M20 - e2i Conversion: Difference between revisions

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Created page with "The '''M20 "e2i" conversion''' is a popular modification for BMW enthusiasts seeking to enhance the performance of the M20B27 engine found in "eta" models by integrating components from the higher-revving M20B25 "i" engine. This conversion combines the torque-rich characteristics of the eta engine with the improved airflow and higher RPM capabilities of the "i" engine. ---- === Key Features === * '''Increased Displacement''': Retains the 2693cc displacement of the M20B..."
 
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[[File:M20B27 e2i Swap.jpg|thumb]]
The '''M20 "e2i" conversion''' is a popular modification for BMW enthusiasts seeking to enhance the performance of the M20B27 engine found in "eta" models by integrating components from the higher-revving M20B25 "i" engine. This conversion combines the torque-rich characteristics of the eta engine with the improved airflow and higher RPM capabilities of the "i" engine.
The '''M20 "e2i" conversion''' is a popular modification for BMW enthusiasts seeking to enhance the performance of the M20B27 engine found in "eta" models by integrating components from the higher-revving M20B25 "i" engine. This conversion combines the torque-rich characteristics of the eta engine with the improved airflow and higher RPM capabilities of the "i" engine.
----


=== Key Features ===
== e2i Forum Threads ==


* [https://www.mye28.com/viewtopic.php?t=131610 Maytag's M20B27 'e2i' Engine Build Thread (87 528e)]
== Key Features ==
* '''Increased Displacement''': Retains the 2693cc displacement of the M20B27.
* '''Increased Displacement''': Retains the 2693cc displacement of the M20B27.
* '''Higher Compression''': The conversion often results in a compression ratio of approximately 9.4:1 when using the stock eta block and pistons with an "i" cylinder head.
* '''Higher Compression''': The conversion often results in a compression ratio of approximately 9.4:1 when using the stock eta block and pistons with an "i" cylinder head.
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* '''Notable Identifiers''': Combines the "eta" bottom end (long-stroke crank) with the "i" head, which features larger intake valves and improved flow.
* '''Notable Identifiers''': Combines the "eta" bottom end (long-stroke crank) with the "i" head, which features larger intake valves and improved flow.


----
== Required Components ==
 
# '''M20B25 '885' Cylinder Head''': Includes the camshaft and intake valves from the "i" engine for better high-RPM performance.
=== Required Components ===
 
# '''M20B25 Cylinder Head''': Includes the camshaft and intake valves from the "i" engine for better high-RPM performance.
# '''"i" Intake Manifold and Throttle Body''': Provides increased airflow compared to the eta components.
# '''"i" Intake Manifold and Throttle Body''': Provides increased airflow compared to the eta components.
# '''"i" ECU (Motronic 1.3)''': Enables proper engine management and fueling for the higher-revving setup.
# '''"i" ECU (Motronic 1.3)''': Enables proper engine management and fueling for the higher-revving setup.
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#* Appropriate gaskets and seals for assembly.
#* Appropriate gaskets and seals for assembly.


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== Performance Gains ==
 
=== Performance Gains ===
 
* '''Low-End Torque''': Retained from the eta engine's long-stroke design.
* '''Low-End Torque''': Retained from the eta engine's long-stroke design.
* '''Improved Top-End Power''': Provided by the "i" cylinder head and intake system, allowing the engine to rev freely to higher RPMs.
* '''Improved Top-End Power''': Provided by the "i" cylinder head and intake system, allowing the engine to rev freely to higher RPMs.
* '''Versatility''': The e2i conversion offers a balance of low-end drivability and higher-end performance, making it suitable for street and light track use.
* '''Versatility''': The e2i conversion offers a balance of low-end drivability and higher-end performance, making it suitable for street and light track use.


----
== Considerations ==
 
=== Considerations ===
 
* '''Tuning''': Optimizing the ECU and ignition timing is essential to fully realize the performance gains.
* '''Tuning''': Optimizing the ECU and ignition timing is essential to fully realize the performance gains.
* '''Compatibility''': Ensure the "i" head is compatible with the eta block, especially in terms of cooling channels.
* '''Compatibility''': Ensure the "i" head is compatible with the eta block, especially in terms of cooling channels.
* '''Additional Mods''': Complementary upgrades such as a freer-flowing exhaust, a lightweight flywheel, or a performance camshaft can further enhance results.
* '''Additional Mods''': Complementary upgrades such as a freer-flowing exhaust, a lightweight flywheel, or a performance camshaft can further enhance results.
[[Category:E28 Information]]
[[Category:Tech FAQ]]
[[Category:Tech FAQ]]

Latest revision as of 16:02, 6 January 2025

The M20 "e2i" conversion is a popular modification for BMW enthusiasts seeking to enhance the performance of the M20B27 engine found in "eta" models by integrating components from the higher-revving M20B25 "i" engine. This conversion combines the torque-rich characteristics of the eta engine with the improved airflow and higher RPM capabilities of the "i" engine.

e2i Forum Threads

Key Features

  • Increased Displacement: Retains the 2693cc displacement of the M20B27.
  • Higher Compression: The conversion often results in a compression ratio of approximately 9.4:1 when using the stock eta block and pistons with an "i" cylinder head.
  • Power Output: Depending on tuning and supporting modifications, the e2i conversion can achieve power outputs of 170–190 hp and similar torque figures.
  • Notable Identifiers: Combines the "eta" bottom end (long-stroke crank) with the "i" head, which features larger intake valves and improved flow.

Required Components

  1. M20B25 '885' Cylinder Head: Includes the camshaft and intake valves from the "i" engine for better high-RPM performance.
  2. "i" Intake Manifold and Throttle Body: Provides increased airflow compared to the eta components.
  3. "i" ECU (Motronic 1.3): Enables proper engine management and fueling for the higher-revving setup.
  4. "i" Wiring Harness: Simplifies the installation and integration of the "i" electronics.
  5. Additional Items:
    • New timing belt and water pump.
    • "i" injectors for proper fueling.
    • Appropriate gaskets and seals for assembly.

Performance Gains

  • Low-End Torque: Retained from the eta engine's long-stroke design.
  • Improved Top-End Power: Provided by the "i" cylinder head and intake system, allowing the engine to rev freely to higher RPMs.
  • Versatility: The e2i conversion offers a balance of low-end drivability and higher-end performance, making it suitable for street and light track use.

Considerations

  • Tuning: Optimizing the ECU and ignition timing is essential to fully realize the performance gains.
  • Compatibility: Ensure the "i" head is compatible with the eta block, especially in terms of cooling channels.
  • Additional Mods: Complementary upgrades such as a freer-flowing exhaust, a lightweight flywheel, or a performance camshaft can further enhance results.