[martinblair]

I just received my used 3IM today from a wreckers. The large DISA valve looks perfect, but the rubber surround on the smaller one is torn. The flapper still seems good, and doesn't move at all. Is this ok to put in as is or should I cave and replace the valve?

Also, what would be the recommended method for cleaning the traces of oil out of the manifold before reassembling and installing?
Thanks

[sirantsE90]

Just pick up a 3 dollar can of crc throttle body cleaner and spray it down.

Preventative maintenance is always a good idea. I'd say replace it while it's apart.

[hassmaschine]

personally I would clean it and use it.

[martinblair]

I'm curious. As the flapper seems to operate the way it should (opening and closing), it should still do its job. When the valve is closed, and the plastic flapper is tight up against the rubber seal (where my issue lies) is it intended to be an airtight seal? And if so, will it still operate as intended if it isn't airtight? I looked at some of the repair kits you can get, and they have an aluminum flapper rather than plastic which I would think would not seal well, and I can't imagine I'm the first to have the rubber there partially torn off (for some inexplicable reason).

[hassmaschine]

I don't think the seal is that critical to the operation of the manifold. They are basically resonance chambers and a small amount of air passing through the flap isn't going to alter it that much.

[Three_thirty_I]

It's never going to be absolutely air tight since there are various gaps in the hinge mechanism anyway. When I replaced mine, the smaller DISA unit also had some of the rubber gasket missing inside where the flap closes against. I would just clean and use as is.

[TeSmSp]

I replaced both in my '08 328i. They were pricey.

[Three_thirty_I]

Originally Posted by TeSmSp

I replaced both in my '08 328i. They were pricey.

I don't know about how it priced over there, but replaced mine in 2012 when in reality there was nothing wrong with them, and they were expensive, but they are now roughly 50% or so more expensive over here!! Ouch!!