320i radiator conversion

[lilblackcat]

Hello fellow-02'ers. I am new to mechanics and need a bit of advice about upgrading my 2002 radiator to a 320i one. I have the old one out and have done a lot of research on the fit for the 320i. Everything I read says that the newer radiator will fit just fine but I just need to drill new holes and get a new lower hose. All seems well laterally but the height is significantly taller. I test drove an '02 not too long ago that had a hole burnt through the hood from some other poor soul who tried to do this conversion... obviously unsuccessfully.

Can someone steer me in the right direction? Or was that, "radiate" your wealth of knowledge my way?

Thanks,

Michele

[kris]

Fits fine in my car, just drill some new holes and change the hose from the radiator to the thermostat.

I used these instructions

http://www.bayarea02.com/techtips/arne_tectip1.htm

[Kidasters]

complete instructions here

Also - they have all of the hoses you need. I think you'll need a new lower radiator hose.

Ken

[ClayW]

Here you go. The lower hose is a bit of a strange fit, but it's not that hard. Otherwise, buy four long M8 bolts and matching washers & nuts. The lower, driver's side bolt is hard to drill, but three bolts are enough if you can't get to that one. I cut out most of the battery tray to get to it for mine, which is easier because my battery is in the trunk.

Hope this helps!

P.S. - Pay no attention to the beaten-up fan and radiator. I'll never forget to set the forward motion limiter on the passenger's side motor mount again!

[lilblackcat]

Thank you to all who replied to my request here... it was very helpful.

[H_Krix]

I bought some u-channel PVC from McMaster-Carr and cut adapter brackets.

This stuff is stable to 500 degrees, so it should hold shape just fine to keep the radiator in place.