Winter 2008 Waiting for spring, page 5

Winter 2008
Waiting for spring, page 5
2 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
Vol 51
Winter 2008
No 1
CONTENTS
Columns & Special Features
President’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Tales from the Creeper. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
The Next Apex. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
A Look Back at the 2007 Season . . . 26
2007 Autocross Year End Results . . . . . . . 27
Behind the Wheels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Holiday Party. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
2007 Fourth Quarter General Meeting. . . . 31
Upcoming Events
M- Brand Featured at
First Quarter meeting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Tech Session at Schneller Performance
BMW Shop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Performance Driving “Ground School. . . . . 15
BMW CCA Foundation Print Sale. . . . . . . . 15
Tentative Driving School Schedule page . . 24
Standing Features
New Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Officers and Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Ultimate Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
On the Cover
Many towns in
New England
have not seen
bare ground
since late
November of
2007, which leaves many
fully prepped BMW track cars
anxious for an early spring
thaw. “What happened to
Global Warming?” this owner
asked.
Photo by Rachel Oglesby
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 3
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4 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
M-Brand Featured at
First Quarter Meeting
Foreign Motors West/ Herb Chambers
Wednesday, April 16th 7-9 p.m.
The First Quarter General Meeting for the Boston Chapter will be held
Wednesday, April 16 from 7:00 – 9:00 pm at Foreign Motors West/Herb
Chambers BMW in Natick MA. The evening’s program will feature the
North American M-Brand Manager Larry Koch, who will inform us about
the latest and greatest from BMW AG in the Motorsports World, focusing
on the all new M3. Larry is trying to bring up a NEW M3 Convertible for
us to look at. Marc Huaman BMW Sales Manager at FMW/Herb Chambers
has promised to have a 128 coupe and a 135 coupe on hand as well.
There will be food and beverages available courtesy of Foreign Motors
West/Herb Chambers BMW, and their BMW Parts Department will also
be open that evening. Their standard BMW CCA discount applies for all
purchases.
Please sign up for this event via the Chapter registration system on the
website at www-boston-bmwcca.org. This will help us have enough food
and chairs for everyone in attendance.
Event Coordinator: John Sullivan
Directions:
 FMW is located at 253 North Main St. (Rte. 27) between Rtes. 9
and 30.
 They are just off the Mass Pike at exit 13 continue South on
Rte. 30 for approximately two miles until you reach Rte. 27 go
right at N. Main St.
 and drive for approximately 1.5 miles.
 The dealership is located on the left side of the Street.
President’s Message
W
elcome to a new year of the BMW CCA Boston
Chapter. This year is starting out like last year
finished – snow, snow and more snow. I just hope
spring arrives before our first track event this year. I am
really looking forward to getting the M3 out of the barn
and onto the track. If you haven’t participated in our
driving events – you owe it to yourself, and your BMW
to get out and explore the wonderful driving experience
that the “Ultimate Driving Machine” can deliver.
We finished off the events of last season with our annual Holiday Party at Lombardo’s. The consensus of the
attendees was that it was the best party we have had in
many years. Great food, a great DJ and lots of dancing
made it a great party. There were lots of new participants
and a great response to the silent auction that resulted
in a substantial donation to the Jimmy Fund again this
year. There is more about the party with some photos
in this issue.
I am looking forward to another year of great events
from the Chapter. Last year we had over 50 events – this
year will be even busier. We have a lot of new members on the board who are full of new ideas and energy.
Expect to see expanded driving events, autocross, ice
racing, tech sessions and our traditional social events.
In addition to our traditional events we’re also trying
to re-energize rallies and add some other new events,
so stay tuned.
Any regular readers of this column know that I can’t
start the New Year without a discussion of the upcoming
season of Touring Car Racing. Touring Car racing is the
life blood of BMW and drives to the very soul of the
company and its cars. Formula 1 may be the big spender
of BMW racing money, but the heart is still with the “Tin
Tops.” Our local team, Turner Motorsports, is poised for
a great year with its two M3’s and the 325i racing in the
Grand Am Koni Challenge. They have already started
the season at Daytona, but unfortunately did not finish
well due to mechanical issues. But, the season is long
and Will Turner is determined to finish as series champs
again this year. The Bimmerworld team is preparing for
the 2008 Speed Touring Car season with its two E90
325is. They are looking to move up the standings as
they continue to get their arms around the E90 chassis.
James Clay, the owner of Bimmerworld, was our 4 th
quarter meeting speaker and explained the challenges
by John Oglesby
of moving from the E46 to the E90. There is more about
the 4 th quarter meeting later in this issue.
On the international front, BMW unveiled their new
Formula 1 car a few weeks ago, and we are all waiting
to see how they do in the New Year. They have raised
high expectations and we will have to wait and see. The
international Touring Car series, the BTCC and WTCC
have more BMW entries this year, and diesel powered
320i race cars are being introduced as well. I’ll keep you
posted as these seasons develop.
All-in-all I anticipate a great year for the club and
BMW – and I didn’t even mention the new 135i – more
on that in a later issue. ♦
Until next month, stay on track!
If the market
is causing you
sleepless nights,
take this number
and call us in
the morning...
978-475-3325
Ask for Bill Cox or Roland Jacobson
Cox Capital
Management L L C
18 Railroad Avenue • Andover, MA 01810
www.ccm1997.com
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 5
3.625” x 4.875”
Tales from the Creeper
Can you see the light?
W
ith the shorter days and the onset of daylight
savings time, I thought it was an appropriate
time to cover lighting upgrades since many of us
are now commuting in the dark. As always: attempt these
procedures and utilize this information at your own risk.
Headlights
The US version of the 3-series (and many other older, nonHID equipped models) was refitted with substandard US
DOT approved headlights. The superior European-only
ellipsoids (not DOT-approved), with their glass covers,
never made it to the US, but are available in the aftermarket and make great upgrades. The cost of these range
from a couple hundred dollars for the non-OEM to up to
a thousand for the Bosch OE lights. After a few years in
New England, the stock plastic covers can get very pitted, especially if the car has seen a few winters. A great
way to restore the look and performance of the headlight
covers is to use a plastic polish such as “Mother’s.”
Bulbs
I was looking for an inexpensive way to improve the
lighting without upgrading the housings. Some of the
High Intensity Discharge (HID) retrofit kits seem attractive too. However, I was concerned about the possible
glare given the poor optics of the stock housings and
the infamous bulb failure warning message from the
Figure 1. Passenger side high and low beam
bulbs/housings and up/down 6mm hex headlight
adjustor.
6 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
by Colin S. Whelan
on-board computer. That message is triggered when the
lower current draw of the HIDs fools the computer into
thinking one of the bulbs is burned out. To do this right,
you’d want to first upgrade to the European ellipsoids
and remove the check control circuitry in the on-board
computer for the headlights.
Table 1 shows the standard low and high beam bulb
ratings found on the 3-series (Figure 1) and many other
older BMWs (9005 and 9006 type). The light output is
rated in lumens and the color of the light is measured
in temperature (degrees Kelvin). (Sunlight is near
5000K). Ideally, you want the most light output with
the light’s color as close as possible to sunlight (without
compromising the light output rating, which many of
the cheap “blue” light-filtering bulbs do). One way to
achieve this is to increase the bulb’s wattage, but that
can compromise the wiring, so I investigated what bulbs
options existed. A new version of the Osram-Syvania
Silverstar, called “Ultra,” is now available, and is shown
in Figure 2. These are significantly better than the normal
Silverstars which offer whiter light, but are not much
brighter than stock. In addition to their whiter light, the
Ultras increase the light output by approximately 20%,
while hardly compromising the bulb’s lifetime. These
are a direct fit, offer no compromises, and run about
$30-50 a set.
Figure 2. Osram-Syvania Silverstar Ultra 9005
high beam bulbs.
A somewhat newer type of bulb technology is called
HIR, or Halogen Infrared and is made by both GE and
Toshiba, see Figure 3. They apply a coating to the spherical glass filament enclosure that reflects the infrared
wavelengths, heating the filament even hotter, which
allows the bulb to more efficiency generate visible light
for the same power consumption (Watts). These bulbs
came standard on such cars as the BMW Z8 and Dodge
Viper. They’re available now for about $50 a set and
offer 40-80% more light output than standard halogens.
Unfortunately, I’ve found that these bulbs don’t work
well in some cars (including the stock US 3-series housings) due to the location change of the filament in the
housing.
