Yet another, BMW E-36 LSx conversion... by BRAAPZ

2 minute(s) of a 105 minute read

The last few days progress has been snails pace at best, with company, and family to-do’s, etc, though the M3 Engine and trans is finally out!

Ron and I immediately removed the A/C compressor bracket, hooked up the scale , zeroed the scale with the lifting chain and weighed the engine trans combo. Engine with the Alternator, intake mani, exhaust mani’s, starter, trans w/flywheel-clutch, oil and coolant, both radiator hoses, 512.2 lbs! Removed the trans, clutchand starter, engine alone weighs 406.4 lbs! Lightweight for a twin cam engine with a cast oil pan!  In weighing an LM7 long block at 490 lbs, T-56 is 125-130 lbs, I fully expect the car to gain 150 lbs, give or take 50 lbs… The increase in torque will be worth the penalty.

More pics…

BMW built the hood hinge to hyperextend to pert-neer vertical, i.e. “service” position, no need to remove the hood!

Engine and trans free from the car;

Ron found a tag indicating this engine is not the original engine for this car. Might explain why the back side of the valves are “spotless!”

Now the head scratching and reorganization of the engine bay to accept the LSx begins;

Tools, Fluke DMM, Jack pad, Bentley service manual, LSx swap book, and my 3-ring log book;

My log book where I am keeping a detailed account of the progress made, notes and tips from others that have graciously shared their knowledge/experience, etc;