e30 1989 automatic engine swap

[winhotel]

I have a e30 1989 automatic, engine block seems to be leaking air after a leak down test.

But before I pull this whole thing out. Is there better engine I can swap this with, do I also have to swap the transmission?

Actually, can I remove the pistons without taking out the block? just removing the subframe and oil pan? and working from there?

I could just hone the cylinders, they don't have any bad scratches or anything and just replace the rings, I'm sure the rings and bearings are beat the car has about 280,000 miles on it.

[cory58]

Some people think a small block Chevy is a "better engine."

Seriously, you might want to reword your question. Are you asking about differences in m20b25s, possible upgrades to a different type of BMW engine or something else.?

There is lots of engine swap info in the engine forums, if that's what you are looking for.

Cory

[agent]

There is lots of engine swap info in the engine forums, if you look.