Recommended updates 86 E30

[Bimmer_man]

I have a 1986 325e and I am wanting a bit more something out of it. I like the Set up of the M20 but it needs a little updating. Something i was considering was a M20B25 Head. But my main reason for that is to update the Motronic so i can install a Miller Performance MAF kit. Can I just swap the head and then the Motronic or is it a bit more complex than that. Its going to need a new Head gasket that is why I am asking. i figure if I am going to take the head off may as well throw a "i" head on.

This is my first and only car I am also getting a 1991 318iS. So so far the E30 is the only car i have driven. But anyhoo any suggestions to make this car more fun please suggest away.

Also dose the 86 325 have a LSD?

[Andy.B]

https://www.r3vlimited.com/board/archive/index.php?t-60498.html

Start here, and keep reading. Lots of great info in the faq/diy page, including the e to I head swap.
Welcome, enjoy your car, and don't forget to search. There is tons of great info on r3v, and most questions have already been answered.

Sent from my Galaxy Nexus

[Bimmer_man]

thank you I have had my car for about 5 years now and am just ready to have some fun with it.

[Bimmer_man]

Could i get a M20B25 and use the crank from the 325eta that I have and use it for essentially a 2.7L stroker ? Im assuming so if thats the case thats awesome and all ill need are new barrings and pistons.

[Marcos]

stroker

You can but there are some peculiarities involved. It isn't that simple. A full 2.5 swap would be simpler really.

I think the increase in torque is marginal with that stroker and the 2.7 crank has been known to not like revs too much.

[downforce22]

you need to swap plug wires, wiring harness, ecu, and a few sensors are different

[AlphaE]

hate to be jerk, but search the ol interwebs. there are tons of "885 i head on eta block" threads out there and lots even here. All the info is out there.

[StereoInstaller1]

hate to be jerk, but search the ol interwebs. there are tons of "885 i head on eta block" threads out there and lots even here. All the info is out there.

Yes, even dyno testing and tuning help, all here on this site...kinda odd, huh, how a can that has been around 25 years has a bunch of info already out there, right?

[terminale30]

I have a 1986 325e and I am wanting a bit more something out of it.

like what? power above 4K? or more low end?

you are lining yourself up for a lot of work. you probably have a 2.93:1 rear. swap in a 3.73 or a 4.10. if you have an automatic, swap in a 5spd.

if you are convinced you need to work on the engine, do an entire engine swap.

better yet, before you do any of that, find someone with a 325i and ask them to drive you around the block. maybe you just need an i engine swap.