๐ท๏ธ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M6 Model Variant: L6 Model Year: 1987 Codes Chassis Code: E24 Engine Code: S38B35 ๐ Introduction Market Position Positioning: Premium Grand Tourer (GT) coupe, positioned as a high-performance, luxury vehicle in the late 1980s. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed with other high-performance European coupes like the Porsche 911, Ferrari 412, and Aston Martin V8 Vantage. Key Features Distinguishing Features: Hand-built craftsmanship, powerful inline-six engine, sophisticated suspension, luxurious interior, and distinctive motorsport-derived styling. Engine Performance Focus: The L6/M6 variant focused on providing a higher-performance version of the E24 chassis, with the M6 (or L6 in some markets) featuring a motorsport-derived engine. ๐ Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Electrical Systems and Troubleshooting Secondary Coverage: Engine Control, Powertrain Electronics, Comfort and Convenience Systems Page Count Estimated Page Count: 200-300 (Estimate based on typical BMW E24 electrical manuals of the era and listed contents) Manual Type Type: Specialized Electrical Troubleshooting Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed Manual (Implied, common for workshops) ๐ Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Management: Engine Control System, Charging System, Start System Powertrain Electronics: Electronic Transmission Control (where applicable, for automatic variants) Safety Systems: Supplement Restraint System (SRS - Airbag, if equipped), Slip Control ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Comfort Convenience: Power Mirrors, Central Locking Module, Power Windows, Power Seats, Heated Seats, Power Sunroof, Horn, Wiper/Washer Module, Headlight Washer, Windshield Washer Jet Heaters Lighting: Instrument Cluster, Light Switch Details, Headlights/Fog Lights, Turn/Hazard Lights, Park/Tail/Underhood Lights, License Plate/Luggage Compartment Lights, Back-up Lights, Brake Lights, Interior Lights, Glove Box Light/Cassette Box Ashtray Lights/Charging Socket Climate Control: Park Ventilation with HKR (Heated Seats/Defrost), Rear Window Defogger, Integrated Climate Regulation Infotainment Electronics: Radio/CD Player, Radio/Hi-Fi, Cellular Telephone, Cruise Control (Tempomat), Anti-Theft System, On-Board Computer Crash Control Module: Coverage of the crash control module, likely related to airbag deployment or safety system monitoring. Procedures Included Troubleshooting: Extensive step-by-step diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (if applicable to the era's diagnostics). Wiring Analysis: Power Distribution Charts, Fuse Charts, Ground Distribution, Data Link information for identifying circuit functions and connections. Component Diagnostics: Specific tests for electrical components, sensors, actuators, and control modules. Wiring Diagrams: Detailed color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems. Component Location: Component Location Charts and Views to identify the physical position of electrical parts. Connector Identification: Connector views to aid in identifying and troubleshooting harness connections. Ground Points: Detailed diagrams illustrating all ground distribution points for chassis and component grounding. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, targeting professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed diagrams and schematics. Diagnostics Tools: Information on diagnostic connectors and potential use of early diagnostic tools or multimeters for voltage, resistance, and continuity testing. ๐ Manual Specifications File Format Format: Likely bound paperback or spiral-bound for workshop use. Digital formats were less common for this type of document at the time. Print Quality Quality: Professional quality printing, designed for durability in a workshop environment. Includes high-resolution illustrations and diagrams. Binding Type Binding: Likely perfect bound or saddle-stitched for smaller sections, potentially spiral-bound for ease of use on a workbench. Paper Type Paper: Durable paper stock, often coated or heavier weight, to withstand handling and potential shop contamination. Content Structure Organization: Highly organized by system, with an index for quick reference, and typically includes an introduction to symbols and basic electrical theory relevant to the vehicle. โ๏ธ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder Engine Displacement: 3.5 Liters (3430 cc) Engine Code: S38B35 Performance Horsepower: 256 hp @ 6300 rpm (for M635CSi, L6 likely similar or slightly detuned) Torque: 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm (for M635CSi) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI) Engine Features Valve Train: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder Compression Ratio: 10.5:1 Induction Type: Individual Throttle Bodies (ITBs) for the M635CSi/M6, contributing to its distinctive sound and responsiveness. ๐ง Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual (Getrag 280/5 or similar) Optional Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22) Features Clutch: Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch ๐ Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4750 mm (187.0 in) Width: Approx. 1730 mm (68.1 in) Height: Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in) Wheelbase Wheelbase: Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1500-1600 kg (3300-3520 lbs) ๐ก๏ธ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: No official NHTSA or Euro NCAP ratings for this specific vintage, but E24 platform known for robust construction. Active Features Braking System: Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Suspension: Independent front and rear suspension, often with self-leveling rear suspension. Passive Features Airbags: Driver's side airbag (often standard on later models/facelifts, but may be optional on early 1987 models - needs verification within manual). Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts ๐ก Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Optional premium Hi-Fi systems, often with separate amplifiers and component speakers. Radio/Cassette or Radio/CD player units. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on L6/M6 variants,...
