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3 Series E30 LS swap
A typical 3 Series E30 LS swap runs about $9,000–$13,000 in parts ($5,500 on a budget), and the big decision is where the engine sits: kit mounts set the engine where the kit's headers fit; some builders fabricate to sit it about 1.25 in further back.
Last updated
BMW · 1982–1994Kits listed by vendorsE30
Vendors make swap kits for this vehicle (see below), but we don't have a complete parts list for the whole build yet. Below are our notes for it, the parts vendors list for it, and the guides that apply to every LS swap.
Parts and steps for the 3 Series E30
Every part option we know for each stage of the swap. Open a step, start with our pick, and check all the options. Plan your exact combination →
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Before you buy
Parts we know for this vehicle: 45 options across 10 of 10 categories.
What it costs: budget build about $5,500; typical build $9,000–$13,000 (parts, not labor, prices as of 2026-10-01).
Budget: used 5.3L LM7 + Alex Volkman mounts ($275) or DIY mounts + Sanderson block huggers (used $250) + Canton 15-276 pan ($359) + used F-body drive + T56 + stock harness merge + Walbro 255 + Corvette filter/regulator + junkyard '84 Camaro radiator. Typical:
Tags: Verified on our parts list or confirmed on the maker's page for this vehicle · Listed the vendor's catalog names this vehicle · Community from owners' builds and small sellers.
Beta We're still fixing fitment as owners report it. Double-check parts before you buy. See what's new →
2Mounts, crossmember & oil panSet where the engine sits, then pick a pan that clears · 4 parts
DecideWhere the engine sits (kit mounts or custom).
CheckMeasure from the pan rail to the crossmember and to the ground before you choose an oil pan.
Mounts & swap kits
4 options · $275Why you need it: The mounts set where the engine sits, and that decides oil pan, header and driveline fit. Kit mounts set the engine where the kit's headers fit; some builders fabricate to sit it about 1.25 in further back. The Sikky kit needs an E36 steering rack to clear its headers. More: engine mounts and swap kits.
Options3 of 4
DIY / custom fabricated Custom E30 LS motor mounts (laser-cut plates)Engine positioned ~1.25 in further back than kit mounts allow; mount plates laser-cut from 1/4 in steel. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from DIY / custom fabricated
Samberg E30 LS swap mountsMocked up fine paired with CXRacing E30 headers. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from Samberg
Sikky Manufacturing E30 LS swap kit: solid CNC billet aluminum engine mounts, Sikky urethane bushings, trans cross member, trans bushing, all install hardwareKit pieces sold individually or as package; engine located without contact. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from Sikky Manufacturing
Compare 4 mount & swap kit options
| Maker / product | Part # | Price | Fits / notes | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIY / custom fabricated Custom E30 LS motor mounts (laser-cut plates) Community | — | Engine positioned ~1.25 in further back than kit mounts allow; mount plates laser-cut from 1/4 in steel. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from DIY / custom fabricated | DIY | |
| Samberg E30 LS swap mounts Community | — | Mocked up fine paired with CXRacing E30 headers. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Samberg | Small batch | |
| Sikky Manufacturing E30 LS swap kit: solid CNC billet aluminum engine mounts, Sikky urethane bushings, trans cross member, trans bushing, all install hardware Community | — | Kit pieces sold individually or as package; engine located without contact. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Sikky Manufacturing | In production | |
| Alex Volkman (small-batch builder) E30 LS swap engine mounts Community | — | $275 shipped 2026-10-01 | Well regarded by BMW LS swap owners; poly bushings sourced separately. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Alex Volkman (small-batch builder) | Small batch |
Oil pan
4 options · $359Why you need it: The pan has to clear the crossmember, the ground and, on a 4x4, the front differential. The E30 needs a shallow front-sump pan (the Canton 15-276 is 5-5/8 in deep); a GTO front-sump pan needs heavy work to clear the crossmember. More: oil pan guide.
