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E30 M42 318i S Could it run better?
Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 7:03 pm
by james2711
I have just bought my first E30 a 318is. Runs well but I think it could be better. Its a little hesitant at starting and I think it could be a bit more responsive. Any quick fixes on these engines or tips on making them run better?
Also if anyone happens to have a good silver bonnet and drivers side wing going spare. I'd be interested.
Cheers
James
Posted: Thu Sep 29, 2005 11:40 pm
by tomstickland
There are no quick tips. If it's new to you then I would suggest a full service:
-spark plugs
-HT leads if the current ones look old
-oil & filter
-coolant flush
-air filter
-gbox oil
-rear diff oil
The engine should pick up past 3.5K and revel in being revved.
It's amazing the difference basic servicing can make; I seem to be managing 3-4mpg more and gained around 8mph on top speed since changing the gbox/diff oil and fitting the correct wheels back on the car (less drag).
Posted: Fri Sep 30, 2005 8:33 am
by kidsinister
If none of the above helps (though it should), get a Viper2 chip for it; Ԛ£80 from ChippedUK.
You'll notice more power throughout the rev range, also you could try an E30Zone big-bore throttle body if you're really going to push it hard.
Posted: Fri Sep 30, 2005 11:13 am
by adamS
leave the HT leads until last though. They are bloody expensive(Ԛ£90 from ECP) and you don't want to replace them unnecessarily!
Posted: Fri Sep 30, 2005 11:22 am
by tommo320i
I'm having an inspectionII done on mine on monday so I'll let you know the difference, oh chip and throttle body being installed too
Posted: Fri Sep 30, 2005 11:26 am
by darren318is
whats fuel economy like with abig bore tb on an 318is what gains and how much are they
Posted: Fri Sep 30, 2005 11:48 am
by kidsinister
Fuel economy not much different - you'll want to drive it faster though, so...
Chip reputed to give approx 150BHP, which seems about right, don't know about the TB, I didn't have mine long enough...
Posted: Fri Sep 30, 2005 8:36 pm
by redrobbie
tommo320i wrote:I'm having an inspectionII done on mine on monday so I'll let you know the difference, oh chip and throttle body being installed too
yeh let us know, will be interesting to know if there is a difference.
Posted: Fri Sep 30, 2005 8:40 pm
by Guest
the chip makes a massive difference, i had hesitation like you described now its all fun fun fun!
Posted: Fri Sep 30, 2005 9:23 pm
by tomstickland
Well, I've got the standard factory chip and standard throttle body and mine doesn't hesistate.
Fix any problems before doing chip swaps or tuning.
I doubt that a chip will gain you 15BHP.