I looked at my 99, and checked my mom's 2000 Concorde as well over the weekend. They are indeed pulled away little in the upper rear curve of the front doors and upper front curve of the rear doors. That's a hard turn to make and hold, but the seat of the strip and/or the clips or adhesive should have been designed to hold it there. My 94 Dodge Ram is still in proper place.
I don't see any daylight at all. I can only push the strip about 1/4" to get back in the right place. Doesn't seem worth a 5* Dealer visit.
So, has anyone tried some 3M Yellow Weatherstrip adhesive to see if that will hold it in place? Anyone tried to fix on their own or decided to leave it alone?
My 5* is replacing mine tomorrow. He told me that the new strips are a newer design (probably for 01's) and fit better. If it's covered under warranty I'd say go get it done. Just a warning though. They were on back-order for about a month.
I did the license plate mod yesterday, in all it took about 20 minutes, and about an hour browsing at the pep boys prior.
At first I didn't understand why anyone would mod the license plate. But after the first wash, I noticed how poorly Chrysler placed the front plate holder to overlap the lower chrome on the grill. What a piss poor design!
The new plate mod looks great. Now when I see an M on the road I look at the front plate to see if they have done the mod. If it doesn't have it then I know they aren't part of this group.
For those who haven't done it. Go ahead free your grill of that hidious plate holder!
I too took the CHRYSLER door emblems off this past weekend and am trying to decide if I want to remove the one on the the trunk. I used "goo gone" to remove the adhesive residue left behind the letters, and this worked great.
scotian- Thanks for the great info on the license plate mod. I also did that this past weekend and it looks 100% better being able to see the full ring of chrome around the front grill.
This is the Email I recieved from Tirerack reguarding the Vibration caused by their springs.
Antonio I have contacted Steve at H&R, they have been in touch with their home office in Germany & are working on a "Fix" to this problem, They suspect it is related to the driveline angle created by the lowering & is expecting to get a idea on how to resolve this sometime next week.
Please check back with me toward the end of next week. THanks MARTIN 800-428-8355 ext 324
ok..where do I find out about the front plate holder mod? My plates are on the way, and I HATE the fact that they installed a big plastic blob on my front bumper.
a NEW COMPUTER! After weeks of agonizing over what to get, I am finally with Computer and the due date is April 18th. Spec's on the new baby: 1.3gHZ processor, 128MB SDRAM (400mHz) BUS speed), 16x CD/DVD, 12x/8x/32x CD-RW re-writable drive, US Robotics v.90/56K Telephony modem, Altec Lansing ACS340 speaker w/subwoofer, 80GB Hard drive, 32MB NVIDIA AGP graphics card,17" monitor, SB Live Digital Sound card, Windows Me, and assorted other software. Maybe now I'll be able to run more thn one app at a time. Dustin Sorry about not responding to your ? about Bose/Yamaha Home Theater System. Been a tad busy with my Mom's surgery, etc. So far, only have a cd player hooked up, and am busily playing with all the DSP's that the Yamaha RX-V800 has. Linda (my S.O.) is partial to the Jazz Club mode..lots of bass. Have played with hooking dem Bose up to my puny 27" Zenith to see what the speakers sound like--not too shabby, I'd say. To all new posters--welcome from Glenn- the Doctor of Pixology, Creator of Membership packages, co-webMMMaster of "this thing of ours", and other duties as required. To all my 'old' friends, a fine howdy-doo from soggy Noo Yawk!
First and only response to the above comment: First, if you were to check other car clubs (PT Cruiser comes to mind..) they charge a heck of a lot more for dues and give you.....BUBkis, nada, zippo, zero, goose-egg, nuttin'. That decal took a bit of time to create as others here will testify to. As the creator/originator (with some help from Shane's wife Bonnie and Brent..) it is an excellent way for those of us who chose to join the Chrysler 300m Enthusiast's Club to advertise an organization about, by and for 300m owners. From the responses back to me, our members seem to really like the idea. What would YOU have us give to the members of OUR club? I guess a nice leather jacket with an embroidered 300m on the back in six colors would have been nice; or maybe a t-shirt or even a cap. But like many start-up organizations, we are limited to what we can afford and do for our members - at least limited for the present. Many of us - myself included - have given untold hours of time and effort to make the Club what it is today: an informative, professional and friendly group of 'goobs' who share a common bond--our 300m's. In my VHO, for you to make such comments was unkind, and I'm surprised and that you would do so. On the other hand, I respect your right to post your comments, because in this country we all (still) have that right.
I expressed this opinion on that site the other day. Why does DC spend money on these designs. It's hard enough tring to get a regular PT. They should spend thier money in other needed places, like build quailty.
