In this entry, I revisit the E46 M3's carbon driveshaft by discussing its development challenges, the V2's initial solutions and the discovery of its shortcomings.
It deserves to live on.
The Generational Gap.
As a millennial, I grew up with the E92 and E60 as my M poster cars.
The E46 M3 was a faint signal on my radar: I understood the classic appeal yet it wasn't enough to trigger an emotional purchase.
Until it did.
After getting my hands dirty revamping the E92: I wanted a new restoration challenge.
This is it - and I might just be in over my head.
Welcome to my build journal.
- Matt / @m3_epoustouflant
Read the Series
"Gone in 60 days" from idea to product in hand.
The 1:1 CSL Carbon Diffuser.
The specs
My latest entries
In this final entry to the series, I chat about misunderstood safety risks and document my exploration of E46 M3 mounting options over the last years - and my final selection. Finally, the Strada CS finally get bolted in the Phoenix. I wrap up the series with my final impressions and an eye for the future.
In this entry, we re-assemble the Strada CS seats: the frames, covers, foams and all accessories come together. I'm light on words and heavy on pictures - enjoy!
In this entry, I document the complete sewing processes of the Strada CS covers. I chat threads, stitching techniques, and our choices to surpass Recaro's original specifications on the Sportster CS covers.
In this entry, I chat about the Strada's unique logo stamping, starting with the differences between de-bossed and embossed stamping by reviewing BMW's collaboration with KITH. I document the technical challenges we faced and the unique techniques & equipment developed to create a repeatable process for quality.
On the 5th entry to the series, we finally begin creating the new Strada CS seat covers. I start with my reasoning to an anti-climatic selection of materials. I then document the processes to tracing and cutting all sections of the new covers. I touch on the foundational materials used on underside of your covers to prolong their life.
The Phoenix's Journey
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