I was looking at the Dynomax setup too, I am going to get the magnaflow for the front, but I'm getting the stainless steel flavor seeing as it's about $30 more but then I don't have to ever worry about it going bad on me. Also with the Dynomax, I noticed there is a Ultra Flow SS muffler that is stainless, and the only difference is that it is 18" in shell lenght instead of 19". But it seems to be a "race" muffler so I am assuming it doesn't have the same mellow sound. Anybody have any input? =D BTW- I had a few rattles in my dash and when I got my clock face in the mail yesterday (Sweet looking) I decided to start pulling the dash apart, I took the instrument panel out and the 2 electrical connectors seemed to just kinda flop where they sat in the plastic dash so I slid them out, put electrical tape where they slide into the dash and also electrical tape where the screws go through the instrument panel to hole id in place to act as a rubber dampner and all is quiet, maybe it was that, maybe it was that the screws are all on tighter now. Just thought I'd share that. Heh, that was a heck-of-a BTW..
i don't believe the dynomax ultra flow can be reversed, the super turbo is designed for two in and one out, but can be reversed, i looked into that when i got mine done. but get a second opinion.
I found some nice exhaust tips that are price pretty sweet. And the inside color matches my Dark Garnett Red, Sdmike, you might love the color even more...
And I think I'm gonna get stuck with stainless in the front, but not in the rear. I've found the 14258 (Stainless) for $121 but no avail on a good sounding rear stainless muffler. =(
Hmmm, Link it too long to post, well it's at carparts.com and check out page two of exhaust tips and they are made by headman hedders
For those of you lucky enought to go to the Monterey get-together, check out the "First Awakenings" for breakfast. It is in the American Tin Cannery outlet mall about a block N.E. from the Aquarium. It has great breakfast skillets, healthfoods, etc; but the reason I go is for the wheatgerm pancakes...best I've had, anywhere, EVER!! Huge and melt-in-your mouth.
Thanks again to everyone for the Zaino info. Also, has anyone measured the reduction in intake restriction using K&N air cleaners versus stock? Where does the reduction, if any come from; lower filtration efficiency or more surface area?
Thanks for the info on the Great Awakenings, as I am into nutrition. I hope they have vegaterian there too. As for the intake the K&N stock replacement filter has about half the surface area as the paper stock filter, but is much more free flowing. The stock box is restricted where the box connects to the inside fender wall. I may try to install another air access to it, to improve air flow. Some have drilled out some additional holes into the bottom of the box to do this, but then it sucks in hot air. If surface area is what you want then you have to go the cone filter type. They range usually up to 12" and will more then double the surface area. Ideally you want biggest surface area and coolest air comming in. I wish we had room for an intercooler.
I had a chance to look over my 01 tail lights, and only have one problem with them, the size. They seem to be a little smaller overall, by about 1/8". I had a little trouble installing them a first, most of the gap is at the bottom of the lights. One thing is all the bulbs (turn, backup, and brake lamps) are the same 3057's with two elements, even thogh most only use one, strange. I will have to make some make-shift connectors to make the lights do what I want them to do. One thing though check the orentiantion of the bulbs if you ever replace them. The bulbs if installed backward with give you reverse lighting (brake when regular lights should be on and brake lights when parking lights should be on.) If your turn or backup light is not bright enough or too bright revese the bulb.
I hope to work on a new air box configureation latter next week using the K&N replacement stock filter.
Just got back from a round trip with my Y2K M, 7000mi., PHG, with 17" Michelin's. Used interstates 89, 93, 24,495,24,138 to go from Burlinton,VT to Newport,RI. No squeeks, no rattles, no bumps in the dark. Only click, click over uneven pavement and pot holes. Total trip one way 484 miles and averaged 24.5 MPG @ 70-80 MPH.
Catguy: Thanks for the tip on First Awakenings. We've been hoping someone would come up with some restaurant recommendations. We want to schedule at least a pizza/beer party, group breakfast, and group dinner. Great Awakenings sounds like just the ticket for the breakfast. Anyone else familiar with the area?? We're open for suggestions.
300Michael - you bet we're all going to get all Zainoed up and caravan up Hwy 1. We definitely need someone with digital video capability so we can put some MPEGs on the web site when we get back. I like your idea about renting a shop. Any recommendations?? WRENCHING PARTY!! You're staying for the second week, aren't you??
Do alot of long-distance driving in my 2000 300M and we love the smooth ride --- but I greatly appreciate the fact that this car is NOT like driving a dowdy Lincoln Towncar. Got 28.4 MPG on US 95 from NJ to NC 3 weeks ago and routinely get over 26 in highway - and I can't help but do less than 75-80 in this car on those highways. And passing in this car is unbelieveable - just have to think it and the car in front of you is history. Anyone else getting this good mileage, or should I not believe the computer? The simple math I do at fill-up seems to bear it out. I got Goodyear tires, 17" I believe cause the fancy chrome wheels cost extra. The mileage on my 1 hr. commute (1/2 highway at 72 MPH and 1/2 country road behind the oldsters, dumptrucks and schoolbuses) is still a respectable 26.4 for the size of this car -- if I can believe. Love the moonroof, multi CD changer and those chrome wheels!