The L6/M6 variant focused on providing a higher-performance version of the E24 chassis, with the M6 (or L6 in some markets) featuring a motorsport-derived engine.
๐ Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Electrical Systems and Troubleshooting
Secondary Coverage:
Engine Control, Powertrain Electronics, Comfort and Convenience Systems
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
200-300 (Estimate based on typical BMW E24 electrical manuals of the era and listed contents)
Manual Type
Type:
Specialized Electrical Troubleshooting Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Printed Manual (Implied, common for workshops)
๐ Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Management:
Engine Control System, Charging System, Start System
Powertrain Electronics:
Electronic Transmission Control (where applicable, for automatic variants)
Safety Systems:
Supplement Restraint System (SRS - Airbag, if equipped), Slip Control ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Comfort Convenience:
Power Mirrors, Central Locking Module, Power Windows, Power Seats, Heated Seats, Power Sunroof, Horn, Wiper/Washer Module, Headlight Washer, Windshield Washer Jet Heaters
Coverage of the crash control module, likely related to airbag deployment or safety system monitoring.
Procedures Included
Troubleshooting:
Extensive step-by-step diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (if applicable to the era's diagnostics).
Wiring Analysis:
Power Distribution Charts, Fuse Charts, Ground Distribution, Data Link information for identifying circuit functions and connections.
Component Diagnostics:
Specific tests for electrical components, sensors, actuators, and control modules.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems.
Component Location:
Component Location Charts and Views to identify the physical position of electrical parts.
Connector Identification:
Connector views to aid in identifying and troubleshooting harness connections.
Ground Points:
Detailed diagrams illustrating all ground distribution points for chassis and component grounding.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, targeting professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed diagrams and schematics.
Diagnostics Tools:
Information on diagnostic connectors and potential use of early diagnostic tools or multimeters for voltage, resistance, and continuity testing.
๐ Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
Likely bound paperback or spiral-bound for workshop use. Digital formats were less common for this type of document at the time.
Print Quality
Quality:
Professional quality printing, designed for durability in a workshop environment. Includes high-resolution illustrations and diagrams.
Binding Type
Binding:
Likely perfect bound or saddle-stitched for smaller sections, potentially spiral-bound for ease of use on a workbench.
Paper Type
Paper:
Durable paper stock, often coated or heavier weight, to withstand handling and potential shop contamination.
Content Structure
Organization:
Highly organized by system, with an index for quick reference, and typically includes an introduction to symbols and basic electrical theory relevant to the vehicle.
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder
Engine Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3430 cc)
Engine Code:
S38B35
Performance
Horsepower:
256 hp @ 6300 rpm (for M635CSi, L6 likely similar or slightly detuned)
Torque:
330 Nm (243 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm (for M635CSi)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Engine Features
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Induction Type:
Individual Throttle Bodies (ITBs) for the M635CSi/M6, contributing to its distinctive sound and responsiveness.
๐ง Transmission
Standard Transmission
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 280/5 or similar)
Optional Transmission
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Features
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4750 mm (187.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1730 mm (68.1 in)
Height:
Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 in)
Wheelbase
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1500-1600 kg (3300-3520 lbs)
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
No official NHTSA or Euro NCAP ratings for this specific vintage, but E24 platform known for robust construction.
Active Features
Braking System:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Suspension:
Independent front and rear suspension, often with self-leveling rear suspension.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag (often standard on later models/facelifts, but may be optional on early 1987 models - needs verification within manual).
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Optional premium Hi-Fi systems, often with separate amplifiers and component speakers. Radio/Cassette or Radio/CD player units.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on L6/M6 variants, often referred to as 'Tempomat'.
Traction Control:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, and some very late models might have had early forms of traction control, though less common for this specific model year.
Connectivity
Telephone:
Optional integrated cellular telephone system.
Onboard Computer
Features:
Onboard computer providing basic diagnostics, trip computer functions, and system checks.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions. (Specific interval may be detailed in manual).
Spark Plugs:
Approximately every 30,000 miles. (Specific type and gap will be in the manual).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-50 or 20W-50, API SG or higher (Check manual for exact BMW specification like 'BMW Special Oil'). Capacity ~5.5-6.0 liters.
Coolant:
BMW coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (50/50 mix with distilled water). Capacity ~10-12 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Check manual for exact specification). Annual flush recommended.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: BMW recommended gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-4). Automatic: ZF TE-ML 11A/B or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III). Check manual for exact spec and capacity.
Known Issues
Electrical:
Degradation of wiring insulation, faulty relays (especially for central locking, wipers), deteriorating headlight seals, fuse box corrosion, and intermittent issues with power accessories.
Engine Ancillary:
Cooling system components (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel pump reliability, and idle control valve issues.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Performance Legacy:
BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance vehicles with advanced engineering.
Model Evolution
E24 Development:
The E24 was the first 6 Series BMW, launched in 1976. The L6 and M6 variants represent the pinnacle of performance and luxury for this generation.