A 4x4 E30... Done right!

[frankenbeemer]

It just keeps getting better!

[TrentW]

Don't know how I missed this until now. I like it a lot.

[Erik j]

That is very well done. The thought of finding a real ix crossed my mind. I even found one for sale in Mass. The AWD parts in those things dont take a beating very well. And id rather replace common axles instead of those expensive ass parts.
I also found a wrecked X5 i was going to throw the E30 shell on. But being a BMW tech i know how failure prone the front axles and differentials are. Both of which i would probably break several of.


So Dana 44s it is!

The one pictured acutally has a t-case out of some truck.... trying to find out what its from right now, I emailed the owner, waiting for a reply.

Its got high range and low range gears in it, plus I think you can turn it to 2wd also.

Most of his pictures I saved and loaded to my picasa account.

https://picasaweb.google.com/102583355895978755542/325ixResto02?authkey=Gv1sRgCLuB3tmP7au5Xw#

The way his case is mounted is a little scary though, its not straight, but rather at a slight angle, so the drive shafts go at angles.




You can check out my build thread, lots of info there on the m21 - iX swap, also some ways to lift a stock e30.

http://www.e30tech.com/forum/showthread.php?t=93514

There are some videos of his monster doing mud holes.

[mattdk318i]

I have to apologize for jumping around. I hadnt really figured out a game plan when i posted this thread. I just had too many friends saying i needed to post this thing. Soon i will have the final game plan nailed down.... Stay tuned

[mattdk318i]

Part of the reason this project has been going so slowly is the lack of confidence i have in the stock engine and trans. Going into a 34 year old motor and trans wasnt exactly enticing. Finding parts isnt impossible, they compare to the E30 euro parts. Just have to know where to look. But getting 10mpg on a ancient v8 was blah!

With the cummins i will be able to use the stock E30 steering and booster. Ive found adapters for several different transmissions so the possiblilities are endless. Everything from allison,turbo 400 chevy, to the Dodge 727 trans they use for drag racing. The adapters are anywhere from 250-500. Which isnt terrible.

Currently the Cummnins is coupled to a massive allison Auto trans. Which i am not going to use. Too heavy and there arent any options for 4wd. At this point i will most likely go with the Turbo 400 Chevy trans.


Also the 24v is tuneable, Good on fuel, takes boost and propane like a champ. And most importantly it is one of the only powerplants that will allow me to do 4 wheels drifts. Im giggling again...lol

[mattdk318i]

Here is one with a m21 turbo diesel. Running stock suspension with longer strut housings and spacers in the rear.

That is very well done. The thought of finding a real ix crossed my mind. I even found one for sale in Mass. The AWD parts in those things dont take a beating very well. And id rather replace common axles instead of those expensive ass parts.
I also found a wrecked X5 i was going to throw the E30 shell on. But being a BMW tech i know how failure prone the front axles and differentials are. Both of which i would probably break several of.


So Dana 44s it is!

[mattdk318i]

well, when i say im doing something i do it. So heres proof. Dropped by work and snapped some pics. It will in fact fit. Just have to run the mother of all electric fans.



ORR i can go 12v for the hardcore M20 fans!!!

[Huff]

Yup. Cummins power. Getting it through work.

I've been dropping eve's on this thread since the beginning. But I have to say something now..


WAT!!!!????!!!!!!

[MR 325]

Yup. Cummins power. Getting it through work.

Holy fuck Matt. If you weren't already married I would marry you.

[Erik j]

Here is one with a m21 turbo diesel. Running stock suspension with longer strut housings and spacers in the rear.

[LJ851]

^^Hell yeah!!

[mattdk318i]

Yup. Cummins power. Getting it through work.

[Roysneon]

So change of plans. I found something epic with 24 valves that will pull this thing. Im giggling like a school girl just thinking about it

Dodge diesel?

[Farbin Kaiber]

Is it a an oilburner??

[mattdk318i]

So change of plans. I found something epic with 24 valves that will pull this thing. Im giggling like a school girl just thinking about it