'84 - '88 Carrera cheap(er) DME speed and reference sensors available

[G50]

I know this has been discussed here before, but just to put it all in one place in case it helps anyone -

The Porsche DME speed and reference sensors (the ones that read off the flywheel) are currently around $150 each.

These are just Bosch parts, similar to what is used on other cars.

I replaced mine today with sensors for an '87 BMW 535i, the Bosch part number is 0 261 210 002, called a "Reference Sensor." (BMW used this for a lot of years and on a lot of different models, 3, 5, 6 and 7, but I give '87 535i b/c I know that works)

This is the exact same part as the Porsche part, except it is maybe 1/2 inch longer, which is no issue. Bolts up exactly the same, for around $70 each.

[howard freeman]

0261 210 001 is the bosch #. Same as 84-87 325e &528e M20 eta engines.
Howard

[fxeditor]

Thanks for posting this!

Michael

[G50]

Here's the box the ones I installed today came in.

[DRACO A5OG]

Here is another alternate part: 1996 Ford Taurus O2S 3 wire 1/2 price just splice the wires :-)

[kidrock]

I picked up the exact same sensors about 4 months ago for $55 each, with free shipping.

[rusnak]

I need to check the PN but the ones I got turned out to be exactly the same as the originals, but without the DG and BG tags.

[gregwils]

I did the same thing two years ago - BMW part numbers. You can buy a new head temp sensor with the difference.

[304065]

Originally Posted by rusnak

I need to check the PN but the ones I got turned out to be exactly the same as the originals, but without the DG and BG tags.

This is a great shot. . . "I saved so much on sensors I bought a Leica!"

[Flat6pac]

The parts are interchangable so the factory stocking the box wouldnt know which would be your use, DG or Bg.
I m glad that BMW can make the sensors at half the price of Porsche.
Bruce

[dshepp806]

For the guys who've seen these replacements, has anyone scoped the output signals, comparatively? Also,..I understand the cable lengths are adifferent, but is the cable the same? (Manufacturer, diameter, internals (specs),etc.)?

Doyle

[cgarr]

I just used the one G50 did above at about half the cost in my 86 and it was a direct plug in and only about an inch longer, that was it!

[kidrock]

Doyle,

I researched a couple of older threads that go back to around 2004 or 2005 that answer all the questions you ask....the short answer to all is "yes", they're pretty much exactly the same. A bunch of guys have been using the BMW replacement (Bosch) successfully for quite a while now.

[kidrock]

....

[Rodsrsr]

I've had my BMW type sensors in for a few years now with no problems at all.

[DRACO A5OG]

Just take care how you install these or any sensors. As per Tony Callas, Callas Rennsport, these sensors are liken to light bulbs and if you twist them in you will break it and have to start all over again with new ones. Ask me how I know

[dshepp806]

Originally Posted by kidrock

....

I recall that discussion,...pretty much interests in what the signal level outputs were (scope) and was there was any difference in cable fabrication/materials.

STILL,..a HUGE difference in price,..and thanks to all who shared this. Think I'll get some of these pups ordered for my personal stock.

BEST!

Doyle

[G50]

Originally Posted by kidrock

Doyle,

I researched a couple of older threads that go back to around 2004 or 2005 that answer all the questions you ask....the short answer to all is "yes", they're pretty much exactly the same. A bunch of guys have been using the BMW replacement (Bosch) successfully for quite a while now.

Yes, I researched those, too.

I'm confident they are the same parts with the same outputs, etc. These are all Bosch DME sensors, feeding very basic signals to Bosch DME brains.

I had my car California smogged the day after I put in the BMW sensors, and it passed with flying colors (as it always had in the past). The smog numbers are exactly the same as they were 2 years ago with the original sensors. The car also runs exactly the same.

[AlfonsoR]

Good to know guys. Thanks.

[Joe Bob]

Any hints on installation besides being carefull not to twist?