Installation Tips
Finally, the website http://www.bmwe34.net/
E34main/Upgrade/More_light.htm details a procedure
for retrofitting high beam bulbs with their respective 70%
more light output into the low beam position (i.e. 9005
in a 9006 location). This is done by slightly modifying
the bulb itself. Again, one would need to consider the
possible wiring upgrade needed for this and would
absolutely need to insure that this did not cause any
additional glare to oncoming cars.
Figure 3. Halogen Infrared (HIR) bulbs.
Remember when changing any bulb, never touch the
glass with your finger or the oil from your hands will
shorten the bulb’s life. I upgraded the high and low
beams on my Corvette (see Figure 4) and BMW with
Silverstar Ultras and am quite happy with the results
for the low cost incurred. I actually tried the HIRs for
a short time as well, and although they provided great
light output, they gave a narrow pencil-beam shape in
the stock US housings which I didn’t like. Don’t forget
to take your time to carefully align the headlights after
a bulb change to insure proper aim! ♦
Table 1.
Low beam (55W)
Standard
Silverstar Ultra
HIR1
High beam (65W)
Standard
Silverstar Ultra
HIR2
Lumens
Temperature
1000
1200
3200K
4000K
1700-1875
~3600K
Lumens Temperature
1700
2040
3200K
4000K
2300-2500
~3600K
Figure 4. Silverstar Ultra high beam (driver
side) compared to the stock high beam bulb
(passenger side) on a Corvette.
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 7
The Next Apex
Driving in Winter
W
inter was off with a bang this year. Halfway
through December, we’d already seen more snowfall than all of last year! This begs two questions:
How much performance does your car have in snow,
and how safe are you when the roads get slippery?
When I bought my 325i new in 2001, I stubbornly decided I was not going to be browbeat into buying snow
tires. I was going to try and see how the car would do
with the factory sports tires.
Luckily, 2001 had record
low snowfall and living
right in Boston meant I was
always driving on wellplowed roads. The couple of
dustings that I had to drive
in made it clear that driving with these tires in snow
would be a lot like trying
to run in snow with ballroom dancing shoes. Even
if I managed to not hurt
myself or damage the car,
I’d be a very clumsy “dancer.” The following year, I
bought a set of Dunlop M2
WinterSport tires, which
miraculously transformed
the car in snow. My 3-series
on snow tires stopped much
better than my wife’s Audi
A4 Quattro on all-season
tires. It also handled better.
The only thing her Audi did
better was get going off the
line and maintain better stability on steep hills. OK, the
Quattro also did not require
you to use the throttle nearly as judiciously as the rearwheel drive BMW.
What really matters in snow, though, is stopping,
not going. If you can’t get going, worst case scenario is
you would be stuck. Not good, but if you can’t stop fast
enough while going, you would be in real trouble. And
this is exactly what the snow tires gave me: the ability
to stop on a dime in any snow or icy conditions. And
I don’t mean a difference of a couple of feet or so. The
BMW with Dunlop snow tires could stop in almost half
the distance of the Audi Quattro with all-season Dunlop
tires. I’ve driven both cars back to back extensively for
six years and know that for a fact. It’s an added bonus
8 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
by Christo Tinkov
that today’s snow tires are just as quiet as all-season tires
and considerably quieter than performance tires.
Traction is a function of weight, and so is braking.
Heavy vehicles are more likely to be able to compact
fresh snow powder, dig through it and get to the pavement. Weight over the drive wheels in particular helps
traction. A typical front-wheel drive, which is much
heavier in the front, would get going more easily in
snow than a BMW with its
trademark 50:50 weight
distribution. A Porsche
911 will also get more traction off the start because so
much of the weight is over
the rear drive wheels. But
while weight helps traction
under acceleration, it works
against braking. Everyone
knows from car tests that
big, heavy vehicles take longer to stop than lighter cars
on dry roads. The difference
in brake distances is greatly
magnified in slippery conditions. A BMW’s 50:50 weight
distribution is not ideal for
rear-wheel drive acceleration in snow, but it helps
with handling and braking
stability.
In addition, the electronic
stability program (DSC, ASC,
etc.) that replaced the limited slip differential in non-M
BMWs in the 90’s works reasonably well to keep most
drivers out of trouble, although the cars could still benefit tremendously from a
mechanical limited-slip as well. The problem with DSC
is that it is too restrictive in slippery conditions and can
be a real problem when trying to get going, especially if
you have to merge into a busy road from a standstill on
an icy road. Ever seen a BMW or Mercedes inch forward
into an intersection looking as if they are about to stall?
That’s “dynamic stability” at work. The more the driver
panics and gets aggressively on the throttle, the quicker
and longer the electronics will cut power to the drive
wheels. This is just one more reason to get snow tires: in
addition to stopping much faster, you will also be able
to get going faster.
Because of all the performance driving I do, I am comfortable with the limits of my car and I usually switch off
DSC and traction control completely on dry roads. In the
snow, I usually switch off DSC leaving just the traction
control on so I could send more wheel spin to the drive
wheels while accelerating from low speed. At higher
speed, I turn the DSC back on. It’s great that BMW NA
trusts drivers enough to allow them to switch off the
electronics partially or completely – there are fewer and
fewer manufacturers remaining whose lawyers would
allow that. Unfortunately, speaking with many BMW
drivers that I meet outside of driving events, they have
little idea what the electronics do, let alone if and when
to switch them off. Not surprisingly, I have heard a few
complaints from owners that their BMWs “get stuck in
snow” easily. If you cannot get traction off the start,
switching off the electronics partially or even fully has
always worked for me.
In deep snow, “rocking” the car back and forth the
old-fashioned way helps to get going. If that fails, then
it’s time to stretch out, warm up, and get the shovel out
the trunk. And speaking of the trunk, you may have
heard from long-time BMW owners that adding a bag
of sand or two in the trunk helps traction. I have tried
this myself by adding a 50-lb bag in each of the far corners of the trunk, right above each of the drive wheels
and can testify that you get better traction. Problem is,
braking suffers marginally because of the added weight
and the car’s tail swings out a bit more easily, especially
if braking and turning at the same time. For those of you
worried more about traction, though, adding weight in
the trunk would definitely help.
Another technique that works well for me and has
helped me stay out of trouble after nearly 20 years of
driving in the Boston area is determining the traction
available for the specific road conditions. I do not wait to
find out what the car will do until I have to brake abruptly or the electronics violently step in to keep me out of
trouble. I provoke the car into minute deviations from
its intended path of travel to get a better sense for the
available traction. This is something that I do at lower
speed, with no cars around, and in small increments so
I’d know how the car would behave in an emergency
maneuver. If you are forced to find out the car’s limits
in a real emergency instead, you will not have sufficient
information to control your car effectively.
With all this talk about winter driving, let’s not forget the most important contributor to safety: the driver.
Put that cell phone down, establish 360-degree vision
around you, leave sufficient distance between your car
and the one in front, always use directional signals, and
know your car’s capabilities well. Knowing what you
and your car can do in the specific road and weather
conditions can save your and other people’s lives. Or at
least keep you and your insurance agent from getting to
know each other on a first name basis. ♦
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 9
10 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 11
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12 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
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Tech Session at
Schneller Performance BMW Shop
There will be a Tech Session at Schneller’s, an
Independent BMW shop, on May 10th from 9:30
am to 3:00 pm. at their location in Newbury
located at 26 Middle Rd. Unit 1-2. The event
is limited to the first 20 persons that call Mike
Morris at Schneller (978)465-2002 or e-mail Mike
at [email protected]. You must contact
Mike in order to participate.
Every car will have a complete undercarriage
inspection checking for problem areas, and
recommendations will be given by Mike’s
Technicians. Since this event is just before the
May 22nd Chapter Driving School at NHIS,
Schneller will be doing complimentary brake fluid
flushes and will provide Track Inspections to
the first twenty members to sign up for the Tech
Session.
Event Coordinator: John Sullivan
Directions from South:
1. Rte. 95 North to Exit 56 Scotland Rd.
2. At bottom of exit ramp go right onto Scotland
Rd., Drive 2 miles to Highfield Rd.
3. Go right onto Highfield Rd. and drive to the
end, go left onto Middle Rd. for 1/4 mile, turn
left into parking lot at 24-26 Middle Rd.
4. Drive to the left to unit 1-2 where Schneller is
located.
Directions from North:
1. Rte. 95 South exit 56 Scotland Rd.
2. Follow the directions 2-4 above.
WE INSIST. SWEAT THE DETAILS.
