BMW Engine Swaps & Conversions
Based in Chiltern Green near Luton, WeaselWerkz carries out BMW engine swaps, replacements and custom conversions for enthusiasts looking for more performance, a replacement for a failed engine or something completely custom.
We have experience working with classic and retro BMW platforms including the E30, E36, E46, alongside a range of BMW engines and drivetrain combinations.
Every conversion is different, so we approach each project individually and work with you to understand the car, intended engine, intended use and the result you want to achieve.
BMW Engine Swap Specialists
An engine conversion involves much more than simply fitting another engine into the bay.
Depending on the combination, a complete conversion may involve engine and gearbox installation, mounts, cooling-system changes, exhaust fabrication, wiring, drivetrain modifications, servicing and supporting mechanical work.
Our workshop can help manage the conversion as a complete project rather than leaving you to coordinate several different garages or fabricators.
BMW E30 Engine Swaps
The BMW E30 is one of the most popular platforms for engine conversions, with a huge range of options available depending on the intended use of the car.
WeaselWerkz can help with E30 engine upgrades and conversions using BMW six-cylinder engines, including established S5X and M5X-based combinations.
Whether you're building a fast road car, weekend toy, drift car or something more unusual, we can discuss the most appropriate route for your budget and goals.
BMW E36 Engine Swaps
The E36 also makes an excellent base for an engine conversion.
From replacing or upgrading the original engine to installing higher-performance BMW powerplants, we can undertake the mechanical and fabrication work required to complete the conversion.
Supporting work can also include cooling upgrades, suspension and brake work, drivetrain changes and general mechanical refreshes while the car is apart.
Popular Engine Swaps We Have Experience With:
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BMW E30: M50 M52 M54 Engine Swaps
Basics:
- Engine out (remove propshaft, coolant parts etc.)
- Steering column modification
- Brake booster/brake line fabrication
- Swap arms and manifolds, engine fitted
- Fuel/cooling system (pipework, radiator fitting, electric fan fitting and wiring, bleeding of system)
- Engine wiring with adaptor loom
- Exhaust work due to new manifolds
- Reassembly of vehicle, testing and refinement
Approx labour £2100
Optional:
- Conversion to manual vehicle
- Replacement of gearbox/clutch assembly
- Cleaner installation of wiring looms
- M54 refresh: water pump, thermostat, seals and gaskets, CCV
- Cleaning of engine bay, engine and gearbox
Approx Labour £980
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BMW E36: M50 M52 M54 Engine Swaps
Basics:
- Engine out (remove propshaft, coolant parts etc.)
- Swap arms and manifolds, engine fitted
- Fuel/cooling system (pipework, radiator fitting, electric fan fitting and wiring, bleeding of system)
- Engine wiring with adaptor loom
- Exhaust work due to new manifolds
- Reassembly of vehicle, testing and refinement
Approx labour £1800
Optional:
- Conversion to manual vehicle
- Replacement of gearbox/clutch assembly
- Cleaner installation of wiring looms
- M54 refresh: water pump, thermostat, seals and gaskets, CCV
- Cleaning of engine bay, engine and gearbox
Approx Labour £980
Custom BMW Engine Conversions
Not every project follows an established formula.
We are happy to discuss bespoke engine conversions and unusual drivetrain combinations where additional fabrication, adaptation or engineering work is required.
Previous workshop experience includes BMW M57 diesel conversions and projects using the ZF 8HP automatic transmission alongside more traditional manual drivetrain setups.
If you have an unusual conversion in mind, send us the details and we'll let you know whether it's something we can help with.
Supporting Mechanical & Fabrication Work
A successful conversion depends on the rest of the vehicle being able to support it.
Depending on the project, we can also assist with:
- Engine and gearbox installation
- Custom fabrication
- Cooling-system modifications
- Exhaust work
- Clutch and gearbox replacement
- Suspension upgrades
- Brake upgrades
- Chassis repairs
- Rust repairs
- Differential and drivetrain work
- General servicing and mechanical repairs
This means supporting work can be completed alongside the engine swap rather than treating the conversion in isolation.
BMW Engine Swaps Near Luton
WeaselWerkz is based in Chiltern Green near Luton and undertakes specialist BMW work for customers from Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, London and further afield.
Whether you're planning an E30 or E36 conversion, fitting an S50, S52 or S54, considering an M57 swap or have something completely custom in mind, get in touch to discuss your project.
When contacting us, include your vehicle model and year, current engine, intended replacement engine, gearbox choice and what you want to achieve with the finished car.
Photos of the vehicle, donor engine or existing parts can also help us understand the project.