Custom Heat Shield – BMW E24

This is a custom heat shield we made for a German market 1980 BMW 635csi E24 w/ a M90 engine. We’ve been working on this for a while and the attention to detail is imperative. This E24 is getting a brand new Super Sprint stainless steel exhaust system. We need to make sure the heat from that is contained and stays away from the fuel tank. First, we took measurements. Then, we hand bent a flat sheet of heat shield material with a flat metal bar. After that, we trimmed the edges to the body contour. Finally, we used our bead roller to roll the edges which makes it much more rigid.

For more information on how to get your classic European in the shop for some service, maintenance or custom work, contact us at 425-254-0627. You can also schedule an appointment or receive a quote by clicking here. Meister Werks European & Import is located one block south from The Renton Landing in Renton, WA, across the street from the former Boeing Store and at the westside of the Paccar / Kenworth plant.

 

Why you need this?

A heat shield for your European car’s exhaust system is essential for performance and safety. The exhaust system generates high temperatures. Without a heat shield, nearby components could be damaged due to the heat. This shield acts as a barrier. It prevents heat from radiating towards sensitive parts of the vehicle, such as the undercarriage or nearby wiring harnesses. By installing a heat shield, you ensure that your car’s performance remains consistent, protecting important components from potential heat-related issues. Additionally, it helps maintain a comfortable temperature within the car’s cabin and prevents overheating, ultimately extending the lifespan of your vehicle. Prioritizing a heat shield for your European car’s exhaust system is a wise investment in both vehicle efficiency and longevity.

What is a Mercedes Service A & Service B?

Mercedes Service A and Service B are essential maintenance services. These services keep your Mercedes-Benz in optimal condition. A & B Services typically includes an oil change, fluid level checks and corrections, tire inspection and rotation, brake inspection, and a thorough overall inspection of the vehicle. On the other hand, Service B covers a more comprehensive range of services, including all the items in Service A, as well as cabin dust and combination filter replacement, brake fluid exchange, and more extensive checks and maintenance.

When you have these services performed at Meister Werks, it offers several benefits. Meister Werks European specializes in European car maintenance, including Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Our highly trained German technicians have the experiences you count on for your Mercedes. Specifically servicing, maintaining, and repairing Mercedes vehicles. This ensures that your car is in capable hands.

Moreover, at Meister Werks European, you can expect top-quality customer service and personalized attention to detail. The technicians understand the specific needs of Mercedes vehicles. We use genuine OEM and OES parts. This will ensure that your car receives the best care possible. Additionally, when we perform your A and B Services, you will be confident that your car’s warranty will not be compromised.

Dealer Level Service at a Affordable Price

The dealership alternative service we offer are often more cost-effective than the same service that the Mercedes-Benz dealership offer. Despite the lower cost, you can trust that the quality of service provided is on par with the dealership. With access to advanced diagnostic equipment and specialized tools, Meister Werks European can ensure efficient and accurate servicing of your Mercedes vehicle.

Furthermore, choosing a specialized facility like Meister Werks is important. Your vehicle will be always be given the attention that it deserves. The technicians are well-versed in the intricacies of Mercedes vehicles. We will detect and address any potential issues before they turn into costly problems. By having your A or B Services performed at Meister Werks, you’re investing in the long-term investment for your Mercedes-Benz.

In conclusion, getting your Mercedes Service A and Service B done at Meister Werks European in Renton, WA, is a wise choice. With their expertise, attention to detail, cost-effectiveness, and dedication to customer satisfaction, you can be confident that your vehicle will receive the best possible care, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.

Contact us

For more information on how to get your XXX, please call 425-254-0627. You can also email us by clicking here. Meister Werks European & Import is located one block south from The Renton Landing in Renton, WA, across the street from the former Boeing Store and on the westside of the Paccar / Kenworth plant.

1998 Jaguar XJR Cooling Fan Conversion

The other day we started on a 3d printing project for a customer’s 1998 Jaguar XJR Cooling Fan Conversion. One of the customer’s radiator cooling fans stopped working and the engine started to overheat. The fan assembly from Jaguar were quoted between $1100 and $1400 (for 2 fans and the shroud) We told the customer that there was a second option. The other option was to convert the fans over to brushless slimline style cooling fans.

