Positioning:
A comprehensive, professional-quality workshop manual designed for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information for the BMW E28 528i.
Comparison:
Positioned as a superior alternative to generic repair guides or incomplete online resources, offering dealer-level documentation and exhaustive coverage.
Features:
All repairs A-Z, mechanical & electrical coverage, extensive detailed pictures & diagrams, printable pages, lifetime usability, specific to the E28 528i model.
Model Years Covered:
1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988
Trim Levels Covered:
All 528i models
Engine Types Covered:
All engine types associated with the 528i E28 (primarily M30B28)
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (Exact number not specified, but described as 'tons' of detail)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Language:
English (Assumed based on product description)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head/valve train, engine block, engine lubrication, intake manifold, exhaust system, cooling, fuel system, emissions control, ignition system, engine repair, chain & gear replacement, valve timing procedures.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Transaxle, clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, differential, driveshaft.
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Steering system, suspension system.
Brakes:
Brakes (including ABS), brake system repair and diagnostics.
Electrical Electronics:
Electrical systems, wiring diagrams, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) including electrical components and diagnostics.
Body Interior HVAC:
Body repairs, heater and air conditioning, automatic climate control.
Routine Maintenance:
Full coverage of routine maintenance tasks.
Tune Up:
Detailed tune-up procedures.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures for all covered systems.
Repair Rebuild:
Comprehensive repair and overhaul procedures for mechanical and electrical components.
Installation Removal:
General removal and installation instructions for major components.
Technical Adjustments:
Tensioner adjustments, valve timing instructions, tensioner release & reset methods.
Depth:
Complete A-Z coverage, encompassing both mechanical and electrical aspects, from basic maintenance to detailed component overhaul and diagnostics. Equivalent to dealer/mechanic level information.
Compatibility:
PC/MAC computers running Windows (XP, NT, 2000, Vista, Windows 7, etc.)
Printability:
All pages are printable, allowing users to print only necessary sections.
Image Quality:
Contains 'tons' of detailed pictures & diagrams, implying professional quality visuals.
Type:
Digital Download (No physical binding)
Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2788 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
86 mm x 96.8 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.1:1 or 9.3:1 (depending on market/year, manual covers this detail)
Horsepower Approx:
180-184 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (Varies by market and exact engine variant)
Torque Approx:
240-245 Nm (177-181 lb-ft) @ 3500-4000 rpm (Varies by market and exact engine variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or LE-Jetronic (or similar Bosch fuel injection, manual specifies)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended)
Timing Belt Chain:
Timing Chain (Manual covers chain routing & sprocket/gear valve timing marks)
Length:
Approx. 4,720 mm (185.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,420 mm (55.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,795 mm (110.0 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,430 - 1,500 kg (3,150 - 3,300 lbs) (Varies with transmission and options)
Crash Testing:
Limited official crash test data available for early 1980s vehicles in modern standardized formats. Focus would be on the structural integrity and passive safety features of the era.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often optional on later models, power-assisted brakes, hydraulic steering.
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced safety cell, laminated front windshield, energy-absorbing steering column, front and rear crumple zones, seat belts.
Srs System:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) is mentioned in coverage, indicating the presence of airbags (driver side, possibly passenger on later models). Manual details SRS system repair and diagnostics.
Infotainment System:
Basic for its era. Likely AM/FM radio with cassette player, possibly optional premium sound system. Manual covers basic electricals for these components.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS (optional), power steering. Limited to passive safety and basic active systems.
Connectivity Features:
N/A for modern connectivity standards. Focus is on the vehicle's inherent mechanical and electrical systems.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for exact intervals and conditions).
Tune Up Intervals:
Spark plug replacement, filter changes recommended at intervals specified in manual, often around 15,000-30,000 miles.
Timing Chain Service:
Timing chain is designed for the life of the engine, but inspection for tensioner wear and guides is critical. Manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-40, 15W-50) and API service classification. Typically synthetic or semi-synthetic recommended for optimal protection.
Coolant:
Proprietary BMW coolant or a quality ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Manual will specify type and mixture ratio.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will specify correct type and recommended replacement interval (typically every 2 years).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil. Manual will specify viscosity and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-II or equivalent ATF. Manual will specify type and capacity. Early automatics are sensitive to fluid type.
Common Problems:
Rusted rocker panels and wheel arches, cooling system component failure (radiator, hoses, water pump), aging electrical connectors, fuel distributor issues (if L-Jetronic), worn suspension bushings, seized brake calipers.
Heritage:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing premium sedans with a focus on driving dynamics, performance, and build quality, established through models like the Neue Klasse and subsequent 5 Series generations.
E28 Significance:
The E28 generation marked a significant step forward from the E12. It refined the 'sport sedan' formula with improved aerodynamics, a more sophisticated chassis, and the introduction of advanced features for its time. The 528i represented a balance of performance and comfort within the E28 lineup.
Production Period:
The E28 series was produced from 1981 to 1988. The 528i model was primarily offered in the earlier years of this generation (e.g., 1981-1987), being replaced by the 525i and 535i with newer engine technology in later years.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing plant), with potential assembly in other international locations.
