New to Ti's with a 96 active package

[old_sports_cars]

Hi, I have been driving BMW 2002s for ever and my current 1973 2002 since 1987. I have been looking at 318ti's for a long time and finally got one that needed a lot of little things, a 1996 318ti built 6/96. AS96884, Hellrot. 5sp, Active package with ASC+t.
163,000 miles. No need for pictures as it has clear coat peeling and rust on rear wheel arches.

I dont' know anything about the car except the early warranty info/print out I got from my local dealer, which turns out to be where the car was purchased (Voss BMW, Dayton Ohio). This indicates it is a Sport, but I don't believe it as I also got the options list (based on vin) from the dealer which indicates active package, no LSD and it did not have the sport interrior.

So far I have done everything myself except installing the Bosal Muffler.

• Oil and Filter
• brake pads, and fluid flush; front pads were metal to metal!
• camshaft sensor
• Front struts, originals were wet noodles. Rears were already changed.
• tie rod end and adjusted Toe-in.
• thermostat (was leaking) and radiator hoses
• fixed drivers side window regulator (clips) and door panel.
• Rear Speakers
• Checked air filter and put in new cabin filters
• repaired heating in side mirrors (what an amazing tip)
  I found a 95 in local yard and got
• Sport seats in decent condition after I spent hours cleaning and contitioning.
• drivers side brake duct and ambient temp sensor
• floor mats, side skirt clips. sunroof emergency wrench.

I have driven it a 1,000 miles so far and no oil usage or leaks have been found. Transmission and drive train are relatively smooth and tight. The clutch seems like it could be slipping if I really pop it.

The new Bosal Muffler has quite a rasp in during acceleration that I don't like. Someone cut out the cat and welded in a pipe, so that could contribute.

It did have a drip from a hose from the power steering pump hat I tightned the clamp on and seems stopped for now.

I want to drive it on a 1500 mile trip this weekend, but am paranoid about the plastic cooling system connectors everyone mentions here.

I am finding the Bilstein touring struts and shocks a little jolty compared to the bilstein heavy duties I have in my 2002.
Still pretty excited about it as a modern addition to my 1973 2002 driver.

Anyway, that's my introduction.
Thanks for all the help.
Ray
1973 BMW 2002 (Salt free months daily driver)
1996 BMW 318ti (daily driver)
2000 Toyota Avalon (teen 1)
2007 Honday Oddysey (wife)
2008 Hundai Santa Fe (teen 2)