Jet Black on Terra / Carbon Fiber M-Sport 6MT 128i

[b1aze]

This thread will be more of a place for me to document my vehicle than anything else, but I welcome questions, comments and/or criticisms alike!



Current Modifications List:
Performance/Drivetrain
3Stage Intake with new OEM DISAs and seals
Bimmerlabs 130i tune
Genuine BMW Performance 135i Axle-back Exhaust
Spectre Performance Filter w/Charcoal Filter Delete
RevMotoring Silicone Intake Hose
Dinan-style intake snorkel

Things in Process

2001 Z3 Torsen LSD Spool custom fit to 3.23 ratio 188LW diff casing
Genuine M3 brake master cylinder and reservoir
E39 M Parallel Wheel refurbish and E90 rear hub/rotor swap for proper fit

Suspension/Brakes/Chassis
Genuine BMW Performance brake kit
StopTech Stainless lines
F30 Brake Backing Plates
Bilstein B6
Swift Springs
Dinan fixed front camber plates
Dinan rear shock mounts
Genuine BMW 1M strut bar kit

Wheels
Summer Setup
Enkei NT03rr 17x8 ET45/ 17x9 ET50 Gunmetal w/Firestone Indy500 225/45/17 and 255/40/17 (20mm spacer in front, 12mm spacer in rear)



Winter Setup
Stock M207s with 215/50-17 Nokian WRG4 all around

Interior



OEM Terra Leather on Manual Sport frames/rails
1M Replica Gauge Cluster
Genuine BMW Performance Carbon Fiber Trim
Genuine BMW Performance SSK Lever w/Stainless Steel knob
Genuine BMW Performance Shift Boot
Genuine BMW Performance Parking Brake Boot/Handle
Genuine BMW Performance Pedals
Genuine BMW Performance Steering Wheel Trim
Genuine BMW Euro Oddments Tray Trim
Genuine BMW Grocery Grabber
iDrive Cup-holder retrofit
eBay clutch stop and return spring delete

Exterior/Lighting
Genuine BMW Blackline LCI Tail Lights
Genuine BMW Performance Kidney Grills
Genuine BMW Performance Sport Stripe
Replica BMW Performance Trunk Spoiler
Replica BMW Performance Lip painted Jet Black
Replica Rieger Style Diffuser
Replica Mudflaps
eBay smoked LED side markers
Daniel Stern Selective Yellow 65W H7 Bulbs
Yellow tinted fogs

Recent Maintenance
Swapped on M207s and had 215/50-17 Nokian WRG4s mounted - 18NOV2020 88200 miles
Applied CarPro CQuartz and Recharge - 13JULY2020 84050 miles
Oil Change w/LiquiMoly - 15JUNE2020 83676 miles
Flushed transmission fluid with Redline D4ATF - 15JUNE2020 83676 miles
Brand new brake calipers, pads and rotors - 15JUNE2020 83676 miles
Flushed Brake Fluid with Pentosin Super DOT4 - 15JUNE2020 83676 miles
Flashed 130i Tune - 04APR2020 82100 miles
Installed Summer wheels and tires - 25MAR2020 81250 miles
Driver's Side Airbag recall - 06FEB2020
Replaced OFHG - 01FEB2020 79850 miles
Replaced Eccentric Shaft Sensor and all seals - 11JAN2020 78900 miles
Replaced Valve Cover and Gasket - 11JAN2020 78900 miles
Replaced Spark Plugs and Coils - 11JAN2020 78900 miles
Oil Change w/LiquiMoly - 03NOV2019 - 76300 miles

Background:
From 2012 to 2014, I owned an AW N54 135i and ended up liquidating it for something a little more cost effective and low maintenance. I LOVED that car and have missed the E82 platform ever since. Fast forward 6 years and 105k miles in a basic 5MT Civic and I still yearned for the 1er sport seats, heavy steering feel, the stiff clutch and crisp 6MT gearbox. My needs had changed (ie. carseat and goldfish crackers in the back) but my lust for an enjoyable commute hadn't waned a bit. For months, I searched every car site available. Autotrader, Cars.com, CarGurus, Edmunds, Craigslist and yes, even Facebook Marketplace for a clean 1er in some form that I would satisfy my hunger. My wife had expressed interest in a convertible automatic so I originally was looking at E88 135iS models with the DCT, but I couldn't bring myself to pay what they were asking, take on the additional maintenance risks but more importantly, lose the all-important third pedal.

