Engine swaps with an auto box.

[Pete-M]

Anyone done this? I'm quite fond of the old automatics, but I'd like a bit more poke than the 325 can muster.

First thought is "Whack a 3.5 in", but reading about changing props and stuff is offputting as no-one else seems to have done this with an auto, so I'd be in guinea pig mode - and I don't like lettuce.

Second thought was "Well, the 735i uses a ZF 4HP22, and so does the 325i", so in theory the 735 motor would just bolt onto the the 325 'box. Could make for amusing performance. The 4HP22 will take upto 290 lb ft so shouldn't be too much stress for it, and the LSD should keep it almost under control when I'm not in hooligan mode.

Next thought was "Well, I'd really like a V8 in it", but I think that'll have to wait.

Anyone help me out 'ere?

[Flozman]

Hi mate, my father has done the M30 auto conversion about 12 years ago on a E21 323i.

Its just as easy to do, use the gearbox that came matted with the M30 and use the rest of the driveline from your 3 series as long as its at least a 320 it should be a straight fit, its just like mechano you swap the longer bit of the prop off the 3.5 drive line with the shorter bit off the 3 series no welding required.

Both i and my father agree that the auto box is faster than the manual 9 times out of 10 because you dont have to balance the clutch and tyre slip to get a good start.

To be honest it a very good conversion but i wouldnt worry to much about keeping it under control. It can be very dosile engine and pretty easy to drive under the powerband.

[fowler]

do a M52 2.8 conversion with auto box will be nice set-up and more ecomomical compared with the m30 boat achor conversion.

[Pete-M]

do a M52 2.8 conversion with auto box will be nice set-up and more ecomomical compared with the m30 boat achor conversion.

Any details on this? Has anyone actually done it? Doesn't the M52 use an electronically controlled box?