If you say you have that setup, how can I be the first to try it?
mrl859 - I was quoted $475 tops, including the two mufflers, 4 Lexus rolled chrome tips, and two custom made Y's for the rear to hold those tips. They're also doing madrel bent tubes from the rear muffler to the tips. It assumes that they can use the stock intermediate pipe, which I think I can. They're also getting me a K&N but I'm not sure of the price...my guess is around $35-$40.
Hatax - I'll check out those tips. I didn't like the yellow pacesetters, but red I might be able to live with (grin).
Technicall none of our exhaust mods are true duals, since the come back from the front collector in a single 2 1/2 inch pipe that goes into the second muffler. However, all of these setups are using high flow mufflers that let the engine breather MUCH better, AND we're removing one of the stock ones (the last one). Where the set-ups vary is how people are finishing off the the twin 2 1/2 pipes that come off the rear muffler (Rhino, Dynomax, etc.). I had wanted to run both of those pipes to the existing driver side bumper cutout and put a single chrome tip on each pipe. It would look like stock, but wouldn't have all the restrictions (or sound stock). When I saw how Ed (the muffler guy) did his red PT Cruiser I just had to do the same. He did a new cutout on the passenger side and split the two pipes into four at the end...and put 4 nice single tips on them. He finished of the cutouts with some very classy looking plastic trim. Once I saw the look I decided on the dual.
My M is only 3 weeks old now, and I'm getting around 17mpg in overall driving. I've seen my computer say 24 or 25 when on the freeway, but I don't get anywhere near what you're getting. I hear that the M engine breaks in nicely around 5,000 miles, so it's likely that you've done something it likes during the break-in period. Enjoy it! I'm hoping that the new air filter and exhaust will get me into the 25 range once the engine is broken in.
Rough, pot-holed roads and the M drives roughly. Smooth roads and it drives perfectly. Sounds just about right. I've never had a car that didn't bounce and shake over rough roads. My in-laws had a Cadillac TANK, er I mean Broughm that probably did the best, but it handled so muchy it wasn't even funny. You can't have it all. If you want low profile tires on a heavy car with a relatively tight suspension, that's the way it's gonna act. Performance means sacrifice if the sticker price is to be anywhere affordable. I've heard that the new grandma/grandpa special edition Caddys ride smoothly over rough roads!! ;-)
With our garbarge, Peoples Republic of California, environMENTAList wacko dictated, poor excuse for fuel you will probably see 25 only on a flat road at a constant 55 mph. Last summer on vacation, I got better mpg in my '96 Sable loaded down climbing mountains (out of the PRC) than I ever got here at home. The best I get around here in my Sable and LS is low 20's in mostly I-15 driving. Around town is in the high teens. Thanks to the AQMD!
I just got my M back from the 5*, ANd I have to rate them at about 4.5*. So far they have been pretty good. With only 1968 miles I got the srhinky weatherstripping replaced, and yep it looks right now.
I mentioned a touch of wind noise and the TSB on it (Although I hear the road more), they did the work anyway. According to the service report they insulated and weather stripped both front B Pillars.
I also told them about a slight vibration in the steering wheel when braking between 40 and 60MPH . They replaced the front rotors. He said they didn't even think about cutting them.
THe only thing they didn't get rith is the tiny rattle in the steering column, when it is set at a certain tilt. Even they they supposedly replaced the column shroud.
Speaking of warped rotors. I am a bit worried that at only 2000 miles They had to replace the rotors on my M because of warpage. Has anybody had it become reoccuring on there M?
THe reason I ask, is because the last car I had bore a similar problem. A 1994 Sedan Deville, after bringing it to a local brake/muffler place, suddenly began to get a very noticable vibration when braking between 45 and 60MPH. Brought it back 3 times and they kept recutting until it was half way decent! Eventually I had bring it to the dealer and they cured it, but only for about 1.5 Yrs later (This last March). I began feeling it again, so I traded in for the M. If it wasn't for that and the fact it had 90000 miles on it I think I would still have it. It ran like a top and rode smoooth. I guess thats why it is taking me some time to get used to the PHG, the road noise, and no visible corners on the car!
All in all I am pretty happy with my 2000 Steel Blue M with PHG. With these gas prices I get even happier when I go to the pumps. At times I still miss my "Big Red" Caddy, but the more I drive the M the farther and fewer they get.
Thanks to those who answered my questions on PHG and it needing more steering effort. I will eventually get use to it.
Brian, I had a mitsubishi galant that required a new set of rotors about every 10,000 miles. They couldn't seem to get the suspension/brakes set up in such a way that I didn't have problems. I personally think that they lied to me about replacing them several times, and when they did I think they replaced them with others from the same lot - increasing the chances of getting another set with bad metal. I hope you find it to be NON-recurring with your M. Good luck.
When you get your exhaust done next week, take plenty of pics. Also, take a pic of the PT Cruiser exhaust your installer has. I'd like to see it and see what inspired you so to go duals, instead of running everything to the stock side.
I'm glad you changed your mind. I think you'll be much happier.
