**BFP QUATRO Carbon Fiber Strut Bar Initial Buy Thread**

[BFP, Inc.]

Fellow E46 Enthusiasts,

The new Quatro Carbon Fiber Strut Bar for the E46, as introduced earlier (http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=129817) , will now be available in a limited initial offering of 50 units at a reduced price of $399.00. MSRP on this unit is $499.00. As illustrated below, there is a finite timeline for this buy-in, and initial deposits are required. Final delivery of the bars, as well as final payments, will be outlined in the timeline.

Please read everything below completely

Options:
-There are three color options for the endplates/connectors on this strut bar, only one of which will be available after this offering. They are: a) matte finish anodized gunmetal gray (darker), b) matte finish anodized light gray, and c) nickel plated. The nickel plating is an additional $50.00. SEE PICTURES BELOW

Cost:
-$399.00 + $10.00 shipping anywhere in the continental USA = $409.00 shipped. CA residents will be charged sales tax of 7.5%
-Nickel plating is an additional $50.00, bringing the final cost of the bar to $449.00 + $10.00 shipping. The matte anodized finishes are standard in the pricing.
-Shipping outside the continental USA is an additional $10.00

Timeline:
-Sign up/deposit period: Today (12/16/2003) – Friday (12/26/2003)
A deposit of $200.00 is required to participate. Deposits can be made at the time of sign up, or they can be made after sign up, until 12/26/2003. Once 50 people have signed up, no more people will be added to the list, and a waiting list will begin. Anyone who does not have their deposit in by 12/26/2003 forfeits their spot, and any people on the waiting list will take your spot.

-Final payment period: Monday, (01/06/2004) – Sunday, (01/12/2004)
Final payments are due no later than midnight, January 12th.

-Shipping will begin on Monday, January 13th, 2004 in the order of initial payments received.

TO SIGN UP AND PLACE YOUR DEPOSIT:
-Send an email to quatrobar@benferperformance.com with the following information;
-message board name
-real name (first and last)
-model of vehicle
Your deposit will be due no later than 12/26/2003, and remember that bars will ship in the order of initial deposits received.

OR, visit THIS LINK TO OUR WEBSITE (http://www.benferperformance.com/main.pl?&page=pitem-bmw&product=BFP-QBAR-SIGNUP ) to signup and submit your $200.00 deposit at the same time.

OR, if you are on the signup list and do not have a Visa/MasterCard/Discover card, you can PayPal the $200.00 deposit to us at sales@benferperformance.com. If you do this, BE SURE TO INCLUDE THE ABOVE MENTIONED INFORMATION!!!

An email list will be created to update buy-in members, and updates will be posted on the boards.

IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS:
Email them to quatrobar@benferperformance.com or sales@benferperformance.com

PICTURES:

http://www.benferperformance.com/quatro/qbpixwebsmall/images/IMG_0422a.jpg

http://www.benferperformance.com/quatro/qbpixwebsmall/images/IMG_0244a.jpg

http://www.benferperformance.com/quatro/qbpixwebsmall/images/IMG_0302a.jpg

http://www.benferperformance.com/quatro/qbpixwebsmall/images/IMG_0253a.jpg

http://www.benferperformance.com/quatro/oncarwebsmall/images/P1010053a.jpg

http://www.benferperformance.com/quatro/oncarwebsmall/images/P1010034a.jpg

For more pictures, go to:

http://www.benferperformance.com/quatro/qbpixwebsmall/

http://www.benferperformance.com/quatro/oncarwebsmall/

[russ330]

Question, if one were to have the bases powder coated, would that mess up anything with them, the structural integrity mainly?

[Pmmeke]

did you fitted it to a 4 cylinder to? This is information usefull for european buyers. 4 cylinders engines are higher so normal strut bars dont fit but this one seems to be a bit higher so i was wondering.

[CantStopModding]

That bar looks friggin nice....now I'm debating, should I get rid of my ACS RACING STRUT for the CF?! hmmm....

[Pmmeke]

ps in my opinion this is a very good deal compared to the other strut bars and damn the pictures look so sexy :)

[niL]

If possible, can we pay it out in full rather than just a deposit?

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by russ330
Question, if one were to have the bases powder coated, would that mess up anything with them, the structural integrity mainly?

Having the bases powdercoated yourself would be just fine in terms of structural integrity of the bar.

-Dan

[russ330]

That's what I wanted to know, thanks.

P.S. I should be editing this post in a few min. just as soon as the wife isn't paying too much attention. ;)

Edit: Hee hee hee, downpayment has been sent, count me in brotha :D

[He and his]

Originally posted by CantStopModding
That bar looks friggin nice....now I'm debating, should I get rid of my ACS RACING STRUT for the CF?! hmmm....

U'r gonna have to wait untill after they test fit it on an M3:D

[He and his]

dammm this bar look PHAT

[Yellowmann]

Just to let you all know from my reading that this price is probably for the first 50 people who deposit for the CF bar. So hurry and get your spot now. The waiting list do not get you this low introductory price.

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by niL
If possible, can we pay it out in full rather than just a deposit?

Absolutely! I just created a payment in full page, which will automatically put you on the list. The PAYMENT IN FULL option is here (http://www.benferperformance.com/main.pl?&page=pitem-bmw&product=BFP-QBAR-PAYMENT). OR, PayPal payment in full to sales@benferperformance.com. You can go to the "payment in full" page on our website to calculate your shopping cart total (don't forget to include shipping!) to PayPal us with.

Also, a note about the limit on this buy. This buy is limited to 50 participants, after which nobody else will be able to purchase the unit for this discounted price. The wait list will consist of people who have signed up, and people on the wait list will be given the opportunity to purchase for the reduced price ONLY in the event that someone on the sign-up list has dropped out.

Pmmeke, I do not believe this bar will work on a 4cyl E46 because of the height issue. Please email me pictures of your custom bar so that I can see if it even looks possible, and let me know what aftermarket bars (if any) fit.

Regards,

-Dan

[niL]

Originally posted by BFP, Inc.


Absolutely! I just created a payment in full page, which will automatically put you on the list. The PAYMENT IN FULL option is here (http://www.benferperformance.com/main.pl?&page=pitem-bmw&product=BFP-QBAR-PAYMENT). OR, PayPal payment in full to sales@benferperformance.com. You can go to the "payment in full" page on our website to calculate your shopping cart total (don't forget to include shipping!) to PayPal us with.

Also, a note about the limit on this buy. This buy is limited to 50 participants, after which nobody else will be able to purchase the unit for this discounted price. The wait list will consist of people who have signed up, and people on the wait list will be given the opportunity to purchase for the reduced price ONLY in the event that someone on the sign-up list has dropped out.

Pmmeke, I do not believe this bar will work on a 4cyl E46 because of the height issue. Please email me pictures of your custom bar so that I can see if it even looks possible, and let me know what aftermarket bars (if any) fit.

Regards,

-Dan


Thanks :thumbup:

[russ330]

Originally posted by BFP, Inc.


Absolutely! I just created a payment in full page, which will automatically put you on the list. The PAYMENT IN FULL option is here (http://www.benferperformance.com/main.pl?&page=pitem-bmw&product=BFP-QBAR-PAYMENT). OR, PayPal payment in full to sales@benferperformance.com. You can go to the "payment in full" page on our website to calculate your shopping cart total (don't forget to include shipping!) to PayPal us with.

Also, a note about the limit on this buy. This buy is limited to 50 participants, after which nobody else will be able to purchase the unit for this discounted price. The wait list will consist of people who have signed up, and people on the wait list will be given the opportunity to purchase for the reduced price ONLY in the event that someone on the sign-up list has dropped out.

Pmmeke, I do not believe this bar will work on a 4cyl E46 because of the height issue. Please email me pictures of your custom bar so that I can see if it even looks possible, and let me know what aftermarket bars (if any) fit.

Regards,

-Dan

Uhm... what happens if you've already done the partial payment... :eeps:

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by russ330


Uhm... what happens if you've already done the partial payment... :eeps:

Then you are still added to the list in the order payment was recieved. If you sent partial payment before someone sends a full payment, it doesn't put the full payment person ahead of you. Full payment option is just for people who don't want to hassle with paying twice. It does nothing in terms of status on the list over anyone else, and the strut bars all ship according to schedule.

-Dan

P.S....

http://www.benferperformance.com/quatro/shopped/bug3.jpg

That bug wandered onto the set of our photo shoot! The large size is actually the regular size of the 6MPXL camera which was used to take the pictures (not blown up), and the pic you see was shrunk down from roughly 3620x2550 to 700x388 (roughly)

[Dinizzle]

What is the scheduled ship date if we get in on this??

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by Dinizzle
What is the scheduled ship date if we get in on this??

-Shipping will begin on Monday, January 13th, 2004 in the order of initial payments received.

Regards,

-Dan

[ArsenalFC]

Dan is it available for the E39 540i.

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by BMW540I
Dan is it available for the E39 540i.

I wish it was! I held the bar up to my car and unfortunately it is much too short to apply to an E39. There may be an E39 version later in the year if the demand is high enough, as this is a product for which very expensive tooling must be made.

Regards,

-Dan

[xS3x]

damn, wish i have the money now..

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by He and his
dammm this bar look PHAT

Phil, I thought you want to be :pimpin::slap: Better hurry and get on the list.... we all know your addicted too :D

[steel_grey02]

wow the cf looks amazing.. interesting design though, kinda sceptical on the structural integrity compared to other bars but i dont doubt research and development bfp put into producing this strut bar :thumbup: on an awesome looking prodcut

[He and his]

Originally posted by Yellowmann


Phil, I thought you want to be :pimpin::slap: Better hurry and get on the list.... we all know your addicted too :D

yeah.......BUT i also told myself I'll never pay more than $300 for a strut tower bar:dunno: ........my loss i guess:sad:

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by He and his


yeah.......BUT i also told myself I'll never pay more than $300 for a strut tower bar:dunno: ........my loss i guess:sad:

Phil,
We lowered the price on this unit as much as we can for the buy-in. Come on, another c-note isn't too bad!

steel-grey,

I have provided a few links to CF info for you below. In short, Carbon Fiber is much stronger than most metals, with a much higher tensile strength. It is extremely light weight, and has replaced many components in major airplane structures. (if you're a skeptical about CF's structural integrity, don't get on a 777! Check THIS OUT (http://www.carbonfiber.gr.jp/english/tanso/use01.html) )

This bar of ours is so rigid and well built that you could get in a major accident (heaven forbid), and the bar would survive with minor scratches. It does not flex under load like most aluminum bars; it retains it's rigid position under all loads it will see in a car.