One day (August 29, 2019 to be exact), after VIN-checking more "Manual" cars that were actually automatics, I came across a 2013 128i with M-Sport bumper and wheels that actually VIN'ed out as a manual! I even triple-checked the VIN to ensure I wasn't being lied to. Looking deeper into the other options, it was 99% perfectly appointed. Manual heated seats, No iDrive/Nav, No Technology Package or Comfort Access, No Adaptive Headlights. PERFECT!! I jumped on the dealer's website, submitted an inquiry and got a phone call from the sales manager while he was on his way into the office. After swapping info, we had a Bill of Sale written up and the car was all but mine! I felt that I had to take the chance and buy it sight-unseen. The dealership had excellent reviews and even specialized in used high-end BMWs so my concerns were pretty well calmed.




I had a vacation planned so I had to anxiously await delivery of the car for much longer than I wanted, but on September 18th at 3:30 PM, it came! The delivery driver slowly backed it off the truck and with baited breath, I looked at the dusty girl and smiled!



Fast forward over a week without receiving the registration and plates from the DMV, I contacted the dealership and as it turns out, they were waiting for a registration application from me...?!?!?! Say WHAT Fine.... I called my insurance company, got the proper documents, signed, scanned and thought it was all set. Followed up 2 days later and apparently, the DMV doesn't take scanned copies and needs the original wet-signature form. This is getting exhausting... I hate having to baby-sit "professionals." FINE. Found the original document, overnighted it to the dealership whom then signed and submitted it to the DMV for a rush processing. More waiting.

As of today, I still have not received the plates but I know that the DMV has received my title information and expect the registration documents to arrive any day now. The anticipation is killing me!!

10-21-19
Registration and plates arrived after battling with FedEx. Inspection done and we’re officially on the road!!

Original Vehicle Spec:
2013 128i
VIN WBAUP7C52DVM55371
Prod. Date 2013-03-20
N52K
Miles at purchase 75,691
M-Sport Package
Sensatech Manual Heated Seats
Harman Kardon System
Low-Tech spec'ed

[b1aze]

This area will be for progress updates, pictures and anything else I think is worth posting.

9-19-2019
I purchased a set of ASA AR1s in 18x8 ET40 from a local 1er owner with the intentions of cleaning, stripping and refinishing the wheels. The ultimate goal is 235/40/18 all the way around.


9-22-2019
I purchased a 3Stage Intake manifold and BMW diagnostics computer/BimmerGeeks cable from another local BMW owner. The price was too good to pass up but it will be a while before I get around to a proper install. The large DISA valve is a bit floppy but overall seems to be a great option. BimmerGeeks offers a 130i OEM flash to allow the DISAs to work properly. (no picture currently)

10-5-2019
I replaced the armrest lid with a lightly used one as the latch was broken when I received it. Really easy swap!

10-11-2019
Ordered the following from Tischer:
52302208036 Seat Belt Holder(s)
35002213213 BMW Performance Pedal Set
51470027792 BMW Performance Foot Rest
25110435848 BMW Performance Shift Boot
63257164978 3rd Brake Light (slight cracking across the top)

10-14-2019
I installed the BMW Performance Short Shift Kit lever. WHAT A DIFFERENCE! Beautiful snappy shifts!
PN 25117542200
PN 25111220600
PN 25117571899

I also washed, claybarred and applied Meguisr's Hyrbid Ceramic Wax. It took a bit of buffing to get the product evenly spread but its a nice smooth finish after. I am hoping additional applications will make it even smoother.



10-21-19
Installed seat belt holders, replacement 3rd brake light, BMW Performance pedals shift boot and a nice heavy weighted shift knob. Combined with the glacier silver trim, I think it looks pretty clean!


10-28-19
Installed the eBay clutch stop, smoked side markers, cleared a random SES for valveteonic and pretty sure I diagnosed a torn oil filter. Ordered a oil change kit from FCP EURO and have a Blackstone Labs kit ready to go.

11-3-19
76300 miles
Swapped stock wheels for a set of 16” BMW 43s with General Altimax Arctic, added 15mm spacers up front and 20mm spacers in the rear. Changed the oil with LiquiMoly 5W-30 and Mann filter.

