M3 Swap?

[ArchangelX]

I have a 1994 325i Conv. Would some form of M3 engine fit in it? I'd prefer the E46 M3 engine, being that it is the same size as the E36 M, i thought it might fit. I'm not sure, but I'm just curious as to weather or not it can/has been done. any thoughts on cost are appreciated as well.

[abemcclellan]

anything is always possible if you have the money. i am knowledgable for some of the conversion stuff, but not totally sure about some things.

[jrhaile]

as I am someone who is in the middle of a m3 conversion in my e36 let me shed some light on this for you..

first an e46 motor will not work unless you change the whole underbody of your engine compartment which is BIG BUCKS.

Now if you can get an e36 m3 motor it will fit perfect. If you get a m3 motor from 95 ot 94 you're set. All you'd need to do is change the eprom chip. If you get a motor from 96 or above you have to basically convert (don't HAVE TO but it makes life easier) the motor to obd1 using an eprom from a 95 m3. have to strip the motor down to 3.2 longblock and use all the existing stuff off of your current motor. you'll then have to plug the 2 obd2 o2 sensor holes and rewire your crank sensor cable to the cable as that's where the m3 one lies. you'll also need some new intake manifold gaskets and possibly some new valve cover gaskets. you'll also need the m3 starter as well. I'm doing the actual swap next weekend so I'll have some more info when I do it and i'm going to record the whole process for everyone to view.

[ArchangelX]

Cool, thanx! does anyone know about just a tranny swap? i'm automatic right now. How much is a manual tranny swap?

[jrhaile]

ohh me me me...


I did the swap too :P call up a salvage yard like 002 in SF or John's LKQ and they can get you all the parts. I paid 2500 which included all labor and a UUC SSK.

[Turbodefrost]

Originally posted by jrhaile@Oct 13 2004, 09:59 PM
ohh me me me...


I did the swap too :P call up a salvage yard like 002 in SF or John's LKQ and they can get you all the parts. I paid 2500 which included all labor and a UUC SSK.

[snapback]210898[/snapback]

Reeeeeeaaaaaalllllyyy??? Wow, this is good news. I kinda gave up the idea of a tranny swap and/or m3 conv. but you have shed new light on the horizons!!! Please keep us informed!