Product Description
BMW S65 Race Series Engine Build - ZNM Performance
ZNM Performance Race Series Engine Build Program
Introducing our BMW S65 engine program—built for enthusiasts who demand motorsport-grade precision, improved durability, and reliable power from the legendary high-revving 4.0L V8. This page applies to all S65-equipped models, including the E90/E92/E93 M3.
The BMW S65 is a naturally aspirated 4.0L V8 with individual throttle bodies, an 8,400 RPM redline, and race-bred valvetrain architecture. However, known rod bearing clearance issues, throttle actuator failures, and aging VANOS gears make these engines ideal candidates for a full race-spec rebuild.
That’s where our S65 engine build program comes in. Every engine is fully disassembled, cleaned, and inspected. We install forged internals, apply precision headwork, and offer custom upgrades like stroker cranks or high-lift cam packages for competition builds. Whether you're chasing a high-revving street setup or building a naturally aspirated track weapon, our Race Series S65s deliver confidence at 8,600+ RPM.
Our facility in Pompton Lakes, NJ builds engines for customers across the U.S. and internationally. All engines are fully disassembled, measured, and assembled in-house with final clearances precisely set by our team. Please inquire about international shipping options.
Key Features and Options for Our Built S65 Engines
- Forged pistons and custom lightweight connecting rods designed for high-rev endurance
- Optional billet stroker crankshafts to increase displacement and broaden the powerband
- Blueprinted rotating assembly balanced to motorsport tolerances
- Rod bearing clearances adjusted to mitigate factory design flaws
- Built to withstand 8500 RPM+ with proper tuning and oiling upgrades
Cylinder Head Upgrades for Your S65
- Multi-angle valve job with flow-matched CNC porting available
- Upgraded dual valve springs and titanium retainers for extended high RPM durability
- VANOS gear servicing and cam upgrades available
Bearing Upgrades for Your S65
- ACL, BE and King race bearings selected specifically for S65 oil flow characteristics
- Crank journals inspected, polished, and measured with micrometer and bore gauge
- Oil clearances tailored for viscosity, duty cycle, and redline target
- Ideal for both spirited daily drivers and high-RPM circuit builds
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the stock S65 engine reliable above 8,000 RPM long-term?
A: The stock S65 suffers from rod bearing wear, main bearing failure, VANOS gear failures, and actuator issues over time. Our builds address these weak points using motorsport-grade parts and machining to safely run at or beyond 8600 RPM.
Q: Can I build an S65 for forced induction?
A: While the S65 was designed as a high-revving NA engine, we do offer custom low-compression forged piston sets and valvetrain upgrades for customers running centrifugal superchargers. Contact us for FI-specific builds.
Q: Do you offer dry sump systems?
A: Yes, for competition use. We can supply and install multi-stage dry sump systems to prevent oil starvation under high G-loads, essential for track-prepped S65 builds.
Q: What head studs do you use?
A: We offer ARP 2000 and ARP 625+ head stud kits for the S65 depending on power targets and RPM goals.
Q: How do you set bearing clearances?
A: We manually mic every crank journal and housing bore and use precision-calibrated tools to set clearances matched to oil viscosity, engine use case, and bearing composition—no shortcuts taken.
