e36 328i Touring

[chippy17]

thinking about one of these, 96-98 model year, anything I should watch out for? I know something about Nikasil but not much, how do I know it has been sorted?

Also did this car have an LSD?

Thanks

[derin100]

I think if it's MANUFACTURED (I stress manufactured) after 31 August 1997 it should be ok.

I believe some very early M52 engines (late '95 - early '96) were manufactured with non-nikasil liners but not sure if these came to the UK. The best option would be to get the VIN number of your prospective purchase and enquire at a dealer.

It should also be pointed out that in a sense continuing concerns over the 'Nikasil thing' may now be a little may now be a little over-stated. Chances are if a Nikasil engine hasn't developed a fault by now it probably won't. It's very difficult to end up buying fuel with a high sulphur content anywhere in the UK now. That was the original problem. Let's remember in other markets where ULS was sold Nikasil engined cars ran around happily with no problems.

[chippy17]

derin100 said:

I think if it's MANUFACTURED (I stress manufactured) after 31 August 1997 it should be ok.

I believe some very early M52 engines (late '95 - early '96) were manufactured with non-nikasil liners but not sure if these came to the UK. The best option would be to get the VIN number of your prospective purchase and enquire at a dealer.

It should also be pointed out that in a sense continuing concerns over the 'Nikasil thing' may now be a little may now be a little over-stated. Chances are if a Nikasil engine hasn't developed a fault by now it probably won't. It's very difficult to end up buying fuel with a high sulphur content anywhere in the UK now. That was the original problem. Let's remember in other markets where ULS was sold Nikasil engined cars ran around happily with no problems.

thanks Derin, very useful info, so it was mainly the fuel that was a problem, I see.