The Process

I took about 20 measurements and traced the mounting holes. Then I scanned the tracings on my flatbed scanner. After that, I digitized the files and imported them into Fusion 360. After a few hours, the CAD files were done and it was ready to print. I stayed up until about 3am, making sure the first bracket was printing ok. It wasn’t. Some of the settings needed tweaked. I changed the settings and hit print again, praying that when I woke up the print would be good.

When I woke up 3 hours later the print was almost done and looked really nice. When that was done I removed it from the build plate. Then, I hit print again. I went into the shop to start modifying the shroud.

One of my techs ended up taking the motor apart and we extracted the OEM harness connectors. I wired and loomed that electrical connector to the fan harness. Furthermore, this made for a really nice, cohesive OEM looking connection.

Fitment

This bracket will fit the following Jaguars:

  • Vanden Plas – 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, & 2003
  • XJ6 – 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, & 1997
  • XJ8 – 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, & 2003
  • XJR – 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, & 2003

How was it made?

The XJR Cooling Fan Conversion is printed on a highly modified AnyCubic Kobra Max 3d printer with Priline Polycarbonate CF. For example, here are the A-Z photos of how it was done, and how it all turned out.

Gallery

Question / Contact Meister Werks

For more information on how to get your XJR Cooling Fan Conversion installed, please call 425-254-0627. You can also contact us by clicking here. Meister Werks European & Import is located one block south from The Renton Landing in Renton, WA, across the street from the former Boeing Store and on the westside of the Paccar / Kenworth plant.

HVAC Fan Motor Resistors

HVAC Fan Motor resistors are responsible for controlling the blower motor speed. They do this by varying the voltage supplied to the blower motor. They are prone to shorts, corrosion, and overheating. When the resistor fails, typically, the highest setting is the only option that still functions. 

When replacing your heat, A/C, & ventilation blower fan motor or HVAC van motor, we always replace the resistor. We do this due to the potential that the old resistor may damage the new motor. We also replace the inexpensive relay just to ensure that you HVAC motor will not prematurely fail and that you’ll always have air flow though your HVAC system.

Another reason your fan motor might not be working is the switch on your dash. Although very unlikely, we have seen these fail on some cars. Vehicles with more modern digital temperature controls are a little more complex. These digital controllers are also known to fail, however diagnosing the problem is sometimes a little easier. Using a OBDII factory scan tool, we are able to scan the entire vehicle for fault codes. The HVAC system will typically tell us what to look at, although it never says, “replace this part”. We would have to manually inspect the components related to the fault codes and identity the exact problem.

Sometimes performing a service on your air conditioning system will fix the problem. Systems that have leaks and are low on refrigerant will not function. Other times too much pressure will cause it not to work as well. One thing we see a lot of is people trying to charge their own A/C systems with a over the counter bottle. This is by far the best way to damage your A/C system. We see more damage to A/C systems cause from owners thinking they can fix it with a bottle for $25. In the long run you might pay hundreds, if not thousands of dollars to repair this. Over pressurizing the system will damage sensors, pumps and expansion valves. Bring it to the professional with the correct A/C service machine and avoid costly repairs in the future.

For more information on how to get your European cars HVAC, A/C or Fan motor repaired in Renton, call 425-254-0627. You can also email us by clicking here. Meister Werks European & Import is located one block south from The Renton Landing in Renton, WA, across the street from the former Boeing Store and on the westside of the Paccar / Kenworth plant.

Digifiz Manual for Volkswagen Mk2 Digifiz

This is the link for the factory Volkswagen Mk2 Digifiz Manual study guide. Also has the wiring harness diagram and explanation of how the digifiz works. Feel free to post this link. In exchange, all we ask is to leave us a 5 star review on Google, click here.

