🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

633CSi

Model Code:

E24

Body Style:

2-door Coupe

Generation Name:

First Generation (E24)

Generation Years:

1976-1989

Engine Code Series:

M30

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Professional automotive technicians and experienced DIY mechanics specializing in classic BMW vehicles.

Vehicle Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer (GT)

Key Competitors Era:

Mercedes-Benz W126 SEC, Jaguar XJ-SC, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Porsche 928.

Design Philosophy:

Elegant styling, powerful inline-six engine, luxurious interior, superior driving dynamics, and build quality characteristic of BMW's halo coupes of the era.

Manual Utility:

Provides in-depth technical knowledge essential for maintaining and repairing the E24 chassis, particularly the 633CSi model's unique engineering.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989

Engine Variants Covered:

633CSi (specifically the 3.2L M30B32 engine variant, and potentially related maintenance for other E24 models of the era with similar engine architectures)

Estimated Page Count:

Varies, typically 500-1000+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals.

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic variants).

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, ECU (Engine Control Unit) operation, sensor testing, wiring diagrams.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission servicing, repair, and troubleshooting. Includes clutch, gearbox internals, torque converter, and hydraulic systems.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings, CV joints (if applicable).

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, springs, anti-roll bars, steering linkage.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake boosters, calipers, discs, pads, parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) if equipped.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, pump, hoses, alignment specifications.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emissions control.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, pipes, emissions control components.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), wipers, horn, central locking, power windows, mirrors.

Climate Control:

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) system components, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant, climate controls.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, trim, interior upholstery, dashboard, seats.

Chassis And Frame:

Frame construction, body mounting, rust prevention measures.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspections and replacement, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common issues, symptom-based fault finding, testing of electrical components and sensors, diagnostic codes (if applicable).

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilding, differential service.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams interpretation, continuity testing, voltage drop testing, component testing.

Body Repair:

Panel alignment, rust repair techniques, glass replacement.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque values, clearance measurements, alignment angles, engine component clearances.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Designed for professional technicians but accessible to advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Standard mechanic's tools, torque wrenches, multimeter, fuel pressure gauge, timing light, potentially specialized BMW diagnostic tools for later models covered by the range.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text content if digitally created, or OCR'd if a scan.

Print Quality Notes:

PDF format allows for high-resolution printing of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Completeness Level:

Comprehensive workshop manual, expected to include all sections typically found in official BMW service documentation for the period.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder (M30B32)

Displacement:

3.2 Liters (3210 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 86.0 mm (approx.)

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 or 8.8:1 (depending on market/specific variant)

Horsepower:

Approximately 197 hp (147 kW) @ 5500 rpm (DIN)

Torque:

Approximately 210 lb-ft (285 Nm) @ 3500 rpm (DIN)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic (Jetronic) fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Octane)

Engine Control Unit:

Bosch Motronic or equivalent for the period.

Cooling Medium:

Water-cooled, pressurized system.

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Getrag manual transmission

Transmission Type:

3-speed ZF automatic transmission

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated (for manual)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-5 Hypoid gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III (or equivalent ATF for the era)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 4,750 mm (187 in)

Width:

Approximately 1,725 mm (67.9 in)

Height:

Approximately 1,370 mm (53.9 in)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2,790 mm (110 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1,500 - 1,550 kg (3,300 - 3,400 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Standard Tire Size:

205/70 VR 14 or 215/65 VR 14 (depending on market and wheel option)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Early 1980s safety standards; Euro NCAP and NHTSA testing standards were less stringent than today. Focus on passive safety features.

ABS:

Optional on later models and variants, standard on some.

Traction Control:

Not typically available on the 633CSi.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with inertia reels for front occupants.

Crumple Zones:

Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with premium speaker options (e.g., Blaupunkt, Becker). Some models may have had early forms of CD integration.

Display Technology:

Analog gauges and basic climate control indicators. No digital displays or touchscreens.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Trip Computer:

Limited trip computer functions, usually basic fuel consumption or range indicators.

Connectivity Features:

None by modern standards. Pre-dates widespread vehicle connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specifics.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary, often around 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG/SH, ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (depending on climate). Synthetic oils highly recommended for performance and longevity.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid or Pentosin CHF 11S (confirm specific type for E24 chassis).

Coolant Specification:

BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (typically ethylene glycol based, mixed 50/50 with distilled water).

Engine M30:

Head gasket leaks, oil seal leaks (crankshaft, valve cover), timing chain tensioner wear, fuel distributor issues, ignition coil failures.

Electrical System:

Wire harness degradation (especially under heat), intermittent issues with fuel pumps, window regulators, dashboard warning lights.

Suspension And Chassis:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, subframe mounts, differential mounts, rust in common areas (wheel arches, rocker panels, rear axle mounts).

Transmission:

Manual transmission synchro wear, clutch wear, automatic transmission shudder or failure to engage gears.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Brand Focus:

Performance, luxury, engineering excellence, driver-centric design.

E24 Introduction:

Introduced in 1976 as the successor to the E9 coupe.

633Csi Positioning:

Was one of the initial models, offering a blend of performance and luxury, positioned below the more powerful M635CSi/M6.

Facelift Updates:

E24 received significant updates in 1982 (often referred to as the 'highline' or Series II), with revised aerodynamics, interior, and engine options. The 633CSi covered by this manual generally falls into the later part of this series or early Series II derivatives.

Production Period:

The E24 chassis was produced from 1976 to 1989. The 633CSi specifically was produced from 1976 to 1984.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Acclaim:

The E24 platform was widely praised for its timeless design, engineering, and driving experience, often considered a benchmark in the luxury GT segment of its era.

Performance Reviews:

Consistently received high marks from automotive journalists for its potent straight-six engine, balanced handling, and luxurious interior.