Search found 37 matches

by ralft01
Tue 12 Apr, 2016 16:33
Forum: Stock exchange
Topic: For Sale
Replies: 6
Views: 2388

For Sale

Recently sold my much loved Z3 2.8 Auto. Pressure from SWMBO for a 'practical family car' finally prevailed. So, have for sale a box of goodies, including a black leather tonneau cover, a seat belt warning reset tool, a service light reset tool, a Bentley Service Manual (almost new), a Chilton (USA)...
by ralft01
Wed 16 Dec, 2015 18:42
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Scary noise!
Replies: 3
Views: 1113

Scary noise!

I was driving along peacefully minding my own business, poodling at around 60mph. The road was clear, I was in the middle lane. Up comes this horrible little black thing and sits 3 inches behind me. I moved over to the left lane. The whole road was clear, it was 02.15 or thereabouts. The black thing...
by ralft01
Fri 11 Dec, 2015 16:28
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Accelerator feels remote!
Replies: 6
Views: 2182

Re: Accelerator feels remote!

Thank you all! Scheduled linkage etc overhaul when the rain stops.
by ralft01
Sun 06 Dec, 2015 17:00
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Accelerator feels remote!
Replies: 6
Views: 2182

Accelerator feels remote!

Mine is a 1998 2.8 Automatic. Lovely smooth drive. I have become aware recently (although it has always been the same) that the accelerator feels remote, if that makes sense. For example, in the wife's 'ordinary' car, the accelerator response is instantaneous, both ways. Push the pedal down, the eng...
by ralft01
Sun 29 Nov, 2015 16:53
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Windscreen Wiper noise
Replies: 3
Views: 1132

Windscreen Wiper noise

When the wipers are wiping, at the very start of the return wipe, there is quite a loud click from the passenger side wiper. I thought it might be the blade running over the edge of the screen surround, so I trimmed the rubber to clear, but it did not help. It happens whether rain is heavy or light....
by ralft01
Fri 13 Nov, 2015 10:46
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Wheel spacers
Replies: 10
Views: 2398

Re: Wheel spacers

There are quite a few posts about wheel spacers on the forum, which I suggest you search and read before you decide, particularly with regard to bolt-on or through-bolt spacers. I have 25mm spacers on the rear and 15mm on the front. Absolutely no problem, in fact you won't notice a lot of difference...
by ralft01
Sun 08 Nov, 2015 22:50
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: HELP! What have I bought?
Replies: 3
Views: 1085

Re: HELP! What have I bought?

Thank you for your responses. I shall keep looking.
by ralft01
Fri 06 Nov, 2015 13:26
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: HELP! What have I bought?
Replies: 3
Views: 1085

HELP! What have I bought?

In an effort to move forward with my ongoing remote entry / alarm problem, I bought what was described as a control unit for a Z3. Received it today and although it looks sort of similar to the one in the car, there are a couple of differences. It has no hole with rubber bung for training fob It has...
by ralft01
Tue 03 Nov, 2015 00:05
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: What scanner/code reader?
Replies: 17
Views: 2561

Re: What scanner/code reader?

For my 1998 Z3, I use a cheapo one like the one on this link plus a round socket adapter - very useful and worth their weight in gold as far as I am concerned - I've also successfully used it on several family/friends cars. Some modern cars like my daily Audi A3 require specific manufacturer softwa...
by ralft01
Fri 23 Oct, 2015 06:48
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Speed Pulse Connection
Replies: 7
Views: 1351

Re: Speed Pulse Connection

Thanks for the suggestions. I guess that to get to the speedo sensor cable I need to remove the instrument panel? I read somewhere that if I do that I have to have the unit recalibrated! How would I identify the correct cable, and would it be OK to connect a another cable to take the speed pulse to ...
by ralft01
Wed 21 Oct, 2015 19:02
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Speed Pulse Connection
Replies: 7
Views: 1351

Speed Pulse Connection

Help please! I bought a Pioneer radio , 2002 vintage, which has satnav built in, but which requires input from the vehicle sensors. It is a handsome piece of kit, and I like the idea of a satnav in the radio, even though the only disc produced for the system is based upon pre-2000 roads. It looks ni...
by ralft01
Tue 20 Oct, 2015 22:41
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: speedo reading a bit slow
Replies: 43
Views: 8653

Re: speedo reading a bit slow

I know that this is a curve and not really on the topic, but I would really appreciate help with my latest Z project. I acquired an old (2002) Pioneer radio with built in Sat Nav and I want to fit it in place of the aftermarket unit currently in situ. The Pioneer as it is works perfectly as a radio ...
by ralft01
Mon 19 Oct, 2015 18:42
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Electrics help PLEASE!
Replies: 13
Views: 2280

Re: Electrics help PLEASE!

