Liberitylover,
Thanks for your response. My life is not quite the country song it may seem to be but that's another post. Anyway,... those sites you suggested were informative. They gave me a whole new perspective on what I've gotten myself into here! I originally bought this car for my 17 year old son as (what I thought would be) a reliable older car that was safe and (at $5,000) not too expensive. Well... Now, however I see this as a project car for me. Something that can be a safe mid-life crisis object (though a cute 25 year old "honey" would be more useful right now).
I actually have what I believe is a good and fair-priced BMW mechanic in the area (anyone else from Nashville area who wants the name of the shop, send me a email or post), and I am looking forward to doing some of the work myself. The biggest challange at this point is informing my son that the car is no longer his! Now in addition to issues with my wife my son will hate me too! (if I can get my dog to bite me, I really could make a country song!).
Anyway,... I saw examples of leather restoration on Shogun's and other sites that were impressive. Also saw detailed instructions on repairing roof trim. Seemed do-able. AC control replacement looks easy also. Learned all about why most of the stuff I've already done (engine rebuild, front shocks, control arm bushing, AC work, etc...) were all probably necessary at this milage. The other stuff that has yet to be done makes sense too. I just hope I dont hit the tranny issue...
Anyway, (my favorite word) I still love this car...