Viscous coupling

[aze30]

Does anyone know if the viscous coupling is the same on all e30 models?
The reason I ask is I'm doing a cooling system overhaul (radiator thermostat viscous water pump and coolant) on my 318is and was wondering if an m20 viscous would be the same as I have a new unused one sat on the shelf that I could possibly use?

[Yeti]

i would of thought so mate so yea

[aze30]

Cheers bud a‘aaaa

[Brianmoooore]

AFAIK, two versions, of different diameter, serve the whole BMW range. All E30 ones are the smaller diameter version.
Hope your "sat on the shelf" one has been sat upright, and not flat.

[aze30]

Thanks brian ....oops ...I think it was flat lol
I better order a new one then?

[aze30]

Oh and best way of bleeding the 'is' m42 engine please? a˜Š

[ross_jsy]

They can be stored flat, in fact it's the suggested way to store them by the OEM providing they are stored the right way up (forward facing part sticking up)

[ross_jsy]

Although double checking on google has revealed fans do not need to be stored in a particular way as the oil seals are much improved

[DHFiS]

Oh and best way of bleeding the 'is' m42 engine please? a˜Š

I opened the bleed screw on the radiator and kept adding coolant with the engine running until it runs out. Heater on hot.

If the gauge shows the engine is hot but the heater is cold then take off the top heater hose on the bulkhead in the engine compsrtment. Rev the throttle a little until coolant runs out then reconnect the hose.

Re check after each run when the engine has cooled down and top up if needed.

[Brianmoooore]

If the gauge shows the engine is hot but the heater is cold then take off the top heater hose on the bulkhead in the engine compsrtment. Rev the throttle a little until coolant runs out then reconnect the hose.

Make sure the heater temp. knob is away from the fully cold position.

[aze30]

[Yeti]

if you dont you will get air locks in the system as the heater valve wont ope until its in the hot position.