Thank you all for your forbearance; I am still grappling with this problem! I have read and tried every post on the subject of teaching a fob to activate the alarm etc. I thought my problem may be caused by faulty actuators at the door locks. I had these replaced, and now my key does centrally lock!...
by ralft01
Sat 17 Oct, 2015 21:11
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Engine bay improvement
Replies: 11
Views: 1737

Re: Engine bay improvement

Better still, buy a used cover from a breaker and modify that as suggested. That way you can put back the original cover when the Perspex melts or becomes permanently discoloured.
by ralft01
Thu 15 Oct, 2015 22:21
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Relocating the battery
Replies: 6
Views: 1217

Re: Relocating the battery

You say that your LPG tank gives you 140 miles. I guess you average about 24 mpg, so your tank can only be about 25 litres, which is very small. I looked at converting my Z to LPG and was told that a 60 litre tank would sit in the space occupied by the spare wheel. I assume that you retained your pe...
by ralft01
Thu 24 Sep, 2015 18:49
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: After market S?S Roll Bar
Replies: 4
Views: 1600

Re: After market S?S Roll Bar

Hello Geoff

I fear that you may not be able to fit that roll bar at all! Not all a/m bars fit all Z's and it is important to ensure compatibility before buying. Having said that, hopefully another forum member will be able to give you better news.

Good luck.

Ralft
by ralft01
Thu 27 Aug, 2015 19:15
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Remote (keyless) entry
Replies: 5
Views: 1493

Re: Remote (keyless) entry

Thanks R Followed the instructions on the link. They did not work as described, but led me to tinkering with the connector pins which did finally disarm the alarm. Having done that, I tried again to programme the fob, but when I moved the programme switch to the right, as described, the alarm re-arm...
by ralft01
Mon 17 Aug, 2015 16:58
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Remote (keyless) entry
Replies: 5
Views: 1493

Re: Remote (keyless) entry

Thanks R. The plot thickens! After reading the post about how to programme a fob, I had another look and found that I do indeed have the remote/alarm box mounted behind the glove compartment. I bought a used fob from eBay, advertised as definitely working. The light shone when I pressed each button....
by ralft01
Thu 13 Aug, 2015 12:42
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: ZRoadster.net Members with Diagnostic Kit
Replies: 93
Views: 60852

Re: ZRoadster.net Members with Diagnostic Kit

Redruth in Cornwall, airbag reset and service lights reset!
by ralft01
Wed 12 Aug, 2015 21:03
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Electrics help PLEASE!
Replies: 13
Views: 2280

Re: Electrics help PLEASE!

Blade runner, you are a star! Those pics you linked showed me what to look for, and I found the module right where the pics showed. I have purchased a used fob from EBay and look forward to programming it. Will post results.
Thank you!
by ralft01
Wed 12 Aug, 2015 10:27
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Electrics help PLEASE!
Replies: 13
Views: 2280

Re: Electrics help PLEASE!

If I buy a second hand alarm module/remote controller, whatever it is that sits under the glove compartment, will I be able to remotely arm the alarm and remotely open the doors?

If there is no prospect of being able to do that, I will save my money and move on to the next project.
by ralft01
Tue 11 Aug, 2015 22:37
Forum: Stock exchange
Topic: Roof UV / Shower Cap
Replies: 4
Views: 1131

Re: Roof UV / Shower Cap

Hi
If not sold, I would like it please!
by ralft01
Tue 11 Aug, 2015 18:50
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Remote (keyless) entry
Replies: 5
Views: 1493

Remote (keyless) entry

i have seen this topic on old posts in UK and USA forums (fora?), but some of the information does not tally with my findings, and I am hoping that this forum may help me. My Z is build date August 1998 2.8 Auto. The question of whether or not my car was fitted with remote entry and alarm settings h...
by ralft01
Tue 11 Aug, 2015 14:13
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Second fuel tank in boot
Replies: 17
Views: 2800

Re: Second fuel tank in boot

John, you are absolutely right! Thank you for putting my head back on straight.
by ralft01
Tue 11 Aug, 2015 14:03
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Electrics help PLEASE!
Replies: 13
Views: 2280

Re: Electrics help PLEASE!

Re. Second hand remote key! Do all Z3 keys have the same cut pattern? So the difference between any Z3 key would be the coding for the car? I didn't realise this! It makes a lot of sense if it is so!
Thank you for that info.
by ralft01
Mon 10 Aug, 2015 22:13
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Electrics help PLEASE!
Replies: 13
Views: 2280

Re: Electrics help PLEASE!

