🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

7 Series

Model Variant:

733i, 735i

Model Code:

E23

Years Covered:

1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987

Engine Codes:

M30B32 (733i), M30B34 (735i)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size luxury sedan

Target Audience:

Owners of 1983-1987 BMW 733i and 735i models seeking comprehensive repair and maintenance information.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126), Jaguar XJ, Audi V8 Quattro (later models), Cadillac Eldorado.

Bmw Philosophy:

Emphasis on driving dynamics, advanced engineering, and build quality, characteristic of BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.

Manual Value:

Provides essential information for DIY maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs, potentially saving significant costs compared to dealership servicing.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (likely PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

Over 800 pages (typical for complete workshop manuals of this era)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, camshaft, valve train, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmissions, clutch, driveshafts, differentials, CV joints

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, front and rear brakes (discs), parking brake, ABS (where applicable)

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, linkages

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, sway bars

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, engine management electronics, wiring diagrams

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, seats, exterior trim, bumpers, aerodynamics

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components and service

Chassis:

Frame, subframes, mounting points

Fuel Delivery:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, injectors, pressure regulator, fuel tank.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), muffler, pipes, oxygen sensors (if applicable).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems, component overhauls, replacements

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, fault diagnosis, symptom analysis, electrical system diagnostics

Adjustment:

Valves, timing, fuel injection, ignition timing adjustments

Disassembly Assembly:

Complete instructions for dismantling and reassembling components and assemblies

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams are a standard feature of such manuals, crucial for diagnosing electrical faults.

Specifications Tolerances:

Detailed technical specifications, torque values, and measurement tolerances for all components and assemblies.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, with detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

Diagnostic Codes:

Likely includes diagnostic procedures for on-board computer systems (if applicable) and troubleshooting flowcharts for common issues.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital Downloadable (likely PDF)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Designed to be printable, allowing users to create physical copies of relevant sections.

Physical Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Physical Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

Completeness:

Stated as 'Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual', implying it covers all aspects of vehicle maintenance and repair.

Content Type:

Factory-authorized or high-quality aftermarket service manual, providing technician-level detail.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

3.2 liters (3210 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 or 8.8:1 (depending on market/year)

Horsepower:

Approximately 197 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

Approximately 210 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Engine Management:

Early Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic systems, requiring specific knowledge for tuning and diagnostics.

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

3.4 liters (3430 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 or 8.5:1 (depending on market/year)

Horsepower:

Approximately 215 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque:

Approximately 230 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Engine Management:

Bosch Motronic system, integrating fuel injection and ignition timing control.

Fuel Injection:

Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic (specific system varies by year and market)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Getrag 265 5-speed manual transmission (standard on some models/markets)

Type:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission (common option)

Automatic Features:

Sport mode, lockout torque converter clutch.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW recommends specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (e.g., Castrol TAF-X or equivalent, consult manual for exact spec).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or III (consult manual for exact specification).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 199.1 inches (5057 mm)

Width:

Approximately 70.9 inches (1801 mm)

Height:

Approximately 55.1 inches (1400 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 116.3 inches (2954 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3600-3900 lbs (1633-1769 kg) depending on options.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing:

Vehicles of this era underwent less standardized crash testing. Focus was on passive safety features.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on later models and as an option.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag became available on later models (late 80s), not standard across all 1983-1987 models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts, standard lap belts for rear passengers.

Body Construction:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, steel construction.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Factory radio/cassette player, often with features like Dolby NR and separate amplifier integration.

Speakers:

Typically multiple speaker system integrated into doors and rear deck.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Onboard Computer:

Optional Check Control system for vehicle status monitoring (lights, fluids, etc.).

Bluetooth:

Not available in period. Aftermarket solutions are common.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control (optional or standard depending on trim), often with manual overrides.

Seats:

Power-adjustable front seats with memory function, heated seats optional.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for precise interval).

Oil Type:

API SG or SH rated synthetic or semi-synthetic oil, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (check manual for ambient temperature recommendations).

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Examples: Mann-Filter W940/1, Mahle OC 115, Bosch 3323 (verify for specific vehicle).

Air Filter Part Number:

Examples: Mann-Filter C35172, K&N 33-2027 (verify for specific vehicle).

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles (consult manual).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 20,000-30,000 miles. Check manual for specific plug type and gap.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. BMW recommends a specific blue or green coolant (e.g., G48 equivalent).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification).

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW recommends specific power steering fluid (often a Dexron type, check manual).

Common Problems:

Cooling system component degradation (hoses, radiator, water pump), fuel injection system (H.I.S.) issues, fuel pump relay failures, ignition coil issues, vacuum leaks, electronic control unit (ECU) problems, differential seal leaks, window regulator failures, headliner sagging.

Maintenance Tips:

Regular inspection of rubber hoses and seals, ensuring proper engine cooling, maintaining clean electrical connections, and addressing any early signs of fluid leaks are crucial.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused luxury sedans with a blend of performance and comfort.

E23 Generation:

The E23 was BMW's flagship luxury sedan from 1977 to 1986, representing a significant step in the evolution of the 7 Series. The 733i and 735i were key models within this generation.

Facelifts Updates:

The E23 received updates throughout its production, including styling refinements, interior enhancements, and powertrain improvements. The 1983-1987 models represent later iterations.

Production Years:

E23 generation: 1977-1986.

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The E23 7 Series was widely praised by automotive journalists for its advanced engineering, refined ride, and powerful engine options, cementing BMW's reputation in the luxury segment.

Safety Awards:

While specific crash test ratings weren't as prevalent, the inherent structural integrity and passive safety features were noted by industry observers.