E34 project, just wondering if this can be done easily...

[Trackpug]

I've picked up a very cheap and straight 518, How much work is involved in fitting the 4.0 V8? It looks pretty straight forward as there is loads of room under the bonnet? Does it mate to the 518 gearbox ok? Is the 2.8 easier?
Thanks in advance
Tom

[mmm-five]

Don't forget about all the electronics to go with the V8 that aren't used on the 518.

Your dash will probably have to be changed to fit a higher speed odometer, not sure if the 518 steering will pass the V8 (as it doesn't pass the 3.6 in an M5).

Surely it would be cheaper to find a decent 540/535 Sport manual?

[daemon]

mmm-five said:

Don't forget about all the electronics to go with the V8 that aren't used on the 518.

Your dash will probably have to be changed to fit a higher speed odometer, not sure if the 518 steering will pass the V8 (as it doesn't pass the 3.6 in an M5).

Surely it would be cheaper to find a decent 540/535 Sport manual?

+1

Then the suspension will need upgraded, exhaust(s), brakes, wheels will want upgrading, chances are a 518i wont have leather, so that would need upgraded too....

And then come resale time it wont be worth anywhere near what a 540i would have made...

I'd accept the car for what it is (and lets be honest its been cheap because its a 518i) OR punt it on and buy the real thing.

What about this one?

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2010...

[TheEnd]

i think the v8s needed a different steering set up too

[Trackpug]

Hm, it does sound more hassle than its worth then! By cheap, I mean I bought it for £200 with 6months T&T and FSH, as a stopgap and realised I like it! The best beer-fueled Ebay moment ever!
That 540 looks great at 1.5k!

[daemon]

Trackpug said:

Hm, it does sound more hassle than its worth then! By cheap, I mean I bought it for £200 with 6months T&T and FSH, as a stopgap and realised I like it! The best beer-fueled Ebay moment ever!
That 540 looks great at 1.5k!

Yes, though the wheels are maybe a little OTT. Having said that they'd be easy sold on if needs be.

[Huff]

+1 on effort, the 540 drivetrain is different all the way through to the diff ('big' case to take the torque) and the electrical side would be a nightmare.

Turbo..?

I'd quite like to stick a 518 badge on my 540 though

[Trackpug]

Heh, I'll swap badges with you
I was thinking about turbo as I have one lying around. It would have to be a backbox/Adapter plate after the manifold job though as I refuse to spend much money on it!