Quote:
Originally posted by Don Plumley
Thanks Pat! My preference is to find a late e30 or mid e36 with mechanical problems and use it as a fun project car for the next four months or so.
Are the AT's problematic?
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From a mechanical view, no more so than any other auto tranny. From a performance point of view, they're pretty doggy. Only four speeds instead of five, pretty slushy function; the manuals are rock solid, from Getrag. The issue with my e30 is a leaking rear main seal which has ruined the clutch friction surface. So, this spring the car gets the tranny out, clutch out and tossed, new rear main seal, flywheel resurfaced, new pilot bearing, new clutch kit, and a new Guibo flex joint. Technically not difficult, but lot's of remove and replace. I've already install an e36 M3 gearshift lever, a poor man's short shift kit, $40.00. I'll install new shift lever bushing on the tranny end while it's out further tightening up the shift feel.
There is an e30 you might find appropriate if you can find a decent example of one, the '91-'92 318is. four cylinder, 125 hp, twin cam engine, five speed, cloth sport seats, occasionally limited slip. Most can be had for $3-4K. Very well balanced, but not as powerful as a 325i.
Since you live in the Bay area, I can put you in touch with some BMW folks there if you wish.