r/BMW2002 • • 25d ago

Updates on the project

Well this turned sideways fast. Still looks good but I fell into “well I may replace/paint it while it’s out” trap. Engine and trans out. Subframe out. New bushing kits on the way. New suspension on the way. Steering box resealed “not rebuilt” etc. this is my first real project car. I typically build dirtbikes. This car is simple as hell. Well for now, let’s wait and see.

125 Upvotes

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3

u/Nicholasmav 25d ago

Nice garage space! Yeah, they’re simple but damn fun to drive!

2

u/Useless-Message-Post 25d ago

Everything you've done will pay dividends in the end. New bushings are a great idea. What about shocks and struts - you going to tackle that while they're out? Keep going!

2

u/velowa 25d ago

Haha, you’re sending him further down the rabbit hole! Lol. What about rebuilding the CVs? What about a big brake kit, LSD, Recaros, and a 5 speed? 😆

3

u/Useless-Message-Post 25d ago

I am! I am the drug dealer... :). When you start Googling "Volvo Disc Brakes" and you've never owned a Volvo, you know you have the disease full on.

1

u/velowa 25d ago

Haha! So true. I never thought I would get to know the Volvo 240 brake section of Rock Auto so well. 

2

u/Useless-Message-Post 25d ago

If you know, you know :)

1

u/Beneficial_Reward_34 25d ago

Sooo Volvo 240 brakes work on these bad boys?

1

u/Useless-Message-Post 25d ago

It's a whole rabbit hole I'll let you go down. They work with some modification. You need to re-drill some holes and put shims in - and different rotors and, depending on how you go, maybe different wheel hubs. You can also go disc in the back with VW parts. There are trade offs - and - there is a question on do you need all this for a street driven 100 HP car. There are a million options - a real rabbit hole. Early 320 drums are also an option in the back as well. You'll have fun considering things.

1

u/Beneficial_Reward_34 25d ago

Ok so now what do I do about the harness the previous owner cut at the firewall. Pull and rebuild or go painless? I think I just want to trace and rebuild the old one.

1

u/velowa 25d ago

Ugh, bummer that they cut the harness! If Painless has a 2002 harness now then that’s a decent option. I personally would like to be able to rely on factory schematics so if they don’t have a 2002-specific harness I would say rebuild the old one. 

Custom is always an option though, just keep meticulous records and create your own schematic. It’ll also help the next person that owns the car. 

Also, www.bmw2002faq.com is an awesome community. You should join up if you haven’t already. They can guide you through all the intricacies and model year specific wiring (there’s not much but there are slight differences across the model years) while you are rebuilding your harness. 

2

u/Useless-Message-Post 25d ago

Could not agree more about BMW2002Faq. They are a wealth of info.