E46 B3S - Engine cover, numbers gone....

[TonyB]

Hi all,

I'm in the process of bringing my B3s convertible back on the road after a few years in storeage. All very nearly there, just some minor detais.

One of these is the 3.4 number that's usually on the engine cover. Sadly, mine's dropped off and if it ever was in the engine bay, it's probably somewhere on the A414 when I had it transported to my mechanic.

So, rather than paying the OT price for an entirely cover with number, has anyone come up with a genius way of making a replacment at a fraction of the cost?

Any ideas would be gratefully receieved.

Thanks in advance.

[JohnW]

Only thing I can suggest is 3D printing it, but you would need an original to scan.

[TonyB]

Thanks for the reply.

That's what i thought, so just need a doner to copy

I'll probably call up sytner and ask them to supply with a new entire cover as it will finish it off when installed.

Cheers though

[Charles]

I lost mine a while back and decided to buy a new cover - about £100 or so at the time but probably more now!

As soon as I got it, I softened the glue holding it in and reglued it with something much stronger and heat-resistant (because that's why they loosen over time, I believe).

Still there - but then, I always check how well it is fixed every time I open the bonnet to check the oil/coolant/screenwash as i am determined for it not to happen again!

[TonyB]

Thanks for the reply.

I've decided to buy an new cover, just waiton sytner to confirm the price.

I can buy them from a German supplier, FMW Tuning, but it's 300 Euros

If it does come to it, i'll have to bite the bullet.

Cheers

[TonyB]

So it seems BMW can supply it at a cost of £303.42!

But, I've just had a call from my mechanic saying that he's actually found the missing half in the engine bay. Great result and fortunate saving!

Now all i need is some decent heat resistant glue!

[Charles]

So it seems BMW can supply it at a cost of £303.42!

But, I've just had a call from my mechanic saying that he's actually found the missing half in the engine bay. Great result and fortunate saving!

Now all i need is some decent heat resistant glue!

I hope you are planning to buy some lottery tickets today

[JohnW]

Before you do, perhaps get it 3D scanned and a couple of spares made up?

I don’t think it would be too much as there’s a guy on eBay selling 3D printed plastic inserts with wireless chargers for E90 centre console at £23.