Manual as of July 1987
PN: 700 2809 04 20 / 700.2809.04.20

• Digifiz Factory Manual – Click Here

• Digifiz Owners Manual Insert – (Deutsche/German) – Click Here

 

Complete Kit – Everything you need

(For Reference Only – Please do not contact us
about buying this, we no longer have this)

Hiring Part Time / Entry Level
Powder Coating Tech

About Us:

Meister Werks European & Import specializes in European vehicles and was established in 1997. We are located in Renton, on the south side of Lake Washington, next to Boeing. Meister Werks is dedicated to high end customer service. After all, we go above and beyond for our customers. For instance, free inspections, washing and vacuuming are some of the service we provide.

About the Position:

High end European automotive facility is seeking a reliable Powder Coating Tech with a positive attitude to join our team. Part time position to start. Will train, but must have experience with operating tools, equipment, and mechanically inclined. A qualified candidate will be team oriented and have the experience necessary to provide our customers with optimum service and quality finished parts. Working with care and high attention to detail are critical. VW / Audi, BMW / Mini, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Ferrari, Bentley, Maserati, and Aston Martin. Any extensive knowledge and experience with these vehicles are a plus.

Powder Coating Tech Position Responsibilities will include:

  • Preparing surfaces for powder coating. (mostly steel & aluminum)
    • Working around paint stripper.
    • Use of media blaster.
    • Grinding and polishing machines
  • Applying powder coat to prepared parts.
  • Cleaning and prepping powder coating equipment for different colors and finishes. Gema PC System.
  • Loading parts onto powder coating carts.
  • Unloading cured powder coated parts from oven racks.

About the Shop:

Our shop is fully loaded with new, high end equipment. Such as, Gas heated shop (66-68º most of the year / summers a little warmer), co2 evacuation system, 175 psi air and 120v power cords on every rack, & 55 gallon drum engine oil dispenser systems. Other equipment include, a Snap On tire machine and balancer, Flo-Dynamics coolant machine, Snap On transmission machine, Snap On AC machine R134 & R1234yf, recently installed Hunter Hawkeye in ground alignment racks, 3 – 2 post Rotary racks, 30 ton press, wall mounted spring compressor machine. Also, we have a media blaster, manual parts washer, automatic parts washer, Jet upright knee mill for machining, Lincoln MIG welder / aluminum spool gun welder and many more speciality tools. To put it another way, If we don’t have it, the owner will get it.

Qualified Powder Coating Tech Requirements:

  • High attention to detail.
  • Troubleshooting skills.
  • Basics of using tools and equipment.
  • Ability to work and maintain a very clean area and work environment.
  • Current legal Driver’s License and reliable vehicle to get to work
  • A can-do attitude when dealing with new experiences
  • Renton, WA 98057: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work.
  • Current Driver’s License.

Benefits:

  • Free daily coffee / drinks at a coffee stand located in our parking lot.
  • Wholesale prices on all OEM and Performance Parts.
  • User of shop tools on personal projects (after 90 day probation period)
  • May turn into full time

Earnings:

$23 per hr DOE
90 day / 6 moth and 1 year reviews. Furthermore, a potential raise will be considered based off performance, skill and abilities.

Appling Info / Applications:

Download an application here. E-mail: meister@meister.us.com with your resume and application. Without delay, pick up and application and apply in person. Our address is:

Meister Werks
618 Park Ave N.
Renton, WA 98057

 

Powder Coating Oven Build

This was a powder coating oven I built in 2010, 5 years before moving into our current location. This is a step by step sequence on how I built a commercial powder coating oven. Most of the high temp wiring was removed from a donor Kenmore oven range. I attempted to use the controller from that oven, but it burnt out right away. Scroll though the photos to see the progression.

Staring the Build

I started with a 4′ x 3′ base and lots of custom cut 22 gauge cold roll steel. The inside was 6ft tall

Used Harbor Freight casters. I thought these were cool because they were rollerblade style wheels, clear and different than all the other casters they had in stock. I need to be able to move my oven around when I move into another shop.

6′ uprights & the frame top on.