Basic Carbon Fiber info (http://www.chem.wisc.edu/~newtrad/CurrRef/BDGTopic/BDGtext/BDGGraph.html)

Interesting article (http://www.metropolismag.com/html/content_0203/fib/)

-Dan

[BFP, Inc.]

Several people have asked about the different bases and plating, so I thought I would quickly go over them...

1) all of the bases are aluminum

2) The anodized bases (far right and left) are not shiny like most anodized pieces you see, because they actually ended up looking a little bit cheap in our opinions. These have been sandblasted using a very rare method to preserve the anodization while giving it the matte finish.

3) Nickel plating us commonly used to plate handguns (max payne), and resists corrosion. The other two bases won't corrode, but the nickel plating is much more scratch resistant and durable. The process to nickel plate is also more expensive, hence the up-charge. It is an electrodeposit (positive/negative charge) process, wheras the anodization is a chemical dip.

http://www.benferperformance.com/quatro/qbpixwebmedium/images/IMG_0415a.jpg

http://www.benferperformance.com/quatro/qbpixwebmedium/images/IMG_0390a.jpg

[Quattro4444]

Damn that look awesome!!! Just one question will it fit a 99' bmw 323i? If so I'll order ASAP!!!

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by Quattro4444
Damn that look awesome!!! Just one question will it fit a 99' bmw 323i? If so I'll order ASAP!!!

Absolutely Quatro! It fits all E46, though we're testing an E46 M3 today to see if it clears.

Regards,

-Dan

[BFP, Inc.]

We just test fitted the bar to an M3 today, and it will not fit in it's present configuration. We are going to work hard over the next week to see if we can reconfigure the kit to work with an M3 in time for the buy. If not, we may offer an extension or reserve the special price to E46 M3 owners.

Also, I would like to post some general answers to the flood of email we have been getting about this bar (and questions on other boards)

1) The bar is completely carbon fiber. It is not wrapped around anything.

2) The bar is made by a company which specializes in government contracted composite work, and the technology used to manufacture the bar is proprietary (i.e. invented by the company making it). It is incredibly rigid, and can withstand a considerable amount more loading than other bars on the market. It is 3x stronger than aluminum, and under loads that it will see, it will not bend even a millimeter. Carbon Fiber is used in many automotive and aerospace applications for just this reason; light weight and strength far beyond conventional metals.

3) The bar is far from just eye candy. It has been load tested, foam core tested on an E46 for tower movement, and completely over-engineered from every perspective. It can tolerate massive amounts of compressive, expansive, and torsional forces, above and beyond what any E46 will ever see. The ends are attached using a proprietary process, and you could probably hang an E46 BY the bar without it failing. (Anyone want to volunteer for that test!? :D

Regards,

-Dan

[Mpowered]

Originally posted by BFP, Inc.
We just test fitted the bar to an M3 today, and it will not fit in it's present configuration. We are going to work hard over the next week to see if we can reconfigure the kit to work with an M3 in time for the buy. If not, we may offer an extension or reserve the special price to E46 M3 owners.

Also, I would like to post some general answers to the flood of email we have been getting about this bar (and questions on other boards)

1) The bar is completely carbon fiber. It is not wrapped around anything.

2) The bar is made by a company which specializes in government contracted composite work, and the technology used to manufacture the bar is proprietary (i.e. invented by the company making it). It is incredibly rigid, and can withstand a considerable amount more loading than other bars on the market. It is 3x stronger than aluminum, and under loads that it will see, it will not bend even a millimeter. Carbon Fiber is used in many automotive and aerospace applications for just this reason; light weight and strength far beyond conventional metals.

3) The bar is far from just eye candy. It has been load tested, foam core tested on an E46 for tower movement, and completely over-engineered from every perspective. It can tolerate massive amounts of compressive, expansive, and torsional forces, above and beyond what any E46 will ever see. The ends are attached using a proprietary process, and you could probably hang an E46 BY the bar without it failing. (Anyone want to volunteer for that test!? :D

Regards,

-Dan

if you send one to me ASAP i will rig it up and demonstrate its strength by using it as a pull up bar. ill post videos on the internet.

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by Mpowered


if you send one to me ASAP i will rig it up and demonstrate its strength by using it as a pull up bar. ill post videos on the internet.

:lmao: :lmao: good one......

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by Mpowered


if you send one to me ASAP i will rig it up and demonstrate its strength by using it as a pull up bar. ill post videos on the internet.

Too bad it's winter, or someone could use it for water skiing!

So what, 100 1-handed (with the knuckles facing you) pullups for a free bar?

-Dan

[BFP, Inc.]

Ok, we have about a dozen commitments and several payments. Resellers have been hitting us up like crazy for this item, so this will be the only group buy for this item from us, ever, and it is limited to 50 units.

You may see this bar in a few magazines within the next few months. ;-P

Regards,

-Dan

[NickACS]

Dan-
I emailed you today with pics of my strut tower tops to see if your cf bar will still give me access to these points. Please let me know asap your opinion.
Thanks...

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by NickACS
Dan-
I emailed you today with pics of my strut tower tops to see if your cf bar will still give me access to these points. Please let me know asap your opinion.
Thanks...

Nick, I have beeb a little behind on email. I took a quick look at the pix, and I think they may work... I'll get back to you later today via email...

--Dan

[budman]

I might buy one, just to sell it later... since the resale will be awsome.. :p

[Audioman]

Hey Dan, any interest in making one of these for an E36 BMW?

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by Audioman
Hey Dan, any interest in making one of these for an E36 BMW?

We were actually just discussing that yesterday. We had originally planned on an E36 version if interest was high enough, and I have had a ton of email asking for it... So we started playing around with our resident E36 M3, and it looks like it'll be easy to adapt the bar to that application...

I will update as we are closer to an E36 solution, which will probably be the first or second week of January. If any E36 people want in on this GB by giving us a deposit (which would be of course refunded in the event we didn't get the bar to work for some odd reason), with the reasonable expectation that they would have to wait maybe a few weeks longer, we're game.

Pricing between the models will be the same.

Regards,

-Dan

P.S. Hey BudMan... I bet you'd get the bar, take it out of it's package, and you wouldn't be able to resist putting it on your car... ;-P

[Audioman]

Dan, cool thanks for the update. One thing to think of with the E36 is that fitment on a 95 would be different than on a 96+ due to traction control. There are not too many options for us 96+ owners. Thanks.

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by Audioman
Dan, cool thanks for the update. One thing to think of with the E36 is that fitment on a 95 would be different than on a 96+ due to traction control. There are not too many options for us 96+ owners. Thanks.

Pls shoot me a pic if you have a chance. We test fit the bar on our '97 M3 and it seemed to work. Would you mind pointing out which part you're talking about?

Thx!

-Dan

[Audioman]

Email sent to quatrobar@benferperformance.com

By the way, that bar looks incredible!

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by BudMan2003
I might buy one, just to sell it later... since the resale will be awsome.. :p

BudMan, your too funny but true that :D
I think you will end up swaping out your ACS and using it instead.

[cowmoo32]

I just saw this.....3 days late :banghead:....how many people have signed up so far?!

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by cowmoo32
I just saw this.....3 days late :banghead:....how many people have signed up so far?!

We have 13 signups, and signups end next Fri. We have several pre-payments in full and several partial deposits. Paying in full or depositing puts you in line for the order of shipment, but if you pay in full it doesn't put you ahead of someone who has just done a deposit (payment in full option is just for convenience).

You can go to our website to signup/deposit/pay

www.benferperformance.com

-Dan

[cowmoo32]

Nice! I'll clean out my account for the down payment...there goes all my summer job money....

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by cowmoo32
Nice! I'll clean out my account for the down payment...there goes all my summer job money....

Welcome to MA (Modders Anonymous) :D

This group was started while back :) (http://www.bimmervibe.com/phorum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1324&highlight=modders+anonymous)

[russ330]

Originally posted by BFP, Inc.


We have 13 signups, and signups end next Fri. We have several pre-payments in full and several partial deposits. Paying in full or depositing puts you in line for the order of shipment, but if you pay in full it doesn't put you ahead of someone who has just done a deposit (payment in full option is just for convenience).

You can go to our website to signup/deposit/pay

www.benferperformance.com

-Dan


I can't believe that you only have 13 folks that have signed on to this. After everyone 'ooooing and ahhhing' over the bar, and then being able to get in on intro pricing and 13 people are all that want in? Weird... :dunno:

[Jeff43]

I can't believe that you only have 13 folks that have signed on to this. After everyone 'ooooing and ahhhing' over the bar, and then being able to get in on intro pricing and 13 people are all that want in? Weird...

i agree that it's suprising there are such a few number of signups, but wait unitl after Christmas when everyone gets their gift money, i suspect you'll see a spike then...most people are shopping for others, not themselves right now...

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by Jeff43


i agree that it's suprising there are such a few number of signups, but wait unitl after Christmas when everyone gets their gift money, i suspect you'll see a spike then...most people are shopping for others, not themselves right now...

Yeah, I woke up today to find 2 more payments in full and 3 more deposits. I think people are just using the website to sign up/participate because it's more convenient then putting their name on a list.

I also think you're right in that we will see more people sign up closer to x-mas (and the cutoff date). We've had a LOT of inquiries, so the sharks are circling!

-Dan

[Cowboy Bebop]

any word on the E46 M3 fitment yet?
DAMN, I want this to fit!

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by Cowboy Bebop
any word on the E46 M3 fitment yet?
DAMN, I want this to fit!