Options3 of 4
GM OEM GTO front-sump LS pan (heavily modified)Used by garretvs in the documented E30 LS1 swap; required extensive modification to clear the cross member. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from GM OEM
Holley 302-2 / 302-5 LS swap oil pan (GM F-body footprint)302-2 · Can be used anywhere a GM F-body pan can be used; not E30-verified — confirm rack/subframe clearance before buying.
Sikky Manufacturing E30 LS swap oil pan (part of Sikky E30 kit)Kit pan with oil filter relocation kit included. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from Sikky Manufacturing
Compare 4 oil pan options
| Maker / product | Part # | Price | Fits / notes | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GM OEM GTO front-sump LS pan (heavily modified) Community | — | Used by garretvs in the documented E30 LS1 swap; required extensive modification to clear the cross member. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from GM OEM | DIY | |
| Holley 302-2 / 302-5 LS swap oil pan (GM F-body footprint) Listed | 302-2 | Can be used anywhere a GM F-body pan can be used; not E30-verified — confirm rack/subframe clearance before buying. | Buy | In production | |
| Sikky Manufacturing E30 LS swap oil pan (part of Sikky E30 kit) Community | — | Kit pan with oil filter relocation kit included. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Sikky Manufacturing | In production | |
| Canton Racing Products 15-276 GM LS1/LS6 5-5/8 in deep front sump road race/drift pan Community | 15-276 | $359 new on eBay (user-found price) 2026-10-01 | Shallow front sump designed for swap clearance; diamond trap-door baffle, 6.5 qt system, works with OEM windage tray 12558189. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Check price & fitment | In production |
Steering
3 optionsWhy you need it: The engine and headers have to clear the steering shaft and box, and some swaps need a new shaft or box to make room. The usual fix is the E36 rack (a faster ratio too) plus a flex-disc delete to clear the headers. More: steering shaft and box clearance.
Options3 options
BMW OEM E36 steering rack swap into E30Required to clear LS headers in the E30; faster ratio than the E30 rack. Sanderson headers fit stock steering but the E36 rack is the common upgrade path. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from BMW OEM
Sikky Manufacturing Steering guibo (flex disc) deleteFlex disc removal required to clear headers when using the Sikky E30 kit. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from Sikky Manufacturing
Vorshlag Motorsports (offered 2007) Custom small-diameter collapsible steering shaft with BMW metric splines (prototype offer)Offered by Terry Fair in 2007 to remove the big rag joint at the rack for header clearance; Vorshlag never made an E30 LS kit, so production status is unconfirmed. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from Vorshlag Motorsports (offered 2007)
Compare 3 steering options
| Maker / product | Part # | Price | Fits / notes | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW OEM E36 steering rack swap into E30 Community | — | Required to clear LS headers in the E30; faster ratio than the E30 rack. Sanderson headers fit stock steering but the E36 rack is the common upgrade path. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from BMW OEM | Used only | |
| Sikky Manufacturing Steering guibo (flex disc) delete Community | — | Flex disc removal required to clear headers when using the Sikky E30 kit. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Sikky Manufacturing | In production | |
| Vorshlag Motorsports (offered 2007) Custom small-diameter collapsible steering shaft with BMW metric splines (prototype offer) Community | — | Offered by Terry Fair in 2007 to remove the big rag joint at the rack for header clearance; Vorshlag never made an E30 LS kit, so production status is unconfirmed. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Vorshlag Motorsports (offered 2007) | Discontinued |
Brakes & booster
2 optionsWhy you need it: A big cam can leave too little vacuum for the booster, and some swaps leave no room for one. The stock booster hits the driver-side head, so E30 swaps go boosterless or run hydroboost off the power steering. More: vacuum booster or hydroboost?
