Core support interchangability?

[Dirtsquirt]

Hey guys,

I have access to a '89 325i from one of my neighbors for a decent price. Only real defect on the car is that she ran into a tree or phone pole or something of that sort and bent the core-support section of the unibody. Suspension and the rest of the body was unaffected as the car still tracks straight and all the doors open/close smoothly. I was wondering if it would be possible to have the damaged section of the unibody removed and a replacement section from my '85 325E parts car welded in (professionally, of course) or if there were any differences between the two. I would like to keep the '88+ valence and bumpers if possible.

Any thoughts?

-Dan

[NickP]

The core support is different - at the least the mounts for the rad are different. The good news is that the core support is available via the aftermarket for a reasonable price. I think around $100 - $200.

You might be able to get away with using the older core support if you're willing to switch over to the earlier style radiator. It might also be possible to have your current core support pulled / straightened.

[Dirtsquirt]

You wouldn't happen to know of a vendor that carries the aftermarket core support, would you?

-Dan

[blunttech]

i have a brand new oem 89 core support hanging in the garage mahal in minneapolis. email me

[Dirtsquirt]

No email is listed. Check your PM's

-Dan

[reelizmpro]

I installed the later core support on my 85 325 back in the day. It's basically the same except for the radiator and oil cooler mounting provisions. You will also need to use a later style valance. The kind that includes the piece that runs under the front grills and headlights. At least I did when mounting an 87 "S" front spoiler.