Model Segment:
Executive/Mid-size Sedan
Target Audience:
Owners and independent repair shops seeking in-depth technical guidance for the BMW 5 Series (E28 generation) 518 model.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W123, Audi 100, Volvo 240, Jaguar XJ.
Vehicle Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on driver engagement, build quality, and advanced engineering for its time.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair information, enabling owners to perform complex tasks and significantly reduce maintenance costs.
Engine Coverage:
Comprehensive coverage of the M10 engine variant specific to the 518 model.
Transmission Coverage:
Includes repair, adjustment, and overhaul procedures for the manual transmission, with potential limited coverage for automatic transmission variants if equipped.
Electrical System Coverage:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting for the entire electrical system, including lighting, ignition, and accessories.
Body And Chassis Coverage:
Covers body panel repair, suspension, steering, and braking systems.
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 700-900 pages (typical for comprehensive factory-level manuals of this era).
Manual Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF) or Printed Book
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing chain, oil pump, lubrication system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Solex or Zenith), fuel pump, fuel lines, emissions control components.
Ignition System:
Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, timing adjustment, electronic ignition components (if applicable).
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, fan, coolant specifications.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if equipped), mufflers, pipes, emissions regulations.
Drivetrain:
Clutch, flywheel, driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle differential, axle shafts.
Suspension System:
Front struts, rear shock absorbers, control arms, sway bars, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering System:
Steering box, tie rods, steering column, power steering pump and components (if equipped).
Brake System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typical for 518), brake lines, master cylinder, power booster, brake fluid specifications.
Wheel And Tires:
Wheel types, tire sizes, inflation pressures, wheel bolt torque specifications.
Interior Systems:
Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, HVAC system components, interior trim.
Body Hardware:
Door mechanisms, window regulators, locks, hinges, weatherstripping.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs, belt adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for overhauling major components like the engine, transmission, and differential.
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor adjustments, ignition timing, valve lash, parking brake adjustment.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed instructions for removing and reinstalling various parts and systems.
Diagnostic Flowcharts:
Systematic approaches to diagnosing specific problems.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic tune-ups to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, with detailed torque specifications and tolerances.
Digital File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely contains searchable text for efficient information retrieval.
Image Quality:
High-resolution scans or digital illustrations for clarity.
Print Options:
Printable pages allowing for easy reference in a workshop environment.
Binding Type:
If printed: Perfect binding or spiral binding for lay-flat usability.
Paper Type:
If printed: Durable, possibly coated paper to withstand workshop conditions.
Engine Code:
M10 (likely M10B18 variant)
Engine Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
1.8 liters (1766 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.0 mm x 71.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 8.3:1 or 9.5:1 depending on specific variant.
Valvetrain:
Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC), 8 valves
Horsepower:
Approximately 90-100 hp (net) depending on market and emissions standards.
Torque:
Approximately 140-155 Nm (net) depending on market and emissions standards.
Carburetor Type:
Single Zenith or Solex downdraft carburetor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended)
Fuel Octane Rating:
RON 95 / AKI 91 (or higher) recommended
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
Optional 3-speed or 4-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF or GM sourced)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate clutch
Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 1.5 - 1.7 liters for manual, 5.0 - 6.0 liters for automatic (refer to manual for precise fill).
Length:
Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Front Track:
Approx. 1400 mm (55.1 in)
Rear Track:
Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to VIN plate or manual for specific rating.
Crash Test Data:
While formal ratings like NHTSA were evolving, BMW prioritized passive safety with robust construction for its era. Detailed crashworthiness data may not be readily available in a service manual.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, dual-circuit hydraulic system.
Steering System:
Recirculating ball steering, optional power steering.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear.
Headrests:
Adjustable front headrests.
Audio System:
Likely an AM/FM radio with cassette player, possibly with aftermarket upgrades. Manual will cover basic wiring and installation.
ABS:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was an optional feature on higher-end E28 models, but may not have been standard or available on the 518. Manual will detail if equipped.
Cruise Control:
Optional on some trims, the manual will cover its operation and troubleshooting.
Vintage Connectivity:
Limited to basic electrical systems, no modern connectivity features expected.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Filter Replacement Interval:
Oil filter with every oil change. Air filter and fuel filter every 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 - 40,000 km (18,000 - 25,000 miles).
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Recommended every 40,000 - 50,000 km (25,000 - 30,000 miles) due to solid lifters.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG rated, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 is common, or 20W-50 in hotter climates. Always verify with manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to BMW specifications for correct type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (ensure compliance with original specification).
Rust And Corrosion:
Common for vehicles of this age, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and subframes.
Cooling System Leaks:
Hoses, radiator, and water pump can degrade over time.
Fuel System Issues:
Carburetor performance degradation, fuel pump wear, and injector clogging (if fuel injected variants exist).
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, corroded connections, and failing relays are not uncommon.
Suspension Wear:
Bushes, ball joints, and shock absorbers are common wear items.
Bmw Philosophy:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, focusing on performance, engineering, and luxury.
Generation:
Part of the BMW E28 generation (1981-1988), succeeding the E12 and preceding the E34.
E28 Introduction:
The E28 represented an evolution of the E12, featuring cleaner styling, improved aerodynamics, and updated technology.
Production Years:
The E28 generation was produced from 1981 to 1988. The 518 variant was primarily a European market model.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Dingolfing plant).