93-95 530i V8 question

[mish]

I have never see this engine, but I heard that it was not very reliable. Does anybody here still own one? I would love to hear feedback on this rare automobile. In my opinion 3.0 V8 is very high tech for the US market.

[Cameron Hauck]

According to BMW of Murray's shop forman "If the entire block hasn't been replaced by a dealer then run away"

Just passing along info! :)

[mish]

Wasn't it some corrosion related issue, or something. I was told by different people that these cars were massively recalled at some point.

[Cameron Hauck]

I think a main engine seal like totally failed, and explodered... or something like that. :)

But, I wouldn't buy one even if it did have a new motor just because...

[xatlas0]

Run away? Bah! I have one of those engines. Mine just happens to be a 4.0L displacement. (it is still the same engine, however.)

The engine which you are asking about, the M60, did have a serious problem when it came out in America. The cylinder lining would erode, causing all manner of problems. This would happen because of the higher sulfur content of American gasoline, at the time. However, sulfur content has been reduced in US gas, so I imagine everyone with an engine like this has either had it replaced or is fine, by this point.

For future reference, the issue which you are asking about is often called the "Nikasil problem" because the engine lining is made of Nikasil, which is a nickel-aluminium alloy, if I'm not mistaken. The Nikasil blocks were replaced with Ausil blocks, which is just a different alloy, which solved the problem, since Ausil doesn't break down in a high-sulfur environ.

As far as reliability goes, mine has been rock solid. As a matter of fact, the only time the engine has ever given me any trouble was a few weeks ago when a hose connecting to the PCV plate finally gave way, causing very rough idle.

[Cameron Hauck]

That's is just what i've been told by a reputable source. Sounds like you knew what you where doing when you bought it and made some changes. :thumbup: