[nuke21]

So I did a vacuum test on my car. I got a lean code so I smoke tested it with a smoke machine and the smoke poured out of this weird gasket I've never seen before. So I took off the bolts and this metal thing made this weird noise, like it unscrewed itself. Did I just screw myself over? Am I going to be able to get this thing back in at the right position it was set at before?

I don't even know what this is called or if I can get this gasket at AutoZone.

[e90yyc]

That is the Valvetronic motor/gasket.

You'll want to go to dealership for gasket, or buy online at somewhere like FCP Euro. I would personally avoid AutoZone.

Search the forum for "Valvetronic motor relearn." There are a few different methods for ensuring the end stops are learned correctly to avoid damage.

Short answer is that no, you likely haven't done any lasting damage... but make sure you reinstall everything correctly or you might have issues.

[tlow98]

Consult google before you take it all apart next time.

And most definitely consult google before you put it back together or you’ll be calling a tow truck.

[Makeuwunder]

Here's a DIY https://www.pelicanparts.com/BMW/tec..._Replacing.htm

At the end it says you need to use the bmw software so it can relearn the end stops. IF you don't have it you can insert key keep foot OFF of the brake pedal and turn on power. You should hear some clicking. This is the valvetronic trying to relearn the stop limits. Do this twice waiting 30 seconds while the key is on and another 30 sec with it off, then try and start the car. If it runs poorly and doesn't smooth out you will have to take it to the dealer or get the software (INPA) so it can relearn the stop limits. Be sure to disconnect battery before doing any repairs.

[ctuna]

When you do a valve cover gasket change taking this motor
of is part of the process. The thing is once you get it back in
place you want to power up the car without starting it.
Meaning you turn the ignition on without depressing the brake
or clutch peddle depending on if you have and automatic or manual.
This should allow the vavletronic motor to relearn its position.
As mentioned in the previous posts you may also use diagnostic
equipment that will do this. Bimmergeeks pro tool or there cable
running the Inpa suite and Ista D is recommended.

You may find these links useful

georges links
https://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/at...9&d=1539905743

[ctuna]

When you do a valve cover gasket change taking this motor
of is part of the process. The thing is once you get it back in
place you want to start power up the car without starting it.
Meaning you turn the ignition on without depressing the brake
or clutch peddle depending on if you have and automatic or manual.
This should allow the vavletronic motor to relearn its position.
As mentioned in the previous posts you may also use diagnostic
equipment that will do this. Bimmergeeks pro tool or there cable
running the Inpa suite and Ista D is recommended.

[Efthreeoh]

OP, I suggest before you just start tearing into your car, either A) buy a Bentley service manual, which explains in entirety all the parts and systems of the E9X, or B) consult the BMW TIS at www.newtis.com, or C) read up on E90Post in the DIY section about repairing the car.

If you are experienced enough to know what a smoke machine is and how to use it, you should be smart enough to educate yourself on the vehicle you are working on.

Be careful; BMW shit can get real expensive real fast. Let the thing break itself, don't help it.

[nsjames]

to further that advice, go ahead and get a ISTA setup on a laptop.

it has all of the component R and R procedures, and will be an invaluable tool in diagnosing your broken BMW with a can cable.

[nuke21]

Thank you guys for the reply. I will try to do some of the software less ways to try to get it to auto calibrate and if that doesnt work I will look into getting the programs you guys mentioned.

I tore into it without looking at any manual because I have done head gaskets on my old e36 and e46 without ever running into problems. This is just something I have never came across before.

I got the gasket today so hopefully it goes together well tomorrow when I put her back together.

[nuke21]

Got the car all together and runs perfectly. It was hard finding the torque for the e8s (10NM) but I eventually did. It also relearned itself by doing the "press the start button without starting it" method. Thanks again for all the help!