Options2 options
DIY hydroboost Hydroboost conversion tapping the factory power steering systemSikky's alternative to the boosterless setup — hydroboost plumbed into the E30's factory power steering. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from DIY hydroboost
Sikky Manufacturing E30 boosterless brake setup (kit option)Stock brake booster contacts the driver's side head — the E30 needs a booster delete or relocation. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from Sikky Manufacturing
Compare 2 brake & booster options
| Maker / product | Part # | Price | Fits / notes | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIY hydroboost Hydroboost conversion tapping the factory power steering system Community | — | Sikky's alternative to the boosterless setup — hydroboost plumbed into the E30's factory power steering. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from DIY hydroboost | DIY | |
| Sikky Manufacturing E30 boosterless brake setup (kit option) Community | — | Stock brake booster contacts the driver's side head — the E30 needs a booster delete or relocation. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Sikky Manufacturing | In production |
More notes for step 2Apply to the whole step, not one part
Ready for the next step when you've picked where the engine sits and an oil pan that clears it.
Next: transmission & driveline →3Transmission & drivelinePick the transmission and how it shifts, then the parts behind it · 3 parts
DecideWhich transmission handles your torque and how it will be controlled, then plan the crossmember, driveshaft length and flexplate or bellhousing to match.
Transmission adapter & clutch
3 optionsWhy you need it: An LS needs its own bellhousing or adapter and the right flexplate or flywheel, and an electronic transmission needs a computer to shift it. A stock GM T56 bolts on and its shifter lands in the factory E30 hole, with minor tunnel hammering. More: transmission guide.
Options3 options
Collins Performance CD009-to-LS adapter kitGeneric LS adapter option for running a Nissan CD009; not E30-verified. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from Collins Performance
GM OEM Stock GM T56 with LS bellhousing (no adapter needed)Standard E30 LS manual trans; the factory T56 shifter lines up with the factory E30 shifter hole. Minor tunnel hammering required. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from GM OEM
PMC Motorsport LS-to-BMW ZF/Getrag adapter kitGeneric LS adapter for keeping a BMW ZF/Getrag gearbox; not E30-verified. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from PMC Motorsport
Compare 3 transmission adapter & clutch options
| Maker / product | Part # | Price | Fits / notes | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Collins Performance CD009-to-LS adapter kit Community | — | Generic LS adapter option for running a Nissan CD009; not E30-verified. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Collins Performance | In production | |
| GM OEM Stock GM T56 with LS bellhousing (no adapter needed) Community | — | Standard E30 LS manual trans; the factory T56 shifter lines up with the factory E30 shifter hole. Minor tunnel hammering required. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from GM OEM | Used only | |
| PMC Motorsport LS-to-BMW ZF/Getrag adapter kit Community | — | Generic LS adapter for keeping a BMW ZF/Getrag gearbox; not E30-verified. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from PMC Motorsport | In production |
Crossmember
2 optionsWhy you need it: The transmission mount usually moves, and the crossmember sets the driveline angle. A T56 fits the tunnel once the stock crossmember gets a center mount hole drilled and is trimmed to sit flush. More: getting driveline angles right.
Options2 options
DIY Drilled center mount hole + trimmed stock crossmemberT56 fit the E30 tunnel with room to spare after drilling a center mount hole and trimming extra material to sit flush against the floor. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from DIY
Sikky Manufacturing E30 transmission cross member + trans bushing (kit part)Included in the Sikky E30 package. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from Sikky Manufacturing
Compare 2 crossmember options
| Maker / product | Part # | Price | Fits / notes | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Drilled center mount hole + trimmed stock crossmember Community | — | T56 fit the E30 tunnel with room to spare after drilling a center mount hole and trimming extra material to sit flush against the floor. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from DIY | DIY | |
| Sikky Manufacturing E30 transmission cross member + trans bushing (kit part) Community | — | Included in the Sikky E30 package. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Sikky Manufacturing | In production |
Driveshaft
2 optionsWhy you need it: A different transmission is almost always a different length, so plan on a custom-length driveshaft. Measure in the car, since position varies with mounts; a telescoping one-piece comes out without dropping the rear subframe. More: driveshaft length and angles.