Doesn't fit right now... We're going to modify the bases and possibly the bar as well to make it fit, and we have an official beta car down here. We're going to try and make this in time for the group buy, but if not we will certainly extend the price to M3 owners when available.

BTW, we're playing around with the idea for a rear strut bar to match.

-Dan

[russ330]

Originally posted by BFP, Inc.



BTW, we're playing around with the idea for a rear strut bar to match.

-Dan


Sweet. A matching rear bar. :drool: If the price on that one is good as well, I don't think I even care if it's functional. :D It would be nice if it was easily removable just in case one would need to drop down the rear seats. Keep us posted. :)

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by russ330



Sweet. A matching rear bar. :drool: If the price on that one is good as well, I don't think I even care if it's functional. :D It would be nice if it was easily removable just in case one would need to drop down the rear seats. Keep us posted. :)

Yep, I'll keep you posted on the rear. It will have a method of easy removal.

BTW, check your PM's. I responded to yours.

-Dan

[bimmerman11]

Will this look good with the Gruppe M intake? I'm receiving one next week and I'm wondering how they'd look (together) underneath the hood since they're both Carbon Fiber.

TIA.

Marc

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by bimmerman11
Will this look good with the Gruppe M intake? I'm receiving one next week and I'm wondering how they'd look (together) underneath the hood since they're both Carbon Fiber.

TIA.

Marc

At present I think they would look great together, however, I am contacting the manufacturer to see if we can do a small run of them in the same weave as the GruppeM intakes. (GruppeM uses what's called a "plain weave", and the Quatro bar uses a "2x2 twill" weave). If we can get enough people with GruppeM's to commit to purchases of this bar, we may be able to do this.

Regards,

-Dan

[NickACS]

Originally posted by BFP, Inc.


Nick, I have beeb a little behind on email. I took a quick look at the pix, and I think they may work... I'll get back to you later today via email...

--Dan

Hi Dan..
Just wondering if you have anymore definitive word on my situation. I don't want to lose out! :) I haven't heard back via PM or email, so just wanted to touch base.. Thanks!

[Durgesh]

Really cool bar..... was going to buy the ACS one, but after looking at this, really confused.......its just looks so damm good!

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by BFP, Inc.


Yep, I'll keep you posted on the rear. It will have a method of easy removal.

BTW, check your PM's. I responded to yours.

-Dan

Dan, if you make a rear one, make its so it don't take up to much room so I can do my custom set up ;)

NicACS - just get it and you wont loose out.

Durgesh - if it looks so damn good what is the confusion :dunno:

hurry and get on this before its over...

Charlie

[Malladawg]

I was able to see the bar in person this weekend, and I was very impressed. It's very lightweight, and very strong. The weave looks pretty good on the demo models, and the bases look sturdy. If I didn't have my money going twords other mods, I'd definately get in on this one.

Good luck with your group buy Dan.

Eric

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by Malladawg
I was able to see the bar in person this weekend, and I was very impressed. It's very lightweight, and very strong. The weave looks pretty good on the demo models, and the bases look sturdy. If I didn't have my money going twords other mods, I'd definately get in on this one.

Good luck with your group buy Dan.

Eric

Thanks for the compliments Eric!

Thanks for answering questions Yellowmann...

-Nick, check your email
-Durgesh, thanks for the purchase! Get some sleep!

Regards,

-Dan

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by BFP, Inc.


Thanks for the compliments Eric!

Thanks for answering questions Yellowmann...

-Nick, check your email
-Durgesh, thanks for the purchase! Get some sleep!

Regards,

-Dan

No problem...always trying to help...and it looks like Durgesh already had his mind made up :pimpin:

[Spiral Prophet]

Strut bar looks SWEET.. just droped my payment on the website..

[He and his]

must.....resisit..........must not buy into temptations........must save $$$$.......hahahahahahahahaha, temptation SUX:D

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by He and his
must.....resisit..........must not buy into temptations........must save $$$$.......hahahahahahahahaha, temptation SUX:D

Come on Phil, everyone's doin' it, and we won't ever hold another buy-in on this item for $100 off MSRP! :lmao:

Spiral Prophet, payment received and confirmation sent.

-Dan

[Tdrag97]

any chance of having these powered coated in Red.. to match engine cover????

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by Tdrag97
any chance of having these powered coated in Red.. to match engine cover????

How much you willing to pay? I can get it done for you :D

[dronell19]

This looks awesome!!! WOW!

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by dronell19
This looks awesome!!! WOW!

This will look perfect for your sedan. I sure do miss your old ride. :pimpin:

[BFP, Inc.]

TDrag,

You can powdercoat it in any color you want. It shouldn't cost more than $10.00/side. We won't do a custom powdercoating job for this GB though. (The bases are currently either nickel plated or anodized and then lightly sandblasted)

Dronell, I agree with Yellowmann :D

So far we have 13 full payments, a lot of deposits, and about a dozen more verbal commitments. I expect a rush of sign-ups later this week. (I'll post if we fill up to 50)

Regards,

-Dan

[dronell19]

Originally posted by Yellowmann


This will look perfect for your sedan. I sure do miss your old ride. :pimpin:

Thanks, I miss it a lot, too! Pimp factor is much higher with the coupe :D

I would buy this strut especially considering they'd ship it overseas for $20, but I still have my RD strut from the old ride. A few other things have also gone into the new ride :) I've posted a coupla pics but Ima post new ones pretty soon.

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by dronell19


Thanks, I miss it a lot, too! Pimp factor is much higher with the coupe :D

I would buy this strut especially considering they'd ship it overseas for $20, but I still have my RD strut from the old ride. A few other things have also gone into the new ride :) I've posted a coupla pics but Ima post new ones pretty soon.

OH can wait to see new pics...TIA
But you sound like Budman... just get it and your :pimpin: factor will be much higher in the sedan :D

Charlie

[BFP, Inc.]

Hey guys,

I just found out that we CAN match the GruppeM weave if we have 5 people commit to it. Two of those 5 are already in the group buy, so we need 3 more people to sign up to be able to match the GruppeM weave. I know some people said they'd buy IF they could get the GruppeM weave, so now you can!

If you are ALREADY in the group buy and would like the GruppeM weave, please send us an email indicating you would like the matching weave. If you are just signing up because of this deal, please send an accompanying email with your deposit (or in the notes section of the signup) indicating you would like the GruppeM weave.

Regards,

-Dan

[russ330]

Am I one of the two people? Also where do I go to pay the other $200?

[Tdrag97]

Originally posted by BFP, Inc.
TDrag,

You can powdercoat it in any color you want. It shouldn't cost more than $10.00/side. We won't do a custom powdercoating job for this GB though. (The bases are currently either nickel plated or anodized and then lightly sandblasted)

Regards,

-Dan

:banghead: :cry: :banghead: :cry:

darn it............. ohh well..

[niL]

I just paid full for a GruppeM weave, we need two more now :ben:

[just_me]

How much extra is it to match the gruppe M?

[niL]

I didnt see any price changes for the gruppeM match, so i'm assuming it's the 399 group buy price.

[Luke WL.]

ill get in on the groupeM weave one, pm me to tell me if there is a price change, but im leaving tomorow so i need to know soonish...

[Tdrag97]

any one got pix of the two weaves???

[bimmerman11]

Did Dan confirrm that it is possible to do it?

I'm making my final payment right after this post.

Dan, please let us know if you can match your bar to the Gruppe M weave.

Thanks.

Marc

[BFP, Inc.]

Hi guys, I'm "roughing it" with Dial up...

To answer your questions:

We CAN do the GruppeM plain weave. Originally I said we had to have at least 5 people commit to this, and we have far exceeded that, so anyone who wanted the GruppeM weave is getting it.

The GruppeM weave matching is NO extra cost, so it's still $399.95 for the bar - you just have to make a note in the "notes" section of your payment that you would like this weave.

[just_me]

Woohoo!! Just ordered mine! I convinced my girl to pitch in for 1/2 :D

Not bad considering she just got me my sways for Christmas too :thumbup:

What a rough life, waking up Christmas morning to a model and car parts :pimpin:

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!

[Tdrag97]

model huh... hummm pix pix pix.. lol..

[niL]

whooo hoo! gruppem weave :D merry christmas everyone!

[He and his]

Originally posted by just_me
Woohoo!! Just ordered mine! I convinced my girl to pitch in for 1/2 :D

Not bad considering she just got me my sways for Christmas too :thumbup:




I SEE U HAVE HER TRAINED WELL hehehehehehe:thumbup: :D

[roller84]

I just submitted my payment. Did I get in?

[BFP, Inc.]

Originally posted by roller84
I just submitted my payment. Did I get in?

Yep, you're in Roller!

Ok we have 17 people paid, several people with deposits, and still that dozen or so people with verbal commitments. Next week is technically the week to start paying/depositing, which is when I assume the dozen or so with verbal commitments are going to jump in.

A couple of things:

1) We will extend the GB for E36's and M3's in order to accomodate their cars. We are working next week on the M3 application, and the E36 after that. (shouldn't take long)

2) The shop will be finishing up the bars during the first part of January to adhere to the posted schedule. At the time I made the schedule, I didn't know they would be shutting down this entire week (and part of next week) - but they know about our delivery schedule and they have made it their priority.

3) I am compiling a list for deposited, paid, and committed participants to keep them in the loop (and not have to keep popping this thread up after the buy has closed)

Regards, and happy holidays!!!

-Dan

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by Tdrag97
model huh... hummm pix pix pix.. lol..

:werd: :D

[Spiral Prophet]

hey i didn't realize the gruppem weave would be no extra cost.. would it be possible to add that to my notes even thou my payment is in already?

[niL]

Originally posted by Spiral Prophet
hey i didn't realize the gruppem weave would be no extra cost.. would it be possible to add that to my notes even thou my payment is in already?

Yea, he said to send him a email in his earlier post

Originally posted by BFP, Inc.
Hey guys,

I just found out that we CAN match the GruppeM weave if we have 5 people commit to it. Two of those 5 are already in the group buy, so we need 3 more people to sign up to be able to match the GruppeM weave. I know some people said they'd buy IF they could get the GruppeM weave, so now you can!

