Author: lubo

Install DD-WRT to NETGEAR R6700v3

I’ve had this router for a while. Got it as a replacement when my old Linksys died out (it was a refurbished unit so that may have been the issue). Because I was in a rush I didn’t research properly for a well compatible DD-WRT model. Due to being overseas I wanted an option to have a VPN on the router level and also disable all the NETGEAR backdoors in the proprietary flash.

Upon some research I found the R6700v3 has similar hardware to the R6400v2. Specifically:
Broadcom BCM4708A0 1GHz, 2 cores
Flash ROM 128MB
RAM 256MB
Wireless BCM4360 5 GHz & BCM4331 2.4 GHz

Any recent build should be supported. I chose to start with the known good-to-flash 41328. After I was successful I installed the most current daily build without issues.

My router was using the 1.4 firmware from NETGEAR (current as of February 2020). It did allow me to install a lower version with just a warning, so I didn’t need to tinker with the .chk file version.

The steps are pretty straight forward, but here is what I did:

  • Backup current stock firmware settings
  • Reset router to factory defaults
  • Run through initial setup and flash with the 41328 .chk file
  • Setup the DD-WRT router
  • Restart and update to the desired build

The R6700v3 has only one device ID making it easier to flash than the R6400v2 as you don’t have to worry using the wrong files or settings.

More information can be found on the information page on DD-WRT at: https://wiki.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Netgear_R6700v3

I am happy with the DD-WRT interface and have used it in the distant past. AC speeds work as intended and I have a greater control of the router hardware.

Mercedes SL500 evaporator temperature sensor replacement

One common cause on R129 (SL500 included), as well as W140 S classes is the HVAC shutting off. Without much to go on it is hard to diagnose. If the HVAC modules reads an incorrect temperature it will shut off as a failsafe. Little known fact is that a temperature sensor exists for the evaporator. A simple $35 replacement part could end up causing thousands in repair troubleshooting and possible unnecessary repairs.

There is a way to troubleshoot faults for the AC within the actual AC panel in the newer versions without the need of special DAS Mercedes multiplexer and software.

You can see what the original looks at the top and the OEM replacement under it. No need to get the Mercedes part for three times the cost.

Original and OEM evaporator sensors

To get to the sensor can be a bit tricky. You have to remove the soft cover under the steering column. This is a picture with it off.

The sensor can be seen in the picture below. Simply pull it out and replace it.

If you have a DAS engine faults reader, make sure to clear and HVAC codes, temporary and stored. The AC should start and not shut off now as the correct temperature is measured.

BMW 328i (F30) OEM filters

Below is a list of the available OEM filters for the F30 328i with the N20 2.0L turbo engine. OEM are original equipment manufacturer parts, often those are sourced to the car maker brand. When that part is labeled Genuine BMW part it gets a BMW part number.

BMW genuine parts can change the manufacturer but will remain labeled BMW. Therefore, having an OEM part is just a good even though it’s missing the BMW logo and part number.

Below you will find the most common filters for the F30 N20 engine and the part numbers. I am including OEM only, no third party brands.

Air FilterOil FilterCabin Filter
MANN C24025MANN HU816ZKITMANN CU25001
Mahle LX 2077/3Mahle LAK812
Hengst E1079LHengst E61H D215Hengst E2991LC

Here is what the OEM Hengst air filter looks like:

Upgrade Bose woofers on Mercedes SL500 (R129)

The R129 Mercedes-Benz SL class comes with some good Bose speakers and AMP. I decided to start the upgrade process with the door woofers. The stock ones are 1 Ohm and there is almost nothing on the market with that resistance. Based on other retrofits I opted to go with a 2 Ohm woofer. The system I bought is the JBL GTO608C. It comes with separate woofers and tweeters.

SL500 replacement woofer
Back comparison of stock and aftermarket
Notice the stock paper Bose woofer with water damage.

To avoid cutting wires an adapter was used.

Adapter (bottom) ready to plug into aftermarket 5V RCA out stereo.
Adapter connected.

The fit was perfect in depth and diameter.

Installed look of the JBL woofer.