Messages

1

Engine + Driveline / Re: Strange idle problem

« on: June 01, 2019, 02:09:00 PM »

Hmm, no replies.

I guess nobody cares anymore about an engine launched 30 years ago. 

2

Engine + Driveline / Strange idle problem

« on: May 21, 2019, 07:01:27 AM »

Hello, I have a strange idle problem that is only present when the engine is a bit warm. Engine is M42B18 - E36.

When I cold start it the engine the idle is fine, same when the engine is at operating temperature. However when the engine is just a bit warm, let's say about 1-2 hours after driving it, it idles rough for 20-60 seconds like it is running in 3 cylinders.

Otherwise the engine is in good shape, good compression on all cylinders, it runs fine.

Does anybody had this issue?

3

Engine + Driveline / Timing case cover gasket replacement

« on: September 01, 2018, 07:32:35 AM »

Hello,

I need to replace gasket #4 (red) from the link below because of a severe oil leak. Can you please tell me if this job can be done without removing the "lower Timing case cover" part #2 (green)?

https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=BE51-EUR-05-1993-E36-BMW-318is&diagId=11_2683

4

Engine management / Re: DIY - Motronic chip tuning

« on: September 26, 2017, 06:31:44 AM »

Yes, let's go ahead with needed software.

You will need:

1. A good hex editor (I use UltraEdit https://www.ultraedit.com/downloads/ )

2. TunerPro http://www.tunerpro.net/ - normal version is enough for our purpose (not realtime)

3. You must have original binary either by reading it directly from your chip using the EPROM programmer or by downloading it from internet (first choice it is best because it will retain original serial numbers but the downloaded ones will work too)

4. Find the .xdf file for your specific bin - this is a definition file which translate the data from the .bin into a human readable form like scalars, tables (maps).

For no 3 and 4 a good start is http://www.tunerpro.net/downloadBinDefs.htm#BMW and other chip tuning enthusiast forums.

For my specific engine ecu 0261 200 950 I could not found the exact xdf but I was lucky to find the .xdf for a newer software version (990) on the page above. BMW_990_318i_soft070.xdf. Tip: search for last 3 digits written on the label just under BOSCH brand 0261 200 950 in my case. I have found by trying that 990 version of software is working on ...950 ecu. 

5

Engine management / Re: DIY - Motronic chip tuning

« on: September 08, 2017, 02:22:10 AM »

2. An EPROM / PIC / ATMEL programmer that is able to write the above EEPROM. I recommend the relatively cheap Genius G540 from ebay. There are cheaper options or even diy ones that can be made for a couple of bucks but imo they do not worth the trouble.

6

Engine management / Re: DIY - Motronic chip tuning

« on: September 08, 2017, 02:19:36 AM »

OK, let's start with some needed tools. Besides usual screwdrivers and sockets that any diy-er already has you will also need the following:

1. Two pieces of EPROMs (one to have it on the car ant the other to work as a spare). Any 27F512 will work but I recommend getting the re-writable SST27SF512 which can be erased and reused. (most M42s use this chip but it might be good to double check first by opening the ECU, remove the label from the chip and see exactly what's in there).

7

Engine management / DIY - Motronic chip tuning

« on: September 07, 2017, 02:42:40 AM »

Hi all, I would like to write a DIY about how to tune yourself the M42 ECU. I will come back with details if people are interested.

8

Engine + Driveline / Re: Help with rough noise!

« on: August 18, 2017, 08:38:51 AM »

The M42 is not a smooth engine by any means.

9

Engine + Driveline / Re: Permanent ticking noise from fuse-box area

« on: August 11, 2017, 08:41:52 AM »

Found the issue - O2 relay is constantly coupling/decoupling. I have switched another relay there and it is the same so the relay itself is good. I have removed it for the moment until I fix the problem.

10

Engine + Driveline / Re: accelerator cable grommet - MacGyver?

« on: August 10, 2017, 03:45:51 AM »

Some time ago I was able to buy just the grommet. Check realoem on E36 section too.

11

Engine + Driveline / Permanent ticking noise from fuse-box area

« on: August 07, 2017, 07:03:28 AM »

I have a permanent ticking noise from fuse-box area, for a long time I thought that noise is made by injectors but on closer look it seems that is a relay opening and closing constantly. The relay in question seems to be one of the 3 realys that are placed outside the actual fuse box.

I don't think this is normal and eventually will lead to destruction of that relay, impairing some vital functions along with it.

Car is '93 E36 with M42B18 engine, mostly stock.

12

How-To's / Re: S50 ITB to M42 adaptor plate

« on: February 07, 2017, 01:48:40 AM »

This is good information. Can you please make a short description like thickness, any threads needed, etc...

13

Swaps, Turbos, Buildups / Re: M42 build for E36 Compact

« on: December 10, 2016, 12:22:00 PM »

Oil and water plumbed in...

What kind of electric water pump do you use? Can you please give more details? Do you still use a thermostat?

14

Engine management / Re: E36 M42 DME 1.7.2 error

« on: September 11, 2016, 07:22:10 AM »

i have been having this lately or maybe for a few months already...

DME 1.7.2 errors when diagnosed:

100 Engine Control System

Does anyone know what this error is? How can I rectify this?

In addition, the service indicator light stopped at "orange" warning level. But did not advance to RED even after 6 months of driving. But i changed my oil at regular intervals by monitoring the mileage

Thanks

teo

Do you have a custom chip installed?

15

How-To's / Re: DIY Electric fan conversion

« on: August 26, 2016, 07:16:01 AM »

I've bought 14" el fan on ebay for around 50euros, putted on 88C thermostat and I wasn't satisfied with the cooling.
Now I run clutch fan until I finish overhaul of engine, but I doubt that el. fan will do the job.

I'll give it a go with Spoon fan when it comes to my next try and write a review.

Cheers

You must have a problem elsewhere. An electric fan installed properly is more than enough to cool the little M42 engine.