If you are ALREADY in the group buy and would like the GruppeM weave, please send us an email indicating you would like the matching weave. If you are just signing up because of this deal, please send an accompanying email with your deposit (or in the notes section of the signup) indicating you would like the GruppeM weave.

Regards,

-Dan

[DaveM3Blue]

Any update on the M3 application?

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by DaveM3Blue
Any update on the M3 application?

Originally posted by BFP, Inc.


A couple of things:

1) We will extend the GB for E36's and M3's in order to accomodate their cars. We are working next week on the M3 application, and the E36 after that. (shouldn't take long)

Regards, and happy holidays!!!

-Dan

Sounds like they will have it for your M3:D

[just_me]

Two things:

1: Since I'm on dialup until next year and searching through pictures really sucks this way, could someone post a NICE clear pic of the gruppe M weave? Thanks...

2: My girlfriend who I've trained very well and knows the differences between a 325 and 330 and M3 and all the other cars out there too! (http://www.arekahc.com)

PS. I redid the site to get rid of the nav bars on the side but I've just been too lazy to put the new files out there :sad:

[FazTaz]

Can you possibly post pics on the difference between the standard weave and gruppe M weave???

[Tdrag97]

only good pix i found on the weave..

http://www.projektwerks.com/howto/gruppem/images/IMG_0665.JPG :dunno:

[bimmerman11]

Tdrag- isn't that a pic of the Kevlar weave?

I thought the CF looks different.

Marc

[Tdrag97]

tru. . it is the gruppe M Kevlar weave... I couldn't find any that were the normal CF.. weave

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by Tdrag97
tru. . it is the gruppe M Kevlar weave... I couldn't find any that were the normal CF.. weave

Who needs :help:

Here is some pics for those who want in on this option for the BFP strut bar :pimpin:

Click here to see pics on this post (http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=131380&highlight=gruppe+m)

Charlie

edit: I'll make this easier....posted pic by Budman :thumbup:

http://photos.e46fanatics.com/data/500/12192dsc02097.jpg

[russ330]

:bump: Dan, anything new? I'm I a GruppeM weave guy?

Originally posted by russ330
Am I one of the two people? Also where do I go to pay the other $200?

[DaveM3Blue]

Yeah, kind of need confirmation before I drop $$

Originally posted by Yellowmann




Sounds like they will have it for your M3:D

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by russ330
:bump: Dan, anything new? I'm I a GruppeM weave guy?



Im sure you are....Dan said the more the better.

Originally posted by DaveM3Blue
Yeah, kind of need confirmation before I drop $$



You can always get refund if they dont..but most likely they will have it. :D

[BFP, Inc.]

I will confirm the E46 M3 fittment within the next week, and we will most certainly extend the GB to E46 M3 owners at that time.

Regards,

-Dan

[quadrophiend]

I guess we are to assume that if we pre-paid or payed in full already, then we are on the list? there wasn't a cutoff due to 50 purchases?.... just curious.

[just_me]

1: You mention only one of these colors will be available after the group buy, do you know which one yet?

2: Are you going to be making the GruppeM after the group buy also?

Just curious so I can possibly make mine a more unique combination that won't be available afterwards. I like your weave better than the gruppem and I'm not getting an intake but I'd get that weave maybe if you're not going to be making it anymore.

thanks.

[BFP, Inc.]

Hi guys, a few answers...

Quadro... if you deposited/paid you are on the list for sure. Payments are officially slated to begin tomorrow, but we have a TON of people who have already deposited or pre-paid in full.

just_me...

1) We are not 100% decided on which color it will be, however we are leaning towards the light gray (which is what most of the GB people chose)

2) The GruppeM weave MAY be made after the group buy in limited quantities in the event that a GruppeM reseller (or GruppeM owners) want this weave. If the demand is high enough, it will be done - however one weave and color will be initially offered.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

-Dan


Originally posted by just_me
1: You mention only one of these colors will be available after the group buy, do you know which one yet?

2: Are you going to be making the GruppeM after the group buy also?

Just curious so I can possibly make mine a more unique combination that won't be available afterwards. I like your weave better than the gruppem and I'm not getting an intake but I'd get that weave maybe if you're not going to be making it anymore.

thanks.

[clieberman]

Ok...I dropped my deposit for a bar for an E46 M3....hoping your fitment issues are handled on schedule.

I put my request in for a Gruppe M weave look to match the airbox we just put on.

[Cowboy Bebop]

thanks dan, I may be in and out of contact the next few weeks so you might want to Email me to keep me in the loop on the M3 issue.

[Yellowmann]

Originally posted by clieberman
Ok...I dropped my deposit for a bar for an E46 M3....hoping your fitment issues are handled on schedule.

I put my request in for a Gruppe M weave look to match the airbox we just put on.

On the side note:
I saw the feature in 2 fast 2 furious and looks like your having a blast with all those modded rides. Im sure the next movie will have more BMW huh... look me up ;)

Ps. the CF BFP bar will look :pimpin: on your ride.

[BFP, Inc.]

Hey guys,

Just a reminder that if you signed up and have not paid/deposited yet, now is the time to do so.

Also, E46 M3 owners can pay/deposit. We are working on the E46 M3 application this week and next week. If for some odd reason we are unable to make the bar work, all deposits/payments would be returned - however it is known how to make the M3 kits (we just need to test it on Carl's beta M3 this/next week).

Regards,

-Dan

P.S. Go to our website in the E46 section to pay/deposit at www.benferperformance.com

[Xbox]

Just putting my name on the list, sending payment now.

[BFP, Inc.]

Hi guys, a few updates...

1) The email group buy list is being compiled today, so participants should receive an email shortly

2) I realized that I was looking at a 2003 calander when I made the dates up for the closing/payment periods. The payment period has also been extended until the 18th.

3) We are still working on the E46 M3 version. E46 M3 participants will be filled in on progress, though I don't expect the bars to go out any later than the rest.

4) The manufacturer took two weeks off during the holidays that I did not know about. They know this is high priority and will accomodate the GB window as best as they can. I will update GB participants if there is any delay.

5) I am getting to emails sent over the last day or two on the GB.

Regards,

-Dan

[FazTaz]

Would it be possible to post a picture of the bar with the stock pattern vs the pattern on the gruppe M before we choose them? That would be great, thanks!

[ReNNeN.CaRL]

Hey guys,

Just a reminder that if you signed up and have not paid/deposited yet, now is the time to do so.

Also, E46 M3 owners can pay/deposit. We are working on the E46 M3 application this week and next week. If for some odd reason we are unable to make the bar work, all deposits/payments would be returned - however it is known how to make the M3 kits (we just need to test it on Carl's beta M3 this/next week).

Regards,

-Dan

P.S. Go to our website in the E46 section to pay/deposit at www.benferperformance.com

im ready when you are Dan. :thumbup:

[BFP, Inc.]

im ready when you are Dan. :thumbup:

Yeah, it's going to be this week fo sho.

Taz, I don't have any pictures, but the GruppeM weave is known in the CF industry as a "plain weave," and is very common in European applications. The weave in our pictures (which I prefer) is called a 2x2 3K twill weave. The plain weave bars have not been made yet - hence no picturs...

-Dan

[zmaerd]

Anything new to report?

[BFP, Inc.]

Anything new to report?

Going to meet with the manufacturer today. Will give an update and put the final payment option up on the website tonight.

-Dan

[foofoo11]

Please let us know the status on the M3...thanks

[BFP, Inc.]

Please let us know the status on the M3...thanks

Hey guys, sorry for the lack of updates... We met with the manufacturer today briefly to discuss the project, and because of the two weeks they took off on the holiday, the completion date on the bars will be pushed back a couple of weeks. I apologize for this, and will post more in detail later tonight or tomorrow.

We were up in LA today for a photo shoot with the strut brace, which also went well!

As for the M3's, we will be test fitting the bar on an M3 tomorrow night. We think it'll work out well, and we'll update as to that when we're done.

Regards,

-Dan

[clieberman]

Um, guys...'tomorrow night' has turned into 'next week.' Please tell me that there are updates. I have several shows coming up and would like to complete this portion of my engine bay buildup.

[quadrophiend]

I would like a little more info. too... I haven't received any e-mails from the e-mail list... am i the only one?

when should we deposit the second half of the payment? when are these items going to start shipping? it doesn't seem like your website is updated to take the second part of the payment yet... :dunno:

[BFP, Inc.]

Dear GB participants (and post followers),

I am long overdue for a post with updates, and instead of making excuses, I will just apologize for the delay.

When we initially organized the GB and set the windows for the GB, three things happened. First, I was looking at a 2003 calendar, which really threw me off (dee-ter). Second, I didn’t know that the carbon fiber shop would be closing down for Christmas and New Years. Third, we hadn’t initially planned on GruppeM weave strut bars, so material had to be ordered (the shop had some military grade material that is meant to be painted over, but a test was done and this fabric was found to turn yellow in heat/UV. As a result, new GruppeM weave style fabric “plain weave” had to be ordered that would not turn yellow).

Because of these factors, the Group Buy ship dates have been pushed back a couple (to a few) weeks. I sincerely apologize for this.

Strut bars are currently being made, and will go out in two batches. The first half of paid customers will go out the soonest; which I expect to be two to three weeks. The second batch will go out the following week.

M3 customers; the bases are being re-engineered such that the bar fits in front of the tube in the middle of the engine. Making the bases taller imprinted the sound deadening material underneath the hood, so we are going to re-engineer the bases for perfect fitment. This shouldn’t delay the M3 bars at all, as the design has been more or less agreed upon.

The good news is that this bar will be featured in the April issue of Euro Tuner. The first production runs will have only one type of base, and will be in plain weave (not GruppeM). So not only will you guys have the first and only Carbon Fiber strut bars for the E46, those of you with the GruppeM weave and the dark or nickel plated bases have very individual (custom) strut bars.

My next project for today is to organize that GB email list to update people. I will also be changing the GB deposit to a GB final payment page on our website.

Thank you for being so patient with this GB. It has had a few unexpected bumps in the road, and we are essentially juggling both the manufacturing and sales balls.

