please help...advice welcome

EmDeeh · 03-31-2004, 08:09 PM

I have slight damage to my nose panel on a 328i(96') which would be to the left of the grills if you were standing in front of the car facing it...I believe it is causing tension on the hood lock on that side which is making it so I cannot open my hood.

my question is this...what parts would be needed to fix this?

I know I need a nose panel obviously but what about the metal that runs from one fender to the other that the radiator is clipped to? what part # is that and where can it be found?

I've looked everywhere nobody ever mentions it...only a radiator support...I think I its the part behind the headlights where they bolt into....please help there is no information anywhere I can find

and thank you in advance if you do know...or have any advice

I'm taking it to a shop for quote tomorrow maybe they can tell me the part or get my hood open...I'd prefer to fix it myself but I'll settle for the shop if nobody can help

take care - md in cali

supertack · supertack's Garage

Might be a good time to replace the nose piece with one that will support the E46 kidney grill look.

blkongry · 04-01-2004, 08:14 AM

You should be able to get the hood open by having a friend lean on that side of the hood as you pull the release from inside. Once open, you can lower the plunger on that side to ease the load on it (see pic... loosen the lock nut at the base, then turn the striker so it comes out a little more, then tighten the lock nut again). This will make it livable and give you some time to decide how you want to fix it. Yeah, like Supe said, you can always go a little custom and shoot for the E46 front facia.

EmDeeh · 04-01-2004, 12:08 PM

thanks a ton you guys...I assumed to have a heavy friend stand on it to open it but was unsure if that was the right approach....

you are awesome for also including a pic anytime you need help or are in my area(nor cali) drop me an email

also I was unsure of going for the newer grills and I did see that was an option...since you both agree I'm sure it does look better and I will shoot for newer grills and nose panel

take care fellas I'm gonna try to work on it today maybe I'll msg let you know how it goes

peace out - md in cali

EmDeeh · 04-01-2004, 11:48 PM

took apart front end earlier today....getting new hood and I am going for the 97+ grills and nose panel...I'll let you guys know how the install goes tomorrow morning...I REALLY appreciate the help and advice you guys rock!

I had someone stand on the hood and ripped up really hard...after straightening the front part of my hood that was dented...I'm relieved to not have to take it to a shop

take it easy guys hope I can help you in the future or that you just have fun cruisin with your bimmers

md in cali

EmDeeh · 04-02-2004, 11:01 PM

finishing up tomorrow for anyone who followed....

I found that the MAIN part I needed is part # 41 13 8 122 560 ( image is http://www.studioone2one.com/one87/uploads/Img_0012.jpg ) and also my nose panel(and new grills going for 97+ nose panel upgrade) and a 4door hood...new top air duct and new front fan shrounding...

not too terrible I will see how cheap I get away tomorrow I'm seeing the parts for sub 400 or around there. (including a few assorted clips...3 or 4)

http://www.studioone2one.com/one87/uploads/ -poke around here if you want some good laughs check img_0002 through img_0006 you >>>>WON'T be dissapointed<<< at this joke of a car around the corner. so try the link and click the img's.

feel free to check into the pics of my car also img_0007 through img_0020.

thanks for your help blkongrey and supertrack...much appreciated!!!!!

I'll update that stuff tomorrow once I get the new parts all installed and fitting nicely.

md in cali