FORUMS
1
2
3
M3
M4
5
M5
6
M6
Z4
X1
X3
X5
X6
7
Facebook Twitter

  E90Post
  


GetBMWParts 		 

  BMW Garage BMW Meets Register Search Today's Posts Mark Forums Read
BMW 3-Series (E90 E92) Forum > E90 / E92 / E93 3-series Technical Forums > DIY Guides > DIY E90 N54 Valve Cover Gasket



Comment
Page 1 of 2 1 2 >
 
Tutorial Tools Search this Tutorial
DIY E90 N54 Valve Cover Gasket
by Robc
Published by robc1976
11-28-2012
DIY E90 N54 Valve Cover Gasket
Seems this DIY has never been done but it needs to be. It's really not that hard and the dealer charges $1000+ to do this. Ridiculous.

Disclaimer: I am not responsible for any damage done to your car following this tutorial. Worked perfectly for mine so it should for yours as well.

**Before you begin - DISCONNECT BATTERY! You'll be messing with electricity and fuel - not fun!**

Some have stated the 26 bolts need to be replace, some say it is not necessary. BMW stated it is not a common practice, only if a problem is noticed and 99% of the time it is not needed.

Here are the part#'s (thanks to user "joe-" for part#'s):

7544369 bolts x 26
11127565286 gasket
11127548063 bolts x 3
11127556977 bolts x 2

Torque specs: 7-7.4 lbs

Pic of new Valve Cover Gasket:



Remove passenger Side Cross Bar:





Remove Coils:



Remove O2 Sensors:



Remove clips on Fuel Rail to get access to bolts:



...and remove bolts:



...and remove Fuel Line Fitting (HIGHLY suggest doing this with a cool motor to avoid pressure release issues):



...and take Sensor off end of Fuel Rail:



Remove vaccum lines off of Booster Line:



Remove the six (6) connectors on Fuel Injectors, three (3) nuts & wires on Ground Posts with wires, lastly remove three (3) Ground Posts:



You do NOT need an extra long socket to get Ground Posts out - simply put socket on Ground Post and then socket/rachet halfway in socket hole:



Pry open tab CAREFULLY to get connectors off Fuel Injectors:



Remove fittings on all six (6) Fuel Injectors and remove entire Fuel Rail:





Remove Wire Holder connected to valve cover (by this point all wires, connectors, etc should be disconnected) - Note the blue-headed that BMW says need to be replaced. I disagree



Remove Positive Battery Terminal:



Valve Cover should be able to come off now. Use a putty knife and seperate Valve Cover from Head - do NOT force it or you could crack it. Also, don't gouge the head with any tool you use. I was able to get it loose by just lossening one side:



Cool pics of motor with Valve Cover off - look at that sexy motor LOL:





Get all Gasket material off of Valve Cover and Motor, being careful not to let anything fall into Motor. As you can see below, there's no way this old Valve Cover Gasket was sealing! Had a talk with Rob Beck today regarding
this and the gasket not sealing can cause a lot more issues than one might think. The head breathes into the Valve Cover. If the gasket is leaking, it pressurizes your crank case and can cause issues with Turbos, etc. I'll let Rob chime in and elaborate on this.





Clean surface on Motor of all Gasket material - Very important! If you leave it dirty, you will be sorry:



This picture illustrates where the Head breathes into the Valve Cover - have to give Rob Beck credit for this, I had no idea! LOL:



Clean out debris here (I found a bunch of burnt June Bugs in mine! LOL):



New Valve Cover Gasket installed - just push it on:



Insert Spark Plug Guides into Valve Cover before installing it on motor:



Installing Tips:

Really couldn't get pics of this. It's easiest with another pair of hands. Move everything out of the way, the ECU wires go behind Valve Cover easily. Take care not to scrape the Gasket so it falls out. It's really not that
difficult - took my wife and I about two minutes to install.
When putting in bolts, torque down to only 7lbs of torque. Anymore and you will strip the head. Do a bolt pattern - front to back, etc. There's a larger bolt that goes in the right front corner and one that goes in the left
rear corner (as you're looking at the car):



TIP: When installing the Fuel Rail, install the bolts first - before you start any fittings otherwise you may strip a bolt hole in the head, like I did (I retapped them easily but much easier if you just don't strip them LOL).




I'd like to send out BIG thanks to Rob Beck for his tips on this job. I appreciate it, man!