For what it's worth beach15 - I've got a 99 non PHP. No rattles (except once - sunglasses in the glovebox was the culprit), no shrinking weatherstripping, no jerky transmission - unless you mean the downshift into first gear when stomping it - it does jerk your neck back then. Yes, it has road noise on concrete surfaces, but it's smooth and quiet on blacktop. I sort of knew about that from the test drive, and I was willing to live with it. As others have said, the stereo does a nice job of masking it.
I had a feeling that Chrysler was getting in way over their head when they brought out the 300M. Chryslers policy is to bring out a new car and make no major inprovements for the five years of the model run. That works for a family sedan where reliabilty is the overridng concern.
That does not work in the luxury end, whether entry or at the higher end. SO far, Chrysler has made no substantial improvements or added any high tech features. The sales figures reflect that. There is not one hi tech feature on the 300M. The Acura has a nav system, HID headlights and a 5 speed automatic. The 300M responds with chrome on the window mouldings. WHoppee. And now Acura is coming out with a 260 hp S version. Chrysler will proably fire back in 2002 with color keyed power window switches.
They showed a 300M special two year ago and so far nothing.
I am not attempting to trash the 300M. I own a 99 300M and its has been a very good car. But when a consumer, especially a techie, looks at a car for $32,000, they want the toys. The 300M has no toys, and worse yet is not that fast off the line. Not a good combo.
Imagine a 300M with 300 hp, a 5 speed ZF tranny, a built in NAV system and a few other goodies. Combine that with the terrifc passenger room and giant trunk and you have a killer. Alas, only a dream.
Does anyone have any idea where that guy got his 300M t-shirt he's selling on e-bay? Does Chrysler have an apparel catalog? I wonder if it would be cost effective for a bunch of us to get together and get some made up? Whad'ya think?
ED12 -I agree with you 100%. We build some nice cars but adding chrome trim does not bring in customers. Our biggest problem is not adding new options like a Nav system or HID lights. As for the 300 speacial ,it will be built . I have seen a prototype for it. Heard it will be a 2002 1/2 model . From the outside it looks great ,hopefully they add some H.P to the motor and make it more than a looker. I think the 2004 RWD V8 model will have quite a few toys on it , its just a shame that we will have to wait 2 more years for it.
Why don't you email the person selling that shirt and find out where he/she got it? I didn't see it the 300M accessory catalog, but then again there wasn't any apparel in there. Last I looked at that shirt it was over $30...a bit too much for me to pay for a T-shirt. I like your idea a lot. Let's do some research and see if we can find them.
Mike
Oh...why no more subject line for our messages? Must be another software "enhancement"
Will do. My muffler guy said he needed to have the car all day (probably because he's busy and has to make some custom pieces) so I don't think I'll be waiting around watching the work. At least we should have a few before and after photos, even if we don't get any "during". I'll also snap that PT. Interesting...the rear muffler is about as wide as the car. It was taken off a vette. Too bad the 300M doesn't have as much room.
brianw300- I think my y2k non-PHP's rotors may be warped also. When slowing down to a stop from about 50-60 mph I always feel a slight vibration/shake with the brakes applied. I had the same exact problem on my 97' Grand Voyager and the dealer told me they were warped when I took it in for a different warranty repair. I never got around to getting it fixed and before I knew it my wife traded the van in for the new 300M. I have 7,500 miles on my car and have noticed this for some time now. I'll have to tell them about it next time that it's at the dealer.
ed12- I agree 110% with everything you said. As mentioned before this is my wife's car and she basically loved the looks of the car. We only shopped for a total of 3 hours and bought the second 300M we looked at. Our previous van was a base model with only two options; it still had manual locks, crank windows, hard plastic door panels, and just a basic casette stereo. This time we were kind of overwhelmed just by the fact that this car had power anything and leather! Then after a while I started to notice that this was basically just a cheap Intrepid with some fancy duds--not exactly worth the $32,000 but nice nonetheless.
Just like the 96'-00' minivans and every other Chrysler they don't change much if at all in their usual 5-year life. Sure, certain additions like the taillights and steering wheel audio controls are nice and the chrome trim and new wheels (I don't really like the trim and think it sticks out like a sore thumb on dark colored M's and the rims just don't look as nice as some chrome razorstars) are fresh, they don't do much to keep the car successful through its life. It's great that the styling hasn't changed because it is this car main attractive selling factor. What it needs are the availability of some "luxury" options and upgrades. You could take a cheap $21,000 Concorde and add chrome and new wheels but it just doesn't work for a 300M. This year the new luxury group is nice and finally adds something that's befitting to an over 30 grand automobile but there could be more. Navigation system (we still would have no use for it but someone else might), HID headlights, power sunshade, or a stability control system. Better yet the 300M could become a tremendously better vehicle with some changes other than cosmetic. Mainly some beneficial use of sound deadening (come one, they build the car for 3 years and NO ONE can figure out any way to make it at least a little better!), a new transmission like the 5-speed ZF (every other manufacturer has something like this and the current transmission is absolutely terrible), and some better build quality. A main issue is the latter and I don't think that it would really be that hard. Other automakers have body rigity enhancements through a models life because they know it benefits the car greatly. Chrysler may have some more work though by stiffening the body, making things fit like they should, and attatching things properly to that stiffer body to emliminate rattles and creaks.
