Advice on e30 m40 to m42 conversion

[bimmer9]

Hi guys,I am close to converting my m40 to a m42, just making sure I have everything needed and the right mechanic.I have a few questions for the conversion:1- Can I use my existing long shaft/ rear diff?2-Do I need to change my existing radiator,fans, air cond setup?3-What are the hidden costs/problems that I should expect after/during conversion?4-A few mechs have told me that its not a big difference between the m40 and m42, hence im wasting my time/money.........is this true?5- I currently am getting engine, ecu, wiring harness, gearbox. What parts am I missing?6- Anyone heard of Ah Wong from USJ before? Any good?7- I am getting quoted around RM2.5k to get the engine put in, is this reasonable?Sorry for so many questions, just dont wanna get stuck in between and wanna make sure everything is lined up before proceeding.Comments, advice, contacts highly appreciated!!CheersJDY

 

[fabianyee]

Do a search on the forum and u should find more information..

will answer briefly on your query:

#1 - Long shaft no need to change. u can even use back your M40 manual gearbox. Like I did.

#2 - Radiator - Same , clutch fan - same, air con - depends which version of the M42 you're getting. For the E36, there are 2 versions of the M42. earlier version running the V belt for the ancillaries. Later version runs the flat BK belts.

#3 - Hidden cost? extractor would need to be modified if you're using the E36 extractor. Otherwise, you can custom made one which I did not too long ago.. (search for my thread)

#4 - NO big difference??? hahaha.. I'll offer to give you a ride in mine and you decide whether it's 'No big difference'.. Then again, it depends on your expectation of what the M42 can offer.

#5 - Engine includes the ancillaries? ie power steering, alternator, aircon compressor? and AFM?

#6 - Don't have experience with this mech.. My conversion was done by a non-BMW mechanic but he's a conversion specialist for cross-make conversion.. Mine done 6 years ago..

#7 - RM2,500 sounds reasonable.. mine was done all in for slightly less 6 years ago.. including the labour for changing all the wear and tear parts.. including the work done to modify the extractor to clear the steering coupling.

 

[bimmer9]

Thanks Fabian,

I would love to have a ride in your M42. Im from damansara utama area.

I have to check which versiion this is, whats the major difference between the two, which would be the better one?

Engine is coming with Power steering alternator but not too sure about compressor, will check that up.

Wiring wise, anything particular to look out for?

I have seen some conversions that end up being nightmares, my car is in pretty good nick and reliable. I just want to make sure it will still be that after conversion. Of course wear and tear issues are expected.

Rgds

 

[JONNIEZ]

my car now in progress of da conversion from m40 to m42. now m40 engine out oredi n da car is in a paintshop to do up engine bay. hope fully by next week can kow tim. will post it soon as it is ready

 

[mizhan]

Hi guys,

I am close to converting my m40 to a m42, just making sure I have everything needed and the right mechanic.
I have a few questions for the conversion:

1- Can I use my existing long shaft/ rear diff?

2-Do I need to change my existing radiator,fans, air cond setup?

3-What are the hidden costs/problems that I should expect after/during conversion?

4-A few mechs have told me that its not a big difference between the m40 and m42, hence im wasting my time/money.........is this true?

5- I currently am getting engine, ecu, wiring harness, gearbox. What parts am I missing?

6- Anyone heard of Ah Wong from USJ before? Any good?

7- I am getting quoted around RM2.5k to get the engine put in, is this reasonable?

Sorry for so many questions, just dont wanna get stuck in between and wanna make sure everything is lined up before proceeding.

Comments, advice, contacts highly appreciated!!

Cheers
JDY

consult kevster & elwine30.. they went down that road.