odbII swap question

[evangreen]

I am sourcing parts for my conversion now, plan is m52 with s52 cams, or maybe Schrick cam kit for the s52 (someone chime in and let me know if these will work), m50 manifold, and software.

Question: Is changing to odbI necessary or just convenient. I have seen people run the m50 manifolds on odbII cars (I believe) but hey were e36 cars. Do I need to swap over for the engine swap?

I know its easier to get software burned for ODBI but now days there are a few sources for good odbII chips

Thanks for all input

[evangreen]

bump

[bdi_fc]

I am sourcing parts for my conversion now, plan is m52 with s52 cams, or maybe Schrick cam kit for the s52 (someone chime in and let me know if these will work), m50 manifold, and software.

Question: Is changing to odbI necessary or just convenient. I have seen people run the m50 manifolds on odbII cars (I believe) but hey were e36 cars. Do I need to swap over for the engine swap?

I know its easier to get software burned for ODBI but now days there are a few sources for good odbII chips

Thanks for all input

Convenient.

You can make OBDII work, if you want to take the extra effort.

[evangreen]

I guess what i meant was is the extra effort only with the chip, or is it difficult adapting an odbII engine to the e30 chassis?
I guess doing the ODBI swap seems like a lot of work compared to making the manifold work with odbII, so is the availability of software the main reason people switch?

[CorvallisBMW]

I am planning on building the exact same motor you are, and here is what I've gathered about the OBD1 swap. The OBD1 manifold has larger diameter runners which will get you more power (people on bf.c claim 20-25hp on the top end) at the expense of some low-end torque. Also, as you pointed out, tuning OBD1 is easier, cheaper and more effective. I've been told that it's 'almost a necessity' for those doing an m52 swap.