Wes' Build Thread - S52 ti

[Wpritchett]

So.....I'm starting a build thread. Not sure if the Lounge or engine conversion forum was best for this, but I read some other full build threads in the lounge so here we go. I picked up my 1998 ti from an online auction site a few months ago. It had been donated to Wheels for Wishes, and is in surprisingly awesome shape inside and out. Shortly after that, I found a wrecked 1998 M3 sedan and purchased it to use as a donor. It had font end damage, but cranked right up and sounded awesome when I got it home. I have already removed the engine from the M3 and plan to get everything else that I can swap over out of it, and then part out the remainder. I had been under the impression that I would be able to swap out the diff, but I read on the forum that the diff may not work out. I also sent Jim a message about getting a copy of his swap guide, but haven't heard anything on that yet. If anyone has information about that, let me know. Not sure if that is something still available. I am also somewhat confused about the wiring harnesses on the two cars, and not sure what I need to use from the M3 and what can stay from the ti. Currently, I am working on some of the cosmetics with the engine, as I need to be able to spend some money before moving forward with the install of S52. I want to buy Condor motor and transmission mounts, need some new gaskets, etc. The M44 in the ti runs as well, and I will be looking to sell it soon. I was able to drive the ti around my block a few time before starting the disassembly process. However, it did start to burn oil, and I noticed some oil on the spark plugs. I would assume that the valve seals are bad, but it could also be piston rings. Here are some pics of whats done so far.

[Wpritchett]

More pics. Before and after cleaning up the tranny. After some block cleaning.

[Wpritchett]

Also, if someone knows how other folks post full size pictures within a post instead of the thumbnails that you have to hover over, I would appreciate some instruction on doing that. Thanks!

[eurohb]

If your interested in parting out that m44 head let me know lol.

You need to host the pictures to flickr or photobucket and then inser the pics of the img link.

[Wpritchett]

I will let you know on the head. Thanks for the picture info. Will do.


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[wolferj-RIP]

Ok, so here goes;

1. you cannot use the diff from the M3, it is too large and has different mounting points. You can get a Medium case diff from a 6 cyl. e30 or z3, which will bolt up, but you will want the 6 cyl axles and will need to shim the ABS sensors.

2. you want the S52 engine harness and ECU only for the swap. No need to worry about any of the M3 body harness.

3. Feel free to post, email or PM me with questions.

[Wpritchett]

Originally Posted by wolferj

Ok, so here goes;

1. you cannot use the diff from the M3, it is too large and has different mounting points. You can get a Medium case diff from a 6 cyl. e30 or z3, which will bolt up, but you will want the 6 cyl axles and will need to shim the ABS sensors.

2. you want the S52 engine harness and ECU only for the swap. No need to worry about any of the M3 body harness.

3. Feel free to post, email or PM me with questions.

Thanks for the info. I will do some additional research on which diff will be best/cost effective/easy to source, etc.

[eurohb]

Find a good e28 or e30 small case LSD Diff at a junk and swap it in with the new fin case .

[Deeznutz]

Originally Posted by eurohb

If your interested in parting out that m44 head let me know lol.

You need to host the pictures to flickr or photobucket and then inser the pics of the img link.

I have my m44 for sale pm me

Sent from my SM-T817T using Tapatalk

[Wpritchett]

Project update: I hope to soon start some of the more fun updates where I take pictures of large boxes overflowing with new shiny parts! I have a few boxes coming in from Christmas moneys well spent, etc. I have also prepped a few parts for paint which I plan to do very soon as well. I just pulled the M44 out of the ti last night, so I finally get to start the process of actually dressing up and installing things on the ti chassis. Here is my first attempt at including pictures of the motor pulling from photobucket. Forgive me if it does work out well.

[Wpritchett]

[Wpritchett]

I have started to receive goodies!

valve cover gaskets, exhaust manifold gaskets, copper nuts, oil filter, 88C thermostat


Brake caliper rebuild kits and brass bushing sets


Intake gaskets


Condor motor mounts, trans mounts and power steering delete


Rear rotors(picked up for $22.50 each on clearance!), hood cowls, door seals, stainless braided clutch line and clutch stop.

[Wpritchett]

Update. I was able to get some items painted last night. Turned out pretty nice, I think. I am planning to get the car up on blocks this weekend so that I can drop the front and rear subframes. I have reinforcement tabs for the front and plan to get some for the back. I am also getting close to starting the engine bay clean up process and painting of that as well.









I plan on painting the "BMW M POWER" wording or getting a decal but not sure on that yet.

[Coldaccord]

I ran a 3.15, think it came from an m coupe. I recommend that or a 3.25

[Wpritchett]

Originally Posted by Coldaccord

I ran a 3.15, think it came from an m coupe. I recommend that or a 3.25

Thanks!