Target Audience:
BMW owners, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, factory-level information that generic aftermarket manuals may lack, enabling accurate diagnostics and repairs.
Coverage Scope:
Covers two of BMW's most iconic and enduring series, offering a wide range of engine and chassis options from a significant era.
Information Source:
Likely compiled from official BMW technical documentation or authorized service publications.
Model Years:
1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Specific count not provided, typical for comprehensive factory-level manuals)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF assumed for modern sales, but could be printed)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection systems (Bosch Motronic, K-Jetronic, L-Jetronic), starting system, charging system, sensors, ECUs
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, manual gearbox overhaul, shift linkages, driveshafts
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP series) overhaul, hydraulic control, torque converter, cooling
Drivetrain:
Differential, rear axle, limited-slip differential (LSD) options
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (semi-trailing arms, independent rear suspension), shock absorbers, springs, steering rack, power steering system
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc/drum brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake hydraulics, parking brake
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting system, interior electronics, power windows, central locking, HVAC controls, instrument cluster
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, sunroof, interior trim, chassis lubrication points
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair:
Component removal and installation, full engine rebuild procedures, transmission rebuild, brake caliper overhauls, suspension component replacement
Diagnostics:
Electrical system diagnostics, fuel system pressure testing, ignition timing adjustment, compression testing
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including specifications and clearances
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools required for specific procedures
3 Series Engines:
2.0L M10 (e.g., 320i), 2.3L M20 (e.g., 323i), 2.7L M20 (e.g., 325e), 2.5L M20 (e.g., 325i/is), 2.4L M21 Diesel (e.g., 324d/td)
5 Series Engines:
2.0L M10 (e.g., 520i), 2.3L M20 (e.g., 520i), 2.5L M20 (e.g., 525i), 2.7L M20 (e.g., 528e), 2.8L M30 (e.g., 528i), 3.2L M30 (e.g., 533i), 3.4L M30 (e.g., 535i), 2.4L M21 Diesel (e.g., 524d/td)
Typical Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90 HP (Diesel) to 218 HP (M30 variants)
Typical Torque Range:
Approximately 110 lb-ft to 230 lb-ft
Injection Systems:
Bosch L-Jetronic, K-Jetronic, Motronic fuel injection; Carburetion on some earlier models (e.g., M10)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended), Diesel for diesel models
3 Series Standard Transmission:
4-speed manual, 5-speed manual (Getrag)
5 Series Standard Transmission:
4-speed manual, 5-speed manual (Getrag)
3 Series Optional Transmission:
3-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 3HP series), 4-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP series)
5 Series Optional Transmission:
3-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 3HP series), 4-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP series)
Gearbox Type:
Rear-wheel drive, longitudinally mounted engines
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch
Wheelbase Range:
Approx. 97.1 in (E21 3 Series) to 104.3 in (E34 5 Series)
Length Range:
Approx. 168.0 in (E21 3 Series) to 191.1 in (E34 5 Series)
Width Range:
Approx. 65.5 in to 70.1 in
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2,600 lbs to 3,600 lbs depending on model and engine
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, specified in manual
Crash Test Data:
Limited standardized testing for this era; focus on passive safety features designed at the time.
ABS:
Available on higher trims and later models (Bosch ABS II or III)
Traction Control:
Rarely available on these models
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia reel seat belts (front), 2-point lap belts (rear) standard; 3-point rear belts optional/standard on later models
Airbags:
Driver airbag introduced on later E30 and E34 models; not standard
Crumple Zones:
Designed with controlled crumple zones for impact energy absorption
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM cassette radios, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Blaupunkt, Becker) with amplifiers.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models, electronic cruise control system.
Exterior Antennae:
Power antenna system on many models, integrated into bodywork or pillar.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC systems, optional automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) on higher-end models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (using appropriate BMW coolant)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles for standard plugs, up to 60,000 miles for platinum.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH; SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 typically recommended, check manual for specific viscosity by temperature.
Coolant:
BMW Blue or Green ethylene glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on ABS system requirements
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent specified by ZF
E30 Common Issues:
Cooling system leaks (hoses, water pump, plastic expansion tank), differential mount failure, rear trailing arm bushings, rust (wheel arches, rocker panels), fuel distributor leaks (K-Jetronic)
E28 Common Issues:
Subframe mount failure, fuel accumulator issues (K-Jetronic), heater core leaks, rust, suspension component wear
M20 Engine Issues:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), head gasket leaks, oil pan leaks, valve cover gasket leaks
M30 Engine Issues:
Oil leaks (front crank seal, oil pan), overheating, valve adjustments needed
Bmw Philosophy:
Emphasis on 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', combining performance, luxury, and engineering.
3 Series Generations:
E21 (1975-1983), E30 (1982-1991, including the iconic E30 M3)
5 Series Generations:
E28 (1981-1988), E34 (1987-1995, starting in 1988 model year for North America)
Key Production Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), Austria, South Africa, USA (Spartanburg for later models, but manual covers pre-USA assembly era)
Significance Era:
These models represent a crucial period for BMW's growth and solidified its reputation in the premium sedan and coupe market.
