taking engine out of my e30 325i

[flick-it]

pretty basic question, i'm new to the forum and bmw's so sorry if theres already a thread with the answer in it.

i'm swapping the engine out of my e30 325i, i have a donner 325se 4 door car with engine in and running. what is the best way to take the engines out and replace, i'm keeping the same gearbox in the 3door car as its manual and 4 door is auto, (obviosuly i will have to swap flywheels etc) is it easier to take engine and box out together or just take engine out? out the top or out the bottom etc etc.

cheers ben[/b]

[daimlerman]

I would suggest that you take engine/'box out as a unit,then swap 'boxes on the garage floor.Do not forget that you will need a spigot bearing for the ex autobox engine! (be aware that there are two sizes available..)

Take the bonnet off and use the sling points on the engine,there's a cunningly concealed cast loop/hole just above the starter motor.You will need the engine at a fair angle to clear the slam panel,I find that having the back of the car on DIY type drive on ramps is about right.

I have never attempted to drop an engine out of the bottom,the drawback to this method is the front crossmember bolts,these have been known to snap...

[flick-it]

thanks took engine and box out the top this morning like you said, was surprised how easy it actually was. hopefully putting the new motor in will be just as easy :s

[daimlerman]

Take your time to get the 'dangle angle' right,then help the gearbox with a carefully placed trolley jack.