Potential new m60 swap starting up...in the US

[Chrisv006]

Hey ya'll,

I am considering either an m60 or LS1 swap into my 1991 318is, I've read a lot of your swap threads here (you guys have a done a lot more than we seem to have in the US) but I have a couple of questions before I dig in.

Most importantly (to me) is the Air Conditioning. Is it as simple as a stock compressor from the donor car with the e30 lines mated to the donor car lines?

How do the brakes feel with the booster/MC so far extended off the fire wall?

When using the 300mm.de mounts/spacers - are there any clearance issues with the stock oil pan?

It does not seem like there is much fabrication to do with this swap (aside from the brakes and the sift linkage) unless I am missing something.

Thanks everyone, after doing all the reading - I wish I could send you guys some cheap manual transmissions

[Jonsku]

You have to hit the frame rails couple of times with a hammer to make the AC compressor fit. And then you need to re-route the lower water pipe around the compressor as it most probably sits right where your radiator inlet is. Other than that, it's fairly simple - or so it seems, haven't test-run it yet


What comes to engine mounts, you have to fabricate your own due to AC compressor (it is bolted directly to right-hand side engine mount, thus can't be replaced by 300mm.de mount). You can either weld or bolt the engine support points to the frame rails, though I'd recommend you doing them so that they can be easily removed (seems that the engine package can be lifted in from below without valve covers, got to ensure that yet, though).


And then to brake booster, I think you've three main options;

-remote booster a'la E34 / E32 V8
-hydraulic system a'la E32 V12
-pedal box / no booster like in racing cars

All of those work well. You should use that what is required by local authorities and which you can get for least amount of $$$

[Chrisv006]

Thank you for the replies.

I believe I will start this project, but in a spare e30 chassis. Ill link to the build when I get going in the spring!