Author Topic: E36 318is Need an engine. Replacement question. (Read 2508 times)

lostmenoggin · « **on:** February 01, 2013, 11:37:29 PM »

Can I put any M42 in my 7/1992 318is? I need an engine and I plan on using the wiring harness and ecu that came with the car and was wondering if any of the different year M42 engines would work. Thanks.

Geoff · « **Reply #1 on:** February 02, 2013, 08:47:46 AM »

different years will work, but probably not without mods. the early ones for e-30 use a different ecu and different sensors in the head. these engines run w/out a knock sensor. The later ones than yours may work, but there were differences along the way with the belt system and maybe other stuff I am not aware of. a true plug in motor with no mods at all would probably have to be the same type as yours.
Geoff

e3091318is · « **Reply #2 on:** February 12, 2013, 02:49:09 AM »

I have a 1991 318is E30 and I am attempting to put put in a M42 from a 1995 318i sedan. Looks all the same. Only doing the block and switching everything else out.

e3091318is · « **Reply #3 on:** February 14, 2013, 01:53:08 AM »

Quote from: Geoff;119802

different years will work, but probably not without mods. the early ones for e-30 use a different ecu and different sensors in the head. these engines run w/out a knock sensor. The later ones than yours may work, but there were differences along the way with the belt system and maybe other stuff I am not aware of. a true plug in motor with no mods at all would probably have to be the same type as yours.
Geoff

I am guessing it would be easiest just to put in the original sensors and keep the original ecu? This may also allow you to delete the anti-knock sensor too.