E43?
 

Yeah, I know it is not a legit model, but I am thinking of perhaps making one. :cool:

Here is my dilemna.

I currently have a 1998 E430. It has had the E55 suspension installed. Looks great a bit lower and the ride is excellent (stiffer than stock obviously).

My engine is using oil - see this thread. I have already spent too much diagnosing the engine and I am pretty sure the rings are shot from the car going too long on FSS oil change intervals using conventional oil (as per the MB dealer at the time).

So...I will probably buy a good used engine and swap it out. Which got me thinking, why not buy a used M113.944 engine, the AMG tuned version of the 4.3L M113 that was used in the C43? It ups the hp from 275 to 302 and torque goes up from 295 to 305 or so. The nice thing about this engine is that AMG only basically changed the cams, modified the intake, etc. No supercharger. So it should drop right it with minimal modifications, perhaps none at all.

Does anyone have any experience with this? I have been advised that the ECU will require a memory flash, how about the tranny? I'm guessing it should be ok with stock shift points since the engine upgrade isn't that major in terms of increased output? Any other problems I should try and foresee?

So...I've already got the suspension, if I add the AMG M113 engine can I officially rebadge my car an E43? :D ;)

If you are going to swap an engine then why not a 5.0 or 5.4 liter engine?
The AMG 4.3 in a heavier E class will not give you the performance you expect !

I was assuming the 5.0 would require far more modifications and additions? Like alternator/exhaust/electronics/wiring harness, etc? I don't need tons more performance, the stock E430 engine is really enough for me. I just thought, if I am going to buy another M113 why not get the AMG version?

How do you like your C43?

No, you can fit a w210 E55 motor (same m113, just different displacement and different flash on the ECU) just as easily as you could the C43's motor. Or better yet, get an e55....they are having a hard time even selling above 20k at this point

Didn't know that...hmm... :D

I don't want to simply ditch the car I have, the chassis is in excellent condition and I can't sell it as is (with the oil issue). So I will probably swap an engine in, rather than buy another car. E55s are more rare up here and command more of a premium.

Now you guys have me thinking about an E55 engine...

slam a5.0 113 in it and call it a day. it drops right in everything bolts up. get the m.e. flashed by renntech or some one and call it a day. the 5.0 also has 300 hp but has about 350ft/lb torque and thats what will put a smile on your face. the amg engine is going to have a higher peak torque and will cost more plus it will be harder to find. cost per smile will be much better with the 5.0

Call SilverStar here in Sacramento....



If you find a motor at a good price, I can help you out, arranging for shipping and picking it up...