As with the car you drive, your
appreciation for individuality
and craftsmanship resonates
in all that you surround yourself
with. Cullen Home Builders
creates custom homes, garages
and barns that will reflect your
personality and sensibilities.
CULLEN HOME BUILDERS
P.O. Box 171 North Marshfield, MA 02059
781-962-6373
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 13
join the car club
Why join the BMW Car Club of America?
Because your membership will add to your
enjoyment of one of the world’s finest
automobiles, and you can take advantage of
the many Club services that are available.
Whether you own a brand-new BMW or a
classic ­model, whether you’re interested in
technical information, driving challenges,
interaction with other owners, or consumer
tips, the Club is here to serve you.
Your membership will bring you 12 issues of
Roundel magazine, filled with maintenance
tips, new product information and the latest
BMW news.
your membership entitles you to:
• the Roundel, the Club’s
monthly magazine
• discounts on parts and supplies
• free classified ads
• video services
• driving schools at internationally
renowned race tracks
• autocrosses
• leaf-peeping tours
• technical tips and information
• tech sessions
• social events
• camaraderie
• outstanding National events:
Oktoberfest and TechFest
To join, log onto www.BMWCCA.org or
call (800) 878-9292.
membership rewards
You may be eligible to receive an allowance
based on the purchase or lease of a new
or certified pre-owned BMW through an
authorized U.S. dealer. A membership in the
BMW CCA of one year or more immediately
preceding the purchase date of the vehicle is
required to take advantage of this program.
A member in good standing cannot have any
lapse in membership during that 12-month
period. For more information, log onto www.
BMWCCA.org.
address changes
If you are experiencing mailing issues or
need to change your mailing address please
contact the National Office at (864) 250-0022
or www.BMWCCA.org. All address changes
must be made through the National Office.
14 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
new members
COMPILED BY LARRY BARBIERI, MEMBERSHIP CHAIR
MEMBER
LOCATION CAR REFERRED BY
Altshuler, David
Peabody, MA
1997 3281
Amar, Ilan
Marblehead, MA
2008 535xi
Robert P. Cipriani
Avery, Lindsay
South Hamilton, MA
Avery, Richard
South Hamilton, MA
2004 325 ci
Ayeroff, Jason
Portsmouth, RI
2001 330xi
Bergman, Charles
Falmouth, MA
2002 330ci
Harrison Roberts
Bersack, Bret
Belmont, MA
2008 328xi
Black, Richard
Medfield, MA
2008 328xi
Bladek, Roger
Taunton, MA
2004 Subaru WRX
Cardillo, Paula
Cranston, RI
2008 328xi
Carvalho, Dennis
Lincoln, RI
Da Silva, Susanlee
Brockton, MA
2008 328xi
Gary Saunders
Dahbar, Nizar
Medford, MA
2003 530i
Davis, Geoffrey
Middleton, MA
2001 330Cic
DeMont, Jeff
Lexington, MA
1990 325ic
Robert S. Healy
Dickie, Kevin
Medway, MA
2006 750Li
Kenneth Stambaugh
DiTucci, Paul
Topsfield, MA
2008 X5
Drew, Ernest
Providence, RI
2004 X3
Falco, William
Weymouth, MA
2007 335i
Felix, Andrew
Foxboro, MA
2001 M3
Feng, Ben
Sudbury, MA
1999 540iT
Fier, Ian
Southborough, MA
Flaherty, Jim
Bolton, MA
1998 m3 convertible
Gadoury, Michael
Providence, RI
2001 325xi
Geissler, Roy
Winthrop, MA
Gerjarusak, Saravut
Wayland, MA
2008 335xi coupe
Gonzalez, Jose
Framingham, MA
Gorgan, Radu
Boston, MA
Gorman, Susan
Seekonk, MA
2008 328i
Johnson, Matthew
Boston, MA
2001 X5
James Parker
Kamalanavin, KamolwanWayland, MA
Kamin, Jon
Marblehead, MA
Kannally, Tom
Northborough, MA
2008 328xi
Koch, Kristin
Weymouth, MA
Damon Katz
La Liberte, John
Carlisle, MA
2001 330xi
Landers, Keith
Dracut, MA
2004 325 xi
Letourneau, Tom
Cumberland, RI
Ling, Gabriel
Cambridge, MA
2006 325xi
Kristopher Linquist
Marrion, Cyril
Acton, MA
Marrion, Kathleen
Acton, MA
Marrion, Valerie
Acton, MA
McCarthy, Justin
Westford, MA
2006 330xi
McDonough, William
Shrewsbury, MA
McGrew, Jeff
Wellesley Hills, MA
Mitchell, Don
Beverly, MA
2007 328xi
Jan Krusell
Moynihan, Jennifer
Mansfield, MA
2004 X3
Nguyen, Michael
Mansfield, MA
Poole, Mark
Bristol, RI
Rawashdeh, Omar
Stoughton, MA
2003 X5
Rothschild, David
Jamaica Plain, MA
2007 MZ4
Seth A. Gillman
Seitz, Amee
Boston, MA
James Parker
Singleton, Michael
Harwich, MA
Spanos, Alexander
Marblehead, MA
1999 540i
Spanos, Nicholas
Marblehead, MA
Stelmach, Craig
Reading, MA
2003 m3 convertible
Sullivan, James
Westford, MA
2000 323i
Tyack, James
Quincy, MA
White, Robert
Pawtucket, RI
2000 540
Wilcox, Byron
Kingston, RI
1986 325
Williams, Jason
Chestnut Hill, MA
mini cooper 2003
Yeh, Michael
Needham, MA
2008 335xi
Mark Daniel
PERFORMANCE DRIVING “GROUND SCHOOL”
Saturday, March 29 th 10:00AM to 2:00PM
HMS Motorsport:
9A Electronics Ave, Danvers Industrial Park
Danvers, MA
You already know how much fun it is to drive a BMW or MINI, but if you
have never experienced the thrill of an Advanced Safety Skills School, Autocross, or High Performance Driving School – you can’t begin to imagine
how much fun your car can really be. 
Our annual Performance Driving “Ground School” will introduce you
to each of our different types of driving events. We will teach you everything you need to know to become a participant. If you have been
thinking about trying one of these events, this event meeting will help
you make up your mind.
 The Driving Events Committee will explain the format of each type
of event and show some great videos of what you can expect. Whether
you are new to these events, or even if you have already participated,
we are sure that you will find the presentations informative.  They will
include:
 Video and commentary from Drivers Schools at  Mt. Tremblant,
NHIS, and Watkins Glen
 Video from the Autocross Series at held at Ft. Devens
 Video from the Advanced Skills Schools held at the New Hampshire International Speedway parking lot
 Tips for getting the most out of a driving event
 Basic driving techniques
 Inspection and preparation of your car for the track
 Safety flags
 Update on the latest  safety equipment  (helmets, harnesses, roll
bars, etc)
 Boston Chapter Mentor Program
 Questions and answers
This annual event is always well attended and is beneficial to everyone
– novice or experienced.  With the first Driving School over one month
away, you will have plenty of time to get you and your car ready to for
the start of the new season. The tech session is a great opportunity to meet
your fellow participants, get psyched, and gather some great tips about
how to make the most of this season’s events!
Our hosts HMS Motorsport will provide lunch and offer ONE DAY
ONLY DISCOUNTS on safety equipment such as Schroth Harnesses,
helmets, driving shoes, driving gloves, Red Line & Motul fluids, and Performance Friction Race brake pads and fluid. Remember the new SNELL
2005 helmets are now out and you must have at least a SNELL 2000 helmet to participate.
If you have any questions about the prep session please call Matt or
Luke at (978) 774-1615. If you plan to attend, please RSVP by phone or
e-mail [email protected] so that they can get a count for
lunch.  See you there! ♦
Check the Boston Chapter or
HMS Web Site for detailed directions .
Classic Prints
Support Foundation
Second print in series
now available
In 2006, the BMW CCA Foundation
produced a limited edition BMW
McLaren F1 GTR print to celebrate the
very special cars that directly impacted
BMW in North America. The print was
so successful, that a new venture for the
BMW CCA Foundation was formed.
In 2007, the Foundation started an
“American Legacy Series” of prints that
includes all the milestone race cars
that contributed to BMW’s reputation,
prestige and excitement. We plan to
commission one or two limited edition
prints per year – in very small print
runs. Each will be numbered and signed
by the artist, Englishman Steve Dunn.
