M3 radiator in a 325e

[Jurt]

Hey so I have a small leak in my radiator and was planing on getting a new one soon, but for my birthday my dad got me a really nice aluminum radiator. Except it's for an e30 m3 and I have a 1984 325e, so is there any way I can run it? Do I need m3 hoses or do I just have to kinda fab some up? Has anyone done this before? If not I'll have to ship the radiator back, but it will be expensive sense I'm in Canada.

Thanks!

[SpecM]

e30 or e36 m3?

[Jurt]

E30, I wish it was e36, from what I have read its a drop in fr late models.
This is what it looks like

[jlevie]

I think you could use that radiator by converting the cooling system to the later configuration. That would mean the late expansion tank, hoses, the cross-over pipe and water pump.

[Jurt]

Yeah? Okay that's not too bad, I just need to track down parts then. Would I need a different upper hose? Since the connection is on the top right. When it's on the top left for the standard late model m20 rad?

[SpecM]

No, will not work. The late model cooling setup had the top hose on the drivers side.

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[Jurt]

So any way I retain my stock coolant system and just run different hoses? I'm gonna run by the auto parts store on my way home and try some different hoses.

[reelizmpro]

Also no where to mount your temp switches on that radiator. The M3 had them in the remote thermostat so they removed the provisions for the switches on the aftermarket Aluminum version.

[Jurt]

ah i see, will i think if i get universal flex hoses i should be able to route them, and ill get a temp sensor adapter to go in the hose for my e-fan im gonna run. thanks for everyones help.

[MR 325]

I would sell it and buy the right part. No sense rigging something up when the correct radiator is very easy to source.

[Jurt]

Well it's far too thick. I just checked. Thanks for everyone's help.