Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself enthusiasts and professional mechanics seeking detailed information for the BMW E21 generation.
Value Proposition:
Inexpensive way to keep your vehicle working properly, guides through every service and repair procedure with hundreds of photos and illustrations.
Content Depth:
Detailed illustrations, exploded diagrams, drawings, and photos, step-by-step instructions based on complete disassembly.
Engine:
Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Engine Performance, Firing Orders, Serpentine Belt Routings, Timing Belt Service Procedures.
Brakes:
Brakes, Brake Servicing Procedures, Complete Torque Specifications (for brake components).
Suspension Steering:
Front End and Alignment Procedures and Specifications, Suspension, U-Joint and CV-Joint Service Procedures.
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring Diagrams, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts, Computer Diagnostic Codes.
Drivetrain:
Transmission Removal and Installation, Transmission In-Car Servicing.
HVAC:
Air Conditioning Service and Capacities.
Fuel System:
Fuel system details implied within engine overhaul and performance sections.
Cooling System:
Covers radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and heater core service.
Exhaust System:
Details on exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, and pipes.
Interior Trim:
Procedures for removal and installation of interior components, seats, dashboard, etc., are likely included for access to underlying systems.
Body Panels:
Covers repair and adjustment of body panels, doors, hoods, and trunk lids.
Maintenance:
Factory Maintenance Schedules and Charts, Routine Maintenance Procedures.
Repair Rebuilding:
Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Complete Repair Procedures, Step-by-step instructions for disassembly and reassembly.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Trouble Codes, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts, Driving Concerns.
Special Procedures:
Timing Belt Replacement, Timing Belt Service Procedures, Serpentine Belt Routings with Diagrams.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Detailed wiring diagrams and troubleshooting charts for all electrical systems, including lighting, ignition, and accessories.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything needed to repair, maintain, rebuild, refurbish, or restore the car. Suitable for DIYers and experienced mechanics.
Accuracy Level:
Factory-level accuracy and detail, based on original BMW documentation.
Quality:
High Quality, Complete and Intact, No Missing/Corrupt pages/sections, Searchable Text, Bookmarked.
Printability:
Fully Printable, Printable pages as needed.
Zoom Functionality:
Zoom In/Out Capability.
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows & Mac.
Method:
Instant Download.
Engine Family:
BMW M10 (Inline-4) and M20 (Inline-6) variants.
Engine 315:
Details for the 315 engine (likely a variant of the M10, e.g., 1.6L or 1.8L) are covered, though specific output figures aren't listed in the product description.
Engine 320I:
Details for the 320i engine (likely a 2.0L M10 or early M20 variant) are covered.
Engine 323I:
Details for the 323i engine (typically a 2.3L M20 inline-6) are covered, including specific performance figures if provided in the manual.
Fuel Injection:
Covers fuel injection systems relevant to the 320i and 323i models (e.g., Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic).
Carburetion:
May cover carburetor setups for specific 315 or early 320i models, depending on market and specification.
Engine Displacement Options:
Covered displacements include approximately 1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L, and 2.3L, depending on the specific 315, 320i, and 323i models.
Chassis Type:
Monocoque chassis with MacPherson front struts and semi-trailing arm rear suspension.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2,630 mm (103.5 inches).
Length:
Approximately 4,360 mm (171.7 inches).
Width:
Approximately 1,610 mm (63.4 inches).
Height:
Approximately 1,380 mm (54.3 inches).
Curb Weight Range:
Varies by engine and equipment, typically between 1100-1300 kg (2425-2866 lbs) for the E21 generation.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Specifics will be in the manual.
Engine Oil Type:
Manual will specify appropriate API service classifications and viscosities (e.g., SAE 20W-50, 10W-40 depending on climate).
Coolant Type:
Manual will detail BMW-specific coolant or compatible antifreeze/water mixtures.
Brake Fluid Type:
Typically DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, as specified in the manual.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual will specify correct ATF or manual gearbox oil specifications for automatic and manual transmissions respectively.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Specific capacities for each engine variant (e.g., M10 4-cylinder, M20 6-cylinder) will be detailed in the manual.
Common Problems:
Potential issues may include rust in common E21 areas (wheel arches, sills), aging rubber components (bushings, hoses), fuel injection system issues (especially on K-Jetronic), and electrical contact problems. The manual is critical for diagnosing and repairing these.
Filter Part Numbers:
While specific part numbers aren't listed, the manual is the definitive source for referencing correct filter types (oil, fuel, air) and other necessary components.
Bolt Torque Values:
Comprehensive torque specifications for all critical fasteners across engine, chassis, and drivetrain components.
Bmw Legacy:
The E21 was the successor to the iconic 02 Series and laid the groundwork for the modern 3 Series line, known for its sporty handling and driver-focused design.
E21 Development:
Introduced in 1975 as a replacement for the BMW 02 Series, the E21 was BMW's first compact executive car with a focus on aerodynamic styling and advanced (for the era) engineering.
Production Years:
1975-1983.
Manufacturing Plants:
Primarily manufactured in Munich, Germany.
