E30 M42 318i S Could it run better?

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james2711
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Thu Sep 29, 2005 7:03 pm

I have just bought my first E30 a 318is. Runs well but I think it could be better. Its a little hesitant at starting and I think it could be a bit more responsive. Any quick fixes on these engines or tips on making them run better?
Also if anyone happens to have a good silver bonnet and drivers side wing going spare. I'd be interested.
Cheers
James
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tomstickland
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Thu Sep 29, 2005 11:40 pm

There are no quick tips. If it's new to you then I would suggest a full service:

-spark plugs
-HT leads if the current ones look old
-oil & filter
-coolant flush
-air filter
-gbox oil
-rear diff oil

The engine should pick up past 3.5K and revel in being revved.

It's amazing the difference basic servicing can make; I seem to be managing 3-4mpg more and gained around 8mph on top speed since changing the gbox/diff oil and fitting the correct wheels back on the car (less drag).
kidsinister
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Fri Sep 30, 2005 8:33 am

If none of the above helps (though it should), get a Viper2 chip for it; Ԛ£80 from ChippedUK.
You'll notice more power throughout the rev range, also you could try an E30Zone big-bore throttle body if you're really going to push it hard.
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adamS
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Fri Sep 30, 2005 11:13 am

leave the HT leads until last though. They are bloody expensive(Ԛ£90 from ECP) and you don't want to replace them unnecessarily!
tommo320i
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Fri Sep 30, 2005 11:22 am

I'm having an inspectionII done on mine on monday so I'll let you know the difference, oh chip and throttle body being installed too :mad: winkeye
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darren318is
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Fri Sep 30, 2005 11:26 am

whats fuel economy like with abig bore tb on an 318is what gains and how much are they
kidsinister
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Fri Sep 30, 2005 11:48 am

Fuel economy not much different - you'll want to drive it faster though, so... winkeye

Chip reputed to give approx 150BHP, which seems about right, don't know about the TB, I didn't have mine long enough...
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redrobbie
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Fri Sep 30, 2005 8:36 pm

tommo320i wrote:I'm having an inspectionII done on mine on monday so I'll let you know the difference, oh chip and throttle body being installed too :mad: winkeye
yeh let us know, will be interesting to know if there is a difference.
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Fri Sep 30, 2005 8:40 pm

the chip makes a massive difference, i had hesitation like you described now its all fun fun fun!
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tomstickland
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Fri Sep 30, 2005 9:23 pm

Well, I've got the standard factory chip and standard throttle body and mine doesn't hesistate.
Fix any problems before doing chip swaps or tuning.
I doubt that a chip will gain you 15BHP.
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