OT: Later model head bolt threads

[whiskychaser]

The E34 wont last for ever so I've been looking for a replacement for when the sad day comes. I've noticed an unfortunate pattern with later models like the E39 - when they overheat they dont just take out the gasket or warp the head, they wreck the block bolt threads. I would not be happy about heli-coiling a head bolt thread so to my mind the bottom end is shot too. I'm concluding that if one of these motors overheats it is as good as wrecked.

[E34-520iSE]

Then you just swap in an M50 cast iron block and keep on trucking!

Cheers,

Shaun M

[whiskychaser]

Then you just swap in an M50 cast iron block and keep on trucking!

Cheers,

Shaun M
Thanks Shaun. Better keep my engine then.:D Will get on to realoem and look for retrofit M50 kit. If I find it I will be sure to post the link;)

[E34-520iSE]

Err hang on a minute, was the M52 alloy block ever fitted to the E34? I don't think it was?! I know it was put into the E36 & E39 models but I don't know what the changeover year was. If you're still running on your original 1992 engine then it's an M50 (TU probably?) and the block is made of cast iron.

HTH,

Shaun M

[whiskychaser]

Err hang on a minute, was the M52 alloy block ever fitted to the E34? I don't think it was?! I know it was put into the E36 & E39 models but I don't know what the changeover year was. If you're still running on your original 1992 engine then it's an M50 (TU probably?) and the block is made of cast iron.

HTH,

Shaun M

This article is about the M54 but I've read similar about the M52:
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3828/is_200411/ai_n9469465/pg_3
I like this bit: BMW advises that you first loosen, then retighten the head bolts in sequence to the proper torque. If the bolt threads stay put, go ahead and remove the cylinder head. It doesnt say what you do if its YOUR car, but I imagine its a. scream b. put it on ebay quick
Edit: unhappy M52 chap:
http://www.dtmpower.net/forum/e36-3-series/147700-just-finished-my-3-2-obd1-conversion.html