The birth of another s52 Ti

[cuseikan]

So after searching and debating on which way to go with my Ti, I finally settled on pulling a s52 swap. I figured if I'm going through all the trouble I might as well get the best bang for my buck. This is the biggest automotive undertaking I have ever done. I know everything is pretty much plug and play, but up to this point all I have ever done is change a clutch and standard maint on cars. I have very little tools and even less space lol But I am determined to get this project done and earn the experience in order to do more swaps in the future. I am fairly mechanically inclined and hope to have this project done in time for bimmerfest.

And here is my 1998 318ti



Of course the old m44 with 260k miles and blown head gasket.



Figured It would just be easier to pull the whole front end off in order to make the swap go smoother.



I decided to start taking off everything I can sell or use.



After a day I finally managed to pull the motor + trans out. This was not a one man job. But a few people flaked on me so I had to take care of business on my own. And sweet baby jesus!!!! there was more oil under the motor than in it. The transmission looked like it was dipped in a an old oil recycling bin.



So out with the old and in with the new. The new s52 power plant.



So far I've replaced the rear main seal, clutch, threw in a new 80c thermostat. And mated the transmission up to it. Waiting for cabin air filters and motor mounts. I'm planing on sticking with the ti's cooling system, radiator and fan with a 80c thermostat and water wetter.

Is there any issues with running the ti's A/C condenser with the s52 A/C compressor?

She's just about ready to be put back in. But i've hit a wall, I ordered a swap manual from J!M and have yet to receive it or hear anything from him. So i'm currently hung up on the wiring.

If anyone has J!m's contact info can you ask him to log back in so we can figure this out. Really trying to finish this up before bimmerfest