 

Skinning the Oven

Starting on the skins. I used hot rolled steel, which was not galvanized. I should have used galvanized because over time, the steel started rusting. See photo of that below. The mild hot rolled steel was much cheaper, and since I was on a really low budget at the time, I couldn’t really afford the galvanized. Stainless steel is what most commercial ovens have, however the cost

Brace for the control box

Door frame corners with 90º bends to keep the seams cleaner. Wire tied the corners to pull everything into plumb.

All the braces in. Ready to start on insulating and skinning the outside.

Last of the sheet metal picked up at Ballard Sheet Metal Works. Custom made door, inside door panel and back panel. Had to use 20 gauge for the back, and doors due to the larger size. Wasn’t that much more, but the 22 gauge did cut down on the weight. Eurovans also make great sheet metal haulers too.

Insulating the Oven

All insulated with barriers on all the studs and high temp tape. The R12 home insulation is not technically rated for oven use, The critical temperature of R12 insulation is rated at 600ºf, which is well below the 400º temperatures the oven reaches. I never had any issues with this, but I highly suggest using the correct insulation if it’s in your budget. The correct insulation that should be used is Rockwool or Kaowool. This high temp insulation is much more expensive, yet is UL listed and has a critical temperature of around 2000º-2400º.

More Skins

Outer skins going on, 22 gauge hot rolled steel.

More skins + controller, which will be replaced by a different controller soon.

 

Wiring

Wiring up the oven with high temp wires from the donor oven. I used conduit so I could run some no-heat rated wiring.

Next, I installed the interior light. Note the rust starting to take place.

Access hole for the burners. This made it much easier to replace the burners.  When I installed 4 J boxes, I used a hole saw to cut a large enough opening in the back to access the burners. Furthermore, two set screws were used to secure the burners in place inside the oven. See the next photos for that.

11,000 watts of burner power finally installed.

Building the Door

Cutting the metal for the inside of the doors. Wish I had a brake press / metal shear when I was doing this.

Structural supports for the window getting fabbed up.

Doors being assembled. Used the donor kitchen range window. Just make sure you mark the inside before installing. I forgot to do that and installed the outside on the inside. Over time, the window became foggy and had to replace it.

Door is finished. Time to mount it to the oven.

Door all mounted. I used the donor Kenmore oven door handle

Door hung with 6ft piano / continuous steel hinge. Latches to keep all the warm inside. I also used a 5th caster wheel to support the door weight (not in photos). Even though the hinge was sturdy, there was some sag after mounting. You can see in some of the last photos at the very bottom, with the wheel installed on the lower right side of the oven door.

 

High temp seal going on. I used a wood oven door seal. I used high temp caulk to affix it in these photos, however they quickly began to fall off, so I used sheet metal screws later to keep it in place.

Everything works so far

Finishing it up

Racks all bolted in. Generic hardware store metal racks and 3ft x 4ft grid wall panels. you can use anything, but I suggest getting chrome or bare metal. These were powder coated and over time started to chip and flake off. So don’t use anything with powder coating on them or it will ruin your projects over time. Also I sprayed the inside with high temp POR15 to keep the rust at bay. If you use mild steel, you should paint all those surfaces with high temp oven paint prior to using the oven.

Ready for powder coating. Our first, small kitchen range oven on the right.

Controller #2 came in the mail, had to do some minor rewiring for the new box, & live test #1. The exterior never got above 90º even when the oven was on for hours. So the insulation I used worked pretty well, even though it wasn’t rated for it. I still suggest using the proper insulation.

 

First sets of Centric and BBS wheel faces getting coated.

The key to getting high quality powder coating is the gun and a proper filtered spray booth. Furthermore, we were having contamination issues. Despite keeping everything very clean , we still had issues. Afterwards, we had much higher results with quality once we moved into our commercial location. We started using a proper spray booth and gun, and using this oven. That alone, was a night and day difference in the quality we were producing. In conclusion, this oven build was a massive success.

1980 Euro Spec BMW 635csi M90

Today we finish a engine for a customer’s 1980 BMW E24 635csi. Here are the specs on this build.

