M42club.com - Home of the BMW E30/E36 318i/iS

DISCUSSION => Engine + Driveline => Topic started by: kmack on January 21, 2007, 08:31:29 PM

Title: M42/M44 head differences
Post by: kmack on January 21, 2007, 08:31:29 PM

I did some searching through the site but couldn't come up with anything relating to the specific differences between an M42 and an M44 head.  Can they be swapped easily?  Other than just different cam specs and valve stem size, what other differences are there?

I have 3 cracks in the head that came off my '91 318i and I'm looking for a replacement.  I want to know from what years and what engines I can pull from.  The M42 ran from'91 to '95, correct?  And the M44 started in '96?  Any big differences in the heads from an E30 to E36 M42?

TIA....

Title: M42/M44 head differences
Post by: kowalski on January 21, 2007, 10:42:50 PM

make sure your block doesn't have issues... seems like your engines had some abuse, might want to check everything over before you buy a head.

Title: M42/M44 head differences
Post by: dude8383 on January 21, 2007, 11:24:29 PM

http://m42club.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1524&highlight=head

Title: M42/M44 head differences
Post by: kmack on January 25, 2007, 08:33:19 AM

Ok, so it appears are no major differences in the early M42 and late M42 heads.  At least nothing to won't keep me from a straight swap-out.

What about a straight swap between an M42 and an M44 head?  I found someone that has an M44 head available.  Should I consider it?

The thread that was linked appears to only discuss the differences between early and late M42's.

Title: M42/M44 head differences
Post by: bmwman91 on January 25, 2007, 10:14:10 AM

The M44 head uses a totally different type of valve actuation system.  While it might be possible to fit the head and get the timing chain on there, the car will not run right.  Due to some other differences on the M44, the cam profiles are likely a bit different.  The M42 ECU will not know this and you will get improper fueling and ignition.  Your best bet is another E30 M42 head, or maybe the E36 M42 head.  Good luck!

Title: M42/M44 head differences
Post by: kmack on January 25, 2007, 04:39:03 PM

Thanks for the info.  I've since made up my mind will stay with an M42 head.

I'm buying a used head that will be decked, valves/seats re-cut, and my current cams switched over.  Almost a brand new head.  All for the lovely price of $450.  Should have it ready to install by next week.