I have taken on this project. 95~96 have the fenders clear for the side markers while the 97 and 98 have the washer reservoir located on the driver's side fender.

I will have to take down the liner and figure out if there is enough space to install the side marker and keep it from looking weird...

Here's the marker I will install:

 

The passenger fender is all clear. For those of you with 97 and 98, when you open your driver's door, look towards the fender and you will see this white container that runs from the top to the bottom of the fender...whereas the passenger is all way through, shine a light in there.

For the passenger fender, I will fish the wires into the front bumper and will just tap into signals.

For the driver's side, liner has to come down to evaluate feasible location. Tomorrow we shall find out.

 

Guys I need your opinion, for 97 and 98, this is a location which will work, it clears the washer tank.

Tell me what you think:

 

Here's another shot:

 

I need feedback....thanks.

 

seems a bit low to be honest... if there is a car next to you in your blind spot... most likely he will not see that light that low over the hood of his car...

 

Yup, point well taken. However, from nothing to something is an upgrade.

 

The passenger side is a different story...I was planning to put it at the right location...

 

^

Thats not right.

Good job, you took this project. I am working 7 days a week and I don't know for how long I have to, so I don't have time at all. Not even for putting my inspire tails on.

 

I'll be straight with you.... no.

 

Ok guys...need to look at another spot! Can not wait for the weekend, I need to tear that fender liner down!

I have been checking around, the lowest that these markers are installed are in the level of the top of the tire, if not higher....so I agree.

Thanks for the feedback.

 

low. would not look good.

 

NOOOO...definitely don't do it that low. ESPECIALLY don't do it higher on the passenger side. I tend to think that it's not necessarily better to have anything than nothing. Stock looks better...how about finding a reservoir from a another car that you can make work...I mean, it only holds liquid...you could make something work to give you the 1" clearance you'll need.

 

yeah man that looks a little to low so yeah. it should got were the trim on the fender is but a little higher than the trim. thats were they usually go and if the water tank in the way get side markers that are flatter so they will fit

 

that low Will Fail ! i always wanted to put the side marker in the side moldings, i think it will go very nicely and you could make them flush with the car so they dont stick out as much
BTW where you got them from? they look nice!

 

yeah i do body work and that would be a great idea to mold it in to the trim so its flush with the body...!

 

ebay. What if you move it to the left or right from the normal spot? Maybe it will work then.

 

I will try to pop the liner tonight and see if I can pick a higher spot but it will be closer to the fender lip though....

 

I do not want to do a washer reservoir change, too much hassle. You will need to re-wire the pump and crap...

 

The BMW 3 series has it quite low but not as low as mine...

 

I think it's a little low....

Interesting mod though.

 

blah, two wires and a vacuum line. Its so easy to do.

 

so does anybody have the measurements for the factory location of the side markers?

 

Tempting.....

 

Give me time, I will get this resolved this weekend...

 

I do not know where the OEM Inspire marker is...I know that looking at several BMW 3 series markers....it is about the same height as I was proposing....3/4 of the tire level.

 

I am freeking ready for this DIY. Got my Dremel tool lined up! No matter what, my Tl will have side markers after this weekend! Good timing, it sucks in ATL now, all rain and crap!

Got something to spend my time on...watch for the DIY!!!! Wish me luck....gotta be careful about the paint....

I will also solder the wire into the terminal...I do not know where to get the connector...anybody has an idea? Otherwise, solder and heat shrink!

 

just get some female butt connectors.

 

I like female butt... connectors.

~Cheers~

 

^

 

I need your input ASAP! This is the best location so far. I have the fender liner torn down.

Let me know!!!!!!!

 

I think it looks good. Much better in this spot than previous.

 

Thanks, next is the template for the hole.

 

Ok Guys...a teaser, 1st one is in! No wiring yet.

 

I woulda went a little lower and closer to the fender, but that looks good too!

 

Ok, here we go, the DIY for the side marker signals. I jacked up the car and took out the wheel, but found out it is not needed. However, you need to jack it up so you have space to work with.



Next: Peel off the liner and see where you can locate the marker. 95~96 need not worry, you have space...but for 97~98, need to avoid wires and tank.

.

 

Next step work on your template. Take your time to layout your template. Some thinking required. For those of you who are not savvy....take it to the shop and get it installed...it was freeking exhausting....



Next, tape your template to your exact location.

 

Next...tape, more tape...protect the vicinity...you will be happy you did...that dremel wants to party......



Next step...some serious dremel cutting action....I used 1 cutting tool for both...just take your time, practice....the tool will want to wander around....you must hold it tight and stay close to the body...anchor your hands....just do it slowly. Then switch to sanding tool...fine tune and clean up edges....after some gut wrenching, serious concentration cutting and sanding...fit your marker

 

Need to wire up, get 16 gage stranded wire and cut sufficient length...I soldered mine and heat shrinked....looks good:



Next, remove the signal marker by removing one screw. Now fish the wire.

 

Next step, tap into the signal wires...does not matter which one, just tap the wires.



Replace signals and clean up and pour a glass of scotch and enjoy the flasher....