12-27-19
It’s been a while since updating but I’ve prepared a lot!
Purchased a full OEM valve cover, ESS and other parts in prep for a confirmed ESS failure causing the codes I cleared above. I’m triple and quadruple checking DIY guides and making sure I know what I’m doing. I’ll tackle it once the weather gets just a bit warmer.

I also sacrificed a 135i BMWP catback exhaust. Got the spacer pipe welded on as the exhaust sealant didn’t hold up. It sounds a LITTLE louder in the cabin but the pitch and tone is MUCH better with windows down and from outside. Exactly what I wanted!

Finally, I placed an order for a set of Enkei NT03RR in 17x8 and 17x9 proper fit for our cars. Silly light wheels and I think the matte gunmetal will look really good on the black. It’ll take at least 2 months to get them so I’ll be deciding on a set of rubbers until then.

1-7-2020
Installed Hella Yellow xenon bulbs in both low and high beam locations. I like it!!


1-11-2020
78900 Miles
Installed the new Eccentric Shaft Sensor, Valve Cover and gaskets, Spark Plugs and Coils from FCP Euro. Also did the charcoal filter delete, swapped in the Spectre Performance filter and did a general intake pathway cleanup. My word what a difference in power, responsiveness AND fuel economy! Its SO SMOOTH! I also decided to sell the ASA AR1's and invest in a proper set of Enkei NT03rr's partly because I haven't seen this setup on a 1er yet. Gotta wait at least 60 days for delivery etc.

1-27-2020
Welp, at around 2:30am I stumbled upon a full electric/memory Terra interior and I couldn’t pass it up. I will likely swap the cushion/upholstery over to the manual frame/rails I have now but for the price, I couldn’t pass them up. I also picked up a super clean set of Fineline Anthracite trim to better match the Terra (hopefully!). I wasn’t able to find a picture with this color combo and it seems neither of these photograph well but look very sharp in person.

2-1-2020
Installed a 3SI with brand new OEM DISA valves, gaskets etc from FCPEuro and also did the OFHG while I was in the area. Scrubbed the intake runners for longer than I want to admit... Ordered a 1M strut brace kit, some interior bits and other small clips and parts from Tischer. Also ordered a Genuine BMWPerformance racing and pin stripe kits just to see how it looks. Can always peel the vinyl back off! Finally gave the Terra seats a proper cleaning and conditioning with Chemical Guys products. Nice feel and pretty decent smell after.



2-17-2020
Finally finished the Terra leather seat swap and finished the install! What a wonderful color!

4-7-2020
Haven't been keeping this up to date lately but I ordered a full water pump and thermostat replacement kit as well as the last bits and pieces needed to install the BMWPerformance brake kit. Also picked up bits to install Bilstein B6 and Swift Springs from ShockandAwe

6-14-2020
Well it’s been a helluva long week! I borrowed a QuickJack from my neighbor and did the following all in one go:

Installed Bilstein B6s with Swift Springs and Dinan Camber and rear shock mounts.
Installed BMW Performance Brake Kit (Calipers and rotors) and StopTech Stainless lines
Trimmed front bumper fender tabs to minimize rubbing and cleaned out fender liners
Dialed in wheel fitment with spacers
Flushed brake lines with Pentosin Super DOT4
Flushed transmission fluid with Redline D4ATF
Changed oil and filter with Liquimoly 5W-40

7-31-2020
Test fit some OEM Style 37s (M Parallel) and loved them!! They’ll require the rear hub and rotor swap to pick up the 10mm of necessary clearance. I think this will be a project for next spring but very much on my radar.



8-30-2020
Purchased hubs and rotors to do the rear hub conversion. Also bought M3 transmission mounts. All from FCPEuro.

[b1aze]

Reserved2

[Ric in RVA]

Very nice....I too came back to the N52 fold after experience with a turbo car but an N55.

I love the N52 so much more than the N55 for a bunch of reasons.

Yours looks really great.

What would you say the big difference in the shifter is? May have to do that...

[b1aze]

Originally Posted by Ric in RVA

What would you say the big difference in the shifter is? May have to do that...

The throws are almost scary short. Initial engagement into 1st made me question if it was in gear the first couple times but boy is it crisp! If you’re used to the moderately long and deliberate 128i gearbox it’ll feel like a new car IMO.

