2011-2012 Project: Get an S54 running in an E30 using a stock MSS54 DME

[craiggroves91]

It's not that bad, but you'll need a hydraulic press and some bearing/bushing drivers (such as Harbor Freight 95853, which is what I used), and a bearing puller.

You'll also probably want a in-lb torque wrench to set the nose bearing preload, unless you want to just do it by feel. I didn't want to risk having to pull the nose bearing again, so I just bought a $35 beam-type Park TW-1 torque wrench.

It probably took a couple hours to do the whole job.

Hm I think I have access to those things.

I found a shop who would do it for ~$200 which isn't really that bad.
It's just a loud pinion bearing, like yours.

Is there any good write ups on it?

[FredK]

I just did a "replace bearings" deal, which isn't the same as "building a diff" which would require a little more care in the setup--where you'd set the contact patch between the ring and pinion by way of setting the fore-aft with the shim, and the side-to-side with shim stock.

The most complete information resource is on the Ohio Bimmers forum in this thread (you must have an account to access it): http://ohiobimmers.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3624

winfred had a writeup on an OBX Torsen install, and that thread has some pictures of the diff internals that is helpful to rebuilding a diff. He didn't replace the pinion bearing, though.

[nando]

also search for the BMW TIS article on rebuilding a diff. it's pretty much step by step factory instructions.

[FredJ]

Finally some more good info itt.

[FredJ]

New info coming soon guys. Car will be done by 2015, I promise.

[harv]

This is taking almost as long as my 2002!

John

[airkhin]

im looking forward to more pics of progress..

[FredJ]

The car is as done as its getting fellas.



Time for a new project. E36 with a LS6 is coming shortly. I will start a thread.

[dude8383]

Wait wut? Scrapping the s54 project?

[FredK]

Yeah FredJ and I r3ved the car into a fire hydrant on Saturday during a high speed street race.

[FredK]

just kidding.

FWIW, the project is essentially done, save for wiring cleanup and DME mounting. I've updated this thread as I've tackled projects here and there. There is sufficient information to duplicate what I've done, including a wiring chart.

[VinniE30]

We need pics and videos!

[Mako18]

Looking foward to s54 + e30. .. such a nice combo.

[dude8383]

just kidding.

FWIW, the project is essentially done, save for wiring cleanup and DME mounting. I've updated this thread as I've tackled projects here and there. There is sufficient information to duplicate what I've done, including a wiring chart.

you bastard. i thought you were serious.

[Wh33lhop]

Fredk you need to get us some fucking VIDEO