Within this page, I describe the odds and ends that were encountered while doing the 318is to ///M Powered conversion!!
THIS PAGE IS STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION!!
E-Mail me with any questions at:
elibeemer@msn.com
Stock suspension can stilll be used!!
As for the steering rack, the power steering hose had to be replaced, but what I did, I re-bent it to shape but be aware, you will have to use NEW crush washers on the ends.
Exhaust:
The exhaust system had to be completely replaced.
The O.E. 318i motor was equiped with a single pipe from the manifolds to the rear cat, resonator and finally exhaust.
The exhaust system I used was off a 1999 328i, which is the same system on the OBDII M3. This as close of a dual exhaust system for all E36 BMW's. Dual cats, dual resonators and exhaust.
Motor:
As you probably figured it out the entire engine bay changes.
You cannot save any of the 318i parts!!!!
You must use the correct alternator, a/c compressor, etc. plus misc.
The motor mounts are also different, altought they bolt up to the same location.
The radiator, is different. You must use the larger radiator for the M50 motors.
Although after removing the radiator, you will have to purchase the bases for the M50 radiator due to that the 318i radiator bases will not work (dealer part $3 bucks)
You can still utilize the stock 318i carbon canister, but you will need to rotate it and move location.
Also you will have to purchase a new Cruise control unit ( only difference is longer cable )
Once the motor is in place, the hardest part was connecting the fuel lines. Make sure you connect the correct fuel lines to the correct in/out lines. The Stock 318i fuel injection pump can still be utilized.
Flywheel make sure that you have the correct clutch/flywheel combo. I bolted the 318i flywheel to the motor along with the new 318i clutch. ( I didn't have the funds for a ligthened flywheel and performance clutch).
ECU/CHIP are also important factors. Make sure you have the correct ECU for the motor along with the correct chip. Wether the car is equipped with EWS or not. A performance chip is strongly recommended.
BRAKES:
Brakes, Can't stress it enough!!! UPGRADE IS A MUST!! It just feels safe after 130 MPH, to know you can stop safely rather than to be stoped by a tree or someone else..
You can do ///M3 brakes by changing out the spindles and caliper/disks...but I recommend just redoing the entire suspension at the same time, such as ball joints and all bushings.
I will be planning to do porsche/Brembo conversion later. Why porsche?? Because who knows how long the other Manufacturers of Big Brake Kits will last and have their pads available.
(also, good excuse to go to a Porsche dealer, kick some tires, test drive a new TURBO then purchase pads that will fit my car.)
Stainless steel braided lines are also recommended.
More information will be added soon!!
Remember to leave the 318is badges on the car...HEH HEH!