When I put the remote start on my 300M, I lost my autostick control. It's back now. Seemed the installer just didn't splice in the wire for the autostick switch. All is good now.
Sorry for stepping up on the soap-box, mykem, but I'm just a tad on the edge today. Normally, I wouldn't respond to such comments, and though I know the author I thought it was inappropriate considering the amount of time and effort we've all put in. This is NOT to be missconstrued as a complaint, either. It was just my very personal opinion. Mine - like many others here - is a true labor of love; and I for one am very proud of what we've acomplished in such a short time.In less than a year, we have gone from the original 'porno black' web site to a full blown, registered in the great State of Colorado and have international membership (..okay, one member, but that qualifies for bragging rights, yes?!..) Club. It has been my singular pleasure to have met and made so many new friends (even the author of the message I was referring to..) and acquaintances as a result of this forum AND OUR Club; and I am honored and proud to have played a small role in the creation of it. In my opnion, the best is yet to come! As for YOUR decal, you should be receiving it soon, if you haven't already. In other news, I found out this morning that my youngest daughter, Lisa has PASSED her driving test, and can now --- GASP --- legally drive eMily! This weekend, we will be car-shopping, most likely a Volkswagen Jetta (No Teutonic remarks, Roger!...). Wine-making news: It will soon be nice enough to re-start my neighborhood's evening wine/cheese, pepperoni gala's. {Legal disclaimer follows--->} I will not be responsible for any slurred typing while under the influence of any home-brewed beverages while in either of the Club's two chatrooms{<---end of disclaimer} Thanks and have a Mphatically good day, Doc
I received my 300M club decal, and it looks great! I put it in the lower right front corner of the windshield, just above the parked wiper blade. Shows up real well!
As discussed in the 300m club chat room last night, I called the local 5* about obtaining a DRBIII handheld computer diagnostic device.
"Not for sale".
The parts guy wanted one himself and they would sell one to him either.
Basically, he said this is a Patented Chrysler device, they don't want "out on the market". Also, it is a dumb unit out of the box and must be "relearned" on a regular basis to keep up with updates from Chrysler Engineering. The dealer has somekind of master computer linked up with Chrysler and the DRBIIIs connect to it for the updates, so having one would be worthless without access to the programs.
The DRBIII is nothing like the DRBII I was shown by my Dodge Dealer in 1994, which was a stand alone unit.
The part dept mentioned some other products on the market that are basically high dollar scantools. I guess I'll have to wait for Autotap (www.autotap.com).
There are somethings, like the transmission relearn we were talking about the other day, that we have to go to the dealer to have done, because the service manual says a DRBIII is required and to follow the instructions on the DRBIII to complete the test/procedure.
Picked up Goldilocks yesterday afternoon and the experience of driving her home was well worth the anticipated wait. Sitting in the drivers seat while the sales rep was showing me all the operation features, I looked at my wife and knew she was thinking and wishing the same thing I was about the rep. "Get the hell out of the car, we want to drive it". Finally he left, and I took off up Route1/9 in New Jersey and headed home. Goldilocks didn't disappoint me and when I finally parked her in the driveway, all I said to myself was "nice sled". Hopefully today, the Zaino arrives and since they're forecasting nice weather through Monday, I should be able to apply a couple of coats and get Goldilocks and prettied up for Easter. They applied a little to much Armoral on the wheels and sort of greased up the chrome but this will be taken care of asap. Speaking of Zaino, will the Z7 be good enough for the first wash or should the dawn process be used, got to admit I'm a little leery. Definitely considering a black bra for her (only fitting) and also the front license plate mod. Also today a check goes out to Roger for the 300M club membership. You folks were great and all the information you provided in your posts assured me the 01M was a great car and now not even 1 day old, I have to agree. Will try to post pictures this weekend right after the "Z" treatment.
Tried to post this yesterday and it did not take. I have seen some interest in "blue lights" and found them listed on the site where my spoiler came from. [The spoiler is superb and the paint is as good as the factory stuff.] Anyway,the site is WWW.dawn-ent.com and I don't know if the bulbs are compatible with what we are running in the M, or whether the prices are good or bad. They say most bulbs are under $15 each and are sold in pairs. Anyway, thought I would post this. Are the blue just an appearance improvement, or do they really help with the night vision? What would be a reasonable installation cost if done at a 5*?
racefan are you still spanking them Mustangs? I raced one today, not the newest model, the previous generation 4.6L GT. Not known to be a really quick one. I spanked it on the highway starting at 80mph. Then we got into traffic lights. I spanked him twice from 0mph, but it seemed that he did not try very hard. The third time, he did something different because his performance improved: when the light turned green, I jumped ahead of him but then he gained and we were shoulder to shoulder for a while, then he moved ahead by 3-4 feet, then he could not gain any more. Then there was a lot of traffic ahead of us and we slowed down.