Engine:

M90 Euro Spec
King Bearings
CP Forged Pistons 10:1 Flat Top

Head:

Stage 3 Port & Polished
Schrick Cams
Ireland Engineering Valve Spring, Rockers, & Guides
ARP Everything.

Powder Coat:

BMW Silver: Intake, brackets, oil pan, intake manifold & plenums, coolant flanges, etc…

Stay tuned to see this 635csi, subframe repair, steering, suspension, exhaust and custom header install.

 


1985 Article about the BMW 635csi

In many ways, the 635CSi is a superlative car. It produces prodigious speed thanks to its new 3.5-liter engine. The 635csi exhibits much better handling than BMW’s early 6-series coupes. It is put together ,vith rare care. Its ergonomics are generally excellent. And now it has Bosch ABS anti-lock braking equipment for help during emergency stops. All told, the 635CSi is a very accomplished piece of work.

Still, we’re talking 3.5-liter, high-rev­ving. seven-league boots here. BMW has punched out the 3.2-liter bore from 89 to 92mm, and the torque has increased from 195 to 214 pounds-feet. This single overhead-cam six is old. but it remains atop the pack in basic design. Its aluminum hen1i head is fed by Bosch Motronic fuel injection. Crossflow intake and exhaust ports handle the breathing. and a new, adaptive Lambda-sensor control sets the fuel-air mixture more precisely through a ,vider range of operation. ·ro allow maximum spark advance at all times, BMW has not yet resorted to a knock sensor, and the 3.5-liter motor compression ratio remains a impressive 10:1. The added dis­placement has bumped up, the horsepower only from 181 to well over 250hp. However, it is tuned instead for midrange response, the big six’s power peaks at 5400 rpm, 600 rpm earlier than in the 3.2-liter. A 3.45:1 final-drive replaces the 633’s taller 3.25 gear, boosting the throttle response throughout the rpm range. but a rev limiter clips the power smartly at 6200 rpm.

At Meister Werks in Renton, Wa, we understand the importance of European car repair for owners of high-performance vehicles, and we take pride in providing top-notch services to keep your car running at its best. Our experienced technicians have the knowledge and expertise to handle everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs on European cars such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volkswagen. We use only high quality parts and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your vehicle receives the best possible care. We are committed to providing exceptional service and building long-term relationships with our customers, so you can have peace of mind knowing your car is in the hands of trusted professionals. At Meister Werks, we are passionate about European cars and are dedicated to helping you get the most out of your investment. Contact us today to schedule your next service appointment.

Some of the photos after everything was finished up on our customer’s Germany market 1984 Porsche 928S, which included:

  • Complete Transmission Rebuild.
  • 100% Genuine OEM exhaust replacement.
  • Complete engine tune up w/ all new hoses, breathers and upper seals.
  • Powder coated intake manifolds, plenum, upper OEM tie bar, rear exhaust heat shields & bumper grill. (in house).
  • Gauge cluster odometer repair (3d printed gear, in house), w/ calibration, OEM gauge face installation.
  • Custom bumper grill brackets (3d printed, in house).
  • Horn repair wiring, Rear fuse box harness & fuse box repair.
  • Ignition & steering column repair w/ custom key surround (custom designed and 3d printed, in house).
  • Engine and transmission mounts.
  • Rear Brakes pads and rotors.
  • Under hood pad (Genuine OEM).
  • New OEM decals in engine compartment.
  • New OEM VIN decals in driver’s door jamb w/ tire inflation decals.
  • Strip off old “Porsche” & “928S” decals on rear bumper, design, cut and install graphics .
  • General service & maintenance, (Oil service, plugs, cap & rotors, plug wires, fuel filter, etc).
  • New Michelin Pilot Sport Tires.
  • Buff and polish wheels and paint.
  • Buff and polish all windows, inside and out.
  • Rock chip and scratch paint repair.
  • Gear selector repair.
  • Driver’s door check fab and repair
  • High torque starter.
  • Rear Brake pads and rotors
  • Front ball joints.
  • Four wheel alignment and more.