I've always wondered about this for a while now. When a manufacturer is going to build a new car they go through hundreds of thousands of miles of testing putting each car in the worst possible conditions and beating the hell out of them. They do a lot of things like quality and squeak and rattle tests on each one and make sure that they have made the car right. Then when it goes into production the visible quality is better than the prototypes and it is thought to be built better all the time--but it's really not in a lot of the cases. Case in point: General Motors. They have some of the most extensive testing and development stages in the world. Then when the car goes into production things are falling off, the car makes a lot of irritating noises when you drive it, and the material quality is terrible with everything looking like crap. Chrysler is better in this regard but not by much. For example, what has happened with so many bad 300M's?
ottowrkr- You work in a Chrysler plant and build four popular sedans. I know you can't build something better than what the parts given to you are but I still wonder. They always say that their factory workers go through classes and the like to learn about new and improved ways of building cars. But when someone goes out and buys one of the cars that you and many, many others have built they take a big risk. Sure, some are great with little defects/problems if any at all but others are horrible. My car is in between at about a 5 or 6 out of ten in this regard.
Basically, what's up with so many bad cars? I know building a car is a very difficult process and I wouldn't know where to start. But people like you have experience and end up being the ones that help determine whether a car will be a lemon or a very reliable vehicle. Is it the fact that things get tiring after a while or what? When I look at and drive our 300M I wish I knew the people responsible for some of the things on that car. For example, the rattles and creaks or the very noticable misaligned parts. Or what about just not taking the time to do things right. This is really confusing given how slow some factories like the Bramalea plant are producing cars. You would think now that there is much more than adequate time to do things right to start with and perhaps prevent the headache of that car's new owner in the future. I just don't get it.
Also otto, what is visibly different about the 2002 1/2 300M Special? What kind of wheels were on it? The ugly thin spoke one's that were on the first M Special prototypes or some sort of turbine style wheel as mentioned in a siting of the new car? Any other idea as to what upgrades the car will have or when you will start building it?
Otto, tell me it is not going to be a 2002.5 model. I am looking to change to the special but would need to do it by January. It better have an 5sp then.
Ed, Chrysler has made changes to the 300M, The leather on the seats has changed (for the better) and sound proofing has improved. I do agree the cars need a better transmission. As for the things like the NAV (I do like the screens a little higher up on the dash, and like the idea of them disapearing out of the way when not in use) systems, yes this car should have it as a option alone with stability control and all speed traction control. If they could put the TL-S in a 300M you would have a really good car. But I also want interior room. and the others simply don't make it, unless you want to spend at least twice the money for an 750BMW or MB. As For toys, you have to get the new Lexus or Infinti flagships, very nice, but very expensive.
sdmike, your gas mileage should increase, at least 4 miles to a gallon on the hiway, with the change. On my last trip to San Diego from Phoenix I got close to 27 MPG doing between 90-95. I get in the mid thirtys going the legal limits (70-75) You will really like the changes to your exhaust (sound, looks, and economy).
LAST CHANCE to join the Chrysler 300M Enthusiasts Club for $10 bucks. The Charter Member special of $10 for your first year's dues expires tomorrow. After that the dues will be $14.95/year.
Check us out at http://www.300mclub.org . We can help you save 10% on all your parts and service at your DC dealer. Look for details on the member discount program on the web site.
All you west coast M owners, don't forget the Chrysler 300M Enthusiasts Club "M Monterey Rendezvous" in Monterey, CA, August 17 thru 19, 2001. Join us as we party, watch the Monterey Historic Auto Races, Cruise up beautiful Hwy 1 along the ocean, and celebrate our M-ness together. Look for details on the web site.
Yours 300Mly,
Roger Waters, President Chrysler 300M Enthusiasts Club
The only NAV system I need is the one I can pick up at the local Exxon station. Anything else is pretty much a distraction. I would much prefer to encounter someone who was lost, but who was watching the road over someone who knew their exact latitude and longitude, but was enthralled at 80 MPH with the NAV screen. Call me old fashioned.
Beach15 - there are only two posters who pretty much feel that they've got a "bad" 300M - you and fastdriver. The rest seem to like them.
I'm sitting here in the house waiting for the first coat of Z-5 to dry. Gave Big Red the Dawn bath and the Z-1 all over. I'm going to follow the Z-5 with a layer of Z-6 and then some Z-2. Pictures to be posted later today.
mrl859 - No thanks! Tell us about your M. What year and options? What improvements have you done? Where did you get it (if you don't mind me asking). My second choice was a Steel Blue with Taupe interior over at Poway Chrysler/Jeep. Beautiful car. It didn't have PHG though. Also, what part of San Diego do you live in? Maybe we should go for a drive one of these days.
