What do you need to convert the early-style (1985-1987) E30 cooling system to the late style (1988+)? All of the major cooling system components - water pump, radiator, all hoses, expansion tank, and other hardware. The conversion work is no more difficult than replacing the original early components, there's just more to replace. There is some light welding and/or fabrication required and one sensor needs its wires extended.
There are multiple benefits to upgrading to the later M20 cooling system: the radiator is shared with E36 and other models (giving you more choices), the lower radiator hose is moved to the right side and away from the fan/alternator, and the availability of all components is much better (some early components are being discontinued).
This kit includes MOST of what is needed to convert your early cooling system to the late cooling system. Read below for the pieces that we left out. This kit also doubles as a very thorough overhaul of an existing late cooling system, right down to the hose clamps.
Kit contents -
Water Pump
Water Pump Hose
Upper Radiator Hose
Lower Radiator Hose (to Crossover)
Lower Thermostat Hose (from Crossover)
Heater Core Return Hose
Throttle Body Heater Supply Hose
Throttle Body Heater Return Hose
Fan Speed Switch with Crush Seal (see note below)
Lower Radiator Bracket, Right
Lower Radiator Bracket, Left
Lower Radiator Rubber Mounts
Upper Radiator Holder with Mounts
Fan Shroud (see note below)
Expansion Tank
Expansion Tank Cap
Radiator-Expansion Tank Vent Hose
Coolant Level Sensor
Expansion Tank Holder (Upper)
Radiator (for manual transmission) (see note below)
Hose Clamps for all of the above!
Here is what we left out -
Crossover Pipe (#11531719788) - this is a tube that bends over the water pump pulley and transfers coolant from the lower radiator hose to the thermostat housing. The price for a new BMW pipe is around $350 so we think you should shop around on eBay, Marketplace, etc for a good used one. There are a few in the aftermarket but none that we carry. We also don't include it because 1988+ cars already have it.
Thermostat - we left this off to give you more options. 80C is the standard but you may opt for a different one.
Thermostat Housings - the inner housing (with the sensors) and the outer cover are not different but you may need to replace one or both due to corrosion.
Heater Core Inlet Hoses - there are a few configurations for the hoses going to the heater core. Some cars have a thermostat ahead of the firewall connection and some cars have one hose from the cylinder head to the firewall. You don't need to replace the inlet hoses for the conversion but the outlet (return hose) is required.
Fan Shroud “Gaskets” - cars with A/C have additional shrouds and air guides, The 1988+ cars are different than early so if your early car has A/C contact us to have these pieces added to your order.
Belts - the belt sizes and layout are unchanged but it might be a good idea to buy new ones for your refresh
Timing Belt - contrary to popular belief you do not have to change the belt with the pump (or vice versa). They just occupy the same area and it makes sense. If you're due for a timing belt this is the best time to do it.
Coolant - we don't include coolant because it's heavy and bulky to ship. Of course you need it and we offer it anyway.
Expansion Tank Bracket (41141871979) - this appears to be discontinued by BMW. It was just a thin strip of sheetmetal bent twice at right angles. The lower tab of the expansion tank would slot into this bracket. You should be able to make one easily. The original was welded to the inner fender.
Fan Speed Switch - this is included and is mounted on the right side of the new radiator. The early-style system had this mounted on the left side. You will need to extend the wiring from the left to the right. We include a new plug and pins for you but you may choose a different path depending on your build needs.
Radiator Mounts - the late radiator almost fits to the front core support without additional parts and for a rough install it might work. But the best way is to weld the late-style radiator brackets to the core support (#41111979495 and 41111979496). We include the late-style radiator supports (plastic and rubber) but they don't really work without the sheetmetal brackets. Of course, you're also welcome to fabricate your own. 2024 UPDATE: the left side lower bracket may be discontinued from BMW, leaving fabrication as your only option.
All parts are well-known brands that are staples in our catalog and that we feel confident in using in our own cars. Some parts are no longer available from BMW but we can substitute any brand for the Genuine if you wish (for additional cost). All parts have a two-year warranty.
BMW Fitments:
3 Series
E30 (85-87) > 325e
E30 (85-87) > 325es
E30 (1987) > 325i
E30 (1987) > 325is
E30 (1987) > 325iX
E30 (1988) > 325
E30 (88-91) > 325i
E30 (88-91) > 325is
E30 (88-91) > 325iX