[Ric in RVA]

Originally Posted by b1aze

The throws are almost scary short. Initial engagement into 1st made me question if it was in gear the first couple times but boy is it crisp! If you’re used to the moderately long and deliberate 128i gearbox it’ll feel like a new car IMO.

I like the short throws but you have to watch those money shifts....grab third instead of 5th and zing.......9000 rpm....


May have to order!!!!

[b1aze]

Added a little more detail, and updated the first post. I hope to have some good pictures once its nice enough to get all the damn salt off!

[b1aze]

For anyone who’s curious, this is what Fine Line Anthracite trim looks like on Terra interior from inside my garage. These pictures are very close to what it looks like by eye however the trim looks significantly gray’er and almost has a carbon-esque look to it.

[ShocknAwe]

Loving the Terra leather!!!

I need that in my life. My wife is gonna kill me. I just told her we were done with the 1er mods for a while. :0

As for the trim... I think the aluminum metal trim would look awesome. Or CF. Or a combo or... aluminum overlaid with CF accents and clear resin.

[b1aze]

Originally Posted by ShocknAwe

As for the trim... I think the aluminum metal trim would look awesome. Or CF. Or a combo or... aluminum overlaid with CF accents and clear resin.

I think the CF would be too much personally. I just found a set of high gloss black trim on eBay and ordered it. Hoping that is enough for me.

Not sure what your current seat spec is but I was pleasantly surprised how well stripping the cushions off the electric seats and putting them on the manual frames went. After all the learning on the first seat, it took me about 8 hours total to remove seats, disassemble all, reassemble all, ensure proper function and install the whole kit. I’d do it again in a heartbeat!

[ShocknAwe]

Originally Posted by b1aze

I think the CF would be too much personally. I just found a set of high gloss black trim on eBay and ordered it. Hoping that is enough for me.

Not sure what your current seat spec is but I was pleasantly surprised how well stripping the cushions off the electric seats and putting them on the manual frames went. After all the learning on the first seat, it took me about 8 hours total to remove seats, disassemble all, reassemble all, ensure proper function and install the whole kit. I’d do it again in a heartbeat!

Power sport. Been debating manual seats but dunno how they compare.

Only thing for sure is they have to be heated.

[mike@x-ph.com]

Nice

[b1aze]

Couple quick pictures

[TM9030]

Those NT03s though - they look good!

[Fakemike]

Things are coming along nicely on your car.

How involved was switched the power Terra seats to the manual bases? Was it all plug and play?

Thanks

[b1aze]

Originally Posted by Fakemike

Things are coming along nicely on your car.

How involved was switched the power Terra seats to the manual bases? Was it all plug and play?

Thanks

Thank you! It’s getting there aesthetically. I’m looking toward the suspension now.

For the seats, it wasn’t HARD just laborious. Took me about 12hours to clean and disassemble both sets of seats and reassemble them. The actual swap into the car is quite easy. The Terra seats have adjustable lumbar that is no longer functional but that isn’t a big deal for me. The side bolsters still work just fine.

[b1aze]

Bump! Suspension, brakes, fluids and some other bits overhauled!

[..Rush..]

Lovely car!
I like that you kept the original halogen front headlights.
You chose not to upgrade to angel eyes?
I've been debating myself about getting angel eyes, but rather like the look of stock.

[Gray_Panther]

Originally Posted by ..Rush..

Lovely car!
I like that you kept the original halogen front headlights.
You chose not to upgrade to angel eyes?
I've been debating myself about getting angel eyes, but rather like the look of stock.

I was able to convert to the OEM bi-xenons, and for awhile I loved the look. But eventually I went back to stock halogen.
Not that I had a problem with the headlights, it's just that I felt the halogens had a certain charm to it. Gave the car a more vintage look considering it is considered the last of an era, felt right to have it hearken back to the halogen headlight days.

[..Rush..]

Thanks for your great post here.
Could you post a picture of your car?
Would love to see.
Thank you.

Originally Posted by Gray_Panther

I was able to convert to the OEM bi-xenons, and for awhile I loved the look. But eventually I went back to stock halogen.
Not that I had a problem with the headlights, it's just that I felt the halogens had a certain charm to it. Gave the car a more vintage look considering it is considered the last of an era, felt right to have it hearken back to the halogen headlight days.

[ShocknAwe]

Hope you're enjoying the B6/Dinan/Swift setup man!

[E91WAG3N]

Great build, makes me miss my near identical 1er. Keep the mods coming!