Manual Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level technical information for the classic BMW E23 7 Series, enabling owners to perform maintenance, diagnosis, and repairs themselves, saving on labor costs and extending vehicle life.
Manual Advantage:
Vehicle-specific and factory-sourced, offering unparalleled accuracy and detail compared to generic repair guides. Offers the convenience of a digital, searchable, and printable format.
Unique Selling Points:
Contains comprehensive step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications. All information is contained within a single, easy-to-use PDF.
Coverage Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z for the 1979 BMW 7 Series E23
Estimated Page Count:
Likely several hundred pages, characteristic of comprehensive factory service manuals.
Digital Format:
Downloadable PDF, compatible with Windows Vista/XP/ME/98/NT/2000 and Mac.
Engine And Control:
Engine overhaul, maintenance, fuel system service specifications, emission control systems, intake, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, ignition, starting, charging, engine immobilizer, cruise control.
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission, manual transmission, clutch, transfer case (if applicable to specific E23 variants), propeller shaft, driveshaft, differential, axle, suspension.
Chassis And Brakes:
Tires and wheels, brake control systems, hydraulic brakes, parking brake, steering column, power steering.
Electrical And Electronics:
Complete electrical system, wiring schematics, multiplexing/CAN communication, battery, starter, alternator, lighting, instrumentation, audio/visual systems, horn, door locks, power windows, power mirrors.
Body And Interior:
Air conditioning, supplemental restraint system (airbags, seat belts), interior trim, seats, engine hood, doors, exterior body panels, glass, mirrors, instrument panel, wipers and washers.
Diagnostic And Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, component removal and installation, adjustment procedures, and rebuild instructions.
Depth Of Information:
Factory-level detail, equivalent to what dealership technicians use. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and chassis work.
Printability:
All pages are printable, allowing for enlarged diagram printing.
Binding Analogy:
Digital, eliminating the need for physical binding. Users print only necessary pages.
Paper Analogy:
Digital, preventing grease stains and tears associated with physical manuals.
Engine Family:
BMW M30 Straight-6 (Slant-6)
Common Engine Variants:
M30B28 (2.8L), M30B30 (3.0L), M30B32 (3.2L), M30B33 (3.3L)
Fuel Delivery:
Typically Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection, depending on the specific engine and model year within the E23 range.
Block And Head Material:
Cast iron block, aluminum alloy cylinder head.
Valve Actuation:
Single overhead camshaft (SOHC) driven by a timing chain.
Transmission Options:
Typically a 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 3HP22 or 4HP22). A 4-speed manual transmission was also available on some models.
Manual Transmission Gears:
4-speed manual
Automatic Transmission Control:
Hydraulic control, often with 'Sport' and 'Economy' modes.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2,863 mm (112.7 inches) for most E23 models.
Overall Length:
Varies by specific E23 model and market, typically around 4,840 mm (190.5 inches).
Curb Weight:
Ranging from approximately 1,550 kg to 1,750 kg (3,417 to 3,858 lbs) depending on engine and equipment.
Crash Safety Era:
While official crash test ratings from modern organizations are not available for this era, BMW historically prioritized safety features and structural integrity.
Passive Safety Equipment:
Safety crumple zones, padded interior, laminated windshield, three-point seat belts (often manual retracting), reinforced door beams.
Supplemental Restraint System:
Seat belts. Early E23 models might not have had standard airbags, but later versions or specific market models could.
Audio System:
Early aftermarket or factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player. Basic speaker systems.
Driver Aid Features:
Power steering, power brakes. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was an optional feature for later E23 models, possibly available in 1979 on higher trims or specific markets.
Early Automotive Connectivity:
Minimal to non-existent by modern standards. Focus was on mechanical and electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (check manual for exact recommendation).
Major Service Milestones:
Spark plugs, timing belt/chain inspection, coolant flush, brake fluid flush at intervals typically specified in tens of thousands of miles (e.g., 30,000-60,000 miles). The M30 uses a timing chain, which is generally long-lasting but requires inspection.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF or SG rated multi-viscosity oil, e.g., 20W-50 or 15W-40, depending on climate. Refer to manual for precise BMW-approved oils and grades.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF. Consult manual for exact specification (e.g., ZF TE-ML 04D).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Common E23 Wear Items:
Fuel injectors and pumps, ignition components (distributor, coil), coolant hoses, fuel lines, suspension bushings, rubber seals, power window regulators, HVAC blower motor, door seals.
M30 Engine Considerations:
Potential for oil leaks from the front and rear main seals, valve cover gasket. Timing chain guides and tensioner should be inspected at higher mileage.
