bmwe21.net forums

Hello all. I'm a fairly new member to the forum and an even newer owner of an E21 which I acquired last weekend, I'll post some pics up soon.

Final plans for the car are still undecided, currently flipping between full external restore (engine & running gear already changed but need work) and a resto-mod/track type approach. Whichever direction I go one thing remains, the need to restore a lot of the existing body and mechanicals, which leads me to my question (about time I hear you say!)...

(By the way, I'm planning to do as much of the work I can myself, re-spray and engine rebuild will be done professionally but everything else myself.)

Does anybody have or could provide a phased approach to the restoration process from a DIY point of view. What I'm thinking could be useful is the order of activity, what to remove/do first, second, third etc. and why? 'm sure there is a logical approach rather than just starting randomly.

I've already stripped the interior (except dash) and removed the rear subframe, diff and suspension. I was starting to strip the front end when I realised certain things would be easier with the engine out.

Rather long, rambling question I know but feel this could really benefit other new E21 owners looking to complete a restore.

Just look at the topic of Buschbertl, in the 6 cilinder part. He does a great job on a full restauration. Very detailed.

That's an amazing restoration and clearly he's a talented guy.

What I was really looking for was more of a checklist or order to complete tasks in with the least impact. For example something as simple as:

1. Remove all exterior trim
2. Remove all interior trim
3. Remove rear subframe, suspension etc.
4. Remove prop shaft
5. Remove fuel tanks
6. Remove engine and gearbox
7. Etc, etc.

I'm following this thead with interest , as I'm at the same stage , just bought a e21 baur with a 1.8 engine . Family think its a shed , I say its a classic , hoping to do a full nut and bolt referb . Antony