Oh, on the Zaino. I applied the Z-5 about 90 minutes ago and the instuctions say wait 30 minutes or an hour (depending on whether you believe the sheet or the bottle). Well, I went to start wiping it off and it's smearing instead of powdering off. The instuctions say that is evidence that it's not dry yet, but it's been 90 minutes and it's 75 and bright sunshine at my house. Strange. I guess I'll wait a bit longer. In the meantime I applied the tire treatment again, and put some Z-2 on the chrome wheels. By the way, the Z-5 hasn't removed the hair thin "factory" scratches that cover every inch of the paint. I'll see if multiple coats can do it.
Hi, everybody. Happy Easter to all. Does anybody have a good method for removing smashed, mutant Texas bugs from the front of my car? Just returned from my first real road trip. Dallas to Huntsville and back on Saturday for a family 60th wedding anniversary party. (not mine!) It was just me and some favorite CD's in the car---- moderate, but fast traffic and good weather. The fastest cars going down were two young ladies in Honda Accords. I let them get ahead aways (for bear bait) and was able to cruise at 80 to 85 about half the distance. 202 miles in 2 1/2 hours. The miles include one day of running short errands, and I still averaged almost 23 MPG. I dropped a bottle of RXP in the tank before the trip to clean things out a little.
I hope the exhaust system experiments work out well. Regards, Silver
pjyoung- I really don't think that we have a "bad" 300M. To ride in it once in a while you probably would think it is a very nice car just like I still do. I am simply making complaints about certain annoyances that me and my wife notice because the car is driven daily. It's not like it breaks down or won't start--both of which it has never done. Sure, the intermittent creaks and rattles drive us nuts when they're there but days like yesterday when the sun is out, it's about 75 degrees, and the deep slate M is all shined up with the sunroof opened and the concert-like stereo is pumping out the tunes, all those annoyances melt away as we cruise down the road and sink into those terrific leather seats. What a great car it truly is and one that would only get better with a few improvements. But what car is absolutely "perfect" with no flaws? None! And while all those little Acura's and the like are out and about, I'll go by them in the M and show them what a great-looking American sedan truly is!
This all sounds really strange coming from me but so what! The last two days I have cleaned every crack and crevice on this car and have grown to love it all over again. Now, if I could only get rid of some of those noises. I might be able to soon, as I am just itching to do some mods/custom work after being inspired by all of you. I really want to try some of the sound deadening techniques that would make this car truly amazing.
It has just come to my attention that my neighbor just a few houses down has an M. I think they got theirs at about the same time as we did. I saw them going by today and discovered what color it is. They have a y2k lt. cypress/lt.pearl beige with chrome wheels and a sunroof. I don't know which dealer that they found that car at but I wish we could have found that color. It never looks dirty and looks really ritzy.
Anyone with a slate or black M- Is there any way to keep the interior from really getting scorched in the summer? My wife said to get one of those reflective windshield shades and some seat covers (the dark leather gets really hot) but I'm not sure what may work. Any ideas?
I have the Slate leather and plan on doing a quality window tint. Did that on my wife's old 1984 Volvo 240. It made a tremendous difference in comfort when sun shined on side windows. Also the A/C didn't have to work so hard. Big win too if you can park under cover.
Ok. I decided to take the Z-5 off after 2 hours and I still had some streaking. It toned down the minor scratch marks (some pictures of them later), but I think I'll need a few more layers. The Z-6 took away all of the streaks and made the car GLOW. Here is a picture of Big Red's hood. The reflection you see is my house. I'll post more photos later tonight and put the link here. Thanks all who recommended this stuff. Wow.
sdmike2 - Zaino. You may be putting the coats on too thick. Keep the coats micro thin, so you can barely see it's there, and it'll dry faster. A bottle should do around 8 total car applications. I mean REALLY thin.
Lookin' good! I'm starting to like that mini front end elastic support device you have. I may have to pick up one of those. Much easier to deal with than the full frontal version.
sdmike - moved again? Must be putting a lot of miles on Big Red with all those moves. Exactly where is Burkina Faso?
I think I may just move to a warmer climate myself. I'd like to do a little high stakes gambling .... lets see ...Vegas? Nah, been there, done that. Wait! I know ..... see you all at the Bacarat table. Beam me up Eds!
I've had full frontals before and I always found them to be a pain in the neck. They never seemed to fit quite right, and they were a real pain to put on and take off. This one is very very easy. On each side underneath there is a long strap with a hook at the end that fits a notch up near the window under the hood. You get the bra situated, clip the hook where it belongs, and pull on the loose end of the strap to tighten it down. Once its on you only have to loosen one side to remove it, or tighten one side to put it back on. It is literally a 30 second job to take it off or put it on.
Maybe I did put the zaino on too thick. The Z-1 seemed like it evaporated when it hit the surface, so I wasn't sure if I was putting enough on. The Z-5 I put on in a thin glaze similar to any good car wax. You could tell the paint was cloudy, but there weren't any areas of white where it was obviously overapplied. I'm sure I'll get better at it. )
That Zaino Shine! - I found a Zaino dealer in the SF bay area, received it on Saturday but the M didn't get any. My wife's Grand Caravan ES was in greater need of a polishing. I have never seen silver shine and glow as much as our van does. Truly an amazing product and well worth the extra $$ it costs.
