Re: HELP - '82 320i (Sat in the open for 18 years) (archive)

Hey guys. My friends' parents had an '82 320i which sat out in the open for about 18 years. Got in an accident and was never driven. They recently gave it to me because they want to see what it looks like after I fix it up. Anyway, I obviously need to change the oil/transmission fluid/and more than likely change the radiator and a bunch of other stuff. I've found the filters for the car, but the manual makes no reference (nor does the engine or engine chassis) of which oil to use for anything. I'm assuming the engine would use 20W-50 or something like that, but I'm not sure. Also, is it a good idea to use Synthetic oil with these cars? I want to make sure since there's no going back. Which brake/radiator/steering/engine oil (And anything else you can think of) should be used? I want to completely redo the brakes, what are your high performance brake suggestions? Also, does anybody have some links or references to ground effects for the E21 chassis? Windshield installation would be helpful, as would any idea of where I could get a new top for the car (the top part has almost caved in due to snow). Any help would be greatly appreciated.. Thanks alot.

Hi
My 1980 320i which only has 54k on it sat in a garage since 1988 without running. It sat in a heated garage at that. I was fortunate that I did not have to replace any hydraulic cylinders but I had to replace every component in the F.I. system. Everything. Gas went bad and plugged everything solid. Condesation in the heated garage turned the inside of the fuel tank to rust. Brakes were seized. A lot of work. The only thing that made it worth it is that The rest of the car was like new and the car only cost me $200. It will be a project.
Tony A

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