Now the engine & tranny is out, should I go 5sp in the t

[Maximillian]

If you saw my posts last week, you know that I had Horse Power Enterprises of Lancaster PA pick up my 1974 2002tii out of storage and pull the engine last week. Now I am faced with the question: do I refresh the old original 4speed or go with a 5speed conversion while the engine is out. It has been so long since I drove a 5 speed 2002 a long distance (Juan Cardona's restoration now owned by John in VA) and need to refresh the experience in my mind.

So please gang, give me your personal experiences regarding the pros and cons of a 5speed conversion. Should I make the leap or keep it original ?

Thanks for your input,

Max

Maximillian Importing Company

www.bimmer.com

800-950-2002

[kcdonahue]

Max,

here's my observations...

4 speed with a 3.45 diff makes for a really nice driving car. A good example is J Maxson's car (Paul's Emily) was pretty well transformed when the 3.64 was pulled and replaced with a custom 3.45 lsd. Makes the car much more drivable and keeps the revs down on the highway to make the longer trips more comfortable. Requires minimal modification outside of spacers or swapped CVs and half shafts from a 320, that is if you use a 3.45 from a 323 or have one built.

Mark Raspi was so impressed with the 3.45 in Emily that he's sourced one for one of his cars!

I have a 5 speed in my car and love it, although I rarely use 5th gear unless I'm cruising down the highway. I'm not one to take too many long trips but when I do I'm quite happy to have the 5 speed.

Get ready for more snow!!!!

KC

[johnnysquare]

What's the cost comparison for sourcing/building a good 3.45 LSD as opposed to installing a 5spd?

I intend to stick with my 4spd.

jb

[schwarz75]

Max, I have two old BMWs that have been converted. I really enjoy the fifth gear in both these cars. One car has a 3.64 final drive and the other car, an E21 with a more powerful engine, has a 3.91 gear.