E36 318Ti Build: Suspension
Published: 12-17-20 11:00:00
E36 318Ti Build
There are many ways to make a car fun to drive, but in my opinion, a proper suspension setup is the most important thing to focus on before anything else. If you want a car that feels legendary to drive, the suspension needs to respond exactly how you desire under aggressive driving conditions. That means using the proper components and adjustments for your power level, driving style, tire compound, budget, etc. Quite a few vehicles are out there with heavily modified power-trains, but stoc...
E36 318Ti Build: Turbo-Back Exhaust System
Published: 10-21-20 15:00:00
E36 318Ti Build
Now that the turbo is located where it needs to be, it's time to begin fabricating an exhaust system for the 318ti! Exhausts come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from an obnoxious hood or fender-exit, to a subtle OEM style system.Factors including personal preference and performance goals ultimately narrow down the design to its final form, these are a few of the most significant influences:Exhaust volume - (Track requirements, neighbors, wife & kids, etc.)Desired power level - (D...
E36 318Ti Build: Turbo Mounting
Published: 09-14-20 14:30:39
E36 318Ti Build
When it comes to turbocharger setups, the possibilities are nearly limitless, but some choices can make the endeavor more or less of a challenge. One of the first questions that must be answered is whether the turbo will be a 'top mount' or 'bottom mount'. Let's begin by discussing some of the benefits and drawbacks of each option:Top MountPros:Flex-Factor, the turbo and downpipe will be very visible which can be a heavy influence for show oriented buildsEase of access to turbo, and more space f...
E36 318Ti Build: Microsquirt Standalone ECU
Published: 08-20-20 13:04:00
E36 318Ti Build
Many 4cyl owners choose to swap their cars with the 6cyl engine because the conversion is essentially drop in when using the correct wiring harness, ecu, and hardware. Its an easy way to boost the performance to essentially M3 level, but my goals are slightly different. I am concerned with balance, and more specifically, keeping the weight as low as possible. The M42 engine is a whopping 90lb lighter than an S52 engine, and this fact alone is why I am choosing to retain the 4cyl configuration fo...
E36 318Ti Build: Intro
Published: 08-04-20 08:01:32
E36 318Ti Build
Let me roll into this series with a small intro: I'm a sleeper BMW enthusiast, G-force addict, and engineer at 22RPD. I will be using this blog to provide updates to projects, technical information, and hopefully some inspiration. My goal is to update this 318ti series at least once every two weeks with a healthy dose of substantial and aesthetic progress. I was looking for a fun and cheap daily to keep miles off of my E46 M3, when I stumbled upon this listing for an E36 318ti. Until now, I had ...