Completed pics in post #20


Some of you may remember me, I had a WW Evo IX that I sold in 2009. This is my latest project.

I bought a 1997 M3 locally that is in real nice condition for the age and high mileage. The car runs great with the stock 3.2, but ended up selling it for the LS1. I bought the car with intentions of putting an LS1/T56 in it.

Fast forward to a few weeks ago, I picked up a Samberg E36 LS1 kit with headers and subframe/mounts, and steering shaft. The subframe and headers look great and the welds look awesome.

I also sourced an LS1 out of a 2002 Trans Am with 35,000 miles, and a T56 from a 2000 Camaro which came with a new Ram clutch kit, resurfaced flywheel, and remote bleeder.

The Ls1/T56 is now in the car, and will hopefully be running soon. It just needs wiring, AC, and some other small things.

On to the pics


The E36:






Out with the old:


3/11/11 - Sourced LS1 from stock 2002 Trans Am:





The nasty motor (battery exploded in the front end collision). It started right up and I was able to hear it run.


3/11/11 - Sourced T56 w/Ram Clutch, Light Flywheel, Remote Bleeder, Hurst Shifter:



3/16/11 - The Samberg Kit Arrives:











3/25/11 - Parts back from being powder coated/ceramic coated:



4/11/11 - Motor and transmission installed in the M3

 

this. is. gonna. be. awesome.

 

i would love to buy a car just like that

 

As of today the car is running (open headers). Just need to get some exhaust done and still waiting on the ECU back from Texas Speed. Hopefully it will be ready to go in a week or so.

 

what are you running for the rear end?

 

not hating, just curious - if you were going to do such a big swap, why not go for an LS3? cost ?

 

those headers are rediculous.

 

Stock, for now.



I considered LS1, LS2, LS3, and LS7. I went with the LS1 because my goals now are 380-400 whp and I wanted to see how the car feels at this power level before going further. I got a good deal on this low mileage motor so that is the main reason. I may do heads/intake at a later date if I need more power. Once the car is done, I can always change out the motor. That is the easy part!

 

how much for that kit? Do they make one for an e30?

 

You would not want to do this to an E30. It is much more difficult, so I understand. It has been done, though. Search around on BimmerForums.

 

And, SHHHhhhh, I didn't know that you had an Evo at some point. As always, the swap looks really cool. I wouldn't have thought to do this.

 

Yup, I miss it!

Some Evo love:

 

Such an awesome swap. Cant wait to see/hear it once finished. The collector outlets are massive!

 

Coming on nicely

 

the reason i asked, is bc if your goal was 380-400, you could have done that by keeping the bmw motor and supercharging it. a lot less work than a total swap, and in all probability, less $ too.
but i guess this is just the start for you. and you will eventually want much more power...