M50 block + S52 head Swap Questions

[Mr Egg Rollllll]

So I'm about to purchase an m50 block and a s52 head to frankenstein it up a little bit.

I know the head castings are the same for all the 6 cyl motors, but the m3 cams should bump up power a decent bit. Are there any other differences like stiffer valve springs? Any advice or information on the timing side of things?

I'll be throwing s52 headers and a trm tune to complete the build for now as this will be my DD for a couple of years until I'm able to afford my house and new DD.

That being said, is this a doable swap? I realize that an m52 or s5x block would be preferred, but I'm doing what I can with what I have.

Any information, comments, suggestions, and pointers would be appreciated. I'm trying to become a more contributing member of this forum and I know you fellow r3v members are full of information. I've done my research and there just isn't that much out there to help me out.

Thank you all!

[vabbster]

The S52 head will fit fine. However, the S52 head is missing a temp sensor port if you are going to go OBD1. You will either need to tap another port for a temp sensor, or use the Turner wire adapter. However, if you are doing a swap in an E30, you should not use the Turner adapter because it will give you a false reading (it is made to work in an E36). I think the best option is to either tap a new port, or use a 12X1.5 to 1/8 NPT adapter in the port for the throttle body heater (there are other threads on how to bypass the throttle body heating system).

[Wanganstyle]

Why not sell both and install a complete running matched M52 2800cc?