e24 1984 633csi

[LNGBRD]

Considering purchasing 1984 633csi. Alpine white, Burgundy interior no tears or split seams. 84k miles very clean, straight body, everything is in working order. Had a PPI, only minor issues that will be addressed before purchase. No rust issues. What's the +/- of this year? Trouble spots? Appreciate any advice about this car. Thanks.

[shogun]

Welcome to the forum, I will move your post to the E24 subforums where E24 owners will help you.

[DesktopDave]

You have a pretty good choice there, the '84 is a good mid-production year. It's the late-model E28-based chassis, so parts are easier to find. White over burgundy is a classic color scheme, post some pics if you get a chance.

The US model B32 is just about the least-powerful engine that was offered in these cars, but I really liked the one I had. That Motronic 1.0 was installed on many different cars, it's pretty reliable, easy to fix and troubleshoot.

I had a few minor electrical problems with mine, likely because it had sat for many years. Bad coil wires, lift pump/fuel level sender plug, bad speed sensor, plugged injectors. The usual old car problems, nothing major.

[LNGBRD]

Ok, here we goooo. Car is being picked up next Monday, driving it back to Austin. It's a 1000 miles not anticipating problems but I'm sure there be something. I bought a 73 02 in Portland 15yrs ago and drove it back to Austin without a hitch. Driving 75 to 85 mph all the way. Restoration completed by my best mates, me myself and l. Sold it 6 years later. I've had 2 72's, 2 73's, 1 74, and 1 87' 535is loved that beast. I've digressed. I'm thinking that I should replace the sensors (4 correct?) before I head back for piece of mind, what do you guys think?19049255-1984-bmw-633csi-std.jpg19049251-1984-bmw-633csi-std.jpg

[LNGBRD]

I wrote a whole bunch but it seems to have disappeared. Oh well, learning curve to everything. I've had several 02's in the past 2-72's, 2-73's, 1-74, and 1-87' 535is, really loved that beast. Picking up this 633csi Monday in Phoenix driving it back to Austin 1000 miles. Picked up 73 02 in Portland and drove it back to Austin, no bubbles no troubles. I'm thinking cor piece of mind, changing out the O2 sensors (4 correct?) before I head out. What do you guys think? Good or bad idea?

[Nullified]

You could drive it without changing them if the car runs good and repair along the way like Roadkill does when something fails. It'll be a adventure for sure!
I bought my car in Stuttgart in 2003 and drove it home without any problems, driving 180km/h on the Autobahn. My drive was only some 660 km, just under half of your pending trip.

Good luck!

[Zieg]

I have had Gretel my 84 633CSi for 15 years. Added spoilers, sport seats, BBS RS 3 piece wheels and lots of upgrades over the years. Color is Burgundy over a pearl and burgundy interior. I purchased the car with about 110K. Now has 159K. Car has been very reliable. Just normal maintenance. Biggest week point is cooling and especially A/C. I live in Florida so A/C is a must. The A/C in these and most all BMW's from the 80's is usually not up to snuff in temps above 85 degrees. The A/C system can be overhauled to be much improved but usually just replacing the compressor will not be enough to improve the A/C system. My car is an automatic and I just had to have the reseal on the tranny replaced nothing serious.
I would buy another one in a minute. The interior on your possible purchase is fantastic. For the right price I would buy it! Good Luck.

[DesktopDave]

I don't know why the board software is so sluggish about updates, I've had that problem too.

As for the car, that interior is spectacular! I had a very similar interior in my '81, but in far less presentable shape.

I'd definitely take spares if the car has been sitting...neglect usually kills fuel pumps. If the car has been driven routinely it's no big deal. These cars are pretty stout, simple & easy to fix. Your '84 should have two critical sensors on the bell housing (speed & position sensors), along with two important relays (fuel & main) and the coolant temp sensor. Failing ignition switches can cause headaches. If it's an automatic, the shifter has a position switch that can leave you stranded. The rest is important too, but more or less optional for your trip. Also, if the windows stop working, check the breaker. It's usually in the kick panel, to the right of the steering column.

I'd take a copy of this guy's troubleshooting guide:
http://www.hiperformancestore.com/Motronic.htm
Keep a copy of the ETM in the glove box:
http://wedophones.com/Manuals/BMW/
Make yourself a few jumpers and leave them in the trunklid tool box:
http://theiconicbmw.com/about-me/tec...ng-jumper-kit/

[Kenneth1948]

Hey DesktopDave, regarding your reference and link above: "I'd take a copy of this guy's troubleshooting guide:"
I took some time to scan through this. It is some of the most detailed and useful information I have seen.
It was written a few years ago. Do you know if this person or company is still around and if it's possible to get in touch?
Thanks, always enjoy your posts, John Kenneth