Most places I've read is that they're usually not legal even if they claim to be.
Second, the only improvement seen is a step backward in seeing in front of you. Blue is probably one of the worst colors to make your headlamps. Purple follows behind blue.
If you want to see what a true Xenon kit costs, go to www.hids4less.com
I don't think they make the bulb for the 300M/LHS though.
Congratulations! Glad you love the M! Go with the full wash starting with the Dawn. You'll be glad you did. The Dawn won't hurt the paint in any way. If you're gonna do it, do it right! The Zaino shine will blow you away. Once you get the layers of Zaino built up like I have (My M will be a year old on May 19th) it will look even better! People still ask me if it's a new car, and with the Zaino leather products used inside the cockpit, it smells like one too!
Your Zaino package will come with detailed instructions on how to prepare and treat your car for the first time. The Dawn is an acidic cleaner that will remove any oil or wax buildup on the car. The Zaino loves working directly with the paint. I got mine yesterday and only had time to do my wheels last night. Nice look. Just FYI, here is a picture of Big Red with her front end "female support device" (grin)....actually just the hood cover. It's $49 and has already saved me some nicks.
I also just removed the front license plate holder in preparation for doing the mods. I've ordered two chrome 300m holders, so I'll post pictures of how Scotian's mod works with the chrome brackets. Oh, and today I'm going to Ed Hanson's performance exhaust shop to spec out the exhaust mods I'm going to do. He's "the guy" in Southern California and he already has some good ideas about how to make Big Reg growl without increasing the cabin noise too much. I'm taking him the information about Roger's and Michael's mods as a starting point. He has already told me he'd like to put a quieter 4 chamber in the rear than the Rhino, and put Borla open tips on the rear. He says that setup is less restrictive than the Monza tips. hey, he's the expert, right? I'll post info and pictures like others have done before me.
Again joey, congrats on the car. I hope you and your wife enjoy it as much as we enjoy ours.
I supply these to the dealers, and may be able to get one for you. If I can get it I could only have it updated once, so future update what be up to you (begging your dealer to update it for you). I am the District Manager for Pentastar Service Equipment, the secrets out, as well as a few other large o.e.'s. Let me check on selling this to an independent shop. If I can than you would be able to purchase it, as we would just pass the sale through the independent. I should be in the office latter today and will check it out.
i knew you'd learn how to drive the m, now that you're spending more quality time with it. see it's not that hard is it??? i left a new one from 45-90 then i slowed it back down, they can hang on start and usually get ahead a nose but once i hit 45 i'm gone. the duals and spoiler attract all the kiddies HEEE!!!
Soften the adhesive with a hairdrier, then take some cotton sewing thread, doubled if necessary for strength, slip it behind the edge of the emblem, and slide it up and down with a sawing motion. It cuts right thru the adhesive, doesn't scratch the paint, and saves breaking a nail.
I used a product called "Goof Off", available at most hardware stores, to remove the remainder of the adhesive from the car. I think it's lighter fluid in disguise. No runs, no drips, no errors.
I said this jokingly to sdmike2, but if there's enough interest, I'd be happy to do a 300M Dual Exhaust clinic at the Monterey Rendezvous in August.
Cutting the right side notch in the rear valance panel is the most daunting part of the job. If there's sufficient interest, I'll bring along my RotoZip and Dremel Tool and make up a fool-proof template. You can cut out your notch, then take your "box of parts" to your local muffler guy and he can complete the installation for you. I have a set of instructions that anyone can follow.
Maybe someone else could do a cone air filter clinic. That's probably my next modification. Any takers?
I've never been able to cut a perfect line with my dremmel. I would guess that using thick plastic as a template would be better than aluminum foil, as the plastic could help you keep your lines straight. How did you manage to cut everything the way you wanted?
Actually, neither can I. Luckily the valance composite material (read: plastic) sands very easily. I cut inside the lines and hand sanded out to them. You can even bevel the edges inward so there is less of the edge visible.
To do an absulutely clean job, the left notch can be cut out to match the right and you can use door edge guard welting to finish the cut edges on both sides. I didn't do that (yet) but might later just to complete the illusion. For me with my slate color, the stock black welting would work fine. For other colors, you would have the problem of color matching if that level of detail were important to you.
For those of you busily removing emblems & letters form your 300Ms: Try 3M General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner, part # 08984. This is not only an excellent adhesive remover, but also removes tar, silicone, wax and grease without harming the paint.