If anyone has any questions, comments, or concerns, you can reach me at quatrobar@benferperformance.com

Regards,

Dan
www.benferperformance.com

[quadrophiend]

Thanks for the update, Dan!

I think we are all a pretty understanding crowd in regards to these types of things... just keep us posted, and we'll keep salivating over our new CF Bars that are on the way.... ;)

I look forward to receiving the e-mails with the latest and greatest news for the bars... :thumbup:

-Tre

[quadrophiend]

oops.. sent twice.. see below.. :banghead:

[quadrophiend]

Dear GB participants (and post followers),

Strut bars are currently being made, and will go out in two batches. The first half of paid customers will go out the soonest; which I expect to be two to three weeks. The second batch will go out the following week.

My next project for today is to organize that GB email list to update people. I will also be changing the GB deposit to a GB final payment page on our website.
www.benferperformance.com

:hi: Dan,

I don't know if I'm the only one not receiving e-mails, or if there are no e-mails being sent. :dunno:

I also checked the website, and it doesn't appear to have been updated to accept final payments...

Can you provide us with any additional updates (1 week since last post) in regards to expected shipping dates?

Thanks! And if I'm not on the list, for some reason, my e-mail is quadrophiend@yahoo.com.

Thanks again, Dan... can't wait for the bar so I gotta hassle you.. ;) :P

[BFP, Inc.]

Hi Quadrophiend (and others)

Sorry for no emails. I have been having a hell of a time trying to figure out the email list program on our website's control panel, so I may just send out emails with a huge CC or BCC list manually...

I have added the final payment option on the website. I hadn't put it on there because I wanted to let people pay closer to the actual ship date (which was pushed back), but people can now send in their final payments.

We met last week with the manufacturer, and had an E46 M3 at the shop for a good 3 hours. We have a solution for the M3 mounting, and the bases are being machined now. The rest of the GB is being finished as we speak, and the bases are going to be machined later this week/early next week. The finishing process takes 7-10 days.

Regards,

-Dan

:hi: Dan,

I don't know if I'm the only one not receiving e-mails, or if there are no e-mails being sent. :dunno:

I also checked the website, and it doesn't appear to have been updated to accept final payments...

Can you provide us with any additional updates (1 week since last post) in regards to expected shipping dates?

Thanks! And if I'm not on the list, for some reason, my e-mail is quadrophiend@yahoo.com.

Thanks again, Dan... can't wait for the bar so I gotta hassle you.. ;) :P

[BFP, Inc.]

Hi guys,

Meeting with the manufacturer late today or early tomorrow, and I will update the board with the status of the project.

Regards,

-Dan

[just_me]

Are all of the group buy bars going to be ready at the same time or will it be even longer for like a 2nd group to be shipped out?

[BFP, Inc.]

Are all of the group buy bars going to be ready at the same time or will it be even longer for like a 2nd group to be shipped out?

Because of the delay they will go out in one shot. Again, I really apologize. The delay was unexpected, but I assure you that it will be well worth the wait.

-Dan

[sansan]

Just sent in my full payment! Hope they are ready soon.

[foofoo11]

Any news on the M3 bars??
What's the status and what's the expected date?

Thanks

[BFP, Inc.]

Any news on the M3 bars??
What's the status and what's the expected date?

Thanks

Hi guys, I hope everyone had a great weekend!

I met with the manufacturer Saturday to discuss the strut bars. Here is a summary update:

-Regular (non M3) owners' bars will be done in 2-3 weeks (hopefully 2). The bars themselves will be finished this week, and the week after will be spent assembling them. The bases have been sent out for welding, which is why the "3" in "2-3 weeks" exists. The sooner the welder is done, the sooner the kits will be finished.

-E46 M3 owners (this is from an email I sent today): there are two solutions for E46 M3 owners; one is to modify the base plates from the original E46 design, putting the bar further forward and up a bit from a non M3 setup in order to clear the hump in the middle of the engine. The second option is to redesign the bar and put a curve in the mold so that it looks more like the OEM/Dinan bar (though with the same overall shape as current).

We have a beta setup for both solutions, and the designers are meeting today to determine which method will be best for the E46 M3.

The result is this: If the bases are modified, then the E46 M3 owners' bars will ship at or very close to the same time as the Non E46 M3 bars. ETA on this is posted above. If the solution is that the E46 M3 bar is going to be redesigned and new molds are cut, then the E46 M3 bar would be done late March/early April in time for the Euro Tuner magazine article to come out. If this is the case, E46 M3 group buy participants will be given two options: 1) you can receive a full refund and a profuse apology for the delay since we said the bars would go out with the other E46 bars (though you would have to re-purchase the bar at full $499.95 MSRP when it's available). Or 2) You can keep your deposit as is and receive the re-designed bar at the $100.00 off discount in late March./early April.

-The bars will be shipping in cool packaging :str8pimpi

I will know more later today after the manufacturers meet to discuss which solution would be best for the E46 M3 bars. I will also be crafting an email just to the 7 E46 M3 owners in the GB in case they don't read this.

Regards,

Dan

[bimmerman11]

When are the non-M bars going to be shipped?

Marc

[foofoo11]

You have email at sales@benferperformance.com...

[zmaerd]

Your option 1 seems rather harsh considering two things. 1) It's not our fault the M3 bars were NEVER ready before offering a group buy on them. And 2) Our credit cards were charged the day we submitted the order and NOTHING has shipped yet. So basically, if we were to choose a refund becuase it still isn't ready, then later when it IS ready you want to make us pay the FULL price when you've already held our money this long? That's just not right IMHO! I am however, confused as to why you'd offer a group buy on something that hasn't even been designed and tested yet??? :dunno: Also, I've STILL yet to get any kind of e-mail that you've said you were sending numerous times.

I suppose I'll just hang in there and wait on the bars to be right because I don't want something that's going to be 2nd rate. Since I've already paid for it and waited this long, I sure don't want to pay full price later.

[Durgesh]

I quote....

1/26/2004

"The rest of the GB is being finished as we speak, and the bases are going to be machined later this week/early next week. The finishing process takes 7-10 days. "

1/26/2004 + 10 Days = 2/5/2004 <--- Suppose to be Thursday this week.

Its still going to be other 2-3 Weeks..... :bawling:

I think we all have been quite understanding, but the finish date just seems to be moving further away.......

Regards,

Durgesh

[BFP, Inc.]

Guys, you have been MORE than understanding. This has been difficult for us as well, because we created the approximate dates of shipment and delivery based on information we had at the time. We put our reputation on the line for this GB, and it has been frustrating for ME to hear from the manufacturer that the product will be delayed for xyz reason.

zmaerd, I can honestly tell you that if I knew about this M3 issue at the time we started the GB, you would have known about the delay. This started off as a "no problem" from the designer to us, and evolved into something that we could not have forseen. The options I presented were based on our arrangement with the manufacturer, and I apologize if they seem harsh. The lack of group email is because I can't figure out how to work the "mail list" feature on our website control panel, and I didn't want to make a massive "CC" email.

Durgesh, I have no excuses. I apologize for this unprofessional and unfair delay. You guys trusted us with your deposits and payments, and we haven't shipped product when promised. As the reseller of a product which we don't directly have a hand in making, our word is only as good as that of our supplier/manufacturer. In most cases we inventory a product we hold a GB on... But in this case, it was to "get in at an introductary price" on a product which was still under development with a promised date to us. The GB organization was predicated by this promise date, and I was not expecting these delays whatsoever.

We are almost there guys. Again, I apologize for this delay. If anyone wants to speak directly with me, you can email me for my phone number and we can talk real time. I will speak with the manufacturer daily on this project, visit them several times this and next week, and give the board updates every day or two. In the meantime, I would like to thank everyone who has hung in there on this GB, and I promise that you will not be disappointed with the product you receive.

Regards,

Dan

[just_me]

Projects never finish on time, especially the ones that start out as "no problem".

[BFP, Inc.]

Projects never finish on time, especially the ones that start out as "no problem".

Just spoke with the manufacturer today and went down there... The M3 solution will be a baseplate solution, and they will try and have it done at the same time as the non M3 bars ship. I probably could have saved some drama by waiting to post this today instead of posing the thing about the redesign, but I wanted to keep people up to speed.

-Dan

[russ330]

Any new info, or anything I missed concerning the GruppeM looking weave? Thanks Dan. :)

[BFP, Inc.]

Any new info, or anything I missed concerning the GruppeM looking weave? Thanks Dan. :)

Met with the manufacturer today for a few hours to discuss the strut bars, and they agreed to give me a firm TBD date on Monday for the GB bars. Thanks again for holding in there guys. GruppeM weave and other options still a go (russ).

Regards,

-Dan

[RichP]

Dan,
Sounds good; I dont mind the wait. I paid the deposit using a credit card; do I need to go back to your site to pay the remainder, or will it just automatically bill?

also, is the ETA on the GruppeM bar different than the normal CF ones?

[BFP, Inc.]

Dan,
Sounds good; I dont mind the wait. I paid the deposit using a credit card; do I need to go back to your site to pay the remainder, or will it just automatically bill?

also, is the ETA on the GruppeM bar different than the normal CF ones?

Rich,

I've actually put a "final payment" option on the website for people, but you can pay the rest when we have the firm date for delivery. I don't have the ability to manually charge the remainder.

The GruppeM bars should be available at the same time as the twill bars, but I'll double check when I speak with them on Monday.

Regards,

-Dan

[Yellowmann]

Dan,
Sounds good; I dont mind the wait. I paid the deposit using a credit card; do I need to go back to your site to pay the remainder, or will it just automatically bill?

also, is the ETA on the GruppeM bar different than the normal CF ones?

Rich, good to see that your taking advantage of the good price and even matching your Gruppe M intake :)

Dan, im sure this is worth the wait for everyone, cant wait to see more stuff from BFP :thumbup:

[RichP]

Charlie:
I am looking forward to seeing the bar in person, should be nice addition to the engine bay.

Dan:
I just went to the site and paid my final balance; keep us posted on the Gruppe-Weave

[Durgesh]

Dan,

Any confirmed shipping dates...... ?

Hope its all going well.....

