M3 Engine Swap Questions

[BMW2002CS1]

Im transplanting an E36 3.0 ODBI engine into an older 70, 2002 and would like to know if anyone has had problems with this motor? Any wizdom for such project would be greatly appreciated as well.

[ldsbeaker]

I can't find anything right now about an M/S 50/52 in a 2002. I've seen the S14 in one, but I'll keep looking.

I seem to remember something about the water pumps with the S52's (is that the right engine?) and as always, I would do my research, and do as much maintenance now, so that you won't have to do it 500 miles down the road, right after you finish your project.
Keep us informed, I hope to be putting the same engine into
<<< The Turtle this fall.

[97alpineM3]

You are correct my friend... the early model e36 s50/52 engines had weak water pumps... the propeller was made of plastic rather than a metal... replacement is needed. After about 96ish... that problem was fixed from the factory.

Les

[jllphan]

The engine is superb, the coolant system is definitely lacking. Not only are the water pumps weak (both plastic impeller and metal impeller equipped units fail and should be replaced every 60K miles), but the thermostat (60K), thermostat housing(60K), and even radiators(100K) should be replaced with the aforementioned intervals.

Seems like a lot of engine to shoehorn into such a tiny car, but let us know how it turns out, that would be one seriously road machine if you get right!

[Furious]

well since its a 1995 engine, im sure the water pump was probably already changed, i know when i did my swap (same engine) pretty much all the wear products were replaced at least once.