🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 5 Series Model Variant: 518, 518i Production Years Covered: 1990, 1991 Codes Chassis Code: E34 Engine Code 518: M20B20 (typically) Engine Code 518I: M20B20 (typically, with fuel injection) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Executive Sedan, Luxury Mid-size Sedan. Target Audience: Discerning drivers seeking performance, comfort, and build quality characteristic of BMW. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100/200 (C3/C4), Jaguar XJ, Volvo 700 Series. Key Features Design Philosophy: Elegant styling, driver-focused cockpit, robust engineering, balanced handling. Powertrain Emphasis: Emphasis on smooth power delivery and efficient performance from the inline-six engine. Handling Dynamics: Renowned BMW handling characteristics, providing a connected driving experience. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Repair, maintenance, diagnostics, and troubleshooting for BMW 518 and 518i (E34) models from 1990-1991. Geographic Coverage: Primarily North American and European specifications, with general applicability worldwide. Page Count Total Pages: 227 Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanicals, fuel system (carburetor/injection), ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system. Drivetrain: Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles. Suspension Steering: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering rack, power steering system. Brakes: Hydraulic brake system, front and rear brakes (disc/drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) if equipped, brake fluid specifications. Electrical: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, central locking, wiring diagrams. Body Chassis: Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis components, body sealing, corrosion protection. Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake inspections, drive belt checks. Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for major component removal, installation, and overhaul (e.g., engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension repair). Troubleshooting: Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault diagnosis for electrical and mechanical issues. Adjustments: Valve adjustments, idle speed adjustments, brake adjustments, steering alignment procedures. Technical Depth Diagnostic Capabilities: Detailed diagnostic procedures, including checks for engine codes, sensor readings, and system operation. Repair Specificity: Precise specifications for torque values, clearances, and assembly sequences for all major repair tasks. Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for various systems, aiding in electrical diagnostics and repairs. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format PDF Quality: High-resolution, text-searchable PDF for easy navigation and printing. Printable: Yes, all pages are printable. Binding Type Binding: Digital (PDF) - No physical binding. Paper Type Paper Type: Not applicable (Digital PDF). ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, 4-stroke gasoline Displacement Liters 518: 2.0 L Displacement Liters 518I: 2.0 L Bore Stroke Mm M20B20: 80.0 mm x 66.0 mm Compression Ratio M20B20: 8.8:1 (typical) Performance Horsepower 518: Approx. 115 hp @ 5800 rpm (carbureted) Horsepower 518I: Approx. 125 hp @ 5800 rpm (fuel injected) Torque Nm 518: Approx. 164 Nm @ 4500 rpm (carbureted) Torque Nm 518I: Approx. 174 Nm @ 4500 rpm (fuel injected) Fuel System Fuel Delivery 518: Carburetor (e.g., Solex 32/36 DGVE or Zenith 35/40 INAT) Fuel Delivery 518I: Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (RON 91/95 recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5 or similar) or 5-speed Manual Optional Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 or similar) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch Transmission Fluid Type: Dexron III (Automatic), Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) API GL-4 (Manual) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length Mm: 4730 Width Mm: 1750 Height Mm: 1410 Wheelbase Mm: 2790 Weights Curb Weight Kg Approx: 1400 - 1500 (depending on transmission and equipment) Gross Vehicle Weight Kg Approx: 1900 Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5x120 Wheel Offset Mm: ET20 to ET25 (typical) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Data: Limited specific ratings for these early E34 models, but known for robust body structure and safety cage design typical of BMW. Active Features ABS: Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models. Passive Features Airbags: Driver's airbag became more common during the E34 production run, but may not be standard on all 1990-1991 518/518i variants. Seatbelts: Front and rear seat belts, often with pre-tensioners for front occupants. Body Structure: Reinforced safety cell, energy-absorbing crumple zones front and rear. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio and cassette player. Optional CD changer in trunk. Climate Control: Manual air conditioning with manual temperature and fan speed control. Optional automatic climate control (ECC) on some higher trims. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional cruise control system. Parking Sensors: Not typically available on these early models. Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited to factory-installed radio and telephone provisions (if optioned). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval Km: 10,000 - 15,000 km (or as per Condition Based Service, if equipped) Air Filter Replacement Km: 30,000 - 50,000 km Spark Plug Replacement Km: 40,000 - 60,000 km (depending on plug type) Coolant Flush Interval...