M54 Swap into a 1.9 body

[BlackBMWs]

Hello! Just checking folks experiences in engine swaps from a M44 to a M54. I would normally consider a M52 or S52 swap, but I found a parts car with a low mileage M54 5 speed from a 2001 considering to swap for my 1997 model year Z3 with a M44. Anyone do this with their Z3?

I may alternatively drop it into one of my Compacts, but that remains to be seen. Anyway, I thought to check in with all of you for your insight and experiences.

Thanks as always! Cheers!

Rich

 

[madleemark]

I thought about fitting a 6cylinder into a 1.9 , if you have all the parts it could be an interesting project, lots of things to consider tho, not just the big bits, brakes and anti roll bars are larger, probably need the clocks,and the ecu, then theres the insurance, but you would certainly know your your car once completed, there is another thread on here about doing the same, I went the easier route ,changed my car, good luck with it, and would like to see pictures of your progress

 

[Stevo7682]

I would have to agree dumping in the engine into the bay is one thing it's all the little things like brakes suspension wiring I believe the 6cyl is drive by wire 1.9 got a cable it's not impossible just depends how keen you are to take on that kind of project

 

[BlackBMWs]

yes, since i would have the whole donor car, I could pull and swap over what I needed. New information for me that the M54 is drive by wire. I've not done much with that on my E39, but yes, would need to consider that wherever I placed the motor. I imagine a M52, EWS and harness would a far simpler swap overall. I haven't picked up the donor yet, I may wait for a 3.0 with a M interior. I hate to see these crashed, but am happy to reuse the parts to uplift a current car.

 

[Dickymint]

for insurance reasons ect can you not take on the identity of the donor car and see it as a reshell and get the new shell vin changed (they will let you do if you ask nicely) I did just that many moons ago

 

[BlackBMWs]

Here in California, the target car's VIN is retained. Upon a swap, you have to undergo a drivetrain vehicle inspection (BAR) to ensure emission controls are up to par. Once the vehicle passes the BAR inspection, it's configuration is available for potential insurance adjustments.

While I am watching, a 98 M3 (S52) has popped up. Hmmmm. Potential swap for my 98 Compact if not the Z.

At any rate, this is all future planning potential. My near term focus is to get all reasonable aspects of the Z back up to renewal condition. I'll see how it stacks up vs the what I do with the compact and decide from there. (My compact sees track days and AutoX sessions)