[rayman]

Hi there,
I have a E36 316se compact, 1900cc, manual.
Problem is it seems to be holding back the power.
I have done the obvious things. Changed plugs, filters, oil etc...
Can anyone help me?
Also the rear nearside break doesn't break even on the handbreak, rear brakes are discs.
Thanks.
Jay

 

[Ronnie]

First port of call should be check for air leaks and if none found then get the fault codes read for the engine, any good BMW specialist or main dealer will be able to do this for you, it could be a sensor problem like the cam sensor for example.

As for the brakes you will need to remove the rear discs and check the shoes and inside of the discs out where the braking surface for the shoes is, it may be the shoe linings are cracked, come adrift or missing or the inside of the drum may have gone very rusty due to incorrect adjustment.

See here http://www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/tec...e-Shoe/101-Projects-55-Parking-Brake-Shoe.htm

 

[garb85]

loss of power

like ronnie said its probably a sensor, mines a 1997 320i convertible an i had the same problem, had it diagnosed at BMW main dealer an they told me it was the crank pulse sensor (£65) an throttle housing and switch (£175.66) so i had the work done at a BMW specialists an i still had no power, in the end my Cat was blocked!!!! So check all the simple obvious things first e.g fuel line, filters, air flow pipes, fuel pump.....all the best

 

[custardwtf]

head gasket?

 

[328mark]

head gasket?

not if there is no coolant loss or emulsification of oil.
or,i should say...technically possible but highly unlikely if no other symptoms shown

 

[rayman]

Ronnie.
Thanks for the advice,
car booked in for codes 2moz.
Stripped rear breaks and forund the shoe retaining springs rolling around lose inside!!
thanks again all.
Jay