The 300M bra on Big Red looks really sweet. I think the 300M emblem makes it. Loving wife really likes it too so, let me know where you can purchase it. I think that with all the black trim already on Goldilocks, it will really look sharp. Where did you go for the chrome plates? I have a Pep boys right around the corner and somebody already posted that they got theirs there (not sure about the 300M logo). But to be honest a little 300M plug on the chrome is what I'm looking for. Look at me, not even 30 miles on Goldilocks and I'm dressing her up. The Zaino came UPS today around 4:30 and tomorrow we do the dawn wash and a little ZI and Z2. If all goes well, sometime down the road, the 91 LSC will get a new black paint job and the "Z" treatment. Then we'll have two mint cars that we both fell in love with.
Forgot to ask, with the "Z" wash (#7), is a chamois to dry the car obsolete? I've used one since I bought my first car ('76 Fiat) . Always liked the results of how it sucked up the water. But you can buy a hell of a lot of cotton towels for the price of a good-sized chamois.
I just got back home after an emergency 7-hour road trip from Delaware to Pennsylvania in the M. This car is driving me absolutely nuts. Same rattles & creaks if not more. Beckoning road roar from the terribly loud badyears and their singing tread. I now am putting a bottle of aspirin in the console after the headache I got from riding in the damn car; smartly, I brought my ear plugs and they helped to some extent. This time the wife drove (it is her car) and I decided I'd try it out in the back seat the entire trip-not a good idea! In the back the ride is bouncier and rougher and it's very noisy (yeah, like it isn't in the front!)-on a highway with some bumps or broken pavement (all of them are like this) the M bounces, wiggles, bangs, and clunks (or at least it does so in the back). I think this car is like our 97' Grand Voyager-sort of nice and smooth with good seats in the front but very different in the back; very strange. Anyone else notice a less than stellar ride on the highway without PHG? Then, when the road turned smooth and new, presto, the car was velvety and powerful with terrific handling and control. I don't think this car likes us. What is a 300M with PHG and the Michelins like on the highway? Are they quieter/smoother or noisier/harsher?
Well, more on the trip. The whole way up to PA I saw not a single M. When I arrived in our hometown there was once again not a single M in two days--strange because a lot of people there bought 300's and LHS's back when the first were being built and shipped. Being unique was great though. One thing I like about this car is the looks and stares it gets. It was like I was driving a million-dollar exotic roadster! Coming home was a different story. People were still rubbernecking on the highway just to get a look at this car and I saw more of them. In mid-Maryland coming home today I first saw my car's twin on the side of the road with its 4-ways on (my son couldn't help but joke when he said something probably blew up and it was dead). Then, a steel blue y2k M passed me and the next car right behind it was a shale green M, both with chrome wheels and a sunroof. The green one disappeared but I saw the blue one for about another 15 miles. One impression- I liked the emerald color on a 300M but didn't feel the same about the steel blue. Some may like it but I think it makes the car look cheap and isn't very pretty.
While in PA I had a chance to experiance my mother's 1999 Olds Intrigue. She has an early 99' model with the old 3.8 V-6. This car really doesn't look that bad and has a much better coat of paint than my Chrysler. Driven down the same street, the Intrigue hit deep potholes and made only a muted thump and remained composed without any other unecessary noises while the M rattled, creaked, and clunked. I think the two cars have equal rigidity ratings of 21 hertz but the Olds just felt tighter and more screwed together--even though it had 21,000 well-weathered miles (my mother drives like a nut) and the y2k slate 300M just rolled over to 7,000. Sure, the inside of the Intigue has some very cheap looking bits but they're all put together tightly. Plus, with the more upright cabin, the front seemed more roomy and was easier to get in and out of. Handling of both cars was identical as with the ride. Another plus was the terrific firm cloth seats; I never had nor wanted leather in a car before and wished the M had a discount/delete option for it. The Olds may not look just as ritzy or have as many features (it was just the base GX) but for the money this car is terrific. Too bad that if a part of GM had to go down it turned out to be Oldsmobile. They have what I think are the best cars in all of GM.
One last thing, with the sunroof open and the windows cracked, the wind noise is absolutely outrageous. I'm thinking that wind deflectors would help a lot but am not sure which ones are best. I think those snap-in ones from macneilauto.com would be best but am not sure. What about a sunroof visor/deflector? Do these help much in the wind issue?
I use a highway to commute to Miami that runs along the edge of everglades. It is kind of too remote for most commuters who normally take I-75. But it is quite popular with all kinds of trucks. Due to that the road surface is not very smooth - pitted, little pebbles here and there, some weird groves, ruts, chunks of asphalt or concrete that fell off some trucks and hardened, etc. My 300M is equipped with PHP. The road noise is there but it does not seem to bother me. The stereo usually takes that problem away.