The second car in the series is the
legendary 1977-79 IMSA Camel GT
BMW 320i Turbo driven by David
Hobbs. This print is 16 x 12 inches
and is limited to 100 prints and sells
for $85 plus postage. Your purchase of
this print will help support the BMW
CCA Foundation Archives department.
Details on how to order your print
– visit our online store web site at
http://www.bmwccafoundation.
org/shop/listCategoriesAndProducts.
asp?idCategory=32
The prints are in stock now and ready to
ship (only 24 prints were still available
as this issue goes to print). It is a first
come, first serve for any remaining
numbers.
You can call or e-mail Michael Mitchell
at the BMW CCA Foundation [864-3291919 or mmitchell@bmwccafoundation.
org] to see if a specific number is still
available before your purchase.
The next print in the series will be
launched around May or June of this
year, and will be the Red Lobster M1.
— Michael R. Mitchel
BMW CCA Foundation
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 15
BMW DEALERS
This is a listing of the BMW dealers in the Boston Chapter
area. Most of these dealers offer a 10%-20% discount on
parts. Just present your CCA membership card to get your
discount.
BMW Gallery Norwell
98 Accord Park Drive
Norwell, MA 02061
(781) 982-455
www.bmwgallerynorwell.com
BMW Gallery Norwood
918 Providence Highway
Norwood, MA 02062
(781) 769-9600
www.bmwgallerynorwood.com
BMW of Peabody
boston chapter advertisers
TO LEARN MORE VISIT WWW.BOSTON-BMW CCA.ORG
These independent shops are supporters of the Boston Chapter. The Boston Chapter BMW
Please mention the Boston Bimmer or our web site when you patronize these fine businesses.
AlphaCars Boxboro, MA (978) 263-9000 service
Autobahn Automotive Natick, MA (508) 647-1500 service
Auto Engineering
Lexington, MA (781) 676-7700 service
Bavarian Autosport Portsmouth, NH (800) 535-2002 parts supplier
Bavarian Performance Group
Stoneham, MA
(781) 279-4444 service
Blue & White Motors Inc.
Attleboro, MA
(508) 399-6320 service
221 Andover Street
Peabody, MA 01960
(978) 538-9900
www.bmwpeabody.com
Bruce Ledoux Track Days (800) 934-4899 driving instruction
Foreign Motors West BMW
Century 21 – Rob Cohen Boston, MA
(617) 262-2600 real estate - ext. 29
Concord Motorsport Chichester, NH
(888) 477-2697 sales, service, parts
Cullen Home Builders
N. Marshfield, MA (781) 962-6373 home builders
GPS
Cambridge, MA
(617) 349-2993 sales, service, parts
1172 Commonwealth Avenue
Boston, MA 02134
(617) 731-1700
www.herbchambers.com
Gralty Automotive Natick, MA (508) 653-0909 service
HMS Motorsport Peabody, MA (978) 532-1170 member deals; equip.
Landshark Automotive Natick, MA (508) 655-3957 service
Inskip Auto CenterBMW
Prudential Financial Needham, MA (781) 449-9100 financial services
1515 Baldhill Road
Warwick, RI 02886
(401) 821-1510
Rim & Wheel Works Waltham, MA (781) 547-5826 wheels; straightening
RimPro
Tewksbury, MA (888) 274-6776 wheels, service
Newport Auto CenterBMW
Sansossio Auto Body Inc. Natick, MA (508) 655-9646 auto repair
253 North Main Street
Natick, MA 01760
(781) 235-9096
www.fmwestbmw.com
Herb Chambers BMW
1215 West Main Road
Middletown, RI 02840
(401) 846-6636
TEC N. Attleboro, MA (888) 594-7800 equipment supplier
Turner Motorsports Amesbury, MA (978) 388-7769 parts & service
Trans-Atlantic BMW
Vintage Sports and Racing
Bow, NH
(603) 288-2888 service
25 Falmouth Road
Hyannis MA 02601
(508) 775-4526
(no parts discounts)
Wagner BMW of Shrewsbury
752 Boston Turnpike
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
(508) 845-0505
www.wagnerbmwofshrewsbury.com
16 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
CCA assumes no liability for the work or merchandise from these independent service shops
To become an advertiser, please see
www.boston-bmwcca.org/bimmer/info/rate-card.aspx
boston chapter officers & staff
TO CONTACT OFFICERS & STAFF VISIT WWW.BOSTON-BMW CCA.ORG
2007 Boston Chapter Board
Activities
President
John Oglesby
Activities Committee
Vice President & Activities Director
John Sullivan
Chair
John Sullivan
Secretary Baer Connard
Coordinator
Derek DeSousa
Treasurer Joe Marko
Coordinator
Mark Lipsky
Membership Chair Larry Barbieri
Coordinator
John Oglesby
Director of Communications
(open position)
Karting Mark Gallagher
Director of Driving Events
Luka Serda Concours
Derek DeSousa
Director Dan Chadwick
Director Simon Cooper
Rhode Island Director Derek DeSousa
RI Activities Bob Sweeney Jr.
RI Representative Bruce Machon
2007 Boston Chapter Staff
Newsletter Boston Bimmer
Driving Events
Autocross
Editor in Chief
Rachel Oglesby
Chair Christo Tinkov
Editorial Coordinator
Mark Lipsky
Chair Larry Nicklas
Art Director
Gail Tanzer
Registrar Baer Connard
Columnist
Ina R. Ames
Autocross Timing
Scott Baston Columnist
Tom Merrifield
Columnist
Christo Tinkov
High Performance Driving Schools
Chair Luka Serdar
Columnist
Colin Whelan
Chair Joe Marko
Columnist
Lance Woodley
Chief Instructor Craig Olmsted
Photography Miguel Aponte-Rios
Tech Steward Mike Barton
Photography
Dan Mull
Mentor Program Leonardo Topa
Photography
Rachel Oglesby
Registrar
Larry Barbieri
Photography
Barry Tarr
Registrar
Peter Bergwall
Advertising Manager
(open position)
Registrar
Simon Cooper
Autocross Correspondent
Larry Nicklas
Registrar
Denis Friedman
Registrar
Todd Merrill
Instructor Registrar
Denis Friedman
Instructor Development
Barry Tarr
Advanced Driving Skills School
Sean Silva
Club Racing
Chapter Services Legal Advisor
Trish Farnsworth
Merchandise (open position)
Technical Advisor Chip Myers
Bruce Smith
Webmaster Jim Dresser
Chair Stan Jackson, Sr.
Coordinator Stan Jackson, Jr.
Officers and committee members can be reached by clicking
the Email link beside their name on the club website, www.
boston-bmwcca.org/people/index.aspx.
Ice Racing www.boston-bmwcca.org | 17
TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD,
LOG INTO WWW.BOSTON-BMWCCA.ORG
Cars for Sale
2003 530i Sport Package. 73K highway
miles. Gray with Black interior. Automatic with winter package. Sunroof. Last
summer: new tires, front brake rotors,
new LCD displays in dash. Second owner,
non-smoking car, in great condition. Asking $17,500 obo. Email [email protected]
for questions/offers, pictures available.
Or call Steve@603-892-1383. Located in
Worcester.
2003 325XIT WBAEP33493PE91522 Topaz
Blue Metallic, Gray Leather, 75K miles,
5-speed manual, Sports, Premium, and
Cold Weather Packages, Colgan Bra, one
operator, non-smoker, excellent condition!
Available 4/15/08. Asking $18K, Eric:
(508) 415-9395, [email protected], (RI)
2001 330xi WBAAV53411JR79683, Silver,
Black Unique Car! Dinan 3 Series. Stage
2 suspension, intake, throttle, exhaust
and software. UUC short shift, BMW M
strut bar, Cryo slotted rotors, stainless
steel brake lines. Heavy-duty Stewart
water pump. Turner Motorsport underdrive pulleys, trailing arm limiters and
subframe reinforcement kit. Super clean,
always garaged, fanatically maintained!!!
classified ads
All work done by dealer or Turner. Nonsmoker, original owner.55,000 miles, black
leather, alarm, CD changer, premium and
cold weather packages. $22,000 obo. Contact Marty at [email protected] or
203-750-0493 (CT)
2000
BMW
740
Sport.
WBAGG8343YDN80496 Well Maintained,
garaged. Anthracite and gray leather interior. Second Owner, 133,000 Miles,
Navigation (small screen). CPO Car till
May 2006 so alot of new parts. Have all
receipts and service records from Landshark, Wagner and Foreign Motor West.
