I attempted to do my own work on the E46 for the first time since getting it back from JV.

Tried to replace the brake rotors and this happened :rolleyes: Shitty tools FTL

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...7b4dc3780a.jpg

I ordered some snap-on allen sockets off ebay. As long as they're not fake, this shouldn't happen again.

I also attempted to replace the oil level sensor. Instead of the nuts coming off the studs, the whole stud came out. It shouldn't be hard to replace them with new, but of course no one has them in stock. And apparently the bolts that hold on the subframe brace are single use. They're rusty AF so I'm getting new ones of those as well - but not in stock.

Also, JV: after the work that you did, should I be concerned that the engine is pretty oily underneath on the front passenger side?

I also still have reasonably high oil consumption. I'm going to monitor the usage it more precisely after this next oil change.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...3be09e8b4f.jpg

I didn't do the oil pan gasket since it didn't appear to be leaking. It looks like it is. If it bothers you I can do it. The oil consumption may just be old oil rings. There might not be much that can be done without tearing into the engine.

You also might give the bolts on the pan a slight twist to tighten them. Don't overdo it.

I would suggest this too. I was completely missing 2 or 3 of those bolts at one point.

Cool... I'll try tightening them.

Just a bit. Can go from tighter to ooppss real quick.

Proof that the LSD works. :D

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...b1e33d9477.jpg

Nice!

The big difference I've noticed with the LSD is not just about absolute grip, and the reduced one-wheel-peel when accelerating from a corner (which is a big one).

It's that when the rear wheels do spin, you lose lateral stability in the rear sooner, but in a way that is easier to control. With an open diff, the non-spinning wheel keeps you headed straight for longer... until it suddenly lets go too, then you go flying.