E36 engine question

m3psi · #1 (**permalink**) 10-10-2004, 11:14 AM

I am a recent owner of an E36. I am trying to learn as much as possible. I have been into honda's for way to long.
How much boost or even hp will the stock block handle. weak points rods pistons ect...? At what point do you need a thicker head gasket. Any info would be appreciated. And yes I have spent about an hour searching and have found nothing on these specific points. I will keep you updated on my upcoming prodject..

m3psi · #2 (**permalink**) 10-10-2004, 01:10 PM

Is there anyone? My goal is to make 400whp hopefully made at around 10psi... So rods and pistons, just rods, just pistons or can the block hold this kind of power??

TEUTONIC · #3 (**permalink**) 10-10-2004, 02:25 PM

there are a lot of 400-600hp e36 m3s running around this country. and some insane ones with over 700hp.

m3psi · #4 (**permalink**) 10-12-2004, 09:43 AM

I wanted as much as the stock block could handle safely with my gt35r...

Dado · #5 (**permalink**) 10-12-2004, 10:31 AM

on a stock motor you could only run around 8-10 psi. If you get a thicker headgasket to drop the compression you could run more boost and it would put you just over 400WHP

Jimmyz2 · #6 (**permalink**) 10-12-2004, 01:27 PM

Are you going turbo or S/C?Make sure you consider inter/aftercooler and water injection.What type of fuel/timing management are you going to run?Tec3 or maybe Unichip?The BMW stock engine is very robost IF you treated right.Good luck.