Just bought a E34 535i

[M3_guy 0]

after long hard debate with big 6 and v8 i couldnt pass up on a prestine example so I bought a 535i

It seems its one of the better and reliable bmw built but like anything it would help it were maintained better.

Anyone got tips/experience on how to improve it long run???

Notorious Cooling Issues? Improving Fuel Economy? Common Problems?

Any input will be much appreciated!

[kiwi535 538]

the m30 itself is almost bulletproof

but

keep the oil changes coming

keep the cooling system up to scratch including regular coolant changes(the annual service (clock symbol on dashboard)evry 12 months reminds you.)

the e34 has a few comon problems...look at http://www.bmwe34.net/ and http://www.bimmer.info/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=10

otherwise there is a wealth of info on the net

[joel 0]

diesel conversion should do the trick

[M3_guy 0]

E34s dont have much rust or body issues to worry about?

[advantex 0]

E34s dont have much rust or body issues to worry about?

Mine is '89. Three independant checks have found no rust to date underneath and none I can see or find on the accessable body. That's always a good sign since the car has been in a beach side area for a few years now. Edited June 14, 2008 by advantex

[arros 0]

E34s dont have much rust or body issues to worry about?

No problems with rust on e34's. Would had to have been neglected or from the salted roads of the UK to have any rust issues. Had no problems with my 535. Good tips from Kiwi535. ALso keep the antifreeze levels up in the coolant system (though that's standard stuff anyways)

[BM WORLD 1283]

80-90% galvanised bodies . so unless its had badly repiared body damage should rust to much .

just make you clean out all the little nooks and crannies .

also remove the rocker cover and check and retighten the banjo bolts on the cam oiler pipe . they come loss.

as i just have done my alpina kitted car , bolt had come right out , thought the engine was a little noisy at the top end .

[advantex 0]

So, other things... (yes probably already posted but there is a lot of info in this forum to wade through)...

Best grade petrol (98octane?)

best oil for coastal North Island?

any part equivalents to keep away from? (i.e. are no good)

where do we get Swissvax? (loved the photos I saw)

[kiwi535 538]

So, other things... (yes probably already posted but there is a lot of info in this forum to wade through)...

Best grade petrol (98octane?)

best oil for coastal North Island?

any part equivalents to keep away from? (i.e. are no good)

where do we get Swissvax? (loved the photos I saw)

98 probably a waste...M30 not that high compression and does not have hardware or software to take advantage of the higher octane and advance ignition.