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The Patton Build Thread, Now With Re-Sized Pictures!

33K views 181 replies 46 participants last post by  Jason325xi 
#1 · (Edited)
The time has come. (Now with re-sized pictures!)

<a target='_blank' title='ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting' href='http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/24/3rmm.jpg/'><img src='http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/1113/3rmm.jpg' border='0'/></a>

Since the day I bought my car, It was perfect. I had always wanted an E46, since I was little. But there was something else. I always wanted more out of it. I knew it would always be better. I knew I could make it better... The way I wanted it.

The mods started slowly. Clear corners here, an intake system there. But it was never enough. Then, before I spent to much money, I decided to go with an M3. So, will all boldness, I purchased a 2002 M3. I was In love. The power was intoxicating. It was comfortable and beautiful.
<a target='_blank' title='ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting' href='http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/716/1f19e35f0596490592c9c4f.jpg/'><img src='http://imageshack.us/a/img716/4/1f19e35f0596490592c9c4f.jpg' border='0'/></a>

But the Gods seemed to think otherwise. I had, at the time, sold my 323 to my father. He drove it for a bit, but nothing to big. Then 3 months of ownership into my M3, I was rear ended and it was totaled. It was a sad day.
<a target='_blank' title='ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting' href='http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/811/dscn0526e.jpg/'><img src='http://imageshack.us/a/img811/6862/dscn0526e.jpg' border='0'/></a>

After my car crash, my father agreed to sell my 323 back to me. I was happy to be with my old friend, but I was left craving the power. I became convinced, in a weird way, that I was meant to be with this silver sedan. Its just as well. I love my car. Every time I look at it, she gives me a smile. The amount of time and money I have invested in my car, is far more than I would ever dream to get back.

So ever since the M3, I have been going back and forth as to how I wanted to get more power. I debated doing and S54 swap, and going with FI. I also have a thread on that as well. I have changed my mind on the subject more than some politicians change opinions. But now...

I have finally decided.
<a target='_blank' title='ImageShack - Image And Video Hosting' href='http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/835/sgk7.jpg/'><img src='http://img835.imageshack.us/img835/1560/sgk7.jpg' border='0'/></a>

I have ordered a supercharger. Its an ESS TS2 twin screw. Upon debating the brands and many types, I had decided that the TS2 will give me the best blend of power and reliability. The power curves on the twin screw configuration are far more consistent than any other setup on the market. I wanted daily driver smoothness with M3ish power. I realize that there are more powerful vehicles around. But I have come to terms that it will be enough for me. I am going to use this thread to document the install process, and final results, as well as long term usage of the product. I know some people are going to say I'm stupid, and that its a waste of money. But its my damn money.

For now, I will wait. The kit is being assembled. Hopefully in the next week it will ship out. I will be like a kid staring at the Christmas tree, anxiously waiting to open the box! I will update accordingly!

Peace, to all my fellow fanatics! :thumbup:​
 
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#91 · (Edited)
I did the foam injection well before installing the supercharger. I still need to install the TMS plates, but that is a big job. As far as the engine goes, I am more than happy with the power. And the engine runs like a champ all the time. I'm honestly not to worried about any major engine failure. I keep up with regular maintenance. I do agree that starting with a 330 would have probably been the better starting point. But the 323 is what I had. I didn't see that much of a need to change it up. And on the ASC note. Maybe my system is updated or something, but I get full stability management. All the wheels can brake individually when needed. I have first hand experience with it.

What my car came with

<a target="_blank" href="https://imageshack.com/i/n7p571p"><img src="http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/835/p571.png" border="0"></a>
 
#94 ·
Just an update.

My throttle body crapped out on me finally. The damn thing started throwing codes for it just after I installed the supercharger. Apparently the throttle body's on the 323/328 are prone to failure because of all the electronics that are in it. (pedal position sensor, TPS, and cruse control). It was throwing codes: P1580 Throttle Valve Mechanically Stuck, P1623 Pedal Position Sensor Potentiometer Supply, P0601- Throttle position check sum error. I also now consistently get the EML light and the traction control light, so I cant drive my car until I get a new one. Lucky me, AutoHausAZ.com has the OEM Hella TB for $485 shipped.

I read this link:

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=593866

And as I had figured, it was on its way out, and is now dead.

In other news, My radium engineering oil catch can showed up and I love it! Awesome build quality and it really made the car feel smother while driving (while I could still drive it)

And then I did this as well... don't mind the wife.... Also got rid of those stupid smoked tail lights... Never liked those. Depo RCR FTW!

<a href="http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/Ross_Patton/media/Carbonroof2_zpse677c948.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p557/Ross_Patton/Carbonroof2_zpse677c948.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Carbonroof2_zpse677c948.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/Ross_Patton/media/Carbonroof_zps9f657fc7.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p557/Ross_Patton/Carbonroof_zps9f657fc7.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Carbonroof_zps9f657fc7.jpg"/></a>
 
#101 ·
Any new updates on this? Never knew you decided to go FI, very cool!

And regarding the OE RCRs, Mango is right, the fit and finish of the DEPOs that I had was never quite right (gaps and whatnot) but the clear plastic itself never faded. My genuine BMW clear side indicators started yellowing after only a few months though.
 
