Modifications/Observations to my 2000 M... (archive)

Easy installation, no clearance issues with the hood. The black plastic strut tower dust caps are a real pain to install and actually rub ever so slightly against a strengthening rib in the underside of the hood, a BMW part with apparently inadequate clearance. They look good however, sort of clean up the overall appearance, and don't cause any "damage" or problems with the hood. I got the plain black powder coat tower rings and bar version of the Strong Strut but decided to dress up the bar with an ///M logo sticker I had. Along with the stainless hardware it looks good.

The effect of the strut's presence is noticeable. As others have said there is reduced cowl shake and everything just seems to be held together better when going over bumps and undulations in the road surface. While this would also appear to imply better steering and handling I can't yet confirm that. The improvement isn't so subtle but it remains qualitative, not quatitative.

Nonetheless I recommend a strut tower brace and have no hesitation recommending the Strong Strut in particular given the instructions, completeness, ease of installation, and customer service.

(2) Jim C. Shark Injector (from TMS)

Another snap to install and again noticeable results. Besides the increased redline there is an obvious improvement in mid-range torque (3,000 on up) and to some extent throttle response. Definitely not a placebo effect here either. It seems that even 6,000 and above is better, the extra RPMs are worthwhile. Seat of the pants tells me that acceleration times might be very marginally better. By the way I haven't installed the Jim C. Cold Air Induction kit yet, I'm looking forward to adding that to the mix too.

I also recommend software modification and the Injector in particular based on my experience and satisfaction.

(3) Ron Stygar Desigh Clutch Pedal Stop (from TMS)

Once again a snap to install. I had to install it at its absolute minimum height off the floor. I like the feel of it very much and like that much of the useless travek is gone. There is probably 1/2" of travel, maybe a tad less. My starter clutch interlock still functions but it did seem as the clutch got warmed up that it got harder to shift gears. What I mean is that at a stop and just shifting through all the gears the resistance seemed greater. When I re-installed the stock clutch stop all was back to normal.

Any thoughts? I do like the new stop.

Follow Ups:

Oops, Ron's clutch stop was from BTG, sorry. (nt) Stephen 22:53 6/10/2001 (0)

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