Can the F30 320D (N47) engine be installed in a 2011 E90 318D?

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AstonMartinLover
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Joined: Mon Sep 09, 2019 2:15 pm

For a project, I just purchased a mid-2011 E90 318D with a seized engine. Based on my comprehension, the timing chain guides experienced erosion, resulting in fragments of plastic obstructing the oil pump and causing the engine to be deprived of oil.

The engine code is most likely N47D20C.

I have obtained an inexpensive engine from a 2013 F30 320d and I am curious whether it is compatible. I am receiving conflicting responses and no one can definitively inform me.

I have received counsel indicating that although the block may remain unchanged, the head will vary, and some components such as the EGR cooler and certain water lines will be entirely different. Some people are informing me that my vehicle, which is a late e90 model, has an early F30 engine that is essentially the same.

Any assistance would be much appreciated :)

I have found a really affordable F30 engine and am considering making some modifications, however I am apprehensive about the prospect of replacing the cylinder heads.

Another alternative would be to construct my own engine, although I doubt it would be economically viable.

Thank you
AstonMartinLover
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Joined: Mon Sep 09, 2019 2:15 pm

Does anybody have any ideas? I am certain that I am not the first individual to attempt it.
BMW_Fan2020
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Joined: Wed Jan 01, 2020 2:15 pm

Greetings, I am uncertain whether you are now attending to this project.

It seems that the N47 engine was retained for the F30 series vehicles and was in use until about 2015/2016. Subsequently, the M47 engine was introduced, which may explain the conflicting opinions you have seen. I recall the transition to BMW engines adopting a modular design, whereby the cylinders are all interconnected.The company provides options for 3, 4, and 6 cylinder engines, with corresponding displacements of 1.5, 2.0, and 3.0 litres, available in both petrol and diesel versions.

Do you own the code for the latest engine? I will attempt to investigate any other changes. If the automobile is from before 2015/2016, I believe there is a high likelihood that it will physically fit. However, I am uncertain about the compatibility of the ancillaries, engine management electronics, and sensors.
BMW_Fan2020
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Joined: Wed Jan 01, 2020 2:15 pm

Apologies, please review your post once again for other discrepancies to be cautious of. Although both the 318 and 320 feature a 2.0-liter engine, there are changes in the manifolds and other components, particularly in the petrol versions. Therefore, certain elements attached to the engine would need to be swapped.

I find the idea of rebuilding the engine to be rather enjoyable. Imagine an automobile that has been running on the same repaired engine for many years. The history and experiences of such a vehicle would undoubtedly be fascinating!

Are you aware of the full magnitude of the damage? Is there any protrusion on the side of the block?
BMW_Fan2020
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This is my third article of the morning. I will feel foolish if you have already taken action or sold everything.

Upon verification, it is evident that the same engine designation, N47D20, was used in both the e90 and previous (pre facelifted) f30 models. since previously said, it is advisable to use caution while inspecting components that are secured to the engine, since there may be variations. By the way, I presume that if you get the replacement engine at a low cost, it is from a vehicle that has been declared a total loss. It would be prudent to inspect the automobile thoroughly, despite the possibility of accidents occurring. However, it is advisable to exercise caution about the reason for the car being declared a total loss. If the cause was negligent driving, it raises concerns about the owner's negligence in terms of maintenance as well.

Please inform us, as I am now really interested in this matter! I may consider purchasing an F30 series Haynes manual and doing a thorough comparison.
AstonMartinLover
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Joined: Mon Sep 09, 2019 2:15 pm

Apologies for resurrecting a highly outdated discussion, but I would like to provide a clear answer for anyone else seeking to undertake the same procedure. The answer is simply yes, it works flawlessly. However, it is worth noting that several additional components may not be compatible (I cannot recall the complete extent at the moment). Furthermore, the wiring harness must be replaced. Nevertheless, if you have both engines readily available, the entire process can be completed within a few hours.
In general, a rather straightforward exchange.
Samantha_Jones83
Senior
Posts: 79
Joined: Sun Mar 03, 2019 2:30 pm

I am experiencing the same issue. My engine had a catastrophic failure. The mechanic advised me to search for a different engine. I managed to find a comparable engine, but, it is sourced from a 320d e91 manufactured in 2009. The vehicle I own is a 2011 model 318d. It has travelled the same distance in km. May I get your contact information for further communication?
Hannah_Baker2000
Senior
Posts: 84
Joined: Thu Mar 03, 2022 7:50 pm

Can you provide specific information regarding the differences between the N47 and F30 models? I have purchased an N47 and want to disassemble it for inspection, since it was inexpensive and I want reassurance. Currently, all the plugs seem identical. Any assistance would be very appreciated.
Martin_Smith76
Senior
Posts: 86
Joined: Wed Nov 11, 2020 9:40 pm

The 2009 n47 model will have a different configuration compared to the 2011 model. Specifically, the 2009 model will be equipped with the n47d20a engine, which is not interchangeable with the n47d20c engine found in the 2011 model due to subtle differences between them. To complete the installation, you will want the intake manifold, EGR cooler, oil filter housing and near side boost pipe from the 2009 engine.
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