Misc. Observations: Tires, Battery, Inst. Cluster (archive)

Replaced Michelin XGT V4s (62K)with Dunlop SP Sport 5000s from Tire Rack. As others have noted, they are smoother and quieter than the Michelins and for the $200 savings compared to the Michelins I'll live with the reduction in handling (if perceivable).
My 8.5 year old BMW battery finally began cranking slowly, so I replaced it with a Diehard International 31249 (group 49) from NTB for $100.00. I had to replace the vent tube with a longer one from some misc. tubing I had lying around and I had to enlarge the hole in the hold-down clamp to accomodate the fractionally deeper battery.

I finally replaced the fuel guage light bulb by trying to remove the cluster WITHOUT removing the wheel. Even after dropping the column by lossening the two 13mm bolts, it was Very tight and I feared scratching the plastic and breaking the knobs. In frustration I removed the airbag and wheel (about 10 extra minutes) and the cluster just fell out:)
My fear of the airbag and wheel removal were unfounded.

I've accessed the imfamous 'sword', but have yet to replace it as I consider my options.

Final comment. I've been working on this bimmer for 8.5 years without a manual. BENTLEY'S MADE THINGS EASY - IT TRULY IS A MUST.

sorry for the length

Kurt
89 535i

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