AboutDon Berlan Expertise ASE Master Mechanic for 25 years. Can help with all aspects of BMW repair. I especially enjoy driveablity problems, mechanical or electrical.
Experience I have been an ASE Master Mechanic for 25 years.I have worked in many dealearships although BMW's are my favorite.I now have my own shop,specializing in BMW's.I have autocrossed and even gotten into mud running with my 4x4.(I am NOT a teacher and don't claim to know everything about the cars I never see.I hope to help you with your repairs and do expect some knowledge on your side.)
Question Don, Is it possible to fit the '87 'i' series cylinder head to an '85 325e? I plan to rebuild my engine and install a performace cam and 10:1 pistons. It appears that there is a much broader selection of cams for the 7 bearing 'i' series heads. Do they bolt up to the 'e' series engines? Thanks ! Steve
Answer Yes it is possible to install the later head on the earlier engine.There are problems though,the biggest being the later head has larger valves and intake ports.The earlier intake will all bolt up but it would cause a restriction of intake flow.You should also get an intake to help on the performance.You,with the 85, have a cold start valve on the later intake there is none, as it all is computer generated.The port where it bolts on to is still there so you would have to exchange the injector.You need to make sure there is ample clearance between valve and piston as well.I am sure the newer pistons are domed.
Just exchanging the head without any lower end mods is quite a performance increase.