Durgesh

[BFP, Inc.]

Dan,

Any confirmed shipping dates...... ?

Hope its all going well.....

Durgesh

I didn't get a call yesterday about the dates, and I left a VM and sent an email today. I have to run up to LA right now, so hopefully I'll have a response by the time I get back.

Regards,

-Dan

[sansan]

Any updates?

[BFP, Inc.]

Any updates?

I received a date today of 3/5/04 in writing as the delivery date on the GB bars. The 6 M3 owners in the GB may be a bit longer (I know, define "bit"), though if the redesigned bases fit with no problems, the M3 bars may arrive at the same time.

I can be reached at dan@benferperformance.com if anyone has any questions. If you have not sent in your final payment, you must do so by 02/20/04. No changes to options can be made after 02/16/04.

Thanks again for holding in there guys. I wish I could have forseen the delays in this project, but I assure you they were necessary in order to deliver the best possible product.

-Dan

[zmaerd]

The 6 M3 owners in the GB may be a bit longer (I know, define "bit"), though if the redesigned bases fit with no problems, the M3 bars may arrive at the same time.

-Dan


IF??????? If they fit with no problems??? What's with this IF stuff?

[clieberman]

IF??????? If they fit with no problems??? What's with this IF stuff?

What I think he means is: the bars will be test fit by BFP. IF they're happy with the fit, THEN they'll release it. IF they do NOT fit, they'll be all over the manufacturer to FIX them BEFORE they ship. That's what I read into it, anywa and knowing Dan...they don't want any hassles with this...I'm sure they'll test fit before they ship.

IF they do NOT fit, let us all call the manufacturer (not Dan) and tell them to hurry up to make the corrections...hell...show season is coming up!

[Spiral Prophet]

what i think is.. they had to make new bases for the m3 so they fit.. so once they get the new bases they'll have to do a test fit.. to make sure the manufacturing went well..

~T|/\/\

[Gretz99]

I hope everything is up to snuff. I've been emailing Dan trying to get involved on the GB..but he has yet to reply.
I'm not going to give someone $$ with fitment issues & no return contact !!:thumbdwn:

Gretz


what i think is.. they had to make new bases for the m3 so they fit.. so once they get the new bases they'll have to do a test fit.. to make sure the manufacturing went well..

~T|/\/\

[BFP, Inc.]

I hope everything is up to snuff. I've been emailing Dan trying to get involved on the GB..but he has yet to reply.
I'm not going to give someone $$ with fitment issues & no return contact !!:thumbdwn:

Gretz

Hi guys, you are correct that the M3 bars will go out with the others if there are no fittment issues. If there are, it would be about 2 weeks (1 week redesign and CNC maching, 1 week to send out for anodization and finishing).

We're still on for 3/5/04, just to let you guys know. I have been at the Manufacturer's several times in the last few days, and things are on track as posted above.

Regards,

-Dan

[Gretz99]

Well..can I get in on the group buy? Still haven't heard anything from you..Dan!!



Hi guys, you are correct that the M3 bars will go out with the others if there are no fittment issues. If there are, it would be about 2 weeks (1 week redesign and CNC maching, 1 week to send out for anodization and finishing).

We're still on for 3/5/04, just to let you guys know. I have been at the Manufacturer's several times in the last few days, and things are on track as posted above.

Regards,

-Dan

[BFP, Inc.]

Well..can I get in on the group buy? Still haven't heard anything from you..Dan!!

Oh whoops, sorry!

You can still get in on the GB, though the only option at this point is a twill weave with the light base (left most bar in my sig pic). Go ahead to www.benferperformance.com and purchase it through the "full payment" option. It will go out with the rest of the GB.

Regards,

-Dan

[Xbox]

Hmm, since the bar for the M3 comes as an afterthought, was it or will it be checked for strength?

Don't take me wrong, I am very interested and for roughly $150 more than the OEM one, this is a no-brainer. I am just worried that with all the trial-and-error focused simply on the fitment, has anyone paid attention to whether this bar will actually be functional at all?

[sansan]

Update please? Still on for 3/5/04? Give us some info!!

[Gretz99]

Thanx Dan..

That was the bar I wanted anyway!!
I'll join in !!

Gretz(aka..Butch):thumbup:


Oh whoops, sorry!

You can still get in on the GB, though the only option at this point is a twill weave with the light base (left most bar in my sig pic). Go ahead to www.benferperformance.com (http://www.benferperformance.com/) and purchase it through the "full payment" option. It will go out with the rest of the GB.

Regards,

-Dan

[BFP, Inc.]

Update please? Still on for 3/5/04? Give us some info!!

Yep, still on for 3/5/04 delivery from the manufacturer.

XBOX, the reason the M3 bar may be delayed is because it's NOT an afterthought. The M3 setup has had several beta iterations in and out of CAD, and will be fully tested before being released.

Regards,

-Dan

[Spiral Prophet]

Yep, still on for 3/5/04 delivery from the manufacturer.

XBOX, the reason the M3 bar may be delayed is because it's NOT an afterthought. The M3 setup has had several beta iterations in and out of CAD, and will be fully tested before being released.

Regards,

-Dan

will that march 5th date be for the gruppem weave also?

[clieberman]

Dan;
I have a photographer shooting my car for Redline (UK) and some other titles in Europe early next week.

If the bars are delivered on Friday, the 5th, can I pay extra to have one FEDEX'd to me to make the shoot on Tuesday?

I have a Gruppe M weave bar pre-paid.
Please let me know.

[russ330]

Today's the day. What's the deal-e-o Dan? :D Gimmie. :)

Edit: Dan did ya get a chance to read my PM the other day?

[RichP]

give the guy a break!

LOL!

Gimme!

[russ330]

I'm just teasin,' hence the :) at the end.

Now where is it Dan? Time is money. :)

[niL]

Gimmie Gimmie Gimmie! :D

[BFP, Inc.]

Gimmie Gimmie Gimmie! :D

Fer Chreests seek, hold yer horses! I'm going to be going to the manufacturer's today to pick up the bars. We'll be doing the batch of shipping labels over the weekend, and the bars will go out Monday. I'll let you guys know what's up this evening or over the weekend (have an LA photo shoot tomorrow).

BTW, if you haven't sent in your final payment yet - do it now! www.benferperformance.com

M3 guys, word is that the M3 bar bases will be done in a week or two. I'm sorry - I tried pushing them to release them at the same time, but their response was "do you want it done right, or do you want a band-aid?".

If anyone has questions, contact me at dan@benferperformance.com

Those of you who have sent me email, please be patient. I'll get to them today/tonight.

Regards,

-Dan

[russ330]

What took so long? :P J/K. How 'bout some pics of 'em in boxes or something? It'd be kinda cool to see a slew of Quatro bars on their way out. :D :drool:

[Spiral Prophet]

What took so long? :P J/K. How 'bout some pics of 'em in boxes or something? It'd be kinda cool to see a slew of Quatro bars on their way out. :D :drool:

hehe yeah that would be cool.. but just a picture of mine in a box with my mailing label on it.. would be even cooler.. :P

~T|/\/\

[zmaerd]

Someone remind me NEVER to participate in a GB again! Somehow GB sponsors always seem to over promise and under deliver. M3 bars, 2 week delay??? Honestly, this type of stuff should have been worked out PRIOR to offering a GB! Wait and see guys, 2 weeks will turn into another month! It's been long enough already, for no more than they're making, I'm curious what these people have been doing on a daily basis. But then again, we've already paid OUR money, so they are probably out playing 18 in the afternoons...


Edit: It's also worth noting how they want a final payment by said time, yet they can deliver when "they're(Strut Bars) ready". Ppssshhhh!!!! When are people ever going to learn to be accountable for the promises they make, especially when they've ALREADY collected money??? This is ridiculous!

"Say what you mean, and mean what you say" -zmaerd

:argue: :argue: :argue:

[BFP, Inc.]

Zmared,

You are more than welcome to a full refund of your deposit. I apologize for the delay, and I tried to keep the board updated when problems arose. The M3 issue had supposedly had a solution from the beginning. Once the problem was identified, I let people know there would be a delay.

Because of the production delays, final payment dates were pushed back. To be fair, people needed only pay by the date the bars were to ship. If you've got an M3, you don't have to have final payment in until the M3 bars are done. I apologize for any confusion there. Our only goal with this group buy was to allow people to get in on the purchase of this bar for $100.00 less than MSRP, not to lead people along. I'm sorry for the way things dragged out with this buy, but we're at the end of the tunnel.

As for playing 18? I can't even play miniature golf!

[Spiral Prophet]

As for playing 18? I can't even play miniature golf!

you know.. those strut bars might make a great putter with a lil modification.. :P

~T|/\/\

[russ330]

So uh Dan, any updates? :D

[BFP, Inc.]

you know.. those strut bars might make a great putter with a lil modification.. :P

~T|/\/\

Hey guys, sorry for no update this weekend. As of right now, the manufacturer has the actual bars finished (I will post a pic later tonight or tomorrow of all the bars), and the last of the bases are at the anodizer. They were supposed to have the bases anodized Fri. afternoon, which as of today (20 minutes ago) became tomorrow/wed. As soon as the bases are done, the bars ship. I spent all weekend preparing the shipping documentation ready to go, so as soon as they are in our hands, they will be in the mail.

If anyone has any questions, or would like to talk to me directly, you can email or PM me for my number.

[russ330]

Thanks Dan, your efforts are appreciated. :)

[Spiral Prophet]

did ya get the bases yet? huh huh huh.. did ya? inquiring minds want to know..

:)

~T|/\/\

[russ330]

So, are the bases loaded? http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/images/smilies/stickpoke.gif :D

[BFP, Inc.]

So, are the bases loaded? http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/images/smilies/stickpoke.gif :D

Bases are in! Bars are in! Cardboard boxes are in! Word is tomorrow afternoon we will take delivery of "most or all" (their words) of the bars. If in time for shipping cutoffs, they'll go out tomorrow. Otherwise, 1st thing Thursday AM. No digital pictures taken (sorry), but I'll snap some when I take delivery.

