Head gasket (i know i'm probably beating a dead horse)

[Wingnut]

I know this topic has probably out lasted it's welcome, but any help would be appreciated.
I am new to the forum and in the process of buying a TI. The ones that fall into my scope seem to have between 100 and 140 k on them.
Could someone give me a quick rundown of the head gasket issue on the 1.8, and maybe what to look and listen for when looking at a car?
Is the gasket replacement something that could be DIY by a skilled individual?
Thanks in advance
Jeff

[1996 328ti]

I don't think there is a head gasket issue.
Are you thinking of the profile issue of the older M42s?

[Wingnut]

I could be thinking of the older engines. Maybe it wasn;t the gaskets. Possibly just head problems. Or possibly I am just crazy

[weezer]

Originally Posted by Wingnut

I could be thinking of the older engines. Maybe it wasn;t the gaskets. Possibly just head problems. Or possibly I am just crazy

The M42 engines were known for head gasket failures, especially in its first generation that rolled out with the later E30 318is.
But, after reading up, most if not all of these issues could have been avoided by replacing the thermostat, water pump and radiator in time......meaning before 90k.
If you're considering on one, these are great engines in that they are much more receptive to mods than its younger sibling the M44.
Good Luck with the search.
Fariz

[angel318ti]

Originally Posted by weezer

these are great engines in that they are much more receptive to mods than its younger sibling the M44.

I thought the M42 was the younger sibling.

[weezer]

M42 1.8L engines appear on the later E30 318is (1991-92) and earliest E36/5 or 318ti in 1995. BMW switched to the M44 1.9L starting 1996-1999 when all the cars went OBD2. HP remained the same at 138hp, but torque went up slightly from 129 to 133lb-ft.
Still, the M44 engines used plastic impeller water pumps as well as radiators w/ plastic housing.
Although, I just replaced my water pump last week and it had a stainles steel impeller.
Either case, it's alway wise to replace these "wear" parts.