Rebuilding an M54

[snaponbob]

I have built up at least 25 M or S 50s and 52, and some M20s. Never had a 54 apart.

Here is what I need to know --- Given the aluminum block, I am certain that the cylinders are some sort of alloy as well. If one want to do new rings in an M54 that has good bores, can one simply clean the engine, soap and water the bores, and oil them -- on do they need to be lightly honed. IF SO, are special hones needed, and what would they be?

[ross1]

I believe it has cast iron cyl liners

[snaponbob]

I believe it has cast iron cyl liners

That is what I am trying determine.

[MarcoZandrini]

Use a magnet.

[snaponbob]

Use a magnet.

Ummm .... duh.

[MarcoZandrini]

Hey, I’m trying to help! ;-)

[jclausen]

It's not lined it's coated with the alumisil stuff

[snaponbob]

If so, how are they bored for oversized pistons?

[snaponbob]

Just heard back from Karl @ Active Autowerke. Aluminum block, .060 thick steel lines, max overbore .050.

[MauiM3Mania]

Just heard back from Karl @ Active Autowerke. Aluminum block, .060 thick steel lines, max overbore .050.

Whats the available sizes for pistons?

[snaponbob]

https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/sho...diagId=11_2925

[jclausen]

So how much does it cost to have the liners installed and are you rebuilding it to stock

[snaponbob]

So how much does it cost to have the liners installed and are you rebuilding it to stock

Rebuilding to stock, but no intention of boring. Why new liners?

BTW, I have purchased liners (for M52s) from melling. CHEAP !! But, they are straight, no lip. Also, not expensive to install and "fit". However, if one were to do all six, they would NEED a torque plate.

[ross1]

Just heard back from Karl @ Active Autowerke. Aluminum block, .060 thick steel lines, max overbore .050.

leaving a .010" cylinder wall??

[snaponbob]

leaving a .010" cylinder wall??

I know what I am told, and the person who told me is beyond reproach.

Clarification .....
The email stated the following
"they use aluminum with a steel liner that is only like .060" so re-bore has to be minimal. I have rebored them from 84mm to 84.5mm, so basically take off .010" the wall thickness. Never seen issues."

I mis-stated the dimensions previously.