Regards,

Dan

[Yellowmann]

Bases are in! Bars are in! Cardboard boxes are in! Word is tomorrow afternoon we will take delivery of "most or all" (their words) of the bars. If in time for shipping cutoffs, they'll go out tomorrow. Otherwise, 1st thing Thursday AM. No digital pictures taken (sorry), but I'll snap some when I take delivery.

Regards,

Dan

That is good news Dan... take a picture of it being loaded for shipping, just like when the GB on the CAI :)

[quadrophiend]

SCHWEET!!! I knew it was coming soon!

[Durgesh]

Thats Great News, Thanks for all the hard work!

I'm sure the wait has been worth it.

Durgesh

[BFP, Inc.]

Thats Great News, Thanks for all the hard work!

I'm sure the wait has been worth it.

Durgesh

I picked up 20 strut bars today, and I will pick up another 10 on Friday to complete the non M3 portion of the order. The 20 I picked up will ship tomorrow. I don't have a picture because I'm actually still at the office working - and the digital camera is at home. I'll snap one later tonight or tomorrow.

:thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

-Dan

[quadrophiend]

:drool:

[BFP, Inc.]

:drool:

Guess who's on his way to FedEx right now? I'll take a pic.

:smokin:

Thanks guys for not :sil: :vinmac: us too much... M3 guys, the baseplate designs are being finalized, and your bars themselves are done.

-Dan

[just_me]

So are ALL the non M bars going out today?

Oh, and I'm sure these are all being sent priority first night 5AM confirmed delivery correct? :thumbup:

[BFP, Inc.]

So are ALL the non M bars going out today?

Oh, and I'm sure these are all being sent priority first night 5AM confirmed delivery correct? :thumbup:


20 of the non M bars went out today, the rest will go out tomorrow. They went out via slow boat to China (no offense to any Chinese boat operators). Actually, they should arrive within 3-4 days to the east coast, and 1-2 days for the west cost.

-Dan

[Yellowmann]

Dan would mine be going to Vietnam and back :)

[Durgesh]

How about the one alone in the UK........???? :dunno:

Tks

Durgesh

[BFP, Inc.]

How about the one alone in the UK........???? :dunno:

Tks

Durgesh

Sent today :thumbup:

[russ330]

Sent today :thumbup:
How 'bout the rest of us? I didn't get any kind of tracking number. :( I'm kinda worried I was forgotten or something. :cry:

[niL]

How 'bout the rest of us? I didn't get any kind of tracking number. :( I'm kinda worried I was forgotten or something. :cry:

:werd:

Did us gruppe m weave people get left behind a couple days or something? :(

[BFP, Inc.]

:werd:

Did us gruppe m weave people get left behind a couple days or something? :(

Hi guys,

Most of the GruppeM bars shipped yesterday. I didn't email anyone a tracking number, so I'll go onto FedEx tonight and try to make a .jpg out of the tracking numbers that I can post by last name (since only the buyers know their last name). I still have a pic in my digital cam I'll post too of the shipping.

-Dan

[Spiral Prophet]

Hi guys,

Most of the GruppeM bars shipped yesterday. I didn't email anyone a tracking number, so I'll go onto FedEx tonight and try to make a .jpg out of the tracking numbers that I can post by last name (since only the buyers know their last name). I still have a pic in my digital cam I'll post too of the shipping.

-Dan

Mmmm I can smell the epoxy resin already...

~T|/\/\

[BFP, Inc.]

Mmmm I can smell the epoxy resin already...

~T|/\/\

lol, yours is on it's way SP...

Here's a picture of the shipment...

[BFP, Inc.]

lol, yours is on it's way SP...

Here's a picture of the shipment...

Here is the list if 1st batch shipments. If you name isn't on this list, your bar shipped via USPS b/c you were international, PO box, or military address.

-Dan

[niL]

Here is the list if 1st batch shipments. If you name isn't on this list, your bar shipped via USPS b/c you were international, PO box, or military address.

-Dan


Thanks Dan :thumbup: :thumbup:

[russ330]

I'm number one.:nyah: Thanks for the update Dan. :thumbup:

[BMWe46323!]

Here is the list if 1st batch shipments. If you name isn't on this list, your bar shipped via USPS b/c you were international, PO box, or military address.

-Dan


Hey did I get left out??? I ordered a GruppeM Weave sent to upstate NY and my name isn't on the list... :cry: Hopefully mine is on the way I can't wait!!!

Sean

[BFP, Inc.]

Hey did I get left out??? I ordered a GruppeM Weave sent to upstate NY and my name isn't on the list... :cry: Hopefully mine is on the way I can't wait!!!

Sean

Sorry, it was late when I posted that list. If your name isn't on the list, it could also mean that you were one of the later payments in the GB. The bars that went out consisted of what they delivered to us, and the next batch will consist of those with nickel plated bases and later payments in the group. That batch will go out on Monday or Tuesday depending on whether or not we go to the track on Monday.

Regards,

-Dan

[just_me]

Yeah baby, mine got delivered yesterday morning but I'm just now getting back home and it was waiting for me!!

This thing is :drool: :drool:

[BFP, Inc.]

Yeah baby, mine got delivered yesterday morning but I'm just now getting back home and it was waiting for me!!

This thing is :drool: :drool:

Did you put it on yet? Pics? If so, post 'em up!

[just_me]

It's too hard to put on myself since I have no tools and living out of a hotel. Hopefully good ol Sam at Rennsport can hook me up tomorrow.

[russ330]

^^ Speaking of tools, what kinda tools will we need to install these? Just a socket set? Which size? I bet it's metric isn't it? I've only got standard sized sockets, will one of those fit? Thanks.

[just_me]

I'm sure there's a logical explanation as to why this doesn't fit right? :idea:

[BFP, Inc.]

I'm sure there's a logical explanation as to why this doesn't fit right? :idea:

Yes, you've got to lift up the trim that goes over the batt box, then pull up on the hood alarm assembly, lift the batt. box up, fit the base plate down, then reinstall the batt box. It's a tight fit. Basically the alarm switch assembly and the batt box work together to sandwich that little pin. So you lift up on the alarm switch while holding the batt box. It should slide up, then you slide the pin out and the batt box will pull up.

Regards,

-Dan

[BFP, Inc.]

^^ Speaking of tools, what kinda tools will we need to install these? Just a socket set? Which size? I bet it's metric isn't it? I've only got standard sized sockets, will one of those fit? Thanks.

13mm socket (I think that's the size). You'll want to go out to home depot or sears and get a socket set.

For full instructions, pick up an April issue of EuroTuner and look in the "Quick Tech" section.

-Dan

[BFP, Inc.]

13mm socket (I think that's the size). You'll want to go out to home depot or sears and get a socket set.

For full instructions, pick up an April issue of EuroTuner and look in the "Quick Tech" section.

-Dan

Does anyone in this GB have a SULEV (low emmissions) 325i? If so, we may have a problem houston... I will be playing around with one on Wednesday, so I'll know for sure, but I think the SULEV 325i's may have fittment issues with this bar. All other 325i's and other cars shouldn't have a problem...

Please email me if you've got a SULEV 325i and you participated in the GB.

-Dan

[Spiral Prophet]

i got all my tools ready.. now i just gotta wait for fedex to get their slow butts to my door.. :-)

just out of curiosity.. do you have a picture of the gruppem weave bars?

~T|/\/\

[BFP, Inc.]

i got all my tools ready.. now i just gotta wait for fedex to get their slow butts to my door.. :-)

just out of curiosity.. do you have a picture of the gruppem weave bars?

~T|/\/\

Nope, no pic of the GruppeM weave bars - but they look amazing! When you get yours, would you pls. take some pix and post?

-Dan

[Spiral Prophet]

Nope, no pic of the GruppeM weave bars - but they look amazing! When you get yours, would you pls. take some pix and post?

-Dan

You got it!! :thumbup:

~T|/\/\

[RichP]

WOnder when my gruppeM weave will show its face? Have to keep an eye out for fedex with camera in hand!

[russ330]

Anyone else get their's today? I'm trying to install it right now, and it looks like the holes for the brakets don't seem to line up. :dunno: I can take some pictures in a bit, I was just wondering if there's something I'm missing. :blink:

It looks freakin' sweet though. :drool:

[BFP, Inc.]

Anyone else get their's today? I'm trying to install it right now, and it looks like the holes for the brakets don't seem to line up. :dunno: I can take some pictures in a bit, I was just wondering if there's something I'm missing. :blink:

It looks freakin' sweet though. :drool:

Russ, can you take a few pics of what you're talking about? Also, PM me your # and I'll give you a ring if you like.

Just to note, the driver's side base is a bit of a squeeze to get on. The pass. side base fits after removing the battery box.

-Dan

[russ330]

Dan, gimmie about ten min. to finish dinner and I'll get those pics.

[russ330]

here's some pics

[russ330]

more

[russ330]

last ones

[BFP, Inc.]

Is it just one, or both that aren't fitting? Have you tried swapping them to see if they fit in either position? They should have a little indent for that metal peg that pokes up on the strut.

-Dan


last ones

[russ330]

Yup, I've tried both brackets on both sides. :dunno: Lemme go snap somemore pics of my latest attemp.

[BFP, Inc.]

Yup, I've tried both brackets on both sides. :dunno: Lemme go snap somemore pics of my latest attemp.


Check to see that the dot (the little metal dot with the green paint on it) is going into, or at least lining up with, an indent on the strut tower base. Wherever that indent is, the base is supposed to sit. It's possible the welder put the uprights on wrong, so check all directions. Hmmmm... I checked a bar when we took delivery on a 328i and it fit.

-Dan

[russ330]

Latest work

Edit: After reading what you wrote, I double checked things to make sure that the notch in the bottom of the braket was lining up with the nut/post type thing and they do. I also noted that there's some kinda bonus hole or something on my passager side bracket. The bonus hole doesn't seem to line up with anything? :dunno:

[BFP, Inc.]

Latest work


Russ, try lowering it on all at the same time. Don't get one corner hooked and then the other two. Also, try some light force. I am wondering if it's possible that the studs have come slightly out of alignment since the car is a few years old...

edit: haha "bonus hole" is for the overseas market. They have a "thingy" there

-Dan

[BFP, Inc.]

