The M60 lineup is one of the smallest series with which BMW pleases its customers. The lineup includes only two powertrains – the three-liter M60B30 engine, and the M60B40, which has a displacement of 4 liters. The release of BMW M60B30 meant only one thing – a return to the manufacture of V layout engines, which provide the presence of 8 cylinders and work on gasoline. Prior to that, the concern had not produced such power units for 25 years. Since 1992, the motors were produced at the concern’s plants, and in 1998 their production was stopped. BMW e32 M60B30 – one of the brightest representatives of the line of bodies, which were equipped with such power units. The popularity of the cars was simply stunning in all countries of the world, and Russia was no exception.

M60B30, the characteristics of which will be discussed below, was quite a logical decision from the German manufacturers. With the help of this engine was able to close the free space in the lines of motors between power units for 6 cylinders with in-line arrangement, and huge twelve-cylinder engines with V configuration. What sets the E38 M60B30 and other bodies with these powertrains apart is the unique design of the motors. For its design, an automated CAD design system was used. This made it possible to make the most compact engines with minimal dimensions.

M60B30 engine specifications

Power, hp. 218 – 238
Fuel type AI-98 gasoline
Volume, cm*3 2997
Maximum torque, N*m (kg*m) at rpm. 290 (30) / 4500
Fuel consumption, l/100 km 10.9 – 15.1
Engine type V-twin, 8-cylinder.
CO2 emission, g/km 291
Cylinder diameter, mm 84
Number of valves per cylinder 4
Maximum power, hp (kW) at rpm. 218 (160) / 5800; 238 (175) / 5800
Blower No
Compression ratio 10.5
Piston stroke, mm 67.6

Advantages

In 1992, the little brother of the M60 powertrain range was developed, which was also a V-twin. This engine was intended to be a replacement for the M30B30, which was characterized by large dimensions and in-line arrangement of six cylinders. As a base for the creation of a V8 with compact dimensions served as a power unit of the same line, but with a volume of 4 liters. This causes some controversy among owners – what is better M60B40 or M60B30. The cylinder block of this power unit was equipped with a cast crankshaft, which was characterized by a reduced stroke length. In this version of the engine it was 6.76 centimeters, while in the predecessor – 8 cm. The cylinder diameter was also changed and became 8.4 centimeters, instead of 8.9 as in the B40. The connecting rods and pistons were also revised and completely redesigned.

M60B30, reviews of which are located below, had the cylinder head from the previous version. Inlet and exhaust valves succumbed to changes – their diameter was slightly reduced. Depending on what gearbox should stand on the motor, it was possible to change the characteristics of the standard camshafts. This power unit provides for the use of individual ignition coils, chain-driven timing and a plastic intake manifold. Another difference from its predecessor is the reduced diameter of the ducts and the size of the throttle plate. The powertrain is controlled by Bosch Motronic 3.3.

M60B30 gearboxes were installed on cars of the German concern, which were characterized by the 30i index. In 1996, the production of this range was completely discontinued, and it was replaced by new M62B35 motors.

Disadvantages

This powertrain can be characterized by a large vibration during idling. This can be caused by a failed BMW M60B30 dmrv, which provides air intake. It is also worth trying to adjust the timing. If this does not help, you should check the EGR valve and lambda probes.

BMW 730i e32 M60B30 BMW 730i e32 M60B30 has a cardan shaft device that differs from the usual cars. Therefore, there may be a problem with the repair of this unit of the car. Questions also arise about where the temperature sensor is located, which goes to the brains, since it is not characterized by great reliability and often fails. Increased oil consumption is also a common problem for owners of such motors. This can be remedied by replacing the oil caps and rings, or replacing the crankcase ventilation valve.

Taking into account the quality of domestic fuel, blocks with nikasil coating are not particularly reliable. There is a high probability of rapid wear and loss of compression. Therefore, it is better to take a closer look at variants manufactured after 1994, which were equipped with alusil liners.

It is quite expensive to service this engine. High fuel consumption is also difficult to call an advantage of these power units. Age disadvantages are also added to all of the above, since the age of the engines is decent. Do not forget that you need to know what spark plugs to put on the engine, what oil is best to pour and use only quality fuel. This will make it possible to significantly extend the life of the motor.

Chip – Tuning

A large number of owners of cars with these motors ask questions about how to increase power. The easiest way is to install the intake system from the M60B40. Replacing the throttle and intake manifold will guarantee 240 to 250 horsepower. Installing the shafts will give about 30 more horses, and the compressor will allow you to reach 330 horsepower.

This engine is installed on the following models:

BMW 5-Series (E34)

BMW 7-Series (E38)

BMW 7-Series (E32)

Categories: Engines

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