my aircooled(s) for as long as I can remember. Since I'd purchased my R53 20+ years ago, It has been brought up on Mobil1 5w30 - full synthetic.
Now @ 100k mi, I had just switched back to Castrol Edge 5w30 full synthetic since 90kmi. I change my oil frequently. Went back to Castrol for no other reason than price and quality.
Hey there, been following your build and you inspired me to go with ECS coilovers. How’s the ride on the street now you’ve had them on for a few months? I want to replace the coils I inherited because it’s a daily and they’re far too harsh on the street. Plus I scrape too often at -1.5” lower springs. Any regrets? Any advice?
Hey there, been following your build and you inspired me to go with ECS coilovers. How’s the ride on the street now you’ve had them on for a few months? I want to replace the coils I inherited because it’s a daily and they’re far too harsh on the street. Plus I scrape too often at -1.5” lower springs. Any regrets? Any advice?
I have had no issues with it. I’ve been daily driving it since I put them on and have no complaints.
