The Phoenix
In this entry, we tackle the hard part about doors: the interior. We strip the original doors and I document all the little things that make an OE door fully functional. I draw the line between used parts that will be transfered and others that would be replaced.
In this entry, I explore new wheel fitment possibilities opened up by the wider fenders in preparation for the 163M CSL style forged wheel program. I include fitment tables and in-depth specs.
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, I touch on expectations of OE+ versus Motorsport, and we finally test fit the carbon doors along with the widened carbon fenders. I document the gaps, and body line alignments along with insights on how doors are aligned.
In this journal entry: craftsmen get better with repetition. I unbox my new steering wheel, and compare it to my first commissioned unit back in 2022.
In this entry, I document my DIY installation of the CSL airbox in details and $#!@ at clamps. I look back at the long checklist of hardware along with the little , expensive and egregious things needed to successfully install a CSL airbox.
In this entry, a new kit shows up last minute from half way across the world. I unbox the upper chassis reinforcement kit and chat about its engineering and technical features.
In this entry, BMW gets sued. I touch on the original design flaws, BMW's attempt to fix it and how they fell short until the M3 V8s came around. I used my experience on the Phoenix's restoration to provide insights.
In this entry: BMW once (or twice) recalled bearings - AH! I chat history and variants of bolts. We button up the S54's bulletproofing by replacing the rod bearings with the ACL standard set.
In this entry, money gets shifted: the RTD shifter got bolted & center'ed by InnovAuto and I finally got to fool around to get a feel for it, with video proof.
In this entry, I unbox my new
RTD short shifter, chat specs and discuss what makes this special.
On this entry, we fit one cam, and we wait [...] and wait [...]. I document the little things we did while in there including the notorious valve adjustments.
