The M Coupe went to the shop this week for the long-awaited rod bearing servicing. As part of this, the engine mounts and oil pan gasket will also be replaced. Since I was waiting for both the title paperwork to come through and to avoid driving it without the bearings done, the car hasn't seen much use except for around the neighborhood. As such, one of the main concerns was how notchy the gearbox was. I'm happy to say, those concerns have all but dissolved after taking it on a meaningful cruise.
The transmission became much easier to live with within 10 minutes of driving as the fluid warmed up; otherwise, there were no surprises with this car despite four years of inactivity. When I got to the shop this week, the front subframe had been dropped and in looking under the car, I was pleased to see how many OEM stickers were still present on parts; some, like the shocks, are original Sachs units that will need to eventually be replaced, but it's amazing how stock this example remains.
The transmission notchiness could be explained by the fact that it had the incorrect fluid. In addition, the rear subframe is mint with zero popped welds. The engine internals are beautiful with no signs of metal shavings or any other damage. I will need tires but I knew that; otherwise, there have been no ugly surprises thus far.