Options2 options
Local driveshaft shop Custom one-piece driveshaft (measure in car)Measure in the car — engine placement varies with mount choice. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from Local driveshaft shop
Sikky Manufacturing E30 telescoping one-piece driveshaft with diff adapter plate and bolt-on yokeTelescoping design allows removal without lowering/removing the rear subframe. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from Sikky Manufacturing
Compare 2 driveshaft options
| Maker / product | Part # | Price | Fits / notes | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local driveshaft shop Custom one-piece driveshaft (measure in car) Community | — | Measure in the car — engine placement varies with mount choice. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Local driveshaft shop | Small batch | |
| Sikky Manufacturing E30 telescoping one-piece driveshaft with diff adapter plate and bolt-on yoke Community | — | Telescoping design allows removal without lowering/removing the rear subframe. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Sikky Manufacturing | In production |
More notes for step 3Apply to the whole step, not one part
Ready for the next step when you've picked the transmission and how it's controlled, and know the crossmember, driveshaft and flexplate or bellhousing it needs.
Next: accessories & cooling →4Accessories & coolingOne accessory spacing, then cooling and A/C · 3 parts
DecideOne accessory drive spacing, and match the balancer, water pump and brackets to it.
BuyA/C Solutions BMW E30 Complete Conversion Kit: Sanden SD5H14 (508) compressor, Sanden bracket, CSF parallel-flow condenser + SPAL 13 in fan, R134a expansion valve, R134a linesCheck price & fitmentA/C · alternatives in 4C
CheckCheck fan, hose and hood clearance.
Accessory drive
4 optionsWhy you need it: The balancer, water pump, brackets and pulleys must all be one spacing, or the belt won't line up. The 1998-02 F-body drive is common, but it needs an LS2/LS7 water pump on spacers to clear the radiator. More: accessory drive guide.
Options3 of 4
GM OEM 1998–02 F-body accessory driveCommon E30 LS front drive; needs thin spacers behind the pump to align the belt. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from GM OEM
GM OEM LS2/LS7 water pump with flat pulley + 1/2 in spacersRequired for radiator clearance in the E30 bay — standard F-body pump is too long. 5/16 in spacers may align better than 1/2 in. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from GM OEM
GM OEM CTS-V belt tensioner with washersUsed with washers behind it to bring it in line with the F-body belt run. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from GM OEM
Compare 4 accessory drive options
| Maker / product | Part # | Price | Fits / notes | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GM OEM 1998–02 F-body accessory drive Community | — | Common E30 LS front drive; needs thin spacers behind the pump to align the belt. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from GM OEM | Used only | |
| GM OEM LS2/LS7 water pump with flat pulley + 1/2 in spacers Community | — | Required for radiator clearance in the E30 bay — standard F-body pump is too long. 5/16 in spacers may align better than 1/2 in. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from GM OEM | In production | |
| GM OEM CTS-V belt tensioner with washers Community | — | Used with washers behind it to bring it in line with the F-body belt run. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from GM OEM | In production | |
| ICT Billet LS accessory brackets (various spacings) Community | — | Generic LS bracket option; pick spacing to match the rest of the drive. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from ICT Billet | In production |
Cooling
3 optionsWhy you need it: LS water pumps put both hoses on the passenger side and the engine needs a steam line, so the radiator needs LS-style ports or an adapter. An E36 radiator is too thick; one build fit a 1984 Camaro core with a 16 in fan 3/8 in from the pump. More: radiator, fans and steam line.
Options3 options
BMW OEM (E36) Stock E36 radiator (cautionary)Doesn't fit: Too thick for E30 LS clearance — water pump neck and power steering pulley sit right against it. Thinner radiator required. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from BMW OEM (E36)
GM OEM / junkyard 1984 Camaro radiator (22x17 core)Used in a documented E30 LS swap with 1.4 in thick core; outlet repositioned to the very bottom of the RH end cap; close-fitting swivel waterneck ~3/4 in aft of radiator. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from GM OEM / junkyard
SPAL 16 in puller fanFit behind the '84 Camaro radiator in an E30 LS swap with 3/8 in clearance to the water pump — tight but workable. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from SPAL
Compare 3 cooling options
| Maker / product | Part # | Price | Fits / notes | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW OEM (E36) Stock E36 radiator (cautionary) Community | — | Doesn't fit: Too thick for E30 LS clearance — water pump neck and power steering pulley sit right against it. Thinner radiator required. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from BMW OEM (E36) | Used only | |
| GM OEM / junkyard 1984 Camaro radiator (22x17 core) Community | — | Used in a documented E30 LS swap with 1.4 in thick core; outlet repositioned to the very bottom of the RH end cap; close-fitting swivel waterneck ~3/4 in aft of radiator. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from GM OEM / junkyard | Used only | |
| SPAL 16 in puller fan Community | — | Fit behind the '84 Camaro radiator in an E30 LS swap with 3/8 in clearance to the water pump — tight but workable. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from SPAL | In production |
A/C
3 optionsWhy you need it: Where the compressor mounts (high or low) can decide frame, fender and header clearance, so pick it before you buy brackets. R12 E30s need a full R134a refresh, and a parallel-flow condenser is what keeps the air cold in hot climates. More: accessory drive guide.
