E36 320I Nikasil

[Brian Blessed]

Hello folks, I am interested in a 1995 320i convertable and was just wondering if this would have a nikasil engine? It has done 117,000 miles and the bloke wants £900 for it.

Many thanks.

[G4VHD]

I think fro January 1995 yes they did....will need confirming though.

Gav

[Guest Mister Dabsy]

Just as Gav says, the nikasil bore liners suffered at the tops where the piston rings didin't reach (about 2-4mm) - this was caused by the sulphur content in our fuels, hence the liner compound decay, they were recalled in mass for a new bottom-end (block) because it was less time-consuming to replace the individual liners... But hear this - Many owners never experienced any issues with this "rotting" as the head-gasket (Genuine one) would keep it in check, and in some cases, issue free for the life of the engine (some known to go much after 300k)... I have had experiences with the Nikasil issue and it looks terminal but actually isn't that bad...

If I am right, they were warranted with Alusil...

Sorry for the long-winded explanation... Have a look in the Service book for a recall (or re-fit)...

HTH

Just to add... If your engine is NOT the M52 (which I don't think it is) then you're ok mate, Just the Euro M52 and V8's ;)

[Brian Blessed]

Thanks guys.