E30 Zone

Hi all,

I've recently picked up an e36 318is.

92 J plate with the M42 lump.

How can I tell if it has a cat? The online VIN decoder things don't come up with one.

It has a fluctuating idle, I suspect the AFM. It has a 0 280 202 134 fitted which I understand is the one without a CO pot for catalyst equipped vehicles. I think it should have 0 280 202 135 according to realoem.

Could an incorrect AFM cause idle issues? Anyone have a 135 for sale?

Cheers.

Hi Will, thanks for the suggestion.

I have sprayed plenty of carb cleaner about but no difference. I did notice the breather hose off the head is very soft though so I will replace this anyway.

When I undid the oil filler cap with the engine running the idle got worse, the dipstick didn't seem to make a difference although it is seated correctly and the seals seem intact.

the idle valve on my m44 caused loads of trouble, try cleaning it out with carb cleaner

the idle valve on my m44 caused loads of trouble, try cleaning it out with carb cleaner

If it has a lambda sensor, then it doesn't need an AFM with a CO pot. Conversely, if it doesn't have a lambda sensor then it does need an AFM with a CO pot, although with a bit of wiring rearrangement, you could fit a separate pot. somewhere else.
If it has a lambda sensor, there will be wires connecting to something that looks a bit like a spark plug, somewhere in the front half of the exhaust.