Robc
__________________
JB4 G5 ISO+BMS flash,Walbro 455 LPFP, DO meth kit 4-AN SS lines, BMS OCC, RB turbos W/3.5 N20 sensor, RB valve, BMS DCI, 3" AR kittyless Dps, Strett 2 oil OC W/ SS lines, ER FMIC, ER CP W/HKS BOV, M3 control arms, M3 Strut Brace, M3 front sway-bar, Meyle HD tie-rods, HPA rear toe arms, Wavetrac LSD, DEFIV differential kit, BC Coil-overs, Power-Flex subframe bushings, stoptech slotted rotors, Rogue Tranny Mounts, Concept 1 CS-5.0 rims,
Tutorial Tools
Show Printable Version Show Printable Version
Email this Page Email this Page
  #1  
By eloo on 11-28-2012, 01:41 AM
Excellent write up Robc! How many miles did you get out of the last one?
Reply With Quote
  #2  
By robc1976 on 11-28-2012, 01:45 AM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
60%60%60%
3
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
80%80%80%
4
Average 53%
Quote:
Originally Posted by eli_335i View Post
Excellent write up Robc! How many miles did you get out of the last one?
around 97,000...way to long though...that gasket has been bad way before that. It was like candy (brittle).
Reply With Quote
  #3  
By eloo on 11-28-2012, 01:55 AM
That straight six is basically pornographic material Thanks for the level of details. I'm at 56K and no signs of leak yet, but you made it look easy!
Reply With Quote
  #4  
By robc1976 on 11-28-2012, 02:27 AM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
60%60%60%
3
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
80%80%80%
4
Average 53%
Quote:
Originally Posted by eloo View Post
That straight six is basically pornographic material Thanks for the level of details. I'm at 56K and no signs of leak yet, but you made it look easy!
It is actually not that bad of a job, not messy...$36.00 for a gasket. Worst part was cleaning the heads gasket surface.
Reply With Quote
  #5  
By robc1976 on 11-28-2012, 08:27 AM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
60%60%60%
3
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
80%80%80%
4
Average 53%
If someone is doing the tutorial or just know this answer it would be greatly appreciated!

I forgot wich line goes where (dont think it matters), does the top line on the booster goe to Vaccum canister #1 or #2? I am pretty sure top goes to cannister #1 but would like confirmation.
Reply With Quote
  #6  
By robc1976 on 11-28-2012, 08:57 AM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
60%60%60%
3
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
80%80%80%
4
Average 53%
Bolt pattern for tightening I used, I snugged them all then went back and torqued to spec
Reply With Quote
  #7  
By Joe- on 11-29-2012, 02:34 AM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
20%20%20%
1
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
20%20%20%
1
Average 20%
You didn't replace the screws? BMW recommends replacement of the screws, claims you will be replacing the gasket again later on with the screws because the screws will loosen and cause leak. What was Rob Becks Recommendation on this?
Reply With Quote
  #8  
By robc1976 on 11-29-2012, 03:09 AM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
60%60%60%
3
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
80%80%80%
4
Average 53%
Quote:
Originally Posted by Joe- View Post
You didn't replace the screws? BMW recommends replacement of the screws, claims you will be replacing the gasket again later on with the screws because the screws will loosen and cause leak. What was Rob Becks Recommendation on this?
Don't see that happening, unless you damage them. BMW master teck said the same. Said he only replaces screws if they are damaged. You have to figure, these are but in with only 7-7.5 lbs of torque...only way they can really come loose is if the threads are damaged. My dealer didn't even carry them, they are included with a new valve cover and so is the gasket.

None of my bolts where painted "blue" wich indicated a replacement bolt except the ones holding the wire holder oddly enough.
Last edited by robc1976; 11-29-2012 at 03:32 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #9  
By Joe- on 11-29-2012, 04:06 AM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
20%20%20%
1
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
20%20%20%
1
Average 20%
Quote:
Originally Posted by robc1976 View Post
Don't see that happening, unless you damage them. BMW master teck said the same. Said he only replaces screws if they are damaged. You have to figure, these are but in with only 7-7.5 lbs of torque...only way they can really come loose is if the threads are damaged. My dealer didn't even carry them, they are included with a new valve cover and so is the gasket.

None of my bolts where painted "blue" wich indicated a replacement bolt except the ones holding the wire holder oddly enough.
Odd, according to Jason over at getbmwparts.com:

Quote:
me: Hi jason, can you help me out, why is the 335i Valve cover gasket set so freakin expensive? what are the part#'s included in the packaging
12:25 PM
Jason: here are the part #'s we include in our kit:

11127544369 bolts x 26

11127565286 gasket

11127548063 bolts x 3

and 11127556977 bolts x 2

me: o.O it's just odd that bolts cost that much cause the gasket itself is like 30 bucks

Jason: yeah
12:26 PM
unfortunately, that's wha tyou're going to need

to change the gasket

me: is it a requirement to replace the bolts

Jason: yes

otherwise, you'll be doing the gasket again soon
Reply With Quote
  #10  
By Joe- on 11-29-2012, 04:09 AM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
20%20%20%
1
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
20%20%20%
1
Average 20%
Quote:
Originally Posted by robc1976 View Post
Don't see that happening, unless you damage them. BMW master teck said the same. Said he only replaces screws if they are damaged. You have to figure, these are but in with only 7-7.5 lbs of torque...only way they can really come loose is if the threads are damaged. My dealer didn't even carry them, they are included with a new valve cover and so is the gasket.

