'91 E30 318i (What to look..)

[E30King]

First off I'd like to say that I'm not new to the BMW world, but I'm definately new to the M42 powered E30.. I'm actually a soon-to-be proud owner of a '91 318i sedan hopefully this Monday or Tuesday. I've worked out a deal with a fellow and it's set... So to get to the point!

Being only fueled by M20 and M30 motors, I can solve any issue blind-folded, but not in this new case.. A little history behind this car is that it has been sitting for 5-years now, but has been started-up and driven once in awhile these recent months. I went to check the car, and as I expected, it obviously needs a service. Before that, when I started up the car, it felt a little rough, yet steady, and car drove flawlessly (which I'm still surprised about). Is this "roughness" normal on M42's?

I'd also like to know what should be addressed or replaced during tune-up/service? The oils and filters yada yada yada are guaranteed, but are there anything in particular to look for just in case?

Thanks!

[xwill112x]

oil pump bolts.

timing chain tensioner.

vaccum leaks/mess under the intake.


thats about it, have fun, drive it like you stole it!

[DesktopDave]

It's not as smooth as the M20, that's for sure.  In addition to the above items, verify that your engine & tranny mounts aren't totally shot.  They're much more substantial than the M20 units.  There's also the usual e30 culprits you're aware of: CA bushings, CSB, guibo, exhaust, etc.

Mine had a diff problem too, the small-case diff isn't as robust but is a lot lighter.  The medium case 325is diff is a straight swap.  You might want to verify the original spec...shoot the last six digits of your VIN off to ed12123 at Bimmerforums on this thread.  He'll get you the original options & build sheet of your car.