Ok...here are more pictures of Big Red all Zaino'd up. The last 7 pictures are the Zaino pictures. There is one showing the fine scratches that I have mentioned, and another picture showing what the Zaino tire treatment looks like with chrome wheels that have a coat of Z-5 and Z-6 on them.
You know, I'm kinda' thinking of finding and installing those yellow side markers on my M. Since they are the same color as the front signals, it shouldn't look too bad...
Comments
BTW- I had a few rattles in my dash and when I got my clock face in the mail yesterday (Sweet looking) I decided to start pulling the dash apart, I took the instrument panel out and the 2 electrical connectors seemed to just kinda flop where they sat in the plastic dash so I slid them out, put electrical tape where they slide into the dash and also electrical tape where the screws go through the instrument panel to hole id in place to act as a rubber dampner and all is quiet, maybe it was that, maybe it was that the screws are all on tighter now. Just thought I'd share that. Heh, that was a heck-of-a BTW..
Race
And I think I'm gonna get stuck with stainless in the front, but not in the rear. I've found the 14258 (Stainless) for $121 but no avail on a good sounding rear stainless muffler. =(
Hmmm, Link it too long to post, well it's at carparts.com and check out page two of exhaust tips and they are made by headman hedders
Thanks again to everyone for the Zaino info. Also, has anyone measured the reduction in intake restriction using K&N air cleaners versus stock? Where does the reduction, if any come from; lower filtration efficiency or more surface area?
Yours in happy motoring,
Rob
As for the intake the K&N stock replacement filter has about half the surface area as the paper stock filter, but is much more free flowing. The stock box is restricted where the box connects to the inside fender wall. I may try to install another air access to it, to improve air flow. Some have drilled out some additional holes into the bottom of the box to do this, but then it sucks in hot air. If surface area is what you want then you have to go the cone filter type. They range usually up to 12" and will more then double the surface area. Ideally you want biggest surface area and coolest air comming in. I wish we had room for an intercooler.
I hope to work on a new air box configureation latter next week using the K&N replacement stock filter.
300Michael - you bet we're all going to get all Zainoed up and caravan up Hwy 1. We definitely need someone with digital video capability so we can put some MPEGs on the web site when we get back. I like your idea about renting a shop. Any recommendations?? WRENCHING PARTY!! You're staying for the second week, aren't you??
Got 28.4 MPG on US 95 from NJ to NC 3 weeks ago and routinely get over 26 in highway - and I can't help but do less than 75-80 in this car on those highways. And passing in this car is unbelieveable - just have to think it and the car in front of you is history.
Anyone else getting this good mileage, or should I not believe the computer? The simple math I do at fill-up seems to bear it out. I got Goodyear tires, 17" I believe cause the fancy chrome wheels cost extra. The mileage on my 1 hr. commute (1/2 highway at 72 MPH and 1/2 country road behind the oldsters, dumptrucks and schoolbuses) is still a respectable 26.4 for the size of this car -- if I can believe.
Love the moonroof, multi CD changer and those chrome wheels!
mrl859 - I was quoted $475 tops, including the two mufflers, 4 Lexus rolled chrome tips, and two custom made Y's for the rear to hold those tips. They're also doing madrel bent tubes from the rear muffler to the tips. It assumes that they can use the stock intermediate pipe, which I think I can. They're also getting me a K&N but I'm not sure of the price...my guess is around $35-$40.
Hatax - I'll check out those tips. I didn't like the yellow pacesetters, but red I might be able to live with (grin).
Mike
Mike
-Mike
I mentioned a touch of wind noise and the TSB on it (Although I hear the road more), they did the work anyway. According to the service report they insulated and weather stripped both front B Pillars.
I also told them about a slight vibration in the steering wheel when braking between 40 and 60MPH . They replaced the front rotors. He said they didn't even think about cutting them.
THe only thing they didn't get rith is the tiny rattle in the steering column, when it is set at a certain tilt. Even they they supposedly replaced the column shroud.
Speaking of warped rotors. I am a bit worried that at only 2000 miles They had to replace the rotors on my M because of warpage.
Has anybody had it become reoccuring on there M?
THe reason I ask, is because the last car I had bore a similar problem. A 1994 Sedan Deville, after bringing it to a local brake/muffler place, suddenly began to get a very noticable vibration when braking between 45 and 60MPH. Brought it back 3 times and they kept recutting until it was half way decent! Eventually I had bring it to the dealer and they cured it, but only for about 1.5 Yrs later (This last March). I began feeling it again, so I traded in for the M.
If it wasn't for that and the fact it had 90000 miles on it I think I would still have it. It ran like a top and rode smoooth. I guess thats why it is taking me some time to get used to the PHG, the road noise, and no visible corners on the car!
All in all I am pretty happy with my 2000 Steel Blue M with PHG. With these gas prices I get even happier when I go to the pumps. At times I still miss my "Big Red" Caddy, but the more I drive the M the farther and fewer they get.
Thanks to those who answered my questions on PHG and it needing more steering effort. I will eventually get use to it.
Brian
And yes it's not a cadillac... It's FUNNER!
