I think I need a new engine...

[oomz1975]

The touring has been sounding like a diesel recently, with the oil light flickering on & off after about 10 mins of driving.
Pressuming low oil pressure is the cause...

Just had my car up on the ramp, took the sump down to change the oil pump & noticed the oil is grey with a metallic tinge.
Also the crankshaft has some play...
Looks like a bottom end rebuild or should I change the lump for a known good one.

Any advise would be appreciated....it is a m20 325i.

[Grrrmachine]

I can't advise on what the fault might be, but from an economical perspective, there'll be three options:

a) Replace with a known good one. Max cost, 300 quid.
b) Bottom end rebuild. Once you get into the "while I'm there" way of thinking, you'll spend close to a grand on assorted nuts, bolts and gaskets.
c) M5x swap. Fit in a newer engine for increased driveability. Comparable cost to option b.

[oomz1975]

I can't advise on what the fault might be, but from an economical perspective, there'll be three options:

a) Replace with a known good one. Max cost, 300 quid.
b) Bottom end rebuild. Once you get into the "while I'm there" way of thinking, you'll spend close to a grand on assorted nuts, bolts and gaskets.
c) M5x swap. Fit in a newer engine for increased driveability. Comparable cost to option b.

That's pretty much the order I'm thinking right now...

[Speedtouch]

Could it be worth removing the main bearing caps and slipping in some new shells? Also big end bearings, if necessary.

[BenHar]

If the oil lights been coming on with the oil barely warm the crank will need regrinding at minimum.

Ben

[oomz1975]

Cheers for all the input guys, pretty much confirmed what I feared.
On the bright side though, engine upgrade has always been on the cards, just didn't think I would be looking into it this soon.