Tuneup Help!

[SquireOne]

I am looking at buying a BMW, 1985 318i that needs a tuneup. It has been sitting a while (months). What all should I do in the tuneup? (I don't have a manual yet to use for reference -- I intend to buy the Bently one on Amazon).

Things that occur to me are:

1. Replace Spark Plugs
2. Adjust Points
3. Set Timing
4. Change Oil and Oil Filter
5. Top off all fluids

What else do I need to do in a tuneup? I am going to be doing it at automotives class at our community college. I want to make sure I don't overlook anything in the tuneup.

Thanks for any help with this!

[yamaha405]

I do those things as well as change the cap and rotor, fuel filter, plug wires. jsut a few mroe things to think about.

[SquireOne]

Originally posted by yamaha405@Mar 3 2005, 08:31 PM
I do those things as well as change the cap and rotor, fuel filter, plug wires. jsut a few mroe things to think about.

[snapback]303468[/snapback]

For spark plugs, Bosch Platinum's should do the trick? $1.99 x4 w/o tax at AutoZone.

If the distributor cap needs replaced (it might not, right?) what brand do you suggest? I see one made by Wells, Part No. RB914, for 10.99 at AutoZone. Also, the rotor, does it need replaced for sure, or should its condition be checked first? If it needs replaced, Wells Part No. RB939 for 4.99 would be be good right?

Wire set seems rather expensive, 69.99 is a bit steep... Bosch part number 09137. Do I really need these? Would those be the correct wires? All part numbers are from AutoZone.com

Fuel filter, another kinda expensive item. 24.99 for Deutsch part number FF761 would that be the correct one? Can I get one cheaper that would be good?

Oil, any will do? I was thinking 10w30 Quaker State. Would that do the trick?

Oil Filter, any that fits will do? STP part number S3816 for 3.99?

All the part numbers come from AutoZone, as well as the prices. I am open for any suggestions on what parts to get, who to buy from, and what to do in the tuneup. I want to get good parts, but I also want to avoid expenditure if the existing parts are fine. I'm a poor college student!

Thanks!!

[yamaha405]

as far as brands, im not sure. and ive been told whenever you doa tune up, adn cahnge eitehr the cap or the rotor, your jsut supposed to do them both. same with the plugs and plug wires. yeah plug wires are expensive, i paid a lot for mine too. ive jsut been told they should all be cnahged at the same time. Chris---

[BMWJNKY]

DO NOT USE PLATINUM PLUGS. Plat. plugs in a BMW that didn't come from the factory with them is useless, a waste of money and will probably cause running problems sooner than factory Bosch silver or copper plugs. The M10 engine after 1980 doestn't have points, it uses a magnetic pick up inside the distributor. When you are replacing the ditributor rotor you should see a brown/tan piece of felt in the center shaft of the distributor, put a few drops of air tool oil or ATF on it. This will keep the internal weights and springs lubricated.

[SquireOne]

What would be a very bad thing to forget in a tuneup?

What is highest priority if the funds are not available to do everything at once?

[yamaha405]

you may want to replace the air filter also.

[e30fanm3]

just see how it runs and go from there