📚 Vehicle Manual Information

BMW 733i 735i Service Repair Workshop Manual 83-87

🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

733i / 735i

Model Code:

E23

Product Name:

BMW 733i 735i Service Repair Workshop Manual 83-87

Generation:

Second Generation (E23)

Chassis Code:

E23

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW E23 7 Series represented the pinnacle of luxury and automotive engineering for BMW during its production run. Positioned as a direct competitor to flagship sedans from Mercedes-Benz and other luxury manufacturers, it offered a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W126 S-Class, Jaguar XJ Series, Cadillac Eldorado, Lincoln Continental.

Design:

Iconic 'Hofmeister Kink' in the C-pillar, elegant and understated styling, focus on driver comfort and engagement.

Technology:

Early adoption of features like ABS, onboard computer, electronic climate control, and power-assisted systems.

Value:

This manual is an indispensable resource for maintaining and repairing the E23 7 Series, providing the same detailed, vehicle-specific information used by BMW dealerships. It empowers owners to perform complex tasks accurately, saving on labor costs and ensuring the longevity of a classic luxury automobile.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years Covered:

1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987

Model Variants Covered:

733i, 735i

Regions Covered:

Global (relevant to specified model years)

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific manual edition, typically 500-1500+ pages

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Mechanical Systems:

Engine (M30, M102), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System, Chassis.

Electrical Systems:

Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Power Accessories (windows, seats, mirrors), Climate Control Electronics, Engine Control Unit (ECU), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Seating Systems, Convertible Top (if applicable), Windshield Wipers, HVAC Controls.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, lubrication.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for all major systems, fault code interpretation (where applicable), troubleshooting flowcharts for common issues.

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly. Includes engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement.

Adjustments:

Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, parking brake adjustments, headlight aiming.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, A-Z coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and component-level diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Typically contains searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory manuals, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 733I:

M30B32 (3.2L inline-six)

Engine Code 735I:

M30B34 (3.4L inline-six)

Horsepower 733I:

Approx. 197 hp (SAE Net) @ 5500 rpm

Torque 733I:

Approx. 210 lb-ft (SAE Net) @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower 735I:

Approx. 218 hp (SAE Net) @ 5700 rpm

Torque 735I:

Approx. 230 lb-ft (SAE Net) @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual (less common)

Optional Transmission:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic

Automatic Features:

Sport mode (selection of firmer shifts and higher RPM engagement)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (consult manual for exact specification and capacity)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 GL-4/GL-5 gear oil (consult manual for exact specification and capacity)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 198.1 inches (5032 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 116.5 inches (2960 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3700-3900 lbs (1678-1769 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Federal Safety Standards Compliance:

Designed to meet all applicable US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for the era.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (Bosch ABS II) optional on earlier models, standard on later models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag became available later in the E23 production run, often as an option.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts for front occupants, 3-point lap and diagonal seatbelts for rear occupants.

Crumple Zones:

Reinforced safety cage and energy-absorbing crumple zones front and rear.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium cassette player with AM/FM radio, often with advanced features like Dolby noise reduction and separate amplifiers.

Climate Control:

Optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC) with digital display and self-diagnostic capabilities.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, electronic cruise control system.

Onboard Computer:

Optional check control system displaying warning lights and basic vehicle status.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; focused on basic vehicle functions and comfort. No modern Bluetooth or smartphone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for precise recommendations).

Major Service Interval:

Spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid and filter change typically recommended around 30,000-60,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW High Performance Synthetic SAE 20W-50 or SAE 15W-40 (consult manual for specific viscosity and API rating).

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (consult manual for exact specification).

Common Failures:

Fuel distributor and pump issues, electrical connector corrosion, heater control valve leaks, vacuum hose deterioration, dashboard pixelation on early models, coolant leaks from plastic components, differential seal leaks, early ABS sensor failures.

Preventative Maintenance Focus:

Regular inspection and replacement of rubber hoses and seals, thorough electrical system checks, timely fluid changes are crucial for reliability.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW, known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' established itself with a focus on performance, engineering excellence, and driver-centric design. The 7 Series is the flagship model, showcasing the brand's luxury and technological prowess.

E23 Introduction:

Introduced in 1977 as the successor to the E12 5 Series chassis, the E23 7 Series was BMW's first true large luxury sedan, aiming to compete directly with established players in the segment.

E23 Facelift Updates:

The E23 received a significant facelift in 1982 (for the 1983 model year in North America), featuring revised front and rear styling, improved aerodynamics, updated interior, and introduction of the larger 3.4L engine for the 735i.

Production Years E23:

1977-1986

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Reputation:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated engineering, cementing BMW's reputation in the luxury segment.

Contemporary Reviews:

Often rated highly for performance and handling relative to its size and class, though criticized for pricing and perceived complexity compared to American luxury offerings.