93 318i engine overhaul

[sOuNdDoCtOr]

I have a 93' 318i with 153000 miles on it. Does anyone know about how long these engines will last until it needs an overhaul? My engine is pretty good shape(knock on wood) and shows no sign of needing yet.

[GeoPappas]

What do you mean by an overhaul?

[sOuNdDoCtOr]

sanding down the head to be even again etc.......

[Jared at Pelican Parts]

My attitude is, dont fix it if it isnt broken.

BMW 4 cylinder engines are nearly bulletproof. I got over 400K on my old 320i, only replacing the water pump and the alternator. At 153K I'd say you are just breaking it in. I have heard of some head gasket issues on the M42 318 motors, however if the car runs good, dont mess with the internals unless you need to. Are you having problems?

Another thing, Sanding a cylinder head is a BAD idea. You cannot get a level surface on the head by sanding. You must have the head zero-decked on a mill or CNC machine. These machines have the correct end mills and gauges to correctly remove surafce material. Usually, you do not have to have a head machined unless the motor has blown a head gasket, which can warp the head. Any machine shop can re-surface the head for you. You also need to do your research as removing surface material from the head will affect the compression ratio of the engine. BMW makes a special 3mm head gasket to accomodate the material removed.

If you are overhauling the head, you need to have the head rebuilt with new valve guides, springs, keepers, and new valves (if needed) You will also have to have the head checked for cracks and possibly magna-fluxed.

[sOuNdDoCtOr]

Thanks for the info....... I hope I can get 400,000 out of mine