The Phoenix All Bulletproofing the S54 Carbon Doors (E46) CSL Airbox CSL Bumper CSL Carbon Trunk (E46) CSL Diffuser CSL Roof CSL Widened Fenders E46 M-Technic Steering Wheel E46 M3 Carbon Driveshaft Interior Program Mechanical Program Power Steering Reservoir Recaro Pole Position ABE Restoration RTD Shifter Solutions S54 Flywheel S54 Oil Cooler Schrick 288/280 Strada CS Subframe Reinforcement Supersprint E46

In this entry, the final parts get painted and we begin exterior panel reassembly. I touch on the expectations and reality of fitting aftermarket carbon body panels and give an overview of the adjustments to all of them.

We hike down the infamous subframe chassis reinforcements, and make our way back to the surface with a much bigger bill than expected - but it's all for the better.

In this entry, I touch on the completion of the mechanical refit, my modest DIY contributions and the final test fit of carbon panels before the final paint round.

In this entry, it's a test of patience. The build is put to a stop as parts slowly creep in to uncork the bottleneck.

In this entry, I go down the rabbit hole. The underbody gets dismounted and we get disappointed by BMW once more. We revise our plans, strip the underbody, put money where it matters and discuss durable coatings. Lastly, in an inspired decision, I wink at the E46 M3’s past: I paid hommage.

In this entry, we get to painting the shell and parts. But first, let's cast light with color: as naturally aspirated M cars age and decay, some of us will eventually cross the opaque intersections I do in this restoration.

In this entry, it's time to prime and sand, sand, sand, and [...] sand. It's where things start looking up, and start looking good. 

In this entry, it's time to strip. It isn't as sexy as it sounds: harsh chemicals, a lot of scrubbing, some sanding, a lot of patience and we might be in for surprises when everything's off. The end game is worth it: it's a body reset. 

This entry uncovers an uncomfortable truth: these E46s are old and have history you might not be aware of. 

I document the mythical carbon roof conversion to the Karbonius CSL carbon roof. It's easy as 1, 2, 3 - ouch! Weld it, glue it, bolt it? We settle the debate.

The engine gets dropped, and the engine bay gets stripped and sprayed - but first, we have to talk about what OEM paint means in this context, and I answer the paintman's question. 

I skip the flafla and give it to you straight: we're seeing blue [...]  but which blue? It had to stay in the family.