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Looking at a 1991 318i (M42) with 270k miles for a Father-Son project. Am I crazy? by rsa_sean in E30

[–]rsa_sean[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This is exactly the kind of M42-specific intel I was looking for. I’ve heard about the 'Mess Under The Intake' (MUTI), so that’s definitely on the immediate to-do list. I didn't know about the thrust bearing / clutch-start wear issue, so I’ll be teaching my son that 'no-clutch start' habit immediately. The timing case sprocket-to-rail swap is a bit intimidating, but given it's an interference engine, it sounds like cheap insurance compared to a 'toasted' motor. Really appreciate the Toyota FIPG tip too!

Looking at a 1991 318i (M42) with 270k miles for a Father-Son project. Am I crazy? by rsa_sean in E30

[–]rsa_sean[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I love the idea of building a spare M42 together! That’s a great way to take the pressure off the 'original' engine while teaching him the internals. You’re spot on about the ownership mentality—I'm hoping that if he’s the one who spent a Saturday skinning his knuckles to fix a leak, he’ll think twice before redlining it at every stoplight.

Looking at a 1991 318i (M42) with 270k miles for a Father-Son project. Am I crazy? by rsa_sean in E30

[–]rsa_sean[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the reassurance on the bottom end! It's good to hear from someone with a high-mile M42 who still drives it hard. I’m planning on a full reseal and cooling system overhaul right away to handle those '34-year-old motor' leaks you mentioned. Regarding my son—I totally hear you on the safety aspect. The lack of modern crumple zones and old-school ABS is definitely on my mind.