None of my bolts where painted "blue" wich indicated a replacement bolt except the ones holding the wire holder oddly enough.

Can you post the Torque specs also for the screws.
Reply With Quote
  #11  
By robc1976 on 11-29-2012, 04:38 AM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
60%60%60%
3
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
80%80%80%
4
Average 53%
Quote:
Originally Posted by Joe- View Post
Odd, according to Jason over at getbmwparts.com:
tht is odd? If it leaks (don't see that happening) I will replace them, my buddy did his 2 years ago and no issues yet....will investigate this farther though.
Reply With Quote
  #12  
By robc1976 on 11-29-2012, 04:40 AM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
60%60%60%
3
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
80%80%80%
4
Average 53%
Quote:
Originally Posted by Joe- View Post
Can you post the Torque specs also for the screws.
i have seen (2 ) torque specs posted (7.4 & 8.5)..I went with a tad over 7lbs...over tightening is a sure way to run into problems and get a leak.
Reply With Quote
  #13  
By robc1976 on 11-29-2012, 03:31 PM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
60%60%60%
3
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
80%80%80%
4
Average 53%
Added a disclaimer that as a preventive you may want to replace bolts, thanks "joe-"" for part#'s.

Also added torque specs!
Last edited by robc1976; 11-29-2012 at 03:36 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #14  
By robc1976 on 11-29-2012, 05:34 PM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
60%60%60%
3
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
80%80%80%
4
Average 53%
Use Valvoline chlorine free parts cleaner applied to the rag (to take gasket off) not the surface, dont want to much parts cleaner in the motor LOL!!
Reply With Quote
  #15  
By kfrazie1 on 12-01-2012, 10:52 AM
wow thanks for this! nice job. what was total time to complete the job?
Reply With Quote
  #16  
By robc1976 on 12-01-2012, 01:34 PM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
60%60%60%
3
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
80%80%80%
4
Average 53%
Quote:
Originally Posted by kfrazie1 View Post
wow thanks for this! nice job. what was total time to complete the job?
i finished it in about 3 1/2 hours!
Reply With Quote
  #17  
By robc1976 on 12-06-2012, 03:49 PM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
60%60%60%
3
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
80%80%80%
4
Average 53%
Want to add also, wjen doing this be sure the motor is cool (Mine sat over night) because when hot the aluminium bolts are hot thery are softer and wilkl break easier
Reply With Quote
  #18  
By Lilbro on 12-09-2012, 02:56 AM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
20%20%20%
1
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
20%20%20%
1
Average 20%
Anybody know the torque setting for the fuel rail fittings?
Reply With Quote
  #19  
By bv1 on 12-30-2012, 09:36 AM
Excellent DIY, much appreciated. Did mine yesterday with this guide.

The only deviation I had was one step, which was to remove the PCV connection on the valve cover. I didn't see it mentioned above but it is a very minor step.. Also, I chose to use permatex high tack gasket adhesive to glue the gasket to the valve cover to make for an easy install.
Reply With Quote
  #20  
By robc1976 on 12-30-2012, 10:49 AM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
60%60%60%
3
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
80%80%80%
4
Average 53%
Quote:
Originally Posted by bv1 View Post
Excellent DIY, much appreciated. Did mine yesterday with this guide.

The only deviation I had was one step, which was to remove the PCV connection on the valve cover. I didn't see it mentioned above but it is a very minor step.. Also, I chose to use permatex high tack gasket adhesive to glue the gasket to the valve cover to make for an easy install.
Very good point actually, I have a occ so I just removed the hose and not he check valve. I thought about using a gasket sealer but did not want to clog the tiny air ways in the head.
Reply With Quote
  #21  
By Tonkatruck on 02-21-2013, 12:16 AM
Member reviews
Difficulty [ 1 = Difficult ]
20%20%20%
1
Cost [ 1 = Expensive ]
20%20%20%
1
DIY Clarity [ 1 = Not clear ]
20%20%20%
1
Average 20%
Why do you need to insert spark plug guides before installing the valve cover?

I want to thank you for this DIY as it's helped me tremendously.
Reply With Quote
Comment
Page 1 of 2 1 2 >

Bookmarks

« Previous Tutorial | Next Tutorial »
Tutorial Tools Search this Tutorial
Search this Tutorial:

Advanced Search

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Forum Jump


All times are GMT -5. The time now is 01:46 AM.

Contact Us - BIMMERPOST - BMW Forums - Archive - Top



e90post
Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.7.0
Copyright ©2000 - 2013, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.
1Addicts.com, BIMMERPOST.com, E90Post.com, F30Post.com, M3Post.com, ZPost.com, 5Post.com, 6Post.com, 7Post.com, XBimmers.com logo and trademark are properties of BIMMERPOST
Privacy Policy - Terms of Service