I did not receive such a key when I bought the car. I did not even realise that I should have one. So no, I do not have a remote. From what you say, I am unable to set the alarm! Quelle Fromage! I have a 'main' key with a light, a second plain grey key that only opens the doors, and a strange lookin...
by ralft01
Mon 10 Aug, 2015 10:51
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Electrics help PLEASE!
Replies: 13
Views: 2280

Re: Electrics help PLEASE!

I triggered the alarm by disconnecting the battery. If the alarm is operating on its internal battery is this indicative of a fault or is it normal? Locking the boot with the key does not lock either door, but locking either door with the key also locks the boot! I don't have a remote locking system...
by ralft01
Sun 09 Aug, 2015 20:15
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Electrics help PLEASE!
Replies: 13
Views: 2280

Electrics help PLEASE!

I have searched through the forum and issues similar to mine have been posted in the early days! Forgive Me for bringing this up again, but I don't know where to start on this. My radio does not work, but I can play and hear CD's through it. My alarm is so faint I can hardly hear it. My central lock...
by ralft01
Sun 09 Aug, 2015 15:51
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Agreed value insurance
Replies: 4
Views: 900

Agreed value insurance

I am surprised at the low value placed upon used Z3's in the used car market. I have spent a lot of time working on my 1998 2.8 Auto and am always impressed by the underlying quality and the level of design and engineering. I have seen some ridiculous valuations on EBay and Parkers, and I don't unde...
by ralft01
Wed 05 Aug, 2015 14:54
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Second fuel tank in boot
Replies: 17
Views: 2800

Re: Second fuel tank in boot

I envy the 2.8 driver who gets over 30mpg! I have a 2.8 Automatic, permanently set on Economy mode. On a long motorway run, driving sensibly and within speed limits, I might achieve 24 mpg! Around town, still driving with a soft (educated?) right foot I might get 21 - 23 mpg. My local BMW specialist...
by ralft01
Mon 03 Aug, 2015 20:13
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Second fuel tank in boot
Replies: 17
Views: 2800

Re: Second fuel tank in boot

I like that idea! Keeping it all on the outside seems sensible. I wonder if I could use the existing fuel sender to signal the auxiliary pump to supply fuel, and then use it again to signal stop! Maybe I could add a second filler point, as is done with an LPG conversion. Any thoughts as to how to/if...
by ralft01
Mon 03 Aug, 2015 16:58
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Second fuel tank in boot
Replies: 17
Views: 2800

Second fuel tank in boot

I thought I might be able to have an ECU re-map to improve mpg, but it is not possible with naturally aspirated petrol engines. I had a look at an LPG conversion, but that seems to be a debatable issue. I want to be able to travel further without having to stop to refill; I hate being reminded how m...
by ralft01
Sun 24 May, 2015 14:49
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: OBD port
Replies: 8
Views: 1421

Re: OBD port

Hi Robert I have just started looking at buying a scanner/reader/fault code reader/fault light corrector etc. As you can tell, I am not well versed in this technology. ( I am still struggling with text messages!). My Z3 is a model year 1998 2.8 Auto. The V5 says it was first registered 09 10 1998. I...
by ralft01
Mon 20 Apr, 2015 18:49
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Boot wiring loom
Replies: 5
Views: 1656

Re: Boot wiring loom

Blade runner, very similar to your mod.
by ralft01
Sat 18 Apr, 2015 15:02
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Boot wiring loom
Replies: 5
Views: 1656

Boot wiring loom

This is not really a new topic, but a sideways view at and old one! Like many others on the forum, I was obliged to make some repairs to the wiring loom in the boot. In the process, I noticed that the routing of the loom dooms it to fail. It exits the body member at the top left of the boot at an an...
by ralft01
Mon 20 Oct, 2014 18:12
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Initial hardtop fitting
Replies: 14
Views: 3888

Re: Initial hardtop fitting

Hi Rob
I'm not sure if you have received the gauge back yet. I now have my hardtop and the fitting kit is installed, so I will hopefully be very quick after I receive the gauge.

Many thanks

Ralft
by ralft01
Mon 29 Sep, 2014 16:32
Forum: Z3 roadster
Topic: Initial hardtop fitting
Replies: 14
Views: 3888

Re: Initial hardtop fitting

Rob, I would be very grateful if I could also borrow your mounting gauge. I would be happy to pay a deposit against safe return, especially since I am a newbie. :)