24v swap I'm planning. I have an S52 accessible to me. But I also am contemplating throwing an S54 in there. I would like opinions on what is the best option. The obvious choice is the S54, however can I build/tune the S52 to be same if not better than the S54? Build/tune short of internals.Just wanting to hear what you guys that have done these swaps think.
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Thanks guys. Yeah I've been doing tons of research for engine swaps. I've been a member here long enough to search first before asking. I want to do it once and right. I've even been thinking about n54 or n55. I've seen some pictures of someone who dry fitted an n55 into an e30. But that post was from 2014 and not much after that though.
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S54 will run you $10k + to do it right, unless you get very lucky with used parts and a well maintained motor. ~1.5x that if you pay a shop. 300whp, reliable, but with pricey oil changes and regular valve shim adjustments (more involved than M20 style). Cooling system is way more stout than S50/2. Add considerable cost and hassle if emissions-legality is required.
S52 will run you $4-5k to do it right, reliably, and will have ~240whp with basic mods (ebay headers, M50 manifold, 3" exhaust). The motor is quite reliable and maintenance free but the stuff attached to the motor is pretty much the opposite.
N54/N55 is undocumented, so....go that route if you're brave and have time and money to spare.
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My S50 is about on par with a stock S54. It probably cost what an S54 would have cost. I am currently building a nasty NA S54 to replace the S50.
edit:
Heavily ported head
Springs and retainers
Biggest cams you can run
Custom tune
Full 3.5" intake system including throttle body and custom cold air intake tube
Headers
Full stainless 3" exhaust
Stock 3.0L bottom end
I bought most of my setup from a guy who made 280 WHP with less work than I have done.
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