SL/R129: Engine Swap with Upgraded Transmission (1991 500SL)
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: San Jose
2002 S500 / 2005 e46 325i
Engine Swap with Upgraded Transmission (1991 500SL)
Hi guys,
I am ready to purchase a 91 500SL that might be in need of a new motor.
I am aware that the high performance 4-valve quad-cam engine was made from 1990 - 1998, but the transmission changed from the 4 speed hydraulic (what my car will have) to the 5 speed electronic.
What I would like to do is to put in a complete engine and transmission from a newer SL 1996-1998.
My question is, will this directly bolt up without any electronic issues? I suspect that mechanically everything is the same?
Appreciate all of your help.
I am ready to purchase a 91 500SL that might be in need of a new motor.
I am aware that the high performance 4-valve quad-cam engine was made from 1990 - 1998, but the transmission changed from the 4 speed hydraulic (what my car will have) to the 5 speed electronic.
What I would like to do is to put in a complete engine and transmission from a newer SL 1996-1998.
My question is, will this directly bolt up without any electronic issues? I suspect that mechanically everything is the same?
Appreciate all of your help.
Super Member
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 837
Likes: 25
From: seattle
1990 300ce supercharged and intercooled
There are three options. One is keep your injection system and transmission the same era. Two is swap engine and transmission from later car with almost all the wiring and computers to make it work. This can be done but really needs a donor car and a lot of labor. Three is get the newer engine and transmission and install stand alone injection and stand alone transmission control.
