David
1988 535iS
105k

I checked Bentley and Probst's Bosch book, I think I was correct, the only E28 that appears to have any adaptive capability was the late model 528e. The ECU for the 533 and 535 does not appear to be constantly powered, the late 528e is the only ECU that has a source of constant power. Therefore, the 533/535 ECU does not know the difference between you simply shutting the car off, or disconnecting the battery.

The 533i and early 528e had the non-adaptive Motronic 1.0, but the 535i had a variation that had some minor adapting capability. The 535i Motronic does have constant power supplied to it (necessary to retain information), whereas that in the 533i does not. I refer you to the included URL (from Bonneville Motor Werks' website).

BTW, the computer can't "re-learn" anything on these cars, they are not adaptive in any way. Not on the 533/535, at least.
So, its not your computer.

I just got a chance to drive it around the block, but it did feel a little smoother and stranger. This could very well be psycho-sematic, but I feel it all as well. I did notice something, and maybe Pat can answer this: This idle is now up around 950 - 1000. I disconnected the neg terminal all during the install, so I'm attributing this to the computer re-learning what the hell is going on, but maybe someone here can shed some light on this. I also replaced some vacuum hoses and cleaned the infamous grounding strap on the back of the engine. I'll post more when I feel more. Thanks,

Chris
'85 535i 168K and just gettin' warmed up!!!