Cooling + Throttle cable questions

[Chrisv006]

Ok - still gathering parts...

I have an 87 with the early cooling system...I am going to get an e36 aluminum radiator but I have no intentions of using the OE fan/clutch/shroud setup. Anyone have an expansion tank solution or do I need to make my own?

As far as throttle cables go, I've read e34 525, 84 318i, or even go to a bike shop and use a custom brake cable...what did you all do?

My motor arrives in a week!

Thanks!

[7pilot]

Use the E30 overflow tank.
80 deg fan switch.
cooler Tstat.
14-16 inch electric fan.
A real throttle cable will be more reliable than a bicycle jobby. Either E34 or E36 throttle cables work.

It's all in the stickys.

m

[hoveringuy]

Ok, stupid question...

I have an 80c switch on hand. Does removing the switch from the radiator cause the coolant to leak? Or not?

Do I need to drain my coolant to swap the switch in?

[7pilot]

Ok, stupid question...

I have an 80c switch on hand. Does removing the switch from the radiator cause the coolant to leak? Or not?

Do I need to drain my coolant to swap the switch in?

:D You need fast hands .
Push the old switch against the rad as you unscrew it.
That way the coolant won't be leaking out until it is loose, then with the new switch in your other hand, pull the old one away and quickly start to screw in the new one, keeping pressure against the rad.
If you're quick enough engaging the threads of the new switch, you'll only spill about 60ccs of coolant.

m

[Artful Dodger]

My recommendation for the coolent reservoir is use the late model E30. it sits on the drivers side of the car. it make the coolent hose routing nicer. as for the throttle cable, I used the stock e30. My swap did not have a bracket for the trottle cable assembly anyway so I had to make one.