Question of Mileage

[mflint1513]

So, this past weekend, I was going to swap the stock camshafts with ones from a 1995 M3. This would have given a longer intake and duration for the valves to stay open. Less restrictive air flow means more HP...sort of.

So, when I called local shops to get support if I needed it, no one would touch it! They said I had too many miles and wouldn't recommend doing it.

Here's the question:
Is 175,XXX miles too many miles to perform the camswap?

[Pirate_copy]

I dont personally think it is but is a bit close!!

Bimmer engines will just go on and on, but you are close to 200k and at that point wear and tear will always become a factor!!

[jasonf860]

As long as the M3 cam does not have higher lift then you are good to go. Duration is only how long the valve stays open. if the lift were higher on the M3 cams, then there is a possibility that your valves have small ridges in them from only opening so far. Throw in a higher lift and you ask the valve to open farther, causing that lip to come in contact with the valve guide.
My Honda isn't a BMW, but at 200K miles I replaced my stock cam with a performance cam and now have 220K and have not had a single issue. i only changed the duration and centerline., not the lift.

[mflint1513]

I'm pretty sure it's just the duration that changed. I think I'm still going to wait until I'm in an area where there will be more support available for this project.

[Pirate_copy]

You moving to Germany then..... hehehehehehe :D

[jasonf860]

Did a little research. If your going to swap to M3 cams, your gonna also need a chip or ecu programming depending on the year of your car. Also, it is advised to change over to the M3 springs and retainers, but not necessary. You should be fine doing the swap with the mileage you have. Here is a link to removal aqnd installation :
http://www.pelicanparts.com/BMW/techarticles/E36-Camshaft-Removal/E36-camshaft-removal.htm