180K miles major service

[garyreed]

I have a 1990 325i with 180K miles. I'm an non-mechanic and would like some advice on what I need to include in a major service (timing belt, water pump, etc.). I also would like to increase the performance. I have an magnaflow exhaust currently but should I consider a chip, cold air intake and other options?

[Speedtouch]

Welcome to the Zone!

You should attend to the usual service items - engine oil & filter, air filter, spark plugs, check distributor cap & rotor arm, if changing the cambelt, perhaps also consider changing the tensioner and water pump at the same time, maybe alternator belt too.

Not forgetting to check your brake shoes/pads and tyres, and anti-freeze of course, particularly with winter fast approaching.

A chip will spice it up quite nicely, particularly a Mild chip to boost the low-end torque of the later low compression M20B25 - I can supply a well-proven one for £40 posted.

The OEM (stock) air intake is very good - just fit a fresh filter or K&N panel filter to it.

[garyreed]

Hi Maurice, Thanks for the reply. I am interested in the chip. What other chips are available? Do you recommend an after market cold air intake system?

[ross_jsy]

The standard air box is well designed, leave it on there. Tuning an m20 isn't a cheap exercise

[Brianmoooore]

Missing from Speedtouch's list is the most important thing (assuming they haven't been attended to before.) The injectors are long overdue for a rebuild - they will be way down on their flow rates by now, with a far from ideal spray pattern, plus they possibly leak fuel when they should be cut off.
Have a look for 'injectortune' in our traders' forum.

[Speedtouch]

Hi Maurice, Thanks for the reply. I am interested in the chip. What other chips are available? Do you recommend an after market cold air intake system?

I can supply either Mild or Wild chips for the M20B25.

For your 1990 325i, it would probably be best to opt for a Mild chip which will give you extra low-down and mid-range torque, making for easier driveability, a 2-3 mpg typical saving on fuel economy when driven sensibly, yet still provide a 6,900 rpm rev limit when you're in the mood.

[garyreed]

Thanks for the follow up. The mild chip does sound best for me as I don't race and I appreciate mid range torque. What is involved with installation? Is it plug and play? Does the computer need to be re-calibrated or sent out? What is the ordering process?

[Speedtouch]

PM sent.

[steve_k]

i can vouch for speedtouch's chips, had one in my sport near enough from when i got the car, never had any problems with it at all,