<aside> 👋 This is a technical bulletin for the BMW E30. Looking for the full A/C Solutions user guide? (learn more)

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Introduction

Throughout production, the OEM E30 A/C system comprised of 2 primary versions of filter drier and pressure switch configurations; however, over the years, many E30s have been repaired, modified, or altered and no longer carry their original equipment. Additionally, when R12 was banned, BMW offered a retrofit kit (link) that utilized the late model drier and safety switch combination to simplify production. Model years discussed below refer to the mfg. date found on the driver’s door (not the sale date).

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What’s in this technical bulletin?

Early model and late model configurations

There are 2 unique configurations: early model and late model. The early model version has a high-pressure cut off switch (link) (and an optional low-pressure switch) that threads into the side(s) of the drier, while the late model version has a combo (low/high-pressure) safety switch located over the schrader valve on the drier (link). The filter drier can be installed and the system can be fully functional in either of the following configurations. Below serves as a visual reference to help identify the correct version for your car.

Early model config

1. High-pressure cut off switch (green)
2. Low-pressure cut off switch (optional) 3a. High-pressure adapter (location opt.) 3b. High-pressure adapter (location opt.)

Late model config

1. Safety switch
2. High-pressure adapter

Ordering information

Which model year range should I order?

When ordering our plug-and-play A/C Solutions Complete Conversion Kit, refer to the diagrams above as well as the mfg. date found on the driver’s door (not the sale date).

• For the 325e/i,
  • Select the “< 09/87” kit if your car has this condenser return line.
  • Select the “09/87 - 08/89” kit if your car this filter drier.
  • Select the "≥ 09/89" kit if your car has this filter drier.
• For the M3,
  • Select the “< 09/87” kit if your car has this condenser return line.
  • Select the “≥ 09/87” kit if your car has this condenser return line.

Installation information

Early model → late model wiring retrofit

Modifying your existing wiring harness to support the later BMW approved filter drier and switch design is much easier than it sounds and can be done as follows:

1. Disconnect the A/C lines going in/out of the filter drier.