For a while now I've been contemplating an engine conversion for her. I had thought of dropping an M30 in, but in the end I decided to go for the 2.8 conversion as it involves less overall work and I like the idea of a standard looking engine but with more grunt.
I'll admit to having very limited mechanical experience, so I expect this conversion to take quite a while. For those of you on here that seem to have been born in M20s, any advice or guidance you may have will be much appreciated. I will definately be learning a lot as I go with this one.
I have however, done a fare bit of tinkering with M20s. My Dad has a 325i Touring and last year we fitted a new engine into it as the old one had a cracked head. As a result of this, I've had a spare bottom end sitting in the garage for a while now and I will be using this to develop a fully rebuilt engine with the M52 B28 crank (which I also have) and 130mm con rods (which I don't yet have). I also need to get the spacer machined for me as I don't have the facilities for this kind of task myself.
Anyway, my new equipment arrived yesterday so I was able to get underway and strip down the block in the afternoon.
New hoist and stand being used for first time.
Me looking a bit confused with the sump off. Lots of horrible old oil/mayonaise present from old cracked head.
Using a similar method to Jazzman to get the front pully off. Crank bolt came off fairly easily too I noticed.
Soon the block was pretty much stripped.....
And the all the bits laid out.
Next tasks are to get the block cleaned and to source some 130mm rods so that I can do some test fitting. I have sat the M52 crank in position and it does move without any obstruction.
Now for my stupid amatuer mechanic questions.....
- I don't understand how to identify the M52 crank by measuring from one main bearing center line to another (or something). I'm aware that I'm looking for 84mm. Jazzman, I know you told me to do this but I'm unsure of where to measure from and to exactly.
- I think the block could do with a re-bore as I can't see any cross-hatch honing marks on the bores anymore, is that a correct assumption?
At the moment I will be setting about getting various parts cleaned up and then deciding what to do with block, crank and rods etc... in terms of machining work.
Cheers
no measurable difference and you need a hone.Good luck with your build,I shall watch with interest.
)
.... thats if mines done by then! 