The following has been recplaced in
the last 2 years: - Radiator, Expansion
Tank, Coolant Hose, Waterpump, Thermostat, 4 new Kumho ASX tires, Trust arm
bushings, Front and Rear brakes (Pads and
rotors) , Lower Oil Pan gasket, Two new
window regulators, Rear Ball Joints, all
Drive belts M-Parallel wheels. A second
set of original E38 wheels with Michelin
Alpin winter tires included. $10,500 (or
reasonable offer) Ed: 617-202-3747 Email:
[email protected]
2000 750IL WBAGJ0348YDD73995 Oxford
green with beautiful tan leather interior.
All options. Gorgeous example of these
V-12 luxury cars. 97% of what it was like
when it was a brand new $100,000 car. All
services done. 113K mi. Genuine BMW one
piece armrest. 18’ M whls. $19,750; E-mail:
[email protected]. Jay: 978-333-6100
1999 528i WBADM5339XBY15768 Schwarz
black/black leather. 5 speed manual,
85,000 miles. Premium and cold packages. Excellent condition, no accidents,
proactively maintained. In the past year,
have done the following: new Bilstein
HDs (front), new rear brakes (pads and
rotors), front brakes were new in April 06
and include cross-drilled rotors, Kumho
Ecsta SPTs (including spare; approx 50%
tread remaining), new sway bar links
front and rear, new ABS module and new
wheel sensors, new plugs, filters, brake
fluid flush/fill, new serpentine belt. OEM
parts always used, work always done by
experienced BMW independent tech. I
have all records during my ownership.
Oil and filter changed every 5K using
BMW-branded 5W-30 synthetic. Literally
needs nothing, no wheel shimmy, no pixel
issues. Every single electrical accessory
works perfectly (heated seats, maplights,
HVAC - everything). Also included are
a set of four Blizzak WS-50 snow tires on
BMW steel rims with full BMW wheel cov-
Agenc
Client:
W.S.#:
File Na
Locati
Artist:
AE/AC
Media
Size:
Color:
Date:
AE/A
Dat
Arti
Dat
Tim
18 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
ers, used only 2 seasons, along with a set
of custom fitted rubber mats for winter.
Selling to buy an E39 wagon. $11,700 or
best offer. Todd Doherty, day: (617) 4347498, evening: (781) 837-1325 or e-mail
[email protected]. Car located
in Marshfield.
1998 BMW M3, WBSBG9326WEY78042,
Artic Silver exterior, Black interior. 5 speed
Manual. 70k miles. 2nd owner. Clean autocheck report. Great condition, enthusiast
driven, never abused, never tracked, never
driven in snow. All maintenances up to
date including new Bilstein shocks and
Eibach springs, new RMSs, new rear ball
joint, new tires and many more. Title in
hand. $15,500 obo. Yong Kim. Belmont,
MA. (978) 317-7264. yongkookkim@gmail.
com
1995 BMW M3 WBSBF9329SEH02182
Graphite with black interior, 5 speed manual, 34k not actual miles( car fax shows
90-91k ) ,new clutch and short shifter with
5-6k mile on it, lower suspension , 18”
wheels , Scorpion exhaust , clean engine
runs great , 14.6 on 1/4 mile . Great car for
every day drive and/or autocross. Will sell
today for $8,000 firm. Call Mike at (603)
554-5355 or e-mail at euromike676@yahoo.
com E-mail me for more pictures.
1995 540 Sport, 68.9K miles, Calypso red/
tan, Schrick cams, stroked with M5 crank,
sleeved, Stage III suspension, AP brakes, 2
sets of wheels Kenwood/ADS stereo, Blanton Differential with Quafe, Sport clutch,
lightened flywheel, B&B Triflow, Alpina
gauges, wired for V1, European headlamps
and tail lamps, HID low and 100 watt High
beams,new tires plus snows, New AC and
much more. $16700 View at www.bewired.
com/BMW or email: [email protected]
1982 320i (restore or for parts) -- recent
accident, damage to front end (hood/
grill/headlights/radiator). I wanted to
sell it to a BMW enthusiast, not a towing
company! Aside from that it would need
new exhaust & brakes. Regularly driven
back and forth to NYC, and from Cape to
Boston for work, many, many times. Buyer
pays towing costs plus $650 or best offer
- car is sitting in Braintree (5-corners area)
[email protected], cell (774) 238-0482
home (617) 725-8905
1972 BMW 3.0 CS VIN 2950263 Baikal Blue/
tan pigskin interior. 5000K on 3.5L w 5 sp
OD (spare CR available) triple webbers, korman 300 cam, stahl headers, bilstein HD,
korman springs, decamber plates, high
compression pistons, balanced. Restored
in 90s with new body rubber, paint, headliner, windshield. Has sunroof, AC (AC
removed) comes with free non running
1976 530i parts car. Garaged since restoration. Email requests for photos. $7000 or
make offer. Doug @[email protected],
508-339-1438 (eve)
Cars Wanted
2003 E39 M5 in Carbon Black / Silverstone
Interior, with under 40k on the clock. I had
a 2000, and miss it greatly... I’m looking
for exactly the car above. If you’re interested in parting with your baby, please
get in touch. Arash 401-847-8280 x8016
[email protected]
Z3 Model Year 2001 or 2002 2.8 or 3.0 engine w/ Automatic transmission. Less than
50k miles and well maintained, preferably
in silver, gray or other light color, but will
entertain anything. If it is time to make
more space in your garage please call us!
Nick (781) 727-4665
Miscellaneous Ads
Now Hiring: Detail-Oriented Parts Person: If you’re looking for a real job with
a real company with a real career opportunity, your search ends here. While
we don’t work on BMWs, this position
will utilize your love of fine engines and
German engineering. We are a growing
91-year-old diesel engine distributor located in Worcester that needs to add one
more quality person to our team. This position will appeal to a fast-paced person
who is attentive to detail. Initially you
will be working in our shipping department helping fulfill orders and responding
to customer shipping inquiries. Later, as
you gain experience, you will move into
direct customer support and interact with
customers and vendors. We are looking
for someone with good communication
skills, some college experience, and three
verifiable references. A positive attitude,
running shoes and a laptop will move you
to the head of the line. Like Southwest Airlines we hire for attitude and train for skill.
(We’ve always wondered if that included
their pilots too?) Please review our website, www.FoleyEngines.com, to see what
we do and how we do it. Then send our Dr.
Diesel a cover letter and your resume to
[email protected]. He will respond within 24 hours if he thinks you are
up to the challenge and could help move
us forward for another 91 years.
Parts for Sale
Noah All Weather car cover for E39, 5
Series, BMW. Used, but in great shape.
Bought new 3 Series BMW and this cover is
too big. Paid $200 new. Will sell for $75 plus
shipping. Contact Rick at (508) 730-9491
and leave message or rickrickrabbo@aol.
com. Somerset, MA
X5 Snow tires and wheels. Used one season on my traded in 04 X5 4.8is , these 18
inch Modas with Pirelli 235.60’s will not fit
my 2008 X5 4.8i, so I needed to purchase
a new set for $2300.! The rims are unscratched and I paid over $1200 for them.
Located in Norwood, MA, I am asking
$650. [email protected]. Thanks
X5 oem BMW tan rubber winter floor
mats in good condition. Should fit 2000 to
2006 X5. The set is 4 mats. Please e-mail
[email protected] or call 781-826-4499. I
prefer local pickup in Pembroke, MA but
will ship them. Buyer will pay the actual
shipping costs. $40 (plus shipping)
Winter tires/rims: Blizzaks 245/45/17 (Set
of 4) Used one season $300 set; Dunlop
WS-2 225/45/17 (Set of 4) Used one season
$300 set; Five spoke alloy wheels, 7Jx17HS,
accept BMW roundel inserts, set of 4, slight
curb rash on 1 one $200 set. John 508-5393888 (w). Email: [email protected]
WeatherTech floor mats for E36 - front
and rear, heavy rubber, black color, plus
matching cargo mat for trunk. Used but not
abused. Very rugged, they stay in place,
and do hold a lot of melted slush (just like
the ads say.) Cost new over $200; asking
$50 for all five. Located in Topsfield, MA.
Call John Spencer (978) 887-6827 or e-mail
[email protected].
WeatherTech Cargo Liner, Black for
E39 Touring. $60 + shipping (if necessary). Located in Westford, MA. Mike,
[email protected], (978) 505-7510.
UUC Performance Organic Clutch and
Pressure Plate for E36 - This is the upgraded model with the heavy duty drive straps,
thicker, more aggressive clutch material.