My 300M is still super solid and smooth on this road, all the way up to 120mph (I have not expored speeds past that)
You didn't say how many miles are on your M, but if it is still under warranty you have a chance at a N/C replacement. One of your posts said the dealer said you were about ready for brake pads. You might offer to pay for the pads if they get the rotors covered. Rotors should not warp unless you abuse the brakes. It is a common N/C repair, and the dealer can get it covered if he wants to as a "customer satisfaction" repair. Ask nicely but firmly! Good luck!
just came back from a trip a weekago Pismo Beach to San Diego to Phoenix. I had my first chance to ride in the back seat(my father drove a streach) and it was really confortable. The only thing I would like for the back is adjustable height sholder belts, like the front has. By the way I had a time getting my day out of the drivers seat, he really liked going 90-95 on the interstate. He said he didn't realize he was going so fast (yea right!). I got my new tail lights (01's) installed, the only thing I have to do is rewire (brighen when the brakes are applied) the center bulb, so it acts like the other two. rogor, are we going to have time to drive up hwy1, with all the clinics (exhaust, zaino, emblem removel, intakes, and others that are sure to come up) you are thinking of haveing. Maybe we should rent out a shop that has a lift and all the other tools we need to work on all of our 300M's:) We could do a 300M hunt contest, take pics of all the 300M's we can find in Montrey, the one with the most pictures wins.
99_300_m_ric_va: The cost is substantial ($2K) off the top of my head. I was in the office for about five minutes today and forgot to check on selling to a non-CPDJ dealer. I will get more info on Monday. I personally see no reason to own unless you want to diagnose your own vehicle.
ottoworker: I' not employed by DC. I'm independently contracted by them to represent their Dealer Equipment program. I carry a Pentastar Service Equipment card w/ a warren address, but my own office phone number on it. I layout all their new service facilities and manage the sale of equipment for these facilities as well as existing facilities.
Thanks for the compliment. I think that hood cover with the emblem is very sharp. I got it from my local 5* dealer. I just had to call around to 3 or 4 of them before I found someone that had it in stock. The others said they could get it for me in a couple of days. It was $49 plus tax.
Here is the link to where I got the license plate frames. I paid something like $28 each for them. You'll see right there on the main page a gold version (more expensive) of the 300M frame.
About your Zaino question... all I've gotten to so far has been the leather treatment and the tire treatment. Both are great, although my dash sucked down about a pint of the leather treatment! I'm taking a bike trip out in the desert tomorrow, so the Zaino will have to wait until Sunday for me. I won't have much information on any of the products until then. Man, I need to put a bike rack on Big Red but I don't have the heart to do so. At least my mountain bike is black and red. )
Finally, I took Big Red to Ed Hanson Muffler in Spring Valley today to discuss the mods I wanted. I took Roger & Michael's drawings and descriptions and Ed was very impressed by what you guys have done. He had some suggestions how we might change things a bit, so I'll let you know how it goes. The guys in the shop, including Ed, were falling all over themselves looking at Big Red. Ed told me that he knew exactly what to do to give her a soothing tone rather than an annoying one. I thought it was funny when I pulled into the parking lot and saw an Imperial Red PT Cruiser with gorgeous dual chrome exhaust...and realized it was ED'S car! Boy did that sound nice. He said he wants to do my car personally. ) So, what we're doing is using the same Magnaflow 12258 collector as Michael and Roger, but instead of using the Rhino 921 in the back we're going to use a Dynomax 17739. It's a bit quieter and does an excellent job of removing unwanted resonation. Then we're going to finish off the back with dual Lexus angled, rolled chrome tips...offset to contour to the body. It's what he has on his PT and it looks outstanding. They're oval and very nice looking. The car goes in on Wedneday, so I should have the whole rundown on Wednesday night.
i have the dynomax on back with the magnaflow up front, very nice setup and you'll be the first to try it. i have the monza pacesetter tips, i like the slash cut chrome gives it a true North American muscle car look. i've said if i had it to do again i would use rolled tipped. now if you can get some neon under big red you'll be cool like me. heee haaaaww ))
Comments
I don't see any daylight at all. I can only push the strip about 1/4" to get back in the right place. Doesn't seem worth a 5* Dealer visit.
So, has anyone tried some 3M Yellow Weatherstrip adhesive to see if that will hold it in place? Anyone tried to fix on their own or decided to leave it alone?
At first I didn't understand why anyone would mod the license plate. But after the first wash, I noticed how poorly Chrysler placed the front plate holder to overlap the lower chrome on the grill. What a piss poor design!
