Some advice for modding my new e30!

[Tad]

Hi all!
Ok so I just picked up a silver 1990 325i, w' 167k on it.
All stock.

So I kind of have a two tiered approach to building up this car.
I want to do a simple phase 1, then if the car really clicks with me,
i'll go all out with phase 2 and spare no expense.

BUT for now, i would like to squeeze as much power out of this motor
as I can without actually pulling the thing, or tearing it apart.
IE boltons..

SO, what can I do here? intake, exhaust? chip?
what kind of gains can I hope to expect w/ say, a proper intake setup,
chip, and highflo cat + catback exhaust ?
Is there anything else I could add to it?

Thanks in advance.

[ctownhawk]

most here will say go for a chip as it will give you the most gain for the money. the stock airbox works great, get an intake if you want, but there are few out there with a good heatshield. replace the exhaust for sound, or if its rusted. you could also do bavauto/IE longtube headers if you wanted.

[browntown]

spend your money on suspension first, it'll make that little motor more enjoyable.

[Tad]

Oh yeah, suspension is a definite,
I just posted here for engine bits specifics.

is there anything doable outside of i/h/e/chip ?

[thereisnoyun]

two tier

You have to decide whether you keeping the m20 to build up when you pull it or you are dropping another engine.

If you arent keeping the m20, just chip it, and leave it stock.

If you are, then you can do MAF, headers, stroke etc going towards the build up for FI.

[Tad]

yeah i'll be keeping the m20

[JJe30]

Probably find some mild cam

[PiercedE30]

Maintenance, first before anything.

[Easily Distracted]

Replace all rubber bushings and mounts first. Suspension is a must as you mentioned. Gaining serious handling will put a bigger smile on your face than a couple of hp. Definitely do the timing belt, tensioner and water pump unless you are positive they were just done. Then replace your temp sensors and get your injectors professionally cleaned and replace your FPR. Clean your air flow sensor and Idle Control Valve thoroughly. If you want an upgrade, do a quality chip like a Conforti. It can actually improve idle and driveability at the same time.
If your not sick of the car by this point, then throw as much money as you want at bolt-ons.
My $0.02.

[Tad]

Hmm, thanks,
that sounds like sound advice.

I might just end up following it word by word actually.
like the sound of a cam too ;)