I just got the conversion done. For those who wonder if it can be done. Yes Here are some pics.
I do have one question though. The pedal feel is softer. I bleed the heck out of them. Is this because of the larger piston ?
Jason

Calipers

Before

330 brakes on what 325 - E36 or E46?

Did you do front and back?

Did you use all BMW Parts (or an aftermarket caliper)?

Come on man....we need details!

After. Much better and I didn't need to change the spindle :clap:

Yea sorry E-46 330 front brakes on a e-36 325i.
I got the calipers, carriers and rotors.
It bolts right on. Even my brake lines.
e-36 M3 brakes will go on the back.
Pics to follow.

So the back e-36 M3 brakes will fit.

So you are replacing the control arm too! That should work. Also looks like you are replacing the 1/2 shafts...do you need to, or are you doing a "while your in there"?

Yes the half shaft splines are larger. Thus the rear hub bearings are larger. You will also need this piece to go on the inside of the half shaft into the diff.
Jason

To answer the soft pedal question (twice :stickoutt posted the same thing on the other thread)

Calipers:

Larger caliper piston area results in...
* more pedal travel
* a softer pedal
* more hydraulic advantage

Smaller caliper piston area results in...
* less pedal travel
* a firmer pedal
* less hydraulic advantage

FYI: Master Cylinder

A larger diameter MC results in...

less pedal travel

a higher effort pedal

less hydraulic advantage

Works well on vehicles that have high fluid volume requirements since you can get plenty of flow with reasonable pedal travel. Large bore master cylinders tend to give less “feedback” and a somewhat isolated feel.



A smaller MC results in...

more pedal travel

a lower effort pedal

more hydraulic advantage

Works well in lighter vehicles where fluid volume requirements is low and excessive pedal travel is not a concern. Small bore master cylinders tend to give better “feedback” and less isolation from the system.


Usually a larger caliper goes with a larger master cylinder. I have no idea if the MC's are different on the 330 and 325 You can also change the pedal feel by "tuning" the brake booster (this is something that can not be done DIY).

Thanks for the info ! I also have a write up for e-36 M3 rear brakes on a 325 on this same forum.

So the 330 bits bolt up with no mods at all? Thats great. Looks like the rears are gonna be a whole lot of work in comparison. I'm thinking e46 328 rears might be an easier alternative to complement 330 fronts. I'd be interested in any and all info you have on both the front and rear conversions. Be sure to let us know how the rear goes when you're done.

KC,

That's the route I want to take with my brake upgrades.

I found out today that the rear brake calipers from the E46 323/328 (and likely the 325) are identical, so that gives you a wider range of cars to pick parts from.

(Message edited to remove references to carriers. I am verifying their interchangeability.)