I know this isnt e30 related but there seems to be alot more knowledgable on this site when it comes to wiring and engine conversions than e36 and e46 related sites.
Im looking at putting an s50 into an e46 compact, you will probably say why not put an s54 in well this is my second option but 1. it is alot more expensive 2. the wiring is a nightmare.
So my question is does anyone know if wiring an s50 into an e46 is a simple job, or are the EWS and other related electronics compatible?
Thanks,
Mike
S50 into e46 compact
Moderator: martauto
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Could it be converted to cable?mikekean wrote:Actually scrap that, just remebered posts 99 e46 have drive by wire throtle so wont work with a cable throtle s50.
Cypriotgeeza wrote:I done both my mates in my old 318is
felt so proud,even tried it with a E30 325i and got put in my place..
im pretty sure glenn converted the s54 that was in an e30 m3 he had to cable throttle. Probably worth doing a search under his username, might have some hints to convert the e46?

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- Homo Hair
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Glenn's was running S50B32 management..
S54 into an E46 is the way to go, I believe the wiring will be far more simple than an S50 for a start.. Almost plug and play seeing as engines were shared with the rest of the E46 range
S54 into an E46 is the way to go, I believe the wiring will be far more simple than an S50 for a start.. Almost plug and play seeing as engines were shared with the rest of the E46 range
I think you will find that it's more than just 50 bhp which make a difference.mikekean wrote:probably ill have to look into it. thing is an m54 drops straight in which has 230bhp straight out the box, not sure if the extra 50bhp is worth the hassle.
But I agree that the M54 is worth considering if you want to keep the costs in check.
- martinpallot
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Martin Stockdale runs and e46 compact rally car with a 3.0ltr S50 and 3.2 head so I'm sure its do-able
If the M54 is a straight swap, there not much reason why the S54 won't be too difficult.
S54 engines are nearly cheaper than M3 Evo engines here as everybody is scared shitless of the wiring and think they will be too difficult to fit into any car bar an E46 M3.
Which is brilliant for people that want to be a little different as everybody wants an S50 over here... they'll be as common as Alpina reps soon
In regards the fly-by-wire conversion to cable throttle. Its pretty easy to make up the bracket and linkages if you have access to a machine shop. Otherwise you can spend 200 quid or so to buy the kit in loads of places like VAC, CA-automotive etc.
S54 engines are nearly cheaper than M3 Evo engines here as everybody is scared shitless of the wiring and think they will be too difficult to fit into any car bar an E46 M3.
Which is brilliant for people that want to be a little different as everybody wants an S50 over here... they'll be as common as Alpina reps soon

In regards the fly-by-wire conversion to cable throttle. Its pretty easy to make up the bracket and linkages if you have access to a machine shop. Otherwise you can spend 200 quid or so to buy the kit in loads of places like VAC, CA-automotive etc.
M42 rightness above 6500rpm, nobody can hear you scream
- AussieM3ti
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Sorry to reserect an old thread, but I have done the S54 into an E46 Compact swap. Mine is a race car and the easiest thing was to bring the M3 wiring loom across.Dave_M3 wrote:S54 engines are nearly cheaper than M3 Evo engines here as everybody is scared shitless of the wiring and think they will be too difficult to fit into any car bar an E46 M3.
The issue had to do with the M3 DSC. The E46 Compact has only ASC and is missing all the senors for the DSC. The S54 without the right DSC is nobbled with a 6500 rev limit.
Once I brought the M3 loom and M3 DSC and sensors across everthing worked great.
Cheers Brian