If you’ve ever wondered about the BMW S54 engine, you are not alone. The newer S54B32HP is an upgraded version of this engine. It comes with a hydraulic adjuster for the intake and exhaust manifolds. The airflow in these parts is important to the engine’s performance, and more cold air means more oxygen and more power. However, there are a few things you should know before you start making any modifications.
Frequently Asked Questions About the BMW S54 Engine
The BMW S54 engine was a highly successful straight-6 that won Engine of the Year five times in the class. It borrowed some elements from its predecessors, the S50 and S54i, and featured a double VANOS variable valve timing system. The S54 also had hollow cast-iron camshafts and finger followers to prevent oil deprivation during hard acceleration and cornering.
The original BMW-approved oil for the S54 engine was Castrol TWS 10w60. However, this oil was discontinued in 2015 and BMW has since switched to a different supplier. Although Castrol TWS is highly recommended, it costs over $20 a quart, and cheaper oils can offer the same protection.
The BMW S54 engine has numerous performance upgrades that can be done by owners. It is possible to increase horsepower and torque by replacing the stock airbox and air filter housing with an aftermarket intake. This modification can boost horsepower and torque by 25hp. However, it can also cause drivability problems.
Another common issue with the S54 engine is the water pump. Typically, water pumps fail after 100,000 miles, but some owners report failures as early as sixty thousand miles. The good news is that replacing the pump is a relatively inexpensive repair. The water pump keeps the engine cool and prevents the engine from overheating.
The S54 engine is a naturally aspirated engine. Its horsepower and torque curve is very linear. The peak torque occurs at around 7,900 RPM. This is typical of naturally aspirated engines. A natural aspirated engine delivers predictable power, but there are a few downsides with the S54.
The S54 engine has multiple design flaws. In many instances, rod bearings have failed. This can cause serious problems with the engine. It can cost thousands of dollars to replace rod bearings. A BMW repair shop may charge over two thousand dollars to replace the failed rod bearings.
Another common issue with the S54 engine is the valve cover gasket. Often, it is the cause of oil leaks. Replaced gaskets can save the day and make a huge difference in engine performance.
S54B32HP is the upgraded version of the S54 engine
The S54 engine has many advantages over other naturally aspirated engines. Its power curve is relatively linear and predictable, reaching its peak at 7,900 RPM. It is a great option for drivers who want a reliable and powerful engine without the complexity and expense of a turbocharger.
This engine is used in the BMW M54. It is found in the BMW Museum in Munich. It has a scavenging oil pump, which is absent from the regular S50B30s. This engine has no direct successor. BMW’s S65 V8 engine will power the M3 generation that follows. Various emission regulations and space constraints can affect the power output and layout of the intake and exhaust systems.
The S54B32HP is the upgraded version and features more power than the original S54. The upgraded S54B32 produces 321 hp and 261 lb-ft of torque. The HP suffix stands for High Performance, which indicates that the engine was designed to improve power output and reduce weight. Other features include a carbon fiber intake and a straightened intake manifold.
The S54BIT engine was introduced in the E46 M3 in 2000. It remained in production until 2008, and won the best engine award in international competitions in 2001 and 2006. It went on to make its way into the Ward’s Ten Best Engines list in 2006, which is still a high achievement. It was also used in the Wiesmann MF 3 Roadster, E85 Z4 M Roadster and the E86 Z4 M Coupe.
The S54 is relatively inexpensive. Depending on the model, it can be built on your own for relatively little money. With proper guidance and parts, you can build a reliable S54 engine. Just remember to use the right oil for your S54 to ensure optimal performance.
The S54B32HP engine is an upgraded version of the S54 engine. It has more power and torque. It has a larger bore, and a wider stroke. It produces 141 kW at 6000 RPM and 269 lb-ft of torque at 4,900 RPM.
S54B32HP has a hydraulic adjuster
The S54 bucket lifter is a resounding leap from the traditional finger follower or shimmed bucket lifter. This new design features a hydraulic adjuster to make valves more precise, which improves engine performance. The S54 bucket lifter also ditches the traditional clackity valves that impede performance.
S54 engine requires regular adjustments
One of the most important things to do for an S54 engine is to regularly adjust the valves. The valves in the S54 are known to be high-revving and should be adjusted every 60k miles to maintain proper valve operation. This process involves using shims and feeler gauges to adjust the valves to maintain the proper valve lift.
While the S54 engine is among the most capable engines to ever come out of the M Division, it still needs regular adjustments to perform optimally. Fortunately, there are a lot of aftermarket parts and tools that you can buy to keep your S54 running smoothly. Performing regular maintenance and adjustments is important to ensure your engine is in good working order, and will also save you money. However, keep in mind that the wrong kind of maintenance can adversely affect the performance of your S54 engine.
Besides regular maintenance, an S54 engine is also subject to tuning and performance modifications. Some of these modifications can increase horsepower and torque. A good tune for an otherwise stock S54 engine can result in an increase of 20+ WHP. Another common tweak that can improve torque is a lighter flywheel.
BMW’s new 10w60 synthetic oil for normally-aspirated M engines is likely to be similar to Castrol TWS. Another recommended synthetic oil for the S54 is the LIQUI MOLY 10w60 Racetech GT1, which features high-performance race-oriented properties. It also has the film shear strength needed for the S54’s high-rev nature. Other options include Castrol EDGE, Motul 8100 X-Power and Red Line.
Another component that requires regular maintenance is the VANOS system. This component actuates the variable camshaft. A failure in this part will result in a poor power output. It can also lead to cold starts and poor fuel efficiency. A faulty VANOS can also cause a faulty water pump. Problematic water pumps are common in BMWs with high mileage.
Oil lubrication is important for the S54 engine. Regular lubrication will keep the engine running at peak performance. If you don’t have the time to replace the engine, consider investing in an S54 oil pan kit. These are easy-to-install modifications that can be done at home. You will need a few tools and a lot of elbow grease to complete this work.