The clutch is heavy duty yet still organic
so street drivable (you CAN slip this and
not kill it with the heat). Heavy-duty pressure plate for better clamping force, great
for higher HP cars. Clutch was in car for
2 days at Mt. Tremblant, taken out when
I did the whole tranny. Like new! You’ll
need to provide a new throw-out bearing
(always should for new clutch). Cost >$600
new, asking $400. Call Neil at (617) 6309869 or email [email protected].
Used interior bike rack for 04-07 BMW X3
Sports Activity Vehicle. Bike racks go for
275.00 in BMW Sales Department. Description: The system is able to transport up to
two mountain or racing bicycles while
protecting them from the elements or possible theft and also eliminates problems
associated with low overhead clearance.
BMW’s bike rack features two adjustable
aluminum fastening rails that are mounted
on the rear cargo floor. The interior bike
rack system is designed to hold one or two
bicycles utilizing special parts designed
to work with the built-in cargo fastening
rails. The bicycle is positioned upright and
firmly attached to the rails using lateral
traverses. The front wheel is then secured
to the bicycle frame with lashing straps.
Slightly used, but in good shape and complete with straps. $100. dhart00@hotmail.
com
Track car parts and pieces, garage clean
out! I want to give dad back the garage
for his birthday! Preference given to local
sales, all items located in Southeastern, CT
06330 just off I-395. Evosport seat bracket,
similar to VAC but with more holes, never
actually drove the car with this in it, test
fitting only. $200; GForce window net only
$10; UUC black transmission mounts $20;
Unidentified short shifter for E30 M3 $25.
Contact Duncan [email protected] or
860-917-5411 anytime. All prices OBO. Pics
available for everything.
Still cleaning out the garage! 18” Michelin
Pilot Sport PS2, 225/40 18 $200 each and
255/40 18 $250 each. Brand new, never
mounted, sticker tires. Contact Duncan,
860-917-5411, Email: pureone55@yahoo.
com
Steel Wheels – 4 steel wheels on OEM
BMW in good shape PLUS 1 regular OEM
wheel. Fit 528e 1988. Stored in basement
some flash rust. $50 for the lot (not each).
Firm. Fred [email protected]
Snow tires and wheels: I have 5 factory
16” x 7” aluminum alloy wheels. 4 of
the wheels have Michelin Artic Alipns
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 19
mounted and the 5th is the original full
size spare that was never used. 2 wheels
have minor road rash, but none are dented
or bent. Call or email Erik, 978-987-1956
[email protected]. Asking $500
Schrick aluminum intake manifold: Up
to +15HP instantly. S52 Engine 3.2 Used
6 months only on track and autox events.
Total of 10 track days and 12 Autocross
events. No scratches, perfect condition.
Retails for $1200.00 Shipped/local pickup for $825.00 Priced to sell soon! Contact:
Miguelangel Aponte-Rios (857) 540-9720
[email protected]
Pirelli Winter 210 Tires 285-40-17 (2)
Brand new, never used, asking $300
for both. Pirelli Winter 210 (4), 205-6015 on E36 steel wheels, one season left
$125 set. Call Carlos at 978-887-4121 or
[email protected]
Performance Suspension Parts For Sale Pair of Eibach Springs from ground control:
7”x2.5” 500 lb/in rate and 6.5”x2.5” 545
lb/in rate. $75.00 obo. This set up was on
a ground control suspension in an E36 M3
coupe. Great street/track set up. Pictures
furnished upon request. Prefer local pickup in greater Boston area, Bill Townsend
Email: [email protected]
Misc. Parts for 528E 1988. Various parts
including computer, steering wheel, wind
deflector, vent controls. Yours for pick
up or shipping. [email protected]
978.443.7293 Sudbury, MA
Michelin X-Ice snow tires, set of 4. P205/
55R16 91Q mounted on black factory rims.
Used only one season. Specially priced to
sell at $499. Pick up in North Andover.
Contact Frank at [email protected]
Four Bridgestron Blizak Tires on ASA
JH3 Rims-- four 225/45R17 LM22 run
flat winter tires mounted on ASA JH3
17 inch rims. Tire and Rim package purchased 11/21/2006 from Tire Rack used
for 2006/2007 winter on my 2003 Z4. Great
riding tires with less than 3,000 miles of
usage. Package will fit any 3 series and
most 5 series. $750.00 Prefer pick up in
Mansfield, but may agree on mutual exchange location in Boston area. Keith
Broyles. [email protected] (617) 6941490.
For Sale. 4 Wheels and snow tires for
any BMW E46. The wheels are original
BMW7x17 grey steel rims part number
36-12-6-750-254 and tires are Conti Winter Contact 205/50/R17. Gently used for
2 seasons. Very low miles. Good tread
left. Center caps will also be included.
Contact DMHarlow. (508) 866-7128 or at
[email protected]
E46 M3 OEM 18’ M double spoke alloy
wheels without tires from 2002 M3. Perfect
for second set of daily, track or winter use.
Minor curb rash but no accidents. Photos
upon request. $500 plus shipping. Call
Chuck at (603) 557-4772 or email at herr.
[email protected] (NH)
E46 330ci Sport Springs. These come of
my 06 330ci and have been used for only
2,500 miles. Like brand new. I am selling
all four for 100$. Please contact Anton
Georgiev at (401) 215-4407 or e-mail at
[email protected]. This weblink
has a picture of the springs: http://i39.
photobucket.com/albums/e155/antongeorgiev/forsale008.jpg
E46 ‘06 330ci stock rear bumper and side
skirts. I have a stock rear bumper and side
skirts from a jet black ‘06 330ci . Both items
are in great condition. They came of my car
and were replaced by M-tech panels. Please
let me know if you want more info or high
resolution pictures. I am located in Boston
$100 or best offer. Contact Anton Georgiev
at [email protected] or phone (401)
215-4407. Here is a link to some pictures:
http://s39.photobucket.com/albums/
e155/antongeorgiev/for%20sale/</A<
body>
E36 wheel and tire package: Four 16x7
style 42, {46mm offset} with 225/50-16
Nokian WR all season performance tires.
These are all season but severe duty ratedexcellent in snow. This set was used three
seasons. Had another set for snows. The
wheels are pristine with no scratches or
curb rash. The tires are in excellent condition with 80% tread remaining. Pictures
available on request. Asking $700 Steve
401-965-6695 [email protected]
E36 Headlight & Taillight Assemblies
- OEM US spec with amber turn signal
lenses, in good condition. The headlight assembly plastic covers are sandblasted, but
usable; could be polished prior to installation for near-new clarity. Includes both
sidelights, plus two Hella H-1 halogen
bulbs in original packaging. They were all
working perfectly when last installed; removed when I switched to Euro headlights
Dinan authorized dealer able to create the high
performance BMW or MINI of your Dreams!
Five expert auto technicians with over
100 years of experience
Now servicing BMW, MINI, Audi, Volvo, and
Porche at our state of the art Facility
Come see our 50+ inventory of hand-selected
pre-owned BMWS and MINIS
169 Dover Rd. Chichester, NH 03258 • www ConcordMotorsport.com • (603) 798-3700 • (800) 477-2697
20 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
and changed the taillights and side markers to match. Perfect if you’ve cracked a
lens, or even want them for all the bulbs.
$40 for the lot. Call John at (978) 887-6827
in Topsfield, or e-mail jk.spencer@verizon.
net.
BBS RC 302 Rims for Sale (E39 fit - 19972003 5 Series). Set of 4 Wheels. 17” x 8.5”
width. Silver finish. I bought these as my
winter rims but only used them for 2000
miles or so because I put on the stoptech
big brake kit. No curb rash and straight.
$600 for set of 4 + shipping/handling if
I need to ship them. Please contact me at
“[email protected]” if you’re interested
Almost new windscreen from 2007-08 from
335CIC. Used a half a dozen times. Like
new. First $300 takes it away. Prefer pick
up. Ed Polansky at Edward750@comcast.
net, Just west of Boston Ma
99’ MOMO Nascar K/C Racing Seats (2),
Kevlar/Carbon Red/yellow, with MOMO
brackets excellent condition, asking $750
for both. Camara mount $75.Call Carlos at
978-887-4121 or [email protected]
4 Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires for a 2006
M3, virtually brand new, driven less than
50 miles...$675. Please call Jon Kelly (781)
913-1238 or e-mail [email protected]
4 Dunlop SP winter sport M3 snow tires.
235-55R17-99H. Fits BMW X3 and latest generation mustangs among others.
Approximately 6,000 miles in perfect condition with no plugs. $295 or best offer.