The new plate mod looks great. Now when I see an M on the road I look at the front plate to see if they have done the mod. If it doesn't have it then I know they aren't part of this group.
For those who haven't done it. Go ahead free your grill of that hidious plate holder!
Brian
scotian-
Thanks for the great info on the license plate mod. I also did that this past weekend and it looks 100% better being able to see the full ring of chrome around the front grill.
Antonio
I have contacted Steve at H&R, they have been in touch with their home office
in Germany & are working on a "Fix" to this problem, They suspect it is
related to the driveline angle created by the lowering & is expecting to get a
idea on how to resolve this sometime next week.
Please check back with me toward the end of next week.
THanks
MARTIN
800-428-8355 ext 324
Mike
1.3gHZ processor, 128MB SDRAM (400mHz) BUS speed), 16x CD/DVD, 12x/8x/32x CD-RW re-writable drive, US Robotics v.90/56K Telephony modem, Altec Lansing ACS340 speaker w/subwoofer, 80GB Hard drive, 32MB NVIDIA AGP graphics card,17" monitor, SB Live Digital Sound card, Windows Me, and assorted other software. Maybe now I'll be able to run more thn one app at a time.
Dustin Sorry about not responding to your ? about Bose/Yamaha Home Theater System. Been a tad busy with my Mom's surgery, etc. So far, only have a cd player hooked up, and am busily playing with all the DSP's that the Yamaha RX-V800 has. Linda (my S.O.) is partial to the Jazz Club mode..lots of bass. Have played with hooking dem Bose up to my puny 27" Zenith to see what the speakers sound like--not too shabby, I'd say.
To all new posters--welcome from Glenn- the Doctor of Pixology, Creator of Membership packages, co-webMMMaster of "this thing of ours", and other duties as required. To all my 'old' friends, a fine howdy-doo from soggy Noo Yawk!
Regards,
Glenn
What would YOU have us give to the members of OUR club? I guess a nice leather jacket with an embroidered 300m on the back in six colors would have been nice; or maybe a t-shirt or even a cap.
But like many start-up organizations, we are limited to what we can afford and do for our members - at least limited for the present. Many of us - myself included - have given untold hours of time and effort to make the Club what it is today: an informative, professional and friendly group of 'goobs' who share a common bond--our 300m's.
In my VHO, for you to make such comments was unkind, and I'm surprised and that you would do so. On the other hand, I respect your right to post your comments, because in this country we all (still) have that right.
Where's my decal! If he's a member and doesn't want it, I'll take his!
-m
Mine - like many others here - is a true labor of love; and I for one am very proud of what we've acomplished in such a short time.In less than a year, we have gone from the original 'porno black' web site to a full blown, registered in the great State of Colorado and have international membership (..okay, one member, but that qualifies for bragging rights, yes?!..) Club.
It has been my singular pleasure to have met and made so many new friends (even the author of the message I was referring to..) and acquaintances as a result of this forum AND OUR Club; and I am honored and proud to have played a small role in the creation of it. In my opnion, the best is yet to come!
As for YOUR decal, you should be receiving it soon, if you haven't already.
In other news, I found out this morning that my youngest daughter, Lisa has PASSED her driving test, and can now --- GASP --- legally drive eMily!
This weekend, we will be car-shopping, most likely a Volkswagen Jetta (No Teutonic remarks, Roger!...).
Wine-making news: It will soon be nice enough to re-start my neighborhood's evening wine/cheese, pepperoni gala's. {Legal disclaimer follows--->} I will not be responsible for any slurred typing while under the influence of any home-brewed beverages while in either of the Club's two chatrooms{<---end of disclaimer}
Thanks and have a Mphatically good day,
Doc
I put it in the lower right front corner of the windshield, just above the parked wiper blade. Shows up real well!
Well, it takes all kinds.
http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumIndex?u=1280646&a=9486000&f=0
DRBIII handheld computer diagnostic device.
"Not for sale".
The parts guy wanted one himself and they would sell one to him either.
Basically, he said this is a Patented Chrysler device, they don't want "out on the market". Also, it is a dumb unit out of the box and must be "relearned" on a regular basis to keep up with updates from Chrysler Engineering. The dealer has somekind of master computer linked up with Chrysler and the DRBIIIs connect to it for the updates, so having one would be worthless without access to the programs.
The DRBIII is nothing like the DRBII I was shown by my Dodge Dealer in 1994, which was a stand alone unit.
The part dept mentioned some other products on the market that are basically high dollar scantools. I guess I'll have to wait for Autotap (www.autotap.com).
