1998 Z3 1.9l Autocross Build

Randall M

Randall M

Zorg Addict
Joined
Jul 7, 2025
Points
53
Location
Davis, CA USA
Model of Z
1998 Z3 1.9L Roadster
Getting started! 1.9l M44, 5-speed, 102k miles.

509288600_703384422614583_5699796757891198901_n.jpg

Getting it ready to run in E Stock. I autocrossed a lot in the Denver area about 40 years ago. Life has circled around, so I am at it again, soon, in the Sacramento area.

Removing weight...glove box anchor weight; spare tire, holder & bin. Fixed seat rail issue, seatbelt guide fixes, misc. fixes to tidy up for the first run in maybe August.
 
Changing out a leaking oil tower, today. Changing the filter and pressure switch while I am at it.

1751927000662.webp 1751927019862.webp
 
Last week, I added a new steering wheel cover from https://stitchingcover.com/. I wanted a bit more diameter/grip and a fun color (nearly matches BMW blue). Took about 2.5 hours total. Great quality...the vendor was very careful to match my wheel with several BMW wheel styles.

1751930760032.png1000016046.jpg

And seat covers... and wind deflector.

1751931009553.png
 
IMG_3565.gif
 
Welcome from Mansfield UK. Going to be an interesting thread.
 
I do look forward on your build. If you do go beyond E Stock, there are a few things you can grab from the higher trim Z3 models: bigger front brakes+rotors and rear differential with LSD options. I haven't sat down to read all the compatibility on rear differentials, but based on my various searches you can find what you need. I do recall someone running the smaller 1.9L calipers and rotors and brake fade was problematic on aggressive track days. Hope that helps!
 
:welcome: again and looking forward to seeing your build.
 
I have a replacement shift boot aching to go on, but I CANNOT get my shift knob off. Tried brute force, tried levering it upward with a Crescent wrench and pipe, not a budge. Gonna have to cut it off and get a new one.
 
Randall M said:
I have a replacement shift boot aching to go on, but I CANNOT get my shift knob off. Tried brute force, tried levering it upward with a Crescent wrench and pipe, not a budge. Gonna have to cut it off and get a new one.
Click to expand...
Busted it off with sharp diagonal cutters (just kept nibbling away at the plastic). New knob tomorrow.

20250713_111904.webp
 
Last edited:
Headlamp restoration today using a 3M Ultra Headlight Restoration Kit.

Results are great. Was able to do both lamps with one kit. Did a triple coat of the sealant. Make sure you tape off well. I did scuff a very small spot that will need to be buffed out. Otherwise...easy peasy.

Right Headlamp Restore.webp
 
Hello and welcome. Looks interesting. You’re in the right place for help, advice and banter.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top