LS3 swap into E53 X5
 

Hey guys, I have the opportunity to work with a small group of detail minded and mechanically knowledgeable men who see a lot of benefit in simplifying the E53 X5 electronically while upgrading the horsepower with a proven engine. Once we accomplish this task, we're planning on marketing the complete kit with full instructions on how to replicate it. Within this community, how much interest do you think there would be.
Let me know your thoughts.

Thanks

Interest as in others doing the swap? Probably not much. There was one member who asked about doing this earlier in the year. I think it would be cool though, just don't expect to get rich off this.

BCRedliner and I have discussed this at several Cars & Coffee Dallas meets.

If I recall, he's interested in leaving the 4.6is Dinan "as is", a donor blown trans and/or motor X would be an ideal starting point.

I love my 4.6is I would not think of putting an LS3 into my X5. I guess if it was a project vehicle like taking a blown 3.0L and retrofitting it I could see. Unfortunately none of the LSX swaps that I have seen have increased the value of these BMWs. It has to be a really special person that would have interest in it. What I love about the BMWs is that they actually engineered efficiency into their products. The LS3 while it makes great power its archaic in engineering. Its not a world class motor.

I would be interested in this, but on a 845i. Reduce weight, simplify electronics, add HP and Torque, all in a nice shaped car that won't appreciate (that is the territory of the 850csi). I can't really see the value in the X5.

Come up with a supercharger kit that works, fits and costs less than VF or ESS and I'd buy one if you offered tuning support after the sale.

there is a video on youtube of an x5 with an ls swap

Me personally, unless the engine totally blew up and the truck had no major issues, I'd just buy a new bmw motor. If speed is needed, there are solutions for that on the existing platform. I'm not saying it wouldn't be cool but so would a jet turbine drive or an all electric d/c & a/c motor. Just my opinion mind you.

My '02 VetteVert has the old school LS1 engine, but it is a remarkable motor and it hauls azz...not one lick of problems, glitches or fixes on the engine in 57,000 miles/13 years.

No dis to the OP, but for that kind of dough and work involved on a LS3 crate motor 'swap', one could buy a lot of other stuff, including a motorcycle or two that will walk the brick/tank like X5, and have enough for a nice vacay.

Or, tuck that kind of dough away and have 'maintenance and repairs & restoration' covered until one's kids get your historic E53 in 2022, and several Fam vacations along the way. ;)
GL, mD

Bunch of fuddy duddies. There are always reasons to not do an engine swap. I say do it just for the experience.