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Re: bmw-digest V5 #294

Jason,
In response to your questions:

>From: [email protected] (Jason E Markel)
>1) Need a good repair manual.  Anybody know where I can get a 
>Bentley's manual.

Here is the number for Bavarian Autosport (I had this one handy, 
prices for the manual  vary only by a couple of dollars between 
vendors approx $35)
1-800-507-2002

>2) I pulled out the battery to do some cleaning and now the radio
>requests a code.  I have no idea what it is, how many digits it could 
>be, or how the system operates.  I did not get any manuals with the car.  
>How do I get the radio back?

The code is a 5 number combination punched in via the radio preset 
buttons, usually printed on a credit card sized card.
If you don't have this, go to a dealer, they can get the code by 
looking at the serial number on the back of the radio.

>3) Sunroof is messed up.  Apparently, the roof was taken out for a 
>repair leak and not replaced properly.  The back raises without a problem, 
>but I can't open it without cranking with one hand and pulling with the 
>other. The problem seems to be that the rear part of the panel does not drop
>down without a helping hand.  I also noticed that it seems that 
>something might be missing in there.  There are two thin little rods that go 
>back just about to the end of the panel with some type of connector on the
>ends.  They aren't connected to anything--should they be??  I wish I 
>had a schematic of what a properly installed one looks like.

The bently manual has a description of the adjusting procedure but, 
it is a real PITA to do, takes some patience to get right. 

>4) When the tank is full the car reaks with gasoline on the inside, 
>yet I can find no gas on the ground.  I haven't climbed under it yet, but a
>scan from ground level doesn't reveal any problems.  Any thoughts?

Try removing the lower rear seat cushion, you will see the gas tank 
access cover approx. in the center of the car, maybe you have a bad 
gasket here.

>5) What is the recommended oil weight for this car?  As I said, I 
>have no books.

Widely debated topic, I have always used 15-50 Mobil1 synthetic (car 
now has 180k) and no problems. I am a firm believer in this grade or 
20-50 dino oil.

>6)  Any suggestions for cleaning the alloys.

I like the Armor All wheel cleaner, it is pretty strong stuff, I only 
use it at the self service car wash thus avoiding getting it into the 
storm drains.

>7) When do the valves need adjustment and what should that cost.

I do them every 50k I think recommended is every 30k, should cost 
about $70, it's pretty straightforward to do yourself too. 

>I appreciate any help you send me.
no problem

>Thanks a lot.
>Jason Markel
>Albany, NY
>'87 325

Monty Sidhu
86 325es
89 M3