I didn't drive it much yesterday, so I can't say I noticed any difference, other than the sound.  The car comes OE with headers.  And I did the airbox debaffle, so the only restriction is the AFM flapper valve thing.  I'm going out this afternoon to get a couple of pictures and I will probably go find a local favorite twisty road.

looks hot Dean.

Thanks, as always.  Everytime I think I'm done, I think of soemthing else to do or add.  Next time I get the car in air I'll get a picture of the cat install.

Had the car in garage Saturday to do some items.

Changed the O2 sensor, the other one was probably original.  I figured after the exhaust install there might enough airflow change that a fresh probe might gain some efficiency. 

While on the exhaust topic, upon further review, it is loud, real loud.  The other day we took it around town for some errands, and in the 40-55 mph range it drones very noticeably.  On the highway it is OK, but getting there is a different story. 

Worked on trying to finish my braid brake line install, I got on section on.  I thought I had a good plan of attack, but I simply can't get the fitting loose where the line comes out of the fenderwell of the car without totally destroying it.  I'll have to come up with another plan.  I did install some Russell brand solo-bleed or speed bleeders on the calipers.  Very easy and very handy. 

While I was under the car I noticed that my guibo flex disc has a bunch of cracks in it.  I'm going to get that replaced.  A local shop quoted me $207 and that seems reasonable enough.  If I had a lift I think I would do it myself.

Still have a list of items to do, but that will be another day.   

I'll leave it alone for now.  Most of my drive to work is on the highway so it is not a big problem.

Because then you realise that you really NEED one of those chips.... It's not a question of willing, it's an obligation: you owe it to yourself and the car!

I was able, with some good help, to get a few maintenance items checked off this weekend.  Changed the plugs, changed the thermostat and flushed the coolant system and changed the crankcase ventilation valve on the intake manifold.  This last item seems to be one the best kept secrets in the M42 world.  As you stand at the front of car looking into the engine bay at the right rear corner of the intake manifold is a black plastic disk about 2 inches round.  It has one large vacuum line to it that comes from the back of the valve cover.  As it gets older you lose bottom end power.  Changed it and it idles smoother and the power off idle is improved.

went with Dinan instead of Conforti?  what's the advantage?

Tried the install last night and it didn't work.  It just cranked with out starting.  Re-checked everything and tried again, still nothing.  Put the old chip back in and started right up.  The Dinan specialist at the dealer said it is not uncommon on high mileage vehicles to need a shot of ether to going the first time.  Seems wierd, but I'll try it. 

It took the guy at the dealer about 10 minutes to reset the the EWS system.  So add another $86 to the mod and I'm Dinan equipped now.  Didn't get much of a chance to flog the car during lunch, so I'll let you know what I think later.

Daddy gets new shoes, Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S.  I got almost 50K out of my off brand disocunt set of tires, so I have big expectations now that I have a set of Michelins.  This is my first set ever, I'm kind of jazzed about.

The Dinan chip is oustanding.  My gas mileage is up and there is a noticeable increase in power.  I'm completely happy.

I sold the car today.  Good luck to the new owner.  It has been a great car for me.

To buy another BMW of course.

The young man that bought the car should be a good owner.  He was very patient with me while I found another car to buy.