Our pick and alternatives3 options
Our pickA/C Solutions BMW E30 Complete Conversion Kit: Sanden SD5H14 (508) compressor, Sanden bracket, CSF parallel-flow condenser + SPAL 13 in fan, R134a expansion valve, R134a linesSanden 508 + block-hugger bracket on F-body drive + Vintage Air condenser + Eaton EZ-Clip lines; A/C Solutions E30 chassis kit for the R134a conversion
DIY custom Custom Sanden compressor bracket + parallel-flow condenser + barrier hosesE30 R12 systems need a full R134a refresh — condenser, drier, expansion valve, barrier hoses; parallel-flow condenser is the key to cold air in hot climates. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from DIY custom
Vintage Air Sanden 508 compressor + block-hugger bracket for F-body accessory driveLS-side setup proven on BMW LS swaps: Sanden 508 on a block-hugger bracket with Eaton EZ-Clip custom lines and a Vintage Air 14x20 condenser. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from Vintage Air
Compare 3 A/C options
| Maker / product | Part # | Price | Fits / notes | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A/C Solutions BMW E30 Complete Conversion Kit: Sanden SD5H14 (508) compressor, Sanden bracket, CSF parallel-flow condenser + SPAL 13 in fan, R134a expansion valve, R134a lines Listed Our pick | — | Chassis-side E30 R134a kit — pair with an LS-side Sanden 508 + block-hugger bracket on the F-body drive; replace all rubber lines when converting from R12. | Check price & fitment | In production | |
| DIY custom Custom Sanden compressor bracket + parallel-flow condenser + barrier hoses Community | — | E30 R12 systems need a full R134a refresh — condenser, drier, expansion valve, barrier hoses; parallel-flow condenser is the key to cold air in hot climates. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from DIY custom | DIY | |
| Vintage Air Sanden 508 compressor + block-hugger bracket for F-body accessory drive Community | — | LS-side setup proven on BMW LS swaps: Sanden 508 on a block-hugger bracket with Eaton EZ-Clip custom lines and a Vintage Air 14x20 condenser. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Vintage Air | In production |
More notes for step 4Apply to the whole step, not one part
More: Accessory drive guide · Cooling guide
Ready for the next step when you've picked one accessory spacing, with the balancer, water pump and brackets to match.
Next: exhaust →5ExhaustHeaders or manifolds that clear where the engine sits · 1 part
DecideHeaders or manifolds that clear the steering, frame and starter where your mounts put the engine.
Headers & exhaust
5 options · $250Why you need it: Headers are shaped around one chassis's frame, steering and floor, so they have to be made for your vehicle and engine position. Tight block huggers or kit headers clear the stock steering; the collectors have to exit almost straight down at the firewall. More: headers and exhaust by chassis.
