BMW 3 & 5 Series (1983-1991) - Service and Repair Manual

Models covered:

3-Series (E30)
316 (83 to 88), 316i (88 to 91), 318i (83 to 91), 320i (87 to 91), 325i (87 to 91).
5-Series (E28)
518 (81 to 85), 518i (85 to 88), 525i (81 to 88), 528i (81 to 88), 535i (85 to 88), M535i (85 to 88)
5-Series (E34)
518i (90 to 91), 520i (88 to 91), 525i (88 to 91), 530i (88 to 91), 535i (88 to 91)
Engines covered
1596 cc, 1766 cc, 1795 cc, 1990 cc, 2494 cc, 2788 cc, 2986 cc & 3430 cc

Does not cover Diesel, dohc or V8 engines, or four-wheel-drive models

The E30 3-Series range first became available in the UK in March 1983, and
continued in production until April 1991, when the revised E36 3-Series range
(not covered by this manual) was introduced. Convertible and Touring (Estate)
models were introduced for 1988, and these models have continued in E30 form
to date.
The E28 5-Series models were introduced in October 1981, and were superseded
in June 1988 by the revised E34 5-Series range, Touring versions of which
became available from March 1992.
Throughout this manual, E28 models are also referred to as “oldshape”, while
E34 models are designated “new-shape”.
The models covered by this manual are equipped with single overhead cam
in-line four- and six-cylinder engines. Early 316 and 518 models are fitted
with carburettors, but all other models are fitted with fuel injection systems. Transmissions are a five-speed manual, or three- or four-speed automatic.
The transmission is mounted to the back of the engine, and power is transmitted
to the fully-independent rear axle through a twopiece propeller shaft. The final drive unit is bolted solidly to a frame crossmember, and drives the rear wheels through driveshafts equipped with inner and outer constant velocity joints.
The front suspension is of MacPherson strut type, with the coil spring/shock
absorber unit making up the upper suspension link. The rear suspension is
made up of coil springover-shock absorber struts, or coil springs and conventional shock absorbers, depending on model.
The brakes are disc type at the front, with either drums or discs at the rear, depending on model. Servo assistance is standard on all models. Some later
models are equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
All models are manufactured to fine limits, and live up to the BMW reputation
of quality workmanship. Although many of the models covered by this manual appear complex at first sight, they should present no problems to the home mechanic.

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