M52tu with m54 crank and pistons? Can it be done???

E Dub · 08-23-2011, 10:40 PM

I recently picked up a 323it 5 speed, I came from a 1998 e36 m3 that was built and I'm missing the power.

I was wondering if it was possible to swap in the crank and the pistons from an m54? Therefore making a 3.0L stroker, I know that you can fit the pistons and crank into an m50/m52 with out a problem. I just don't know enough about the m52tu. I want to add more power to my 323it with out breaking the bank. Seeing that m54 short blocks go for $400-$600 if it's possible I will have one kick ass wagon!!!

Iceman00 · 08-23-2011, 11:03 PM

M52TU = M54. Block and head are the same, the intake manifold, crank, rods, pistons and cams are all different on the 2.5 vs the 3.0. It could be done, but is it worth it?

E Dub · 08-23-2011, 11:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Iceman00

M52TU = M54. Block and head are the same, the intake manifold, crank, rods, pistons and cams are all different on the 2.5 vs the 3.0. It could be done, but is it worth it?

Thanks for the information that's what I needed to know. As far as it being worth it? It's very worth it, I can have a 3.0L for under $600 it will probaly put down 210rwhp. With some cams, intake manifold swap and a tune I can maybe get 245rwhp. That's good enough for me. I'm going to give this a shot this winter, thanks again for the info.

mikerob97 · 12-18-2011, 02:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by E Dub

Thanks for the information that's what I needed to know. As far as it being worth it? It's very worth it, I can have a 3.0L for under $600 it will probaly put down 210rwhp. With some cams, intake manifold swap and a tune I can maybe get 245rwhp. That's good enough for me. I'm going to give this a shot this winter, thanks again for the info.

Just checking in on this old thread - did you ever do this conversion? How did it go? Any information would be helpful.

Regards,

jacobs323i · 12-19-2011, 12:04 PM

yes i did this to my motor when i went turbo, but as iceman said it is not worth it if you are going to stay n/a.

08-23-2011, 10:40 PM	#1
E Dub Registered User Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Chicago Posts: 7 My Ride: 2003 330i ZHP View My Garage	M52tu with m54 crank and pistons? Can it be done??? I recently picked up a 323it 5 speed, I came from a 1998 e36 m3 that was built and I'm missing the power. I was wondering if it was possible to swap in the crank and the pistons from an m54? Therefore making a 3.0L stroker, I know that you can fit the pistons and crank into an m50/m52 with out a problem. I just don't know enough about the m52tu. I want to add more power to my 323it with out breaking the bank. Seeing that m54 short blocks go for $400-$600 if it's possible I will have one kick ass wagon!!!

08-23-2011, 11:03 PM	#2
Iceman00 Registered User Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: FLA Posts: 2,739 My Ride: ghey View My Garage	M52TU = M54. Block and head are the same, the intake manifold, crank, rods, pistons and cams are all different on the 2.5 vs the 3.0. It could be done, but is it worth it? __________________ The Official Dyno Thread Swap your Intake manifold for more power Why your intake probably sucks (in a bad way) My "build" and dynos

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12-19-2011, 12:04 PM	#5
jacobs323i Registered User Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: saint paul Posts: 781 My Ride: blown 323i View My Garage	yes i did this to my motor when i went turbo, but as iceman said it is not worth it if you are going to stay n/a.