Console aluminium trim replacement

[powerontap]

I want to replace my aluminium trim on the center console but don't know how. I have the BMW TIS CD but just can't find the step-by-step procedure and tools required. Also, the trim I found doesn't have the two holes (sport/air bag) so I wondered if anyone has had the same situation and drilled the trim to accomodate. thanks

[Wondermike]

Have a look here http://www.z4-forum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=37399 it's not easy but it is possible. Sure you could drill the holes too, no problem.

[powerontap]

Well, this option is out of the question for me. No wonder the procedure is not on the TIS Dealer CD, even the engineers haven't figured out a practical way of replacing the trim!!!

Option B: Ayone found a way to visually reduce the scratches from that aluminium trim? Looks like there's a clear coat or something covering it. I've tried different delicate metal cleaners etc...but no positive results yet.

Option C: A flat dash kit. I know these won't completely cover the OEM pieces (stops before the curves), kind' of "two tone" appearance. Has anyone used this approach? aluminium over aluminim? or contrasting finishes?

[JackB1]

Well, this option is out of the question for me. No wonder the procedure is not on the TIS Dealer CD, even the engineers haven't figured out a practical way of replacing the trim!!!

Option B: Ayone found a way to visually reduce the scratches from that aluminium trim? Looks like there's a clear coat or something covering it. I've tried different delicate metal cleaners etc...but no positive results yet.

Option C: A flat dash kit. I know these won't completely cover the OEM pieces (stops before the curves), kind' of "two tone" appearance. Has anyone used this approach? aluminium over aluminim? or contrasting finishes?

20Ducks has a discussion going on right now covering this - check it out!

http://www.z4-forum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=4549


Best!
Jack

[powerontap]

Hey, first time I actually see what those aftermarket overlays look like when installed. I had samples of silver and balck carbon fiber samples shipped to me, but I wondered how the "framed look" of the aluminium under would look like once installed. I am seriously considering the silver carbon fiber overlays now that I've seen the pic of the woodgrain version posted. I think the moderate contrast between aluminium/silver carbon could look unique while keeping the sport look I am looking for.

[marriedblonde]

I've just ordered a replacement carbon dash for my coupe, it's for the dash, console and door pulls. It's a complete replacement.

Should be with me in about 10 days but I am off to thailand for 10 das after that so it wont be until June that Ipost up some pics.

J.

[Reach]

How much is a new carbon dash and panels? Aluminum? Part # for these anyone?

I might consider one day replacing my fading aluminum trim with the M 'carbon' stuff.

[powerontap]

Here are two of the links I have found: http://www.dashkit.com/classic/products ... index.html as well as http://burlwooddash.com/category/BMW_Z3Z4Z6_Dash_Kits.

The first one sells a kit that does not use a promoter (kind word for Crazy Glue), so it has a special 3M tape that doesn't need one. The benefit of this is that you can remove the trim in the future if you wish to do so. Almost every other brands of kits I found use the promoter in combination with double sided tape. So it's a PERMANENT installation. The pieces in back of the trim will be damaged if you remove them.

[Reach]

I was thinking of the oem pieces... curious if anyone has part #s.

[20ducks]

I was thinking of the oem pieces... curious if anyone has part #s.

Ebay has the center console listed for $99 plus S&H.