Contact Sean at [email protected]
or (978)-283-8443 ext. 1, Gloucester, MA.
Pickup only.
1972 2002 parts. Recaro/BMW sport seats
and matching cloth rear seat, black / charcoal. Front seats could use upholstery.
Original brown front seats, bottom of
driver’s seat torn. Driver’s side door complete, no rust. Original interior AC parts.
Assorted tii engine parts. Front bumper
center section, mint. Differential and axles,
Top-End header. Rebuilt 4spd gearbox.
Piles of other stuff. Call with requests and
/ or reasonable offers. Harry (508) 3413939, [email protected]
BMW OEM 6-CD Magazine for trunkmounted system. From 1996 E36 (no part
number available.) As pictured; clean,
complete & in excellent condition. Will
ship within US only for $6 including
insurance. Asking $12. Call John at (978)
887-6827 or e-mail jk.spencer@verizon.
net.
Parts Wanted
HMS or TC Kline roll bar for E36 M3.
Please contact at drivrswntd@cox dot net
15” basket weave hub cap for 1989-91
325ix. Call Tremont (781)237-7667 or
[email protected]
E30 (‘84-’91 3 Series) Parts Wanted: Windshield in excellent condition; Front lip
spoiler (1” or 2” version); Rear Muffler (6
cylinder); Four 14” Snow tires in excellent
condition, rims not required. Right front
brake caliper in excellent or rebuilt condition. Please email me with what you
have and prices. Thanks - bhilliard@smma.
com. ♦
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 21
22 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
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receive your
Boston Bimmer?
Please let us know.
We would like to
predict delivery
times better.
Please send the
name of your
city/town and
the date you
received this issue
to the editor:
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org/people/index.
aspx
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 23
ultimate calendar
For the most up-to-date information on Boston BMW CCA events
please see the calendar online at www.bmwcca.org
March, 29
Saturday, 10:00am – 2:00 pm
Boston Chapter Driving Event
Preformance Driving “Ground
School” @ HMS Motorsport
(see article in this issue)
April 16
Wednesday, 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Boston Chapter Social Event
1st Quarter General Meeting
April 27
Sunday, 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Boston Chapter Driving Event
Autocross Series
May 10
Saturday, 9:30am to 3:00pm
Boston Chapter Technical Event
Undercarriage Tech Session at
Schneller BMW Performance
May 10
Saturday through May 11, Sunday
Boston Chapter Driving Event
Evolution Autocross Training
School
May 25
Sunday, 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Boston Chapter Driving Event
Autocross Series
June 22
Sunday, 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Boston Chapter Driving Event
Autocross Series
August 24
Sunday, 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Boston Chapter Driving Event
Autocross Series
September 28
Sunday, 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Boston Chapter Driving Event
Autocross Series
October 12
Sunday, 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Boston Chapter Driving Event
Autocross Series
July 27
Sunday, 7:00 am - 5:00 pm
Boston Chapter Driving Event
Autocross Series
TENTATIVE Driving School Schedule – THIS MAY CHANGE

Sunday May 18 Advanced Driving Safety School

Thursday May 22 driving school at NHMS (previously known as NHIS)

Sunday June 15 ADS

Saturday June 21 Street Survival: emergency driving skills for teens

Sunday/Monday July 6-7 Driving school & possible Club Race (TBD) at NHMS

Saturday August 2 Advanced Driving Safety School

Friday-Sunday August 8-10 Driving School and Club race – “Bimmers Across the
Border X” in conjunction with the Quebec Chapter BMW CC. Northeast Region
Premier Race weekend.

Sunday Sept. 21 Street Survival: emergency driving skills for teens

Wednesday-Sunday September 24-28 BMW CCA Oktoberfest. 5 days including
Driving Schools, Club Race School, and Club Racing. Please see www.bmwcca.org
for details.

Friday-Sunday October 3-5. Driving school at NHMS in conjunction with our
White Mountain Chapter friends.
Please remember that these are tentative dates. This is not an official announcement.
Please see the club website for most current schedule. The schedule and planning
this year has been complicated by the sale of NHIS and the integration of our Watkins
Glen event into Oktoberfest.
24 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 25
Autocross
A Look Back at the 2007 Season
Pictured: Rupert Barrington
I
f you haven’t participated in Autocross, you’ve missed your opportunity to test the limits
of your car and your driving skills against the clock and a demanding course. Although the
club hands out awards each year for our high performers, in many ways the program is more
of a personal challenge than a competition. This year we hope to share highlights of the season
as it unfolds with more pictures and commentary. To take one last look at the 2007 season, we
asked drivers to send us their favorite pictures which we’re pleased to share along with the 2007
winners circle. ♦
Steve Hazard
26 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
Sergy Osminkin
2007 Autocross Year End Results
BMW Classes
Class AR
1st Alex Shchipkov 156 2nd Steven Hazard
0
3rd Miguelangel Aponte-Rios
98 BMW M Roadster
Class AS
1st Matt Shoop
2nd Larry Nicklas
Class BS
1st Sergiy Osminkin
2nd Gerry Desrosiers
3rd David Seavey
Class CS
1st Hank Wallace
2nd Baer Connard
3rd Ruslana Tsurikova
Class DS
1st Mark Chambers
2nd Christo Tinkov
3rd Roman Boychenko
Matt Shoop
89 BMW 325i
98 BMW M Roadster
15
Class ES
1st Konstantin Klitenik 222 2nd Robert Knochenhauer 32 3rd Philipp Zeissig
205 SCCA Classes
89 31 97 BMW M3
97 BMW 332ti
86 181 3
98 BMW M3
97 BMW 328i
88 BMW M3
9
325 46 00 BMW Z3 2.3
01 BMW 330i
00 BMW Z3 2.3
18 44 65 00 BMW 328Ci
99 BMW 328i
99 BMW 328i
Class G
1st Gaven Hawk
2nd Andrew Kessel
3rd Brad Anderson
Class H
1st Russ Siggelkoe
2nd Chang Kim
3rd Scott Thursby
Class I
1st William Brundige
2nd James Woodburn
3rd Evan Boyle
Class J
1st Charles Stromeyer
2nd Michael Condict
VIII
3rd Kevin Kirchoff
Class L
1st Anthony Alves
2nd Eric Chiang
3rd Keith Housman
Class M
1st John T. Mac Donald
Rob Healy
06 BMW 325xi
95 BMW 525i
01 BMW 530i
256 251 131 07 Infiniti G35
05 Scion tC
04 Mazda 3s
41 24 87 05 Lotus Elise
89 Honda Civic
07 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3
22
21 909 98 VW Passat
03 Toyota MR2
04 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
77 79 97 Porsche 993 turbo
03 Mitsubishi Evolution
62 93 Mazda RX7
481 910 867 95 Acura Integra GS-R
89 Honda Civic
02 Nissan Sentra
75 75 Caldwell D13 S
William Brundige
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 27
Behind the Wheels
Diagnosing car vibration
L
et’s dispel a common myth up front. If your car is vibrating, it is not necessarily only the tires or wheels.
If I had a dollar for every time over the last 16 years
someone told me “if there’s a vibration, it’s the wheels or
tires,” I could retire rich. Checking the tires and wheels
are only your first steps. They are not the whole process.
Car problems can be simple, but they are often complex and systemic. Car vibrations, for example, may be
caused by one or more of the nine problems I’ve listed
below. Sometimes, the cause of the vibration creates a
domino effect: a bent wheel can cause tires to become
out of round or steel belted tires to separate, or it can
cause problems with the car’s alignment, suspension,
sway bar, or tie rod. And they are circuitous! Around in
a circle you go not knowing when you’re being helped or
ripped off. People tend to postpone diagnosing and repairing these problems and then end up with a domino
effect of expenses!
Years ago, I drove to New York City with straight
steel wheels and new Michelins that had been installed
that morning. When I returned to work on Monday, I
told my former business partner that the tires were bad.
He pulled in my car, and discovered that I had three
bent steel wheels. Just from driving into NYC, parking
in a garage (checked the mileage), and driving out. After
fixing the wheel problem, I then had to have the tie rod
in the front of the car replaced. Just from a few potholes
in New York! The point is; you’ll never know which of
the issues listed below are causing the vibration and
which are caused by the vibration until you have the car
checked out.
Ina’s top nine reasons why your car
might vibrate:
l
Tires: Your tires can have flat spots on the outside and
or belt separation in the inside. When spun on a balancer, you can usually see the flat spots. You shouldn’t
be able to see the steel belts on the outside of the tire
unless the tire is shot. In order to truly see steel belt
separation, you need to remove the tire from the wheel.