Options3 of 5
CX Racing E30 LS swap headersBudget option; quality looks OK for the money per user mock-up. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from CX Racing
DIY / eBay shorties Modified eBay LS1 S10 shorty headersModified set cleared the E30 steering shaft; exhaust collectors need near-vertical exit at the firewall to fit the E30. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from DIY / eBay shorties
GM OEM 1997–2000 C5 Corvette manifolds (modified)Experimental route — user testing modified C5 manifolds for better flow than Sanderson block huggers; outcome not confirmed. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from GM OEM
Compare 5 header & exhaust options
| Maker / product | Part # | Price | Fits / notes | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CX Racing E30 LS swap headers Community | — | Budget option; quality looks OK for the money per user mock-up. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from CX Racing | In production | |
| DIY / eBay shorties Modified eBay LS1 S10 shorty headers Community | — | Modified set cleared the E30 steering shaft; exhaust collectors need near-vertical exit at the firewall to fit the E30. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from DIY / eBay shorties | DIY | |
| GM OEM 1997–2000 C5 Corvette manifolds (modified) Community | — | Experimental route — user testing modified C5 manifolds for better flow than Sanderson block huggers; outcome not confirmed. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from GM OEM | DIY | |
| Sikky Manufacturing E30 LS swap headers (ceramic coating optional) Community | — | Sold as part of the Sikky E30 package; no complaints reported by users. | Direct from Sikky Manufacturing | In production | |
| Sanderson Headers LS-150 (RH) + CC1-LS1 (LH) block hugger headers Community | LS-150 / CC1-LS1 | $250 plus shipping (used set, for-sale listing) 2026-10-01 | Mixed pair used by garretvs in the documented E30 LS1 swap; tight block huggers needed for the small E30 bay; fits with stock steering. | Direct from Sanderson Headers | Used only |
More notes for step 5Apply to the whole step, not one part
More: Headers & exhaust guide
Ready for the next step when you've picked headers or manifolds that clear where your mounts put the engine.
Next: fuel system →6Fuel systemPump, lines and pressure for the LS · 1 part
DecideReturn or returnless, and a pump and injectors sized for your power and fuel (gas or E85).
Fuel system
3 optionsWhy you need it: An LS runs about 58 psi of fuel pressure; a carbureted system runs 5–7 psi. The E30's return-style lines convert to returnless with a GM filter/regulator at 58 psi. More: fuel system & E85 guide.
Options3 options
Aftermarket Returnless-system conversion fuel pressure regulatorAlternative to the GM filter/regulator for converting the E30 to returnless LS fuel supply. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from Aftermarket
GM OEM GM fuel filter with built-in fuel pressure regulatorSimplest returnless conversion for the E30's return-style chassis lines. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Direct from GM OEM
Walbro 255 lph in-tank fuel pump + C5 Corvette filter/regulator (58 psi)GSS340 / 10299146 · Proven returnless LS-swap combo (58 psi, single feed line to rail); Corvette regulator maxes at ~255 LPH pump flow. Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
Compare 3 fuel system options
| Maker / product | Part # | Price | Fits / notes | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aftermarket Returnless-system conversion fuel pressure regulator Community | — | Alternative to the GM filter/regulator for converting the E30 to returnless LS fuel supply. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Aftermarket | In production | |
| GM OEM GM fuel filter with built-in fuel pressure regulator Community | — | Simplest returnless conversion for the E30's return-style chassis lines. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from GM OEM | In production | |
| Walbro 255 lph in-tank fuel pump + C5 Corvette filter/regulator (58 psi) Listed | GSS340 / 10299146 | Proven returnless LS-swap combo (58 psi, single feed line to rail); Corvette regulator maxes at ~255 LPH pump flow. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Buy | In production |
More notes for step 6Apply to the whole step, not one part
More: Fuel & E85 guide
Ready for the next step when you've decided return or returnless, and sized the pump and injectors for your power and fuel.
Next: wiring, computer & tune →7Wiring, computer & tuneHarness, computer and tune matched to the engine · 1 part
DecideA harness and computer that match your engine's crank signal (24x or 58x) and throttle (cable or drive-by-wire), and plan the tune, including VATS.
Harness & computer
7 options · $999–$1,279Why you need it: The computer and harness have to match the engine's crank signal (24x or 58x) and throttle (cable or drive-by-wire), and the tune has to turn VATS off. A GM PCM ties into about 9 BMW chassis wires; some plug-and-play harnesses only work with the 1998 F-body computer. More: 24x vs 58x, and which harness.
