newbie 6 series questions

dancer · 01-14-2003, 12:10 PM

I'm in the process of selling my british car and I've always liked the classic lines of the 6 series BMW. What I'd like to know is where can I find info about: 1) Specs for the various years? 2) Which are the best years or models to buy (I probably can't afford an M6 but I think my war chest has enough for a 633 or a 635). 3) Are there years, models, or mechanical problems that are best to avoid? 4) Are there common or chronic problems for the 6 series? 5) Is there much available in the way of aftermarket stuff? Thanks in advance for any help you can give a newbie.

prairieman · 01-14-2003, 05:53 PM

the site below is a good one for general information and history:

http://hem.passagen.se/bmw635/history.html

best years to buy depends on your point of view. I wanted a pre-1983 example as they are based on the E12 chassis, which I have told is a more rugged design. The older cars are also simpler - in terms of engine controls and electronic gadgets. The later cars offer more in terms of creature comfort and a little more horsepower.

An M6 should be avoided unless you have deep pockets. A 633 or 635 CSi have the sturdy and reliable M30 engine.

I can't think of a specific year to avoid or specifically target. Look on e-bay to see what cars of various condition and vintage are bringing. The slow economy makes it a good time to buy. It would be a good idea to have a reputable BMW mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection if you're not familiar with these cars.

The aftermarket is not as abundant as american muscle cars or japanese imports - but lots of stuff is available.

hope this helps. let me know if you have additional questions. I enjoy mine very very much.

Jeff Lemon · 01-23-2003, 01:45 PM

Great cars, I have 83 and 84 633s, I do all work on them myself, this would be a lot harder on the later cars. Make sure body and interior good, mechanicals not cheap but abundant. Buy a car with service history, or try to find a great deal on a complete car with a good body and interior, that needs mechanical help. I spent $500 on my 83 on all the neglected upkeep. (then decided it was too far gone to restore, found the 84 which had been well taken care of, am driving the 83 as a winter daily driver) Don't sell the British stuff, (24 yr TR7 owner, 21 yr TR3 owner, and haven't been without a Spridget since 1973) Jeff Lemon

prairieman · 01-23-2003, 05:41 PM

Lincoln Nebraska !

I'll be in Lincoln in February on business out at the airport. When I firm up my schedule, I'll drop you a line. Probably won't drive my sixer this time (being winter and all). I make the trip once a quarter. Definitely will drive it up your way on the spring boondoggle.

later.

LARRY ISAACS · 01-24-2003, 04:03 PM

I BOUGHT A 1988 635 WITH ONLY 79XXX MILES FOR A VERY GOOD PRICE. I LOVE IT. I DON'T MIND THE ELECTRIONC CONTROLS FOR THE ENGINE, BUT I DO NOT LIKE THE SELF LEVELING SUSPENSION SETUP.
I FOUND A WEB SITE THAT MIGHT HELP WITH THE EQUIPMENT CONFIGURATION CODES: WWW.6ERCOUPE.DE/ENGLISCH
GOOD LUCK AND ENJOY

prairieman · 08:33 AM

Hey Larry.

Bavarian Autosport has a kit to replace the self leveling mess.

Are you attending the spring sharkfest ? Weekend of March 28-30. NE Alabama. Six series owners from all over the SE US are making the trip. I'm giving it serious consideration.

check it out at: www.bmwsharkfest.org

snowman · 03-01-2003, 06:20 PM

I had an 83, 633 and have had an 85M6 since 86. Great cars. No big problems on the 633 or 635. Watch out for the rear end attachment to the body, its a weak point and tears out at the attachment points. Its probably been welded and reinforced by now, but if it hasen' t, look closely. Not a problem for the M6.

The M6 has a list of potential problems, they are:
Valve spring update, euro models only. MUST have dual valve springs installed, otherwise its a time bomb, a very very expensive time bomb.

Wheel shake. Front wheel, control arm bushings need to be replaced with modified 745 bushings or some aftermarket performance bushings to prevent front wheel shimmy. The shimmy is due to the large positive caster settings used.

415 TRX wheels, euro models with 3 piece BBS wheels. Wheels were recalled by BBS. Likely to fail due to dirt wearing the sealing bead area.

415 TRX wheel size. Real dog tires, only avil from one mfg. price rising. one size, 30 year old technology. Dangerous on wet or snow.

Several engine updates needed to prevent self destruction, single timing chain, tensioner failures, euro will knock on almost all pump gas, and it breaks the piston lands. Harmonic balancer bolt must be updated to prevent total engine failure.

Brakes warp. must use updated oraftermarket ones for any track time.

Small gas tank.