The first e30 x e46 console I built

So, you've decided to take the plunge and build your first e30 x e46 console. Congratulations! You're about to embark on a journey filled with excitement, frustration, and hopefully, a lot of fun. But fear not, this blog post is here to guide you through the process with a touch of humor and a sprinkle of quirky advice.

What in the World is an e30 x e46 Console?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let's address the elephant in the room. What exactly is an e30 x e46 console? Well, it's not some fancy new gaming system or a high-tech gadget. Nope, it's actually a custom console that combines elements from the classic BMW e30 and e46 models. Think of it as the Frankenstein's monster of car interiors, but in a cool way and you get cupholders.

Gathering Your Supplies: More Than Just Duct Tape

Now that you know what you're getting yourself into, it's time to gather your supplies.

What you need: Dremel, a soldering iron or plastic welder, metal mesh, plastic filler to repair the console, and a bunch of patience 

Measure Twice, Cut Once: The Golden Rule of DIY

As you start putting everything together, remember the golden rule of DIY: measure twice, cut once. Trust us, you don't want to end up with a wonky console that looks like it belongs in a funhouse. Take your time, double-check your measurements, and for the love of all things DIY, don't rush it.

Actual measurements: the e30 front console measures exactly 16.5cm while the e46 console is a little over 17.5cm, doing some basic math 17.5 - 16.5 we know the portion we have to cut is a exactly 1cm.

Now do NOT do this cut at any random place on the console, you want to do it 12mm from the edge of the console flowing from the very front to just behind where the handbrake frame starts (reference in image 2)

Once you have done that you want to plastic weld the cut together and add some metal mesh to it which helps reinforce the joint, i usually apply heat to the metal mesh until it is embedded in the consoles plastic.

Following this you will want to cut the front of the console which will allow you to get some better handbrake clearance up front, how much you cut is up-to you and what type of look you prefer but i usually cut as much as i can as i think it gives the cleanest look but bear in mind all e30 front consoles (the one that sits around your shift boot) are at a angle and from my experience that angle is not the same in every car so measure twice before you cut and give your self some room to play.

Once you've done the front cut then you want to match the transmission tunnel by cutting the rear bottom of the console, again how much you cut is up-to you and in all hoensty the cut is entirely optional.

Extra Mentions

You will need to fabricate up some sort of front mount for the console if you make the front cut and remove the OEM e46 front mount but this isn't two difficult if you have access to a 3d printer or have a Macgyver personality. The same will need to be done for the rear, some people choose to make a custom L bracket to go with the original bolt, i personally prefer a custom 3d printed mount that includes threaded inserts and the OEM e30 mount for optimal reversibility 

Pat Yourself on the Back: You Did It! 

After hours of hard work, sweat, and maybe a few tears, your first e30 x e46 console is finally complete. Take a step back, admire your handiwork, and pat yourself on the back. You did it! Now, sit back, relax, put a drink in you cupholder console and enjoy the fruits of your labor.