Steel belted radials are superior to the older style tires
for many reasons, however belt separation is a big problem. They’re developing carbon belted tires. I’m taking
a look and see attitude towards them. If your tires have
flat spots, or belt separation, that can cause vibration.
Rims: The most obvious problem is that your wheels
could be bent. Straightening usually solves that problem. If you have multi-piece wheels, you may have the
2
28 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
by Ina R. Ames
additional problem of the seal having broken during the
impact when the wheels were bent. There is no way of
telling this until you drive with the wheels on the car.
Not fun, but true.
Another problem straightening the wheels won’t help is
if your wheel is hub-centric bent or has barrel damage.
A center bent wheel is different from a hub-centric bent
wheel or barrel damaged wheel. A center bent wheel is a
wheel that is twisted in the barrel. There are about a half
dozen to a dozen of us in the country that can straighten
these. No one can straighten a hub-centric bent wheel.
The hub is the area of the wheel in the center of the
cosmetic face – where your center cap goes. If this is
bent, the wheel can’t be straightened. Usually, one has to
straighten the rest of the wheel before one can diagnose
a hub-centrically bent wheel. Normally we don’t see this
problem unless the wheel is off an older model car or if
the car has been in an accident.
Alignment: If your tires are good or replaced and
your wheels are straight or straightened and you still
have vibration, you should have a four-point alignment.
Make sure that whoever does the alignment is qualified
and recommended. I am not going to recommend any
specific shops here, but it is best to use someone you
trust or get recommendations from friends with the
same car or go online to one of the car forums.
Front suspension: Cars often vibrate because of a
suspension that is off. The front suspension could be
out of alignment or it could need the rubber bushings
replaced
Upper sway bar. Have your upper sway bar checked
for alignment.
Lower sway bar: Have your lower sway bar checked
for two possible problems. It could be out of alignment
or the rubber bushings might need to be replaced.
Tie rod: Your tie rod may need to be replaced. If the
tie rod can be moved with your hands, it needs to be
replaced. However, this is best diagnosed by an expert.
Brakes and rotors: If the car vibrates while braking
and it’s not any of the above, your problem may be
your brakes and rotors. The first thing to go on your
braking system is your pads. If you don’t replace the
pads when needed, they wear out and you’ll get “train
tracks” on your rotors. If the damage isn’t too bad, some
rotors can be sanded down, but only to a certain level.
3
4
5
6
7
8
continued on the bottom of next page
2008 Holiday Party Rocks
Silent Auction raises $2600 for the Jimmy Fund
T
he Boston Chapter’s Holiday
Party got off to a tantalizing
beginning with great appetizers
and a wonderful set of items donated
for the silent auction. This event
wraps up the Chapter’s events for
the last year and signals the start of
a new beginning for 2008, so it was
great to start the year on such a high
note. Derek DeSousa organized the
party again this year, and cranked
it up a notch with good food, cash
bar, and a great DJ that got lots of
attendees dancing! He also worked
with John Sullivan to solicit the
silent auction donations.
As is our tradition at the Holiday
Party, the yearly Autocross trophies
were presented by the Autocross
leaders, Chirsto Tinkov and Larry
A festive evening
Nickals. It was obvious that the
Autocross season was well supported
last year with several new names on
the awards.
John Oglesby introduced the
new Chapter officers and thanked
the outgoing officers for their
service last year. There are three
new directors, Simon Cooper, Dan
Chadwick and Derek DeSousa who
rejoins the board this year.
The party wrapped up with the
announcement of the silent auction
winners. As we have done for the
last few years, the silent auction
was dedicated to raise money for
charity, the Jimmy Fund. The Jimmy
Fund is a cancer treatment charity
that was started for a little boy – it is
ardently supported by many Boston
organizations – most prominently,
the Boston Red Sox. This year the
silent auction raised $2600 for the
Jimmy fund, a great success for the
party. All of our members should
make it a point to thank the generous
donors of the silent auction items.
Without them, the $2600 donation
to the Jimmy Fund would not be
possible.
continued on page 29
After that you’ve got a costly rotor replacement ahead
of you. People have a tendency to doubt their pads need
replacing. They question how the pads could wear down
so quickly after only “x” miles. If you doubt one vendor,
check with another. Replacing pads is an iota of the cost
of replacing rotors. Pads are designed to wear down and
save the wear and tear on the rotors.
CV Boot: Finally, if your car has front wheel drive,
the CV boot of your axle could be worn out. This can
be a very dangerous problem. This is very dangerous
because if all of the grease in your CV boot leaks out,
the CV boot will snap. When it snaps, the tire falls either inward or outward, and y our car ends up basically
leaning on the tire and wheel (which is horizontal to the
ground) – not a good thing. Unfortunately, your CV boot
will snap whenever it does – meaning, you could be on a
side road or on the highway doing 85 miles per hour. At
the moment your CV boot snaps, your car stops dead. It
doesn’t care if you’re on the side street or the highway.
9
Fortunately, your CV boot almost always gives you a
warning – a click, click, click sound. If you hear a click,
click, clicking that sounds like it’s coming from a wheel
or tire, pull over, call whomever you trust with your car
and get an immediate appointment.
I can’t say this is the definitive list of why your car is
shaking, but it does cover the majority of the problems.
I have a saying that’s on the top of each of our newsletters, “The life of your car depends on your engine and
mechanics. Your life depends on your wheels, tires and
brakes.” Diagnosing a vibration problem can be simple
or complex. Remember to start on the ground (your
tires) and work your way up. The sooner you start this
process, the less expensive it’ll tend to be. People think
that they can “get away” with ignoring a vibration. It’s
a costly mistake.
In my next column, I’ll answer the following riddle:
How is driving on a bent wheel like a quiz show? ♦
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 29
continued from page 29
This year’s donations came from the following
Boston BMW CCA Supporters:
AphaCars
Bavarian AutoSport
Bentley Publishing
BMW Gallery of Norwell
BMW Gallery of Norwood
BMW of Newport
BMW of Peabody
Dent Wizard
Ed Pedi Photography
Foreign Motors West/Herb Chambers
Magical Meditaion
Rim and Wheel Works
Turner Motorsport
Wagner BMW ♦
Derek DeSousa, left, planned the evening
which included the silent auction
(pictured here), Great food, Autocross awards, And great desserts,
Larry Nicklas and Christo
Tinkov present Autocross
awards
30 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008
Hank Wallace is an
Autocross winner!
The Bimmer women: Gail Tanzer,
Ina Ames and Rachel Oglesby
enjoyed the evening, 2007 Fourth Quarter General Meeting
Reported by John Oglesby, Photos by Barry Tarr
M
embers who attended Boston Chapter’s
Fourth Quarter General Meeting at
BMW of Peabody were in for a great
evening. Held in Dec. of last year, the meeting
had an unusually large crowd with many
new faces not seen at our quarterly meetings
in the past, including members from as far
away as Albany, NY.
The guest speaker for the evening was
James Clay, the owner of Bimmerworld.
James runs a successful business supplying
parts and accessories for BMWs from his
Virginia business as well as running a
successful Speed Touring Car Championship
team.
James explained how his need for track
event funds led to a successful business startup that has grown to be a leading supplier of
BMW parts and accessories. A great example
of how your passion can lead to a great
career. He also told us how participating
in BMW Driving Schools like the ones the
Boston Chapter sponsors led him to become
an instructor and ultimately into professional
racing, which is quite an accomplishment.
James talked about the new Bimmerworld
racing team cars based on the new E90 chassis
and how they were the only people in the US
racing the E90. Others are running the E46
chassis and James explained that he now
knew why! He has struggled to make the
E90 competitive due to the rear suspension
geometry, but now thinks they have it figured
out – as demonstrated by their competitive
position at the end of the 2007 season.
Let’s all wish James Clay great 2008 Speed
Touring Car season, and you can follow his
team on Speed TV. ♦
James Clay
James Clay,
owner of
Bimmerworld
Relaxed refreshments
An Attentive
Audience
Prez John
Oglesby
BMW of Peabody’s shop
hosted a record crowd
A new car buffet?
Simon Cooper, Larry
Barieri and friend
www.boston-bmwcca.org | 31
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Boston Bimmer
Boston Chapter
BMW CCA
P.O. Box 51448
Boston, MA 02205-1448
32 | Boston Bimmer • Winter 2008