Russ, going out for a few minutes... be back in 20. You can call me (check your PM) if you want...

-Dan

[russ330]

Russ, try lowering it on all at the same time. Don't get one corner hooked and then the other two. Also, try some light force. I am wondering if it's possible that the studs have come slightly out of alignment since the car is a few years old...

edit: haha "bonus hole" is for the overseas market. They have a "thingy" there

-Dan
Okay Dan, apperently you're a lot stronger than I am because it took a 'lil more than light force to get 'em on, but they're on. :) Thanks.

[BFP, Inc.]

Okay Dan, apperently you're a lot stronger than I am because it took a 'lil more than light force to get 'em on, but they're on. :) Thanks.


Very interesting Russ. Glad you got the bases on. All of the bases were cut from the same exact CAD program on a haas 9000 (I think it is) machine, so the ones we used for the beta bars, photo shoot, and group buy should be the same. I'm wondering if either a) the studs on your particular car moved over time, or b) the holes weren't drilled large enough.

Either way, glad you got the bar on.

Regards,

-Dan

[niL]

Okay Dan, apperently you're a lot stronger than I am because it took a 'lil more than light force to get 'em on, but they're on. :) Thanks.

thank you for not spoiling the gruppe m weave :P i'm dieing to see it. cant wait till thursday when mine comes :craig:

[quadrophiend]

Glad you got the <b>bases</b> on. All of the <b>bases</b> were cut from the same exact CAD program.

-Dan


Dan,

All your base are belong to us?


... or rather.. all your base are fit on my bimmer?

heh... sorry.. I couldn't help it.


Man.. I'm so jealous of you bastards getting your bars already!

I shoulda had mine shipped to Atl, but I didn't think I was going to be here this week... and my poor bar is going to be waiting for me in Annapolis until Monday morning... all alone!

I won't even get to attach it for at least 2 weeks because I'm getting eye surgery (PRK) on the 25th and therefore won't be able to see anything over the weekend (when I get to drive)... and then the following weekend i'm going to Quantico, VA for a field exercise at the Marine Base... then the the next weekend.. it's Strut Bar time.. lol

Dan.. would you think it's weird if I had the CF Strut Bar in my rack with me when I couldn't see cause of the surgery? It would keep me company..:eeps:

I could even use it for a blind man's walking cane.. :lmao:

...

...sigh...

[BFP, Inc.]

You could always use it for a reaching stick (a-la homer simpson) while you're recovering. Good luck on your eye surgery!

-Dan

Dan,

All your base are belong to us?


... or rather.. all your base are fit on my bimmer?

heh... sorry.. I couldn't help it.


Man.. I'm so jealous of you bastards getting your bars already!

I shoulda had mine shipped to Atl, but I didn't think I was going to be here this week... and my poor bar is going to be waiting for me in Annapolis until Monday morning... all alone!

I won't even get to attach it for at least 2 weeks because I'm getting eye surgery (PRK) on the 25th and therefore won't be able to see anything over the weekend (when I get to drive)... and then the following weekend i'm going to Quantico, VA for a field exercise at the Marine Base... then the the next weekend.. it's Strut Bar time.. lol

Dan.. would you think it's weird if I had the CF Strut Bar in my rack with me when I couldn't see cause of the surgery? It would keep me company..:eeps:

I could even use it for a blind man's walking cane.. :lmao:

...

...sigh...

[zmaerd]

You could always use it for a reaching stick (a-la homer simpson) while you're recovering. Good luck on your eye surgery!

-Dan

Glad to hear everyone is receiving theirs. What about the M bars? When are they due for shipping?

[BimmerBoy69]

Here is the list if 1st batch shipments. If you name isn't on this list, your bar shipped via USPS b/c you were international, PO box, or military address.

-Dan

:hi: Dan,

I don't see my name on the list. Wuz up whit that?

[BFP, Inc.]

:hi: Dan,

I don't see my name on the list. Wuz up whit that?

Yours went out today BimmerBoy69, your tracking # is 358642210000315

Sorry it took so long between the 1st and 2nd batches...

Zmared, M3 bases are scheduled to be available by the end of the month. They missed the march 5th delivery by only 1 business day, so let's see if they can stick to the end of the month (I think they can). The M3 bars themselves are done, it's just the re-engineered bases which are in the process of being machined and test fitted.

Regards,

-Dan

[BimmerBoy69]

Yours went out today BimmerBoy69, your tracking # is 358642210000315

Sorry it took so long between the 1st and 2nd batches...

Zmared, M3 bases are scheduled to be available by the end of the month. They missed the march 5th delivery by only 1 business day, so let's see if they can stick to the end of the month (I think they can). The M3 bars themselves are done, it's just the re-engineered bases which are in the process of being machined and test fitted.

Regards,

-Dan


Thanks for the update Dan. Keep up the good work. Can't wait to get it :)

[zmaerd]

Yours went out today BimmerBoy69, your tracking # is 358642210000315

Sorry it took so long between the 1st and 2nd batches...

Zmared, M3 bases are scheduled to be available by the end of the month. They missed the march 5th delivery by only 1 business day, so let's see if they can stick to the end of the month (I think they can). The M3 bars themselves are done, it's just the re-engineered bases which are in the process of being machined and test fitted.

Regards,

-Dan

Ok, thanks for the update Dan. :thumbup:

[FazTaz]

Just got mine and installed it. Got the gunmetal finish. It looks good and fits well. No problems with fitament issues. Curious as to where the washers go (I put them on the bolt, not at the nut end). Also how much play should there be in the bar from side to side and front to back (in respect to the chassis of the car). I managed to pull the ends of the bar out far enough so there is no apparent side to side play, I then torqued the bolts that secure these ends down to the caps on the bar. I did not fully tighten bolts that run through the strut tower brackets so there is some play from front to back (I need to get a large enough hex key).

[bimmerman11]

What tools are needed to install the bar? I'm about to leave for Home Depot and I'm not sure what I need to buy.

TIA.

Marc

[BFP, Inc.]

What tools are needed to install the bar? I'm about to leave for Home Depot and I'm not sure what I need to buy.

TIA.

Marc


Need 12 or 14mm (I forget) ratchet bits, and you might just want to take the hex allen bolt with you to fit check.

-Dan

[bimmerman11]

How do you lift up on the battery box? Its not moving and I don't want to tug at it too hard. Am I supposed to lift it just enough to squeeze in the end piece or does it come off completely?

Thanks.

Marc

[BFP, Inc.]

How do you lift up on the battery box? Its not moving and I don't want to tug at it too hard. Am I supposed to lift it just enough to squeeze in the end piece or does it come off completely?

Thanks.

Marc

Ok, here's the way I do it...

1) carefully peel up the weatherstripping, exposing the battery box/hood switch

2) With your right hand, grab hold of the battery box

3) With your left hand, grab hold of the hood switch assembly

4) Pivot the hood switch assembly with your left hand such that the pivot point is the part furthest away from you, and the part pivoting up (clockwise) is the end with the plug. The hood switch assembly should now be released from the pin.

5) Now that the hood switch assembly is pivoted up, slide the black plastic pin out. The direction is towards the headlight.

6) With the pin out, grab the battery box again and pull up. The whole thing should lift straight up.

You're done! To reassemble, do the above in reverse.

-Dan

[bimmerman11]

Dan... I can't get the pin out. Any tips to remove it?

Thanks.

Marc

[russ330]

^^ Grab and pull, once you get that button/switch thing outta the way, it's not too hard.

[bimmerman11]

Russ... what did you use to grab and pull the tab? This is the black tab on the left that is holding the battery piece together, right?

Marc

[russ330]

Here ya go bud, hopefully this will help.

First pull up the trim
second get the plug outta the way
thrid pull on that pin
-the pin does not need to come all the way out (I don't think it can anyway)
fourth pic shows the gap that you get after pulling on the pin. once the pin is out, you can pull up on the assembly. Good luck, if you need more help, lemme know, and I'll go take my car apart again. :)

[Spiral Prophet]

Here ya go bud, hopefully this will help.

First pull up the trim
second get the plug outta the way
thrid pull on that pin
-the pin does not need to come all the way out (I don't think it can anyway))

I broke that pin accidently.. anyone have a part # for it.. so i can replace it?... other than that.. the install went extreemly easily..

pictures comming soon..

~T|/\/\

[FazTaz]

Hey guys where does the washer go? On the bolt side, nut side, on the inside or outside?

[niL]

I broke that pin accidently.. anyone have a part # for it.. so i can replace it?... other than that.. the install went extreemly easily..

pictures comming soon..

~T|/\/\


Russ is right that pin doesnt come all the way out, the part # for that bolt is

61 13 8 377 630 :thumbup:

[bimmerman11]

I just dremeled the pin out= the battery box is lifted up.

Now I'm having trouble fitting the endplates on. One of the 3 holes doesn't go all the way down. How did you guys do it? Did you line up all three holes first and then press down? Or did you do it one hole at a time?

Thanks.

Marc

[russ330]

^^ I ended up lining them all up at the same time. I had to push like a mofo to get them things on, but they're on. They definitely did not slide right on, I had to use a good amount of elbow grease.

[bimmerman11]

Hopefully that'll do the trick. Thanks for the help Russ.

Marc

[BFP, Inc.]

Hopefully that'll do the trick. Thanks for the help Russ.

Marc

Hey guys, I dunno why 2 ppl have had difficulty with the bases. On our test vehices they slid right on. Maybe we need to drill the holes slightly bigger? :dunno: In any event, please let us know if you're experiencing difficulty installing.

Regards,

-Dan

[russ330]

^^ I think doing that would help a lot. If the holes were only a touch bigger, it would have made life a lot easier, on the flip side, I do like the fact that the bases make a really tight fit once they're in.

[BFP, Inc.]

So for the people who have installed their bars, WHERE ARE THE PICS!?!? :dunno: (Ok, RichP came through)

I'd like to see some because

:pics:

[russ330]

^^ Got some pics for ya over here Dan. http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?p=1436437#post1436437