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The BMW E30 is a beloved platform for car enthusiasts, particularly when it comes to engine swaps. One of the most popular swaps is the S50 engine, known for its power and performance. When undertaking an E30 S50 swap, selecting the right components is crucial for success. This article explores the best brands for E30 S50 swap components, including knuckles, ECUs, and hardware.
Understanding the E30 S50 Swap
The E30 chassis, produced by BMW from 1982 to 1994, is renowned for its lightweight design and balanced handling. The S50 engine, originally from the E36 M3, offers significant power upgrades. To ensure a successful swap, it is essential to use high-quality components that can handle the increased performance.
Essential Components for the E30 S50 Swap
When planning an E30 S50 swap, several key components need to be considered. These include knuckles, ECUs, and various hardware. Below, we will discuss the best brands for each of these components.
Knuckles
Knuckles are critical for ensuring proper alignment and suspension geometry in your E30. Here are some of the best brands for E30 S50 swap knuckles:
- Ground Control: Known for their high-quality suspension components, Ground Control offers adjustable knuckles that provide excellent performance and handling.
- BC Racing: BC Racing produces durable knuckles that are designed for performance and longevity, making them a great choice for E30 enthusiasts.
- Turner Motorsport: A reputable brand in the BMW community, Turner Motorsport offers knuckles that are engineered for optimal performance during swaps.
ECUs
The ECU (Engine Control Unit) is vital for managing the S50 engine’s performance. Choosing the right ECU can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance and tuning capabilities. Here are top brands for E30 S50 swap ECUs:
- MoTeC: MoTeC ECUs are known for their advanced tuning capabilities and reliability, making them a top choice for serious performance builds.
- AEM: AEM offers a range of ECUs that provide excellent control and tuning options, ideal for E30 S50 swaps.
- Haltech: Haltech ECUs are user-friendly and offer extensive features for tuning, making them a favorite among enthusiasts.
Hardware and Additional Components
In addition to knuckles and ECUs, various hardware components are essential for a successful E30 S50 swap. These include mounts, wiring harnesses, and cooling systems. Below are some of the best brands for these components:
Mounts
Engine mounts are crucial for securely fitting the S50 engine into the E30 chassis. Here are some recommended brands:
- Vorshlag: Known for their high-quality mounts, Vorshlag provides durable and reliable options for S50 swaps.
- Rogue Engineering: Rogue Engineering offers mounts that are designed for performance and ease of installation.
- Condor Speed Shop: Condor specializes in BMW parts and offers engine mounts specifically designed for the E30 S50 swap.
Wiring Harnesses
A proper wiring harness is essential for connecting the S50 engine to the E30’s electrical system. Here are some top brands:
- Wiring Specialties: They offer custom wiring harnesses tailored for E30 S50 swaps, ensuring compatibility and reliability.
- German Auto Solutions: Known for their high-quality wiring solutions, they provide harness options that simplify the swap process.
- e30 Wires: Specializing in E30 wiring, e30 Wires offers harnesses designed specifically for S50 swaps.
Cooling Systems
Cooling is crucial when swapping to a more powerful engine like the S50. Consider these brands for cooling components:
- Mishimoto: Known for their high-performance radiators, Mishimoto offers cooling solutions that help keep your S50 running at optimal temperatures.
- CSF Radiators: CSF provides high-quality aluminum radiators designed for performance and durability, perfect for the E30 S50 swap.
- BMW OEM: Using OEM cooling components ensures compatibility and reliability, making them a safe choice for your swap.
Conclusion
Choosing the right components for your E30 S50 swap is essential for achieving optimal performance and reliability. By selecting high-quality brands for knuckles, ECUs, and hardware, you can ensure a successful swap experience. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a first-time builder, investing in reputable brands will pay off in the long run.