There are somethings, like the transmission relearn we were talking about the other day, that we have to go to the dealer to have done, because the service manual says a DRBIII is required and to follow the instructions on the DRBIII to complete the test/procedure.
Oh well, I tried.
the operation features, I looked at my wife and knew she was thinking and wishing the same thing I was about the rep. "Get the hell out of the car, we want to drive it".
Finally he left, and I took off up Route1/9 in New Jersey and headed home. Goldilocks didn't disappoint me and when I finally parked her in the driveway, all I said to myself was "nice sled".
Hopefully today, the Zaino arrives and since they're forecasting nice weather through Monday, I should be able to apply a couple of coats and get Goldilocks and prettied up for Easter.
They applied a little to much Armoral on the wheels and sort of greased up the chrome but this will be taken care of asap. Speaking of Zaino, will the Z7 be good enough for the first wash or should the dawn process be used, got to admit I'm a little leery.
Definitely considering a black bra for her (only fitting) and also the front license plate mod. Also today a check goes out to Roger for the 300M club membership.
You folks were great and all the information you provided in your posts assured me the 01M was a great car and now not even 1 day old, I have to agree.
Will try to post pictures this weekend right after the "Z" treatment.
Thanks,
Joey
new toy out there
240 horsepower, baby!
http://www.nissannews.com check the new 2002 Altima
http://www.nissandriven.com go to the 2002 Altima
Second, the only improvement seen is a step backward in seeing in front of you. Blue is probably one of the worst colors to make your headlamps. Purple follows behind blue.
If you want to see what a true Xenon kit costs, go to www.hids4less.com
I don't think they make the bulb for the 300M/LHS though.
Just my 1/50th of a dollar
-m
Big Red's Bra
I also just removed the front license plate holder in preparation for doing the mods. I've ordered two chrome 300m holders, so I'll post pictures of how Scotian's mod works with the chrome brackets. Oh, and today I'm going to Ed Hanson's performance exhaust shop to spec out the exhaust mods I'm going to do. He's "the guy" in Southern California and he already has some good ideas about how to make Big Reg growl without increasing the cabin noise too much. I'm taking him the information about Roger's and Michael's mods as a starting point. He has already told me he'd like to put a quieter 4 chamber in the rear than the Rhino, and put Borla open tips on the rear. He says that setup is less restrictive than the Monza tips. hey, he's the expert, right? I'll post info and pictures like others have done before me.
Again joey, congrats on the car. I hope you and your wife enjoy it as much as we enjoy ours.
Mike
-m
CRAIG
Race
I used a product called "Goof Off", available at most hardware stores, to remove the remainder of the adhesive from the car. I think it's lighter fluid in disguise. No runs, no drips, no errors.
Cutting the right side notch in the rear valance panel is the most daunting part of the job. If there's sufficient interest, I'll bring along my RotoZip and Dremel Tool and make up a fool-proof template. You can cut out your notch, then take your "box of parts" to your local muffler guy and he can complete the installation for you. I have a set of instructions that anyone can follow.
Maybe someone else could do a cone air filter clinic. That's probably my next modification. Any takers?
You can see my duals installation at: http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumIndex?u=934019&a=9266730&f=0
To do an absulutely clean job, the left notch can be cut out to match the right and you can use door edge guard welting to finish the cut edges on both sides. I didn't do that (yet) but might later just to complete the illusion. For me with my slate color, the stock black welting would work fine. For other colors, you would have the problem of color matching if that level of detail were important to you.
Try 3M General Purpose Adhesive Cleaner, part # 08984.
This is not only an excellent adhesive remover, but also removes tar, silicone, wax and grease without harming the paint.
The 300M bra on Big Red looks really sweet. I think the 300M emblem makes it.
Loving wife really likes it too so, let me know where you can purchase it. I think that with all the black trim already on Goldilocks, it will really look sharp. Where did you go for the chrome plates? I have a Pep boys right around the corner and somebody already posted that they got theirs there (not sure about the 300M logo). But to be honest a little 300M plug on the chrome is what I'm looking for.
Look at me, not even 30 miles on Goldilocks and I'm dressing her up.
The Zaino came UPS today around 4:30 and tomorrow we do the dawn wash and a little ZI and Z2. If all goes well, sometime down the road, the 91 LSC will get a new black paint job and the "Z" treatment. Then we'll have two mint cars that we both fell in love with.
Forgot to ask, with the "Z" wash (#7), is a chamois to dry the car obsolete? I've used one since I bought my first car ('76 Fiat) . Always liked the results of how it sucked up the water. But you can buy a hell of a lot of cotton towels for the price of a good-sized chamois.
