Help For a New 2002 Owner

[Aeroboy]

Hello SoCal 02's -

 

I've acquired a 1974 2002 that runs well and looks great. I'm not a neophyte to car work - I've got a degree in mechanical engineering and have owned a '66 Tbird for 25 years. But I could use a little help.

 

First, I've noticed people throwing around terms like "vintage" and "classic" when referring to parts. What is the '74 2002?

 

Second, where do you guys for parts? My wipers just started staying on all the time, so I'm assuming the windshield wiper stalk/switch needs to be replaced. For something like that I'd like to buy a new one. Suggestions? 

 

Third, the most pressing need is to re-upholster the front seats and install a new carpet set. Suggestions?

 

Also, any suggestions on a reputable mechanic for when I get stumped? I live in Huntington Beach.

 

I love the sound my 390 V-8/4 bbl Holley Tbird produces cruising around, but I'm having a blast running around in the light, nimble 2002 4-banger. Hope to run across you guys sometime!

 

Aeroboy

[tashakes]

Call the 2002 anything you like but for me is a vintage. I reserve the word classic for limited production or limited existence cars. But that's me. I have heard it called a cult car as well but I dont like the term.

For parts I have used eBay a lot and also Blunt has a bunch of stuff and is a very active member here. IE has go fast parts and upgrades. Beware of a couple of shady used part sellers though. Use the search.

I have a set of Esty carpets and am pleased with them. No experience with reupholstering. Use the search

I mostly do all my repairs and when it got to be too much (blown head gasket) I went the easy route and did a M42 swap cause I also wanted a 5 speed. Use the search

Good luck with your 02. You will enjoy it, way different than most other cars. Oh and did I mention use the search? You will find that most stuff you need to know has been discussed and don't be shy to post any questions. After you search.

Welcome.

Edited August 30, 2015 by tashakes

[Aeroboy]

Thanks for the info tashakes! I saw the Esty set and think I'll go with them. 

 

Aeroboy

[adawil2002]

Blunt aka Steve Peterson is the go to guy for parts. 952-473-7278.

 

Go to amazon and search BMW 2002 in books, buy the Macartney Restoration Guide, the RED Haynes Manual and the blue Taylor/Macartney books.

 

Read the Restoration guide at least twice.

 

Try to make the SoCal Vintage on Oct. 31 2015.

[david02]

I also recently bought (for the 2nd time) a 74 2002.  I very much second the october event.  It seems a pretty big deal for old bimmers.  Was even on an episode of wheeler dealers when they were fixing up a tii.   We are lucky to live in a place where there is a very large and active community for these cars. 

 

Check out rogerstii.com also... pricey, but has a ton of stuff.

[Aeroboy]

Thanks adawil2002 and david02 - some good info there. If I'm in town on Oct 31 I'll be at the '02 gathering!

 

Aeroboy