93' 318is questions

I'm thinking about buying an E36, but the one i am looking at has a blown head gasket and it's an auto transmission. Let's just say that the price is right! I can also do all of my own maint. have done for years.

How extensive would it be to overhaul the motor? Has anyone here rebuilt the 4 cyl? Of course price will vary on how much i have done at the shop and what i do on my own, but are there rebuild kits our there? Recommended places to look for parts?

What is involved in converting from an auto transmission to a manual?
Off the top of my head I'm thinking about installing the clutch pedal, clutch master and slave cyl., interior trim, radiator coolant lines need capped. What about drive shaft length? Anything special about the interface to the car? Is there anything that goes to the ECU here?

What years would be acceptable to just do an engine and trans swap with? (In case I try to find one at the yard, or maybe someone here has a wrecked one?)

Thanks for the help
Joe

Id just swap in another motor, preferably a m50 or s50 and swap tranny at the same time. What is "the right price"?

Educate me... m50 motor?
Trans swap... OK to drop in a manual?
300$
Body is just about perfect and a very good friend does auto auposltry.
I'm really OK with the 4 cyl...prefer it actually. Long drive to work every day

m50 (325) and s50 (m3) are 6 cylinder engines. Have any pictures of the car as far as body shape and interior shape?

I'll upload some pictures to photo bucket tonight.

What would be involved with a transmission swap to manual?