Options3 of 7
Wiring Specialties BMW E30 LS2 / LS3 Swap Wiring Harness Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
$999Direct from Wiring Specialties
Wiring Specialties BMW E30 LS3 Swap Wiring Harness Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
$999Direct from Wiring Specialties
Wiring Specialties BMW E30 LS3 Swap Wiring Harness for Haltech Elite 2500 Unconfirmed Confirm this
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why.
$1,279Direct from Wiring Specialties
Compare 7 harness & computer options
| Maker / product | Part # | Price | Fits / notes | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wiring Specialties BMW E30 LS2 / LS3 Swap Wiring Harness Listed | — | $999 2026-09-29 | Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Wiring Specialties | |
| Wiring Specialties BMW E30 LS3 Swap Wiring Harness Listed | — | $999 2026-09-29 | Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Wiring Specialties | |
| Wiring Specialties BMW E30 LS3 Swap Wiring Harness for Haltech Elite 2500 Listed | — | $1,279 2026-09-29 | Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Wiring Specialties | |
| Wiring Specialties BMW E30 LS3 Swap Wiring Harness for LINK Extreme ECU Listed | — | $1,279 2026-09-29 | Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Wiring Specialties | |
| DIY / stock harness merge Stock GM LS harness integrated into BMW chassis harness Community | — | GM PCM powers the swap (needs VATS removed via programming); ~9 BMW chassis wires tapped. Some PnP aftermarket harnesses only work with the 1998 F-body ECM — verify PCM compatibility. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from DIY / stock harness merge | DIY | |
| Speartech Fuel Injection Systems Custom LS1 swap harness built to customer-specified length, PCM configured (VATS deleted) Community | — | Harness made with or without specified features; clearly labeled; ties into a few BMW chassis wires. Strongly recommended by multiple E30 swappers. Unconfirmed Confirm this We have not confirmed this part on this vehicle yet. If you installed it, tell us what you used and why. | Direct from Speartech Fuel Injection Systems | In production | |
| Wiring Specialties BMW LS swap plug-and-play wiring harness (E30 listed) Listed | — | E30 – 3 Series is listed in their BMW LS swap harness lineup. | Direct from Wiring Specialties | In production |
New Already have a tune in it? Send us the file for a free Tune Report: what to fix first, in plain English, within 1 business day. See what you get →
More notes for step 7Apply to the whole step, not one part
More: ECU comparison · Tuning
That's the last step. Put your picks together in the planner.
Plan your exact combination →E30 swap notes
- Sikky's E30 LSx Stage 1 package includes mounts, transmission mount, oil pan, and driveshaft; Stage 3 adds power-steering lines, headers, and a wiring harness.
- The Sikky E30 LSx mount kit needs aftermarket eyeball arms or control-arm bushings and an E36 steering rack, and the factory brake booster and master cylinder come out.
- The Sikky E30 LSx front-sump pan holds 6.8 quarts, has a 1/2-inch 6061 billet flange and back plate, 1/2-inch NPT turbo drains and a 1/8-inch NPT temperature bung, and comes with the Sikky pickup tube. It doesn't hang below the front subframe; keep at least 3/8 inch between the pickup and the pan floor.
- Sikky requires an E36 steering rack on E30 LS swaps to clear the headers; an owner build alternatively reported using an E46 rack with E36 tie rods on an E30.
- Garagistic's E30 V8 tach guidance (written for the M60, not LS-specific) describes using the white 4-cylinder coding plug from an M42 E30 cluster, BMW part 65 81 1 394 111, plus Garagistic's inline signal-halving module on the tach signal; applicability to LS swaps is not established by that page.
Every LS swap also needs
An oil pan that clears
Compare GM LS pans by sump position and depth.
Accessory drive spacing
F-body, car, truck and Corvette offsets.
Fuel system sizing
Injector and pump sizing for your power goal.
A harness, computer and tune
VATS delete, 24x vs 58x, drive-by-wire, harness makers.
A transmission
4L60E to 8HP70 behind an LS.