BMW E36 Forum

Hi guys, just got my e36 1.8 - 1993 model, I want it running smoothly, is there anything in or around the engine that you think might help. I have already done the following: Oil change, new exhaust. Is there anything else that might be important

A full service is the best place to start for any newly accuired car. If you look around on the net there is a few places that show what BMW calls for in a service at your cars present stage of life.

But just a few generic things; New belts, filters, fluids. You can also check your bushes, brake pads etc.

Pretty much check and possibly replace everything that can or has worn.

Hin there,

i personally suggest for this age of car to use some engine treatment of some sort.

i highly recomend RedEx professional.. its £15 a bottle but well worth it...

also it says use every 3,000 miles but as you have only just got the car i suggest buying 2 bottles. use one straight after the other, over 2 tanks of fuel....

DO NOT USE BOTH IN THE SAME TANK OF FUEL...

this will clean out your engine without taking it to bits...

other than that id listen to the above post, the gentlman knows what he is on about...

@Italbot,
Thanks for the kind words.

@Kalibro,
I would have to agree with Italbot's suggestion. I haven’t personally tried an engine treatment but I did notice an improvement after using an injector cleaner so I would assume a full engine treatment would be a nice help too. And on the off chance you don't notice a difference it's still cheaper that a lot of other things.

I think a good book for the DIYer is the Bentley manual, but if it's too pricey... ALSO, I have a factory computer disc that covers factory inspection, service and repair procedures, as done in dealerships, for USA and European models, NB some procedures are identical for all models. Printable checklists for "Inspection 1" and "Inspection 2" are described. (PC viewable and printable.) I can let fellow members have copies for $10 US each, shipping included, in DVD+ (plus) format. It also covers some TSB (technical service bulletin) updates.


c_sean_watts@yahoo.com
-Sean

If anybody is actually interested... BMW TIS, ETK and EBA are all available online. If you're going to "pirate" something you may as well get it for free rather that paying someone for doing it.