#102 · (Edited)
My next big undertaking will to be replacing all of the suspension bushings and installing the subframe reinforcing plates. I'm planning to use powerflex urethane bushings for the FCAB and most of the rear subframe bushings. More power requires less flex. I need adjustable swaybar endlinks front and rear. Meyle HD control arms as well as RTAB. Got to get the girl driving well. Past that.. Going to get the M54B30 and everything involved with that, and rebuild it with forged everything so its bullet proof. And then get the 15 PSI pulley for the SC and have more fun! predicted power should go to about 450ish.

In other news, I have the car on the dyno about a month ago. Pushing 256 Wheel HP and 246 LBFT torque at the wheels. It was 95 damn degrees down at the dyno in Florida. Pulls done on a dynojet.
 
#105 ·
Update: Ordered every part needed to rebuild the entire front suspension, down to the rubber pads for the suspension. Should be here next week. I'm also looking into getting a ZHP rack from Rack doctor. Going to call about that tomorrow.

<a href="http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/Ross_Patton/media/order1_zps8223a004.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p557/Ross_Patton/order1_zps8223a004.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo order1_zps8223a004.jpg"/></a>

<a href="http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/Ross_Patton/media/order2_zpsd57553c3.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p557/Ross_Patton/order2_zpsd57553c3.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo order2_zpsd57553c3.jpg"/></a>

Here's from my last race.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgF-z4PmJAQ
 
#109 · (Edited)
Hey dude -

First, awesome looking build. Seriously you made an otherwise "meh" car and turned it into artwork that is fun. Congrats.

I am a bit confused though. You have spent north of $7k on this setup and all the stuff that goes with this at this point. Do you ever wish you had gotten yourself a wrecked M3, parted out what could be salvaged -- and swapped the motor over? It would have likely cost less (after partout) and you'd have another 80 bwhp. Do you regret your decision, or are you happy with the results given the cash outlay?
 
#110 ·
I went back and forth with what I wanted to do. But I decided I liked the idea of a supercharger. I rode in a friends 330 with the TS2+ in it and it hauled ass! Plus the sound of a twin screw whining is awesome. So I don't regret my decision. But I am fully aware that an S54 swap may have been the less expensive option. But really, either way is going to be too expensive for most people. I just wanted something that I can say I built and have a lot of pride in. I love my car, and I cant ever imagine selling it.
 
#113 ·
Really impressed. I've long considered going FI on my daily driver just because despite the complete lack of power, it is a really enjoyable DD. I don't blame you for keeping a clean 323i that you know the history on rather than swapping to another car. If you pop your current motor, you can always go bigger.
 
#115 · (Edited)
I got these high performance ignition coils at BimmerFest East. Ignition Projects, they made a hell of a difference, and they look awesome!

<a href="http://imgur.com/XTsZqDi"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/XTsZqDi.jpg" title="Hosted by imgur.com" /></a>

<a href="http://imgur.com/0lSxSNa"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/0lSxSNa.jpg" title="Hosted by imgur.com"/></a>
 
#136 ·
This is incredible. Badge no badge whatever the fvck you want to call it, this is a badass build. I'm very jealous. Keep up the great work! Looks like it pulls like a motherfockkerrr
 
#121 ·
Much cooler than putting an M badge on a non M. Sorry Patton, I love the build man, you are obviously talented and have a passion for your car and wrenching in general. However the M badge is tacky and if it has sentimental value to you then frame it and hang it in the garage where you work on your car. It just ruins the whole thing for me. Not that you or anyone else gives a sh!t what I think, but I'm the kind of guy that buys a turbo porsche and pulls the badges off so people leave me alone. Understated is very cool, while the guy flashing his stuff around just looks like a fool.


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#125 ·
Nothing wrong with an M badge on a non M. Personally I wouldn't, but only for the fact that I don't think there's anything special about M cars.


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You clearly aren't familiar with BMW and their "motorsport" division if you don't think there is anything special with an M. That's like someone putting a Turbo badge on the back of a base Porsche C2 911. They are just two very different cars.


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#127 · (Edited)
The Patton Build Thread!

You clearly aren't familiar with BMW and their "motorsport" division if you don't think there is anything special with an M. That's like someone putting a Turbo badge on the back of a base Porsche C2 911. They are just two very different cars.


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They're cars, nothing more. I've been in plenty of m cars, This 323 would most likely handle and drive better than a stock e46 m3.


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#133 · (Edited)
MJ, he lives in Australia, where cars are cars, kangaroos are kangaroos, and men are not always what they seem. You should read his build thread in the Australia section. It's very enlightening.

Here's a link:http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=1000773

Edit#2: Removed ill-advised comment and offer apology to selien.


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#134 ·
MJ, he lives in Australia, where cars are cars, kangaroos are kangaroos, and men are not always what they seem. You should read his build thread in the Australia section. It's very enlightening.

Edit: They have a person named "Iggy", who seems to be of dubious nature - haven't figured him/her out yet. Here's a link:http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=1000773


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LOL THAT FIRST COMMENT. OH MY GOD :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
 
#142 ·
Going to rebuild the engine with forged internals and make it a 3.0 ( its a 2.5 right now). Going to install a Quaife helical LSD in the rear. Either brakes from the M3 or a wilwood BBK. Reinforce the crap out of the chassis and push up to the TS3 kit with the 15lb supercharger pulley. Kind of everything really. I would like to make 400HP at the wheels which I feel is more than achievable. But this all takes time and money. I plan to own this car for life.
 
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