So just let me introduce myself

[AlpinaPat]

Did you replace or overhaul the HVAC system while the dash was out (other than the vent work)? Would have been the ideal time.

I didn't in an effort to get it back on the road to enjoy the (short) Canadian driving season. Also my blower fan circuit is faulty and I need to address that, and I knew if I tried to tackle it all the car would likely be down until next year. I thought about swapping in the manual pedals while the dash was out too but again didn't want scope creep to spiral out of control.

[JohnH]

Looking at your engine compartment photo, it would seem its running Motronic 1.1, judging by the diagnostic connector. Does it use a toothed timing cog on the front of the engine? 
It would be interesting to know what the full VIN is, so we can workout where it originated in Europe, most likely Switzerland or Sweden.
Heres the vin ranges from my Excel document.
 

 

[AlpinaPat]

It came from Japan, so not sure if BMW Japan VIN's are on your spreadsheet?

[JohnH]

It came from Japan, so not sure if BMW Japan VIN's are on your spreadsheet?

It may be that it is included in Production Code 4041 (DK41 in the full vin). 

[AlpinaPat]

Looked up my VIN last 7 digits are 2497565 so that does fall in the correct range on your spreadsheet for 1987

And DK41 is the 4th-7th digits

[JohnH]

Putting the vin into bmwfans.info says the car was built in July '87 and looking at the engine electronic screen says it a Japanese market car, running Motronic 1.3 (Bosch 0 261 200 172).

Nice car.