Well, more on the trip. The whole way up to PA I saw not a single M. When I arrived in our hometown there was once again not a single M in two days--strange because a lot of people there bought 300's and LHS's back when the first were being built and shipped. Being unique was great though. One thing I like about this car is the looks and stares it gets. It was like I was driving a million-dollar exotic roadster! Coming home was a different story. People were still rubbernecking on the highway just to get a look at this car and I saw more of them. In mid-Maryland coming home today I first saw my car's twin on the side of the road with its 4-ways on (my son couldn't help but joke when he said something probably blew up and it was dead). Then, a steel blue y2k M passed me and the next car right behind it was a shale green M, both with chrome wheels and a sunroof. The green one disappeared but I saw the blue one for about another 15 miles. One impression- I liked the emerald color on a 300M but didn't feel the same about the steel blue. Some may like it but I think it makes the car look cheap and isn't very pretty.
While in PA I had a chance to experiance my mother's 1999 Olds Intrigue. She has an early 99' model with the old 3.8 V-6. This car really doesn't look that bad and has a much better coat of paint than my Chrysler. Driven down the same street, the Intrigue hit deep potholes and made only a muted thump and remained composed without any other unecessary noises while the M rattled, creaked, and clunked. I think the two cars have equal rigidity ratings of 21 hertz but the Olds just felt tighter and more screwed together--even though it had 21,000 well-weathered miles (my mother drives like a nut) and the y2k slate 300M just rolled over to 7,000. Sure, the inside of the Intigue has some very cheap looking bits but they're all put together tightly. Plus, with the more upright cabin, the front seemed more roomy and was easier to get in and out of. Handling of both cars was identical as with the ride. Another plus was the terrific firm cloth seats; I never had nor wanted leather in a car before and wished the M had a discount/delete option for it. The Olds may not look just as ritzy or have as many features (it was just the base GX) but for the money this car is terrific. Too bad that if a part of GM had to go down it turned out to be Oldsmobile. They have what I think are the best cars in all of GM.
One last thing, with the sunroof open and the windows cracked, the wind noise is absolutely outrageous. I'm thinking that wind deflectors would help a lot but am not sure which ones are best. I think those snap-in ones from macneilauto.com would be best but am not sure. What about a sunroof visor/deflector? Do these help much in the wind issue?
I got a couple of questions.
1) Can I use it for my families other 1996+ Chrysler products? (96 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2000 Concorde, and my 1999 300M)
2) What does it cost?
3) Is it worth having if it costs a lot? Cheaper to just let the dealer work on my car?
all i'm hearing is "chi-ching"
My 300M is still super solid and smooth on this road, all the way up to 120mph (I have not expored speeds past that)
One of your posts said the dealer said you were about ready for brake pads. You might offer to pay for the pads if they get the rotors covered.
Rotors should not warp unless you abuse the brakes. It is a common N/C repair, and the dealer can get it covered if he wants to as a "customer satisfaction" repair. Ask nicely but firmly!
Good luck!
I got my new tail lights (01's) installed, the only thing I have to do is rewire (brighen when the brakes are applied) the center bulb, so it acts like the other two.
rogor, are we going to have time to drive up hwy1, with all the clinics (exhaust, zaino, emblem removel, intakes, and others that are sure to come up) you are thinking of haveing. Maybe we should rent out a shop that has a lift and all the other tools we need to work on all of our 300M's:) We could do a 300M hunt contest, take pics of all the 300M's we can find in Montrey, the one with the most pictures wins.
ottoworker: I' not employed by DC. I'm independently contracted by them to represent their Dealer Equipment program. I carry a Pentastar Service Equipment card w/ a warren address, but my own office phone number on it. I layout all their new service facilities and manage the sale of equipment for these facilities as well as existing facilities.
Here is the link to where I got the license plate frames. I paid something like $28 each for them. You'll see right there on the main page a gold version (more expensive) of the 300M frame.
About your Zaino question... all I've gotten to so far has been the leather treatment and the tire treatment. Both are great, although my dash sucked down about a pint of the leather treatment!
Finally, I took Big Red to Ed Hanson Muffler in Spring Valley today to discuss the mods I wanted. I took Roger & Michael's drawings and descriptions and Ed was very impressed by what you guys have done. He had some suggestions how we might change things a bit, so I'll let you know how it goes. The guys in the shop, including Ed, were falling all over themselves looking at Big Red. Ed told me that he knew exactly what to do to give her a soothing tone rather than an annoying one. I thought it was funny when I pulled into the parking lot and saw an Imperial Red PT Cruiser with gorgeous dual chrome exhaust...and realized it was ED'S car! Boy did that sound nice. He said he wants to do my car personally.
-Mike
Race's 300m