Re: turbo 320is: what am I getting into? (archive)

I'm far from an expert, but it appears that there are 3 variations of the kit for U.S. E-21's, and that each included a stage 1 and stage 2 intercooled. They can be separated into early cars (77-79) and late cars (80-83) and hi and low mount turbochargers. It appears that all low mount kits fit late cars.

Turbos used were IHI, Garret, Rotomaster and possibly Air Research. The low mount kits had internal wastegates and they were IHI turbos (IHI is Warner Ishi) the high mount kits had various brands of TO-4B turbo chargers with external wastegates. These are the easiest to upgrade and repair. I have a low mount kit and a high mount kit. I'm going to use the high mount as the turbo is in better shape and it has better power potential. Everyone that I have spoken with has said the IHI turbos are usually not rebuildable, but that 250.00 will fix it if its repairable, 450.00 if it takes a cartridge ((no housing damage, The cartridge is the center bearing housing less the turbine and compressor wheels (the snails) but including the turbine and compressor wheels. usually all that is needed as long as the wheels have not contacted the housings and damaged them.)) and 750.00 or so for a new unit. If I had to use this kit, I would modify it to use a TO-3 or TO-4b turbo charger instead of investing in the IHI.

If the car is priced reasonably I'D go for it, I just love E-21's and a CALLAWAY should have slightly more power than a 323i and be as fast even after factoring in the added weight of the us bumpers and such. If its a TO-4b type turbo, replacements , seal kits and cartridges are readily available for less than IHI prices.

There is also a link to an article on BMW CCA's server about a Callaway 323i that makes several references to the 320i as well. Go to my page, and click "E-21 Turbos" it will take you to another complete web I have about out Turbo.

Also, if this is a Callaway Built car, vs one with just a "kit" it is indeed very rare and valuable.

Robert
1981 BMW 323i
1991 Mustang SSP
http://home.att.net/~duckryder/index.htm

I'm thinking about buying an '83 Callaway turbo 320is. Car has a lot of nice stuff including an engine with 60K miles on it. However the turbo has 160k on it and seller says it needs a new "cartridge" -- meaning the turbine, I suppose.
Anybody have an idea of cost/complexity of replacement? Anybody have a unit to sell?
Also, since I'm a stone age 2002 owner, what other maintenance issues might I look out for on that car -- timing chain (belt?) replacement, clutch work etc. Thanks in advance for your email or posts.

Robert's 323i / E-21 Turbos / E-21 ring.

Follow Ups:

Yeah, if I get it will be a keeper. (more) Chris R '74 tii 18:05 1/12/2001 (0)

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