Era:
Early 1980s High-End Automotive
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126), Jaguar XJ Series, Cadillac Seville, Lincoln Continental Mark VII.
Engineering Philosophy:
German engineering, driver-focused luxury, advanced (for its time) technology, robust build quality.
Primary Coverage:
Electrical Troubleshooting and Service Repair
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 200-300 pages (typical for this era's comprehensive manuals)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Specific Type:
Electrical Troubleshooting Manual (often a supplement or specialized section within a full service manual)
Format:
Likely printed book or potentially a scanned PDF for digital distribution
Electrical Systems:
Engine management, ignition, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic), lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, climate control, HVAC, power seats, central locking, sunroof operation, radio/audio systems, cruise control, ABS (if equipped), starter system, charging system, diagnostic connectors and procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation (if applicable for the era), component testing procedures, wiring diagram interpretation.
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, wiring harness repair, connector servicing, fuse and relay diagnostics, battery and charging system checks, starter and alternator testing.
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and rectifying electrical faults in various circuits and components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering detailed electrical schematics, component locations, pin assignments, voltage drop testing, resistance checks, and specific diagnostic steps for the 1982 BMW 733i model.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, color-coded or black-and-white wiring schematics for all electrical systems, including component identifiers, wire colors, and connector pin-outs.
Digital Format:
PDF (searchable text is highly desirable for electrical manuals)
Print Quality For Physical:
High-resolution scans with clear diagrams and legible text (essential for wiring diagrams).
Binding For Physical:
Sturdy binding (spiral or perfect binding) suitable for frequent use in a workshop environment.
Paper Quality For Physical:
Durable paper stock, preferably with a matte finish to minimize glare when working with diagrams.
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3210 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder (Straight-six)
Horsepower:
Approx. 181 hp @ 5500 rpm (SAE Gross)
Torque:
Approx. 215 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (SAE Gross)
Injection System:
Bosch L-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per manual)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (BMW Digital Motor Electronics - DME)
Engine Control Unit:
Bosch Motronic (early generation) or DME (Digital Motor Electronics) for managing fuel injection and ignition timing.
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 265)
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 4HP22)
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency at cruising speeds.
Length:
Approx. 197.4 inches (4998 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.7 inches (1390 mm)
Wheelbase:
2995 mm (117.9 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 116.5 inches (2960 mm)
Crash Testing Era:
Early 1980s safety standards, less stringent than modern ratings. Focus on passive safety features.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts, rear lap and shoulder belts.
Structure:
Reinforced passenger safety cell, crumple zones.
Headlights:
Halogen headlights for improved nighttime visibility.
Audio System:
Typically an AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with branded premium sound options (e.g., BMW Bavaria C).
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control system.
Climate Control:
Advanced automatic climate control system for its era, featuring electronically controlled HVAC.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on internal vehicle systems and basic audio input.
Power Features:
Power steering, power brakes, power windows, power door locks, power-adjustable front seats (often with memory function).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (check manual for specific recommendations for the era).
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, ignition components often recommended every 20,000-30,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II (ZF specification might differ, consult manual for precise ATF type like LT 2 or equivalent).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for specific BMW recommendation)
Gear Oil Manual Transmission:
SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 API GL-4 (verify with manual for Getrag 265)
Electrical Gremlins:
Common issues include faulty grounds, degraded wiring insulation, failing relays, and aging electronic control units (ECUs) due to the era's technology limitations and material longevity.
Fuel System Aging:
Degradation of fuel lines and potential clogging of fuel injectors on older systems.
Cooling System:
Aging radiator, hoses, and water pump can lead to overheating. Thermostat issues are also possible.
Interior Electronics:
Power window motors, central locking actuators, and climate control servos can fail with age.
Oil Filter:
Mann-Filter W940/1, Mahle OX25D, Bosch 0451103006 (verify for 1982 733i)
Air Filter:
Mann-Filter C35170/1, K&N 33-2034 (verify for 1982 733i)
Brand Focus:
BMW's reputation for building sporty, driver-oriented luxury sedans and performance vehicles.
Generation:
E23 generation, the first generation of the BMW 7 Series.
Introduction Year Of Series:
1977
Production Years Of E23:
1977-1986
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Dingolfing, Germany.
Critical Acclaim Era:
The E23 7 Series was widely praised for its comfort, performance, and technological advancements, solidifying BMW's position in the luxury segment.
Reliability Perception:
Generally regarded as robust, but electrical systems require diligent maintenance and troubleshooting due to age.
