Author Topic: Want to do some engine changes... what can I do with a $1000?? (Read 3360 times)

AlpineRob · « **on:** September 25, 2008, 04:53:09 PM »

I have a 91 318is...I have done a lot of work to this car cosmetically - It is in excellent condition and I love it.. But i'm looking for some more power..As you all know the m42 is peppy but not impressive.. I would like to see what I can do under the hood to make a big difference without spending thousands. I am looking for recommendations on what I could possibly do a 1000$ worth of upgrades and labor. The only thing i have done performance wise to the car is a sport exhaust system with a fairly cheap intake cone...which i doubt does much of anything. Thanks a lot!

Robert

Danny707 · « **Reply #1 on:** September 25, 2008, 05:10:04 PM »

Heater plate delete, chip and maybe reground cams.

GrindCulture · « **Reply #2 on:** September 25, 2008, 05:27:35 PM »

Not sure exactly how much $1k would get you, but if I had �1k then a decent remap on standalone engine managment would be a good starting point. Opens up loads of doors with regards to tuning potential no matter which route you go down.

I'm sure you could get a 50hp shot of nitrous set up properly for that sort of figure?

strad · « **Reply #3 on:** September 25, 2008, 06:12:55 PM »

The word on intake cones that I have seen with respect to the M42 is that the stock intake allows the motor to produce the most power. Although intake cones do sound cool.

I don't see how a heater plate delete is going to make much difference. The heater plate does not restrict airflow. If someone can produce two dyno sheets on the same car, with and without heater plates, that shows a marked improvement, I'll eat my words.

So get a proper chip, like a genuine Jim C chip for your car. Also make very sure that your timing system is in good shape. The increased revs available with a chip are not a good mix with a worn-out timing chain/sprockets.

AlpineRob · « **Reply #4 on:** September 25, 2008, 06:25:28 PM »

forgive my lack of experience but what are reground cams ( i know what a cam is duhh but never heard of reground)? and can you provide a link of where to find a decent chip.. Good advice about the timing though - I know i am due for it to be replaced..

KenC · « **Reply #5 on:** September 25, 2008, 07:04:20 PM »

M47 Crank, etc

strad · « **Reply #6 on:** September 25, 2008, 07:55:28 PM »

Yeah, if you do end up needing a timing rebuild, you'll likely spend about $500 on that (for parts) and your chip'll probably cost about $200 or so, so that leaves about $300 left to spend.

AlpineRob · « **Reply #7 on:** September 25, 2008, 08:51:55 PM »

what is the benefit of the m47 crank

Danny707 · « **Reply #8 on:** September 25, 2008, 09:20:44 PM »

M47 crank will create a longer stroke.

And the heater plate delete allows cooler air into the combustion chamber.

Start reading things, the search engine and Google are your friend.

JP 91iS · « **Reply #9 on:** September 25, 2008, 10:24:05 PM »

Here's a good read on the subject:
http://www.m42club.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5795&highlight=16yo+budget
Here's another:
http://www.r3vlimited.com/tech/318is/318is.htm

Based only on what I've been reading I would suggest: chip, lightweight flywheel, and fan clutch delete. Also make sure your car is nice and tuned up, and you can do more by saving money and doing labor yourself.

nuvolarossa · « **Reply #10 on:** September 26, 2008, 03:46:41 AM »

Quote from: KenCopperwheat;57374

M47 Crank, etc

no way you can do that with only 1000 usd, the "etc" part on your message will need more money than that.

You can do that (open the engine for low money) if you know really (experienced) what it needs. The OP seems to not being able to do itself, so delete from your mind the M47 crank thing for now.

cams+ ltw flywheel+Heater plate delete+better panel filter+ a good realtime CUSTOM chip for your car from a REAL ecu tuner....:cool:

otherwise if you want real MAD hp, you need to save more than that money:p

(if you end the budget, start to lightweight it

)