Brian
Brian, I had a mitsubishi galant that required a new set of rotors about every 10,000 miles. They couldn't seem to get the suspension/brakes set up in such a way that I didn't have problems. I personally think that they lied to me about replacing them several times, and when they did I think they replaced them with others from the same lot - increasing the chances of getting another set with bad metal. I hope you find it to be NON-recurring with your M. Good luck.
Mike
When you get your exhaust done next week, take plenty of pics. Also, take a pic of the PT Cruiser exhaust your installer has. I'd like to see it and see what inspired you so to go duals, instead of running everything to the stock side.
I'm glad you changed your mind. I think you'll be much happier.
I had a feeling that Chrysler was getting in way over their head when they brought out the 300M. Chryslers policy is to bring out a new car and make no major inprovements for the five years of the model run. That works for a family sedan where reliabilty is the overridng concern.
That does not work in the luxury end, whether entry or at the higher end. SO far, Chrysler has made no substantial improvements or added any high tech features. The sales figures reflect that. There is not one hi tech feature on the 300M. The Acura has a nav system, HID headlights and a 5 speed automatic. The 300M responds with chrome on the window mouldings. WHoppee. And now Acura is coming out with a 260 hp S version. Chrysler will proably fire back in 2002 with color keyed power window switches.
They showed a 300M special two year ago and so far nothing.
I am not attempting to trash the 300M. I own a 99 300M and its has been a very good car. But when a consumer, especially a techie, looks at a car for $32,000, they want the toys. The 300M has no toys, and worse yet is not that fast off the line. Not a good combo.
Imagine a 300M with 300 hp, a 5 speed ZF tranny, a built in NAV system and a few other goodies. Combine that with the terrifc passenger room and giant trunk and you have a killer. Alas, only a dream.
Ed
Why don't you email the person selling that shirt and find out where he/she got it? I didn't see it the 300M accessory catalog, but then again there wasn't any apparel in there. Last I looked at that shirt it was over $30...a bit too much for me to pay for a T-shirt. I like your idea a lot. Let's do some research and see if we can find them.
Mike
Oh...why no more subject line for our messages? Must be another software "enhancement"
Pat
Host
Sedans and Women's Auto Center Message Boards
Will do. My muffler guy said he needed to have the car all day (probably because he's busy and has to make some custom pieces) so I don't think I'll be waiting around watching the work. At least we should have a few before and after photos, even if we don't get any "during". I'll also snap that PT. Interesting...the rear muffler is about as wide as the car. It was taken off a vette. Too bad the 300M doesn't have as much room.
Mike
ed12- I agree 110% with everything you said. As mentioned before this is my wife's car and she basically loved the looks of the car. We only shopped for a total of 3 hours and bought the second 300M we looked at. Our previous van was a base model with only two options; it still had manual locks, crank windows, hard plastic door panels, and just a basic casette stereo. This time we were kind of overwhelmed just by the fact that this car had power anything and leather! Then after a while I started to notice that this was basically just a cheap Intrepid with some fancy duds--not exactly worth the $32,000 but nice nonetheless.
Just like the 96'-00' minivans and every other Chrysler they don't change much if at all in their usual 5-year life. Sure, certain additions like the taillights and steering wheel audio controls are nice and the chrome trim and new wheels (I don't really like the trim and think it sticks out like a sore thumb on dark colored M's and the rims just don't look as nice as some chrome razorstars) are fresh, they don't do much to keep the car successful through its life. It's great that the styling hasn't changed because it is this car main attractive selling factor. What it needs are the availability of some "luxury" options and upgrades. You could take a cheap $21,000 Concorde and add chrome and new wheels but it just doesn't work for a 300M. This year the new luxury group is nice and finally adds something that's befitting to an over 30 grand automobile but there could be more. Navigation system (we still would have no use for it but someone else might), HID headlights, power sunshade, or a stability control system. Better yet the 300M could become a tremendously better vehicle with some changes other than cosmetic. Mainly some beneficial use of sound deadening (come one, they build the car for 3 years and NO ONE can figure out any way to make it at least a little better!), a new transmission like the 5-speed ZF (every other manufacturer has something like this and the current transmission is absolutely terrible), and some better build quality. A main issue is the latter and I don't think that it would really be that hard. Other automakers have body rigity enhancements through a models life because they know it benefits the car greatly. Chrysler may have some more work though by stiffening the body, making things fit like they should, and attatching things properly to that stiffer body to emliminate rattles and creaks.
Well, just a FEW of my thoughts for now!
ottowrkr- You work in a Chrysler plant and build four popular sedans. I know you can't build something better than what the parts given to you are but I still wonder. They always say that their factory workers go through classes and the like to learn about new and improved ways of building cars. But when someone goes out and buys one of the cars that you and many, many others have built they take a big risk. Sure, some are great with little defects/problems if any at all but others are horrible. My car is in between at about a 5 or 6 out of ten in this regard.
