SpidersWeb 0 Report post Posted July 24, 2006 (edited) Basically just wondering where it is on the 3.5L M30 engine. I have a Haynes book here but its useless sometimes. I've found a manual gearbox that might solve my transmission problems, but it doesn't have engine speed or position sensors, as required by the newer M20/M50 engines (I beleive), but the M30 is kind of a relic in comparison, and has a big fat distributor cap hanging off the front of it, so I figure it might be worth a try? Going in to an E34 535i, came from an E28 520i, is a Getrag ZF 5 speed. Its local and price is good, and would like to get back to him ASAP, so any help at all would be much appreciated. Also any thoughts on using an E30 320 manual in the 535?? Thanks everyone, Jono (Oh and yeah I know it wont bolt in, but I'm guessing if I hack up the bellhousing on my auto, my mechanic can assemble something, failing that I'll just have a cry lol) Edited July 24, 2006 by SpidersWeb Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
kerrynzl 3 Report post Posted July 24, 2006 (Oh and yeah I know it wont bolt in, but I'm guessing if I hack up the bellhousing on my auto, my mechanic can assemble something, failing that I'll just have a cry lol) The ZF box doesn't have a detachable bellhousing ,so you are wasting your time! the other alternative is to lathe up an adapter plate [to center the gearbox] into the auto bellhousing, And use a celica gearbox [this method is used on Lexus V8 conversions into Hilux's] Believe me "CHEAP DOESN'T WORK" your adaption will end up costing more than going to buy the bits that will fit [if you cant find a box, import one,or put an auto back in] I'm presently doing a manual into auto swap on a E36 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SpidersWeb 0 Report post Posted July 24, 2006 'Cheap Doesn't Work' Ah damn it! Thanks heaps for the reply, guess I am best to just have it towed to a auto specialist and have it rebuilt. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
kerrynzl 3 Report post Posted July 24, 2006 Get hold of Brent, he'll have a good used one [get him to rip it out of that M5 7series he just bought,Then He'll have to put the engine to good use] Also check out TRADE-ME auction #63820612 ,That would be worth the risk. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites