🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M6 / 633CSi / 635CSi

Chassis Code:

E24

Body Style:

Coupe

Generation Code:

E24

Production Years Covered:

1976-1989 (Manual primarily covers later E24 M6, 633CSi, 635CSi variants)

Engine Codes Covered:

M88/3, S38B35 (M6), M30B32 (633CSi), M30B34 (635CSi)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer (GT), performance coupe

Key Competitors Era:

Porsche 928, Mercedes-Benz SEC coupes, Jaguar XJ-S

Vehicle Highlights:

Iconic 'shark nose' styling, powerful straight-six engines, sophisticated suspension, driver-focused interior, performance heritage

Manual Benefit:

Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the complex systems of these classic BMWs, enabling owners to preserve their value and performance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive workshop service and repair

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Software Compatibility:

Windows 95, 98, 2000, NT, XP, Vista, Windows 7 and later versions

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals (M88/3, S38B35, M30), cylinder head, valvetrain, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), ignition, exhaust

Drivetrain Systems:

Manual transmission (Getrag 265), automatic transmission (ZF 4HP22), clutch, driveshafts, differential

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front strut, rear semi-trailing arm), steering, brakes (front discs, rear discs, ABS), wheels, tires

Electrical Systems:

Wiring diagrams, ignition system, charging system, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, HVAC controls, power windows, central locking, airbag system

Body Systems:

Body construction, panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, trim, bumpers

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspections

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head removal/installation, valve adjustment, timing chain replacement, fuel injector service, radiator/cooling system repair, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical fault tracing using wiring diagrams, engine performance checks

Technical Depth:

Extremely detailed, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Covers component disassembly, assembly, specifications, tolerances, and torque values.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality Recommendation:

Printable on standard office printers. High-resolution scans for clear diagrams and text.

Binding Type For Print:

Digital download (PDF) - no physical binding. Recommend printing and binding chapters as needed.

Paper Type For Print:

Digital download (PDF) - no physical paper type.

Text Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

M6 Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (S38B35 for US M6, M88/3 for Euro M6)

635Csi Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (M30B34)

633Csi Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (M30B32)

M6 Horsepower Est:

256 hp (Euro M88/3) / 265 hp (US S38B35)

M6 Torque Est:

243 lb-ft (Euro M88/3) / 243 lb-ft (US S38B35)

635Csi Horsepower Est:

218 hp (M30B34)

635Csi Torque Est:

224 lb-ft (M30B34)

633Csi Horsepower Est:

197 hp (M30B32)

633Csi Torque Est:

204 lb-ft (M30B32)

Fuel Injection System:

Bosch L-Jetronic (early 633CSi), Bosch Motronic (later models including 635CSi, M6)

Bore Stroke M30:

84 mm x 90 mm (M30B34)

Bore Stroke S38:

93.4 mm x 86 mm (S38B35)

Compression Ratio M30B34:

9.3:1

Compression Ratio S38B35:

10.5:1

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed manual (Getrag 265)

Optional Transmission Type:

3-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22, later 4-speed automatic)

Transmission Features:

Close-ratio gearboxes (manual), torque converter lock-up (automatic)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III / Mercon (ZF 4HP22)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Est:

2775 mm (109.3 in)

Length Est:

4800 mm (189.0 in)

Width Est:

1725 mm (67.9 in)

Height Est:

1380 mm (54.3 in)

Curb Weight Est:

1600-1750 kg (3527-3858 lbs), varies by model and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est:

2070 kg (4564 lbs) for 635CSi

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Standard Tire Size 635Csi:

205/70VR14 or 220/55VR390

Standard Tire Size M6:

225/50VR16 (front), 245/45VR16 (rear)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data Availability:

Limited official crash test data available for this era of vehicle, as testing standards were less rigorous.

Active Safety Features:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), limited-slip differential (on some models)

Passive Safety Features:

Reinforced chassis, collapsible steering column, front and rear crumple zones, optional airbags (late models)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Basic analog instrumentation, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Blaupunkt), cassette players.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on ABS (optional) and the handling dynamics of the chassis.

Connectivity Features:

None by modern definition. Primarily mechanical and analog systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Est:

Every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions)

Spark Plug Replacement Est:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type - platinum recommended)

Timing Belt Chain Note:

These engines utilize a timing chain, which requires inspection for wear and tensioner issues, rather than a replacement interval like a belt.

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for exact specs based on climate)

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4

Common Engine Issues:

Head gasket leaks, oil pan leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, timing chain tensioner wear, fuel distributor issues (L-Jetronic), fuel pump failures, vacuum leaks

Common Transmission Issues:

Clutch wear, synchromesh wear (manual), torque converter shudder (automatic), automatic transmission cooler leaks

Common Chassis Issues:

Worn suspension bushings, worn ball joints, brake system component wear (rotors, pads, calipers), power steering leaks

Common Electrical Issues:

Corroded wiring connectors, failing relays, faulty fuel pump relays, instrument cluster issues, headlight switch failure

Parts Availability Notes:

Some specialized parts may be scarce or expensive due to the age of the vehicles. The manual is crucial for identifying correct part numbers.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand History Context:

BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, sporty driving dynamics, and luxury vehicles.

E24 Development:

E24 was the first generation of BMW's 6 Series, designed by Paul Bracq. It succeeded the E9 coupes. Known for its sleek, aerodynamic lines.

M6 Introduction:

The M635CSi (Euro) and M6 (US) variants were introduced to offer significantly enhanced performance, featuring the potent M88/M88/3 or S38 engines derived from motorsport.

Production Period:

1976-1989

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Acclaim:

The E24 chassis was highly regarded for its styling and driving experience, often praised by automotive journalists of its era as a premier grand tourer.