Basically, what's up with so many bad cars? I know building a car is a very difficult process and I wouldn't know where to start. But people like you have experience and end up being the ones that help determine whether a car will be a lemon or a very reliable vehicle. Is it the fact that things get tiring after a while or what? When I look at and drive our 300M I wish I knew the people responsible for some of the things on that car. For example, the rattles and creaks or the very noticable misaligned parts. Or what about just not taking the time to do things right. This is really confusing given how slow some factories like the Bramalea plant are producing cars. You would think now that there is much more than adequate time to do things right to start with and perhaps prevent the headache of that car's new owner in the future. I just don't get it.
Also otto, what is visibly different about the 2002 1/2 300M Special? What kind of wheels were on it? The ugly thin spoke one's that were on the first M Special prototypes or some sort of turbine style wheel as mentioned in a siting of the new car? Any other idea as to what upgrades the car will have or when you will start building it?
You will really like the changes to your exhaust (sound, looks, and economy).
Check us out at http://www.300mclub.org . We can help you save 10% on all your parts and service at your DC dealer. Look for details on the member discount program on the web site.
All you west coast M owners, don't forget the Chrysler 300M Enthusiasts Club "M Monterey Rendezvous" in Monterey, CA, August 17 thru 19, 2001. Join us as we party, watch the Monterey Historic Auto Races, Cruise up beautiful Hwy 1 along the ocean, and celebrate our M-ness together. Look for details on the web site.
Yours 300Mly,
Roger Waters, President
Chrysler 300M Enthusiasts Club
Beach15 - there are only two posters who pretty much feel that they've got a "bad" 300M - you and fastdriver. The rest seem to like them.
I'm sitting here in the house waiting for the first coat of Z-5 to dry. Gave Big Red the Dawn bath and the Z-1 all over. I'm going to follow the Z-5 with a layer of Z-6 and then some Z-2. Pictures to be posted later today.
Mike
Mike
No thanks!
Oh, on the Zaino. I applied the Z-5 about 90 minutes ago and the instuctions say wait 30 minutes or an hour (depending on whether you believe the sheet or the bottle). Well, I went to start wiping it off and it's smearing instead of powdering off. The instuctions say that is evidence that it's not dry yet, but it's been 90 minutes and it's 75 and bright sunshine at my house. Strange. I guess I'll wait a bit longer. In the meantime I applied the tire treatment again, and put some Z-2 on the chrome wheels. By the way, the Z-5 hasn't removed the hair thin "factory" scratches that cover every inch of the paint. I'll see if multiple coats can do it.
Back to Zainoing.
Mike
I hope the exhaust system experiments work out well.
Regards, Silver
This all sounds really strange coming from me but so what! The last two days I have cleaned every crack and crevice on this car and have grown to love it all over again. Now, if I could only get rid of some of those noises. I might be able to soon, as I am just itching to do some mods/custom work after being inspired by all of you. I really want to try some of the sound deadening techniques that would make this car truly amazing.
It has just come to my attention that my neighbor just a few houses down has an M. I think they got theirs at about the same time as we did. I saw them going by today and discovered what color it is. They have a y2k lt. cypress/lt.pearl beige with chrome wheels and a sunroof. I don't know which dealer that they found that car at but I wish we could have found that color. It never looks dirty and looks really ritzy.
Anyone with a slate or black M- Is there any way to keep the interior from really getting scorched in the summer? My wife said to get one of those reflective windshield shades and some seat covers (the dark leather gets really hot) but I'm not sure what may work. Any ideas?
I have the Slate leather and plan on doing a quality window tint. Did that on my wife's old 1984 Volvo 240. It made a tremendous difference in comfort when sun shined on side windows. Also the A/C didn't have to work so hard. Big win too if you can park under cover.
Regards, Silver
Ok. I decided to take the Z-5 off after 2 hours and I still had some streaking. It toned down the minor scratch marks (some pictures of them later), but I think I'll need a few more layers. The Z-6 took away all of the streaks and made the car GLOW. Here is a picture of Big Red's hood. The reflection you see is my house. I'll post more photos later tonight and put the link here. Thanks all who recommended this stuff. Wow.
Big Red on Zaino
Mike
Lookin' good! I'm starting to like that mini front end elastic support device you have. I may have to pick up one of those. Much easier to deal with than the full frontal version.
I think I may just move to a warmer climate myself. I'd like to do a little high stakes gambling .... lets see ...Vegas? Nah, been there, done that. Wait! I know ..... see you all at the Bacarat table. Beam me up Eds!
I've had full frontals before and I always found them to be a pain in the neck. They never seemed to fit quite right, and they were a real pain to put on and take off. This one is very very easy. On each side underneath there is a long strap with a hook at the end that fits a notch up near the window under the hood. You get the bra situated, clip the hook where it belongs, and pull on the loose end of the strap to tighten it down. Once its on you only have to loosen one side to remove it, or tighten one side to put it back on. It is literally a 30 second job to take it off or put it on.
Maybe I did put the zaino on too thick. The Z-1 seemed like it evaporated when it hit the surface, so I wasn't sure if I was putting enough on. The Z-5 I put on in a thin glaze similar to any good car wax. You could tell the paint was cloudy, but there weren't any areas of white where it was obviously overapplied. I'm sure I'll get better at it.
Burkina Faso is...um...just over there a ways.
Later,
Keith
Mike
Big Red all dressed up
Mike