Re: bmw pa

[jbtaylor@fcg.net (Jon Taylor)]

Frank,

I went through this about two weeks ago when I replaced my pump and bomb.
Several on the list said that using the BMW 7 series bomb was a do-able
modification.  I checked into this only by calling around, and never
actually put my hands on the BMW parts; here is what I found:

7 series BMW accumulator consists of 2 parts the gas/fluid chamber and the
check valve.

The gas chamber screws into the check valve assembly; I assume something
like a propane cylinder into a torch. These gas chambers retail for $118
and are commonly discounted for $70 - $75. I found a place that sells them
for $75 everyday (in EC)

The check valve, I'm assuming, is the part that all the pressure and drain
lines fit into.  The BMW retail price is $306 new, I found it discounted
for as low as $262.  I then called 4-5 BMW dismantlers and they ALL quoted
me a price of $150; they all try to charge half of new.

So, as I saw it, this retrofit would cost at least $225 using a used check
valve and a new gas chamber, with the benefit of only replacing a $75 part
at the next bomb failure; and the uncertainty of a used check valve. I
never had the parts in hand to do a visual fit check to see if it would be
direct bolt-up or require some fabrication.

I almost decided to try it but the initial cost difference was slight
enough that I ultimately came to the conclusion that the $249 Blaufergnugen
NEW bomb was the way to go (keeping things original and all). I talked to
Linda @ Carlsen  and she said that the cost to her for the part was $245 so
I feel the $249 price is as good as it gets.


Jon

'88TQW