[RayLivingston]

WTH is this?

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw...521781#fitment

I'm replacing my radiator. What is this "adjusting", and HOW is it adjusted? This is a new one by me...

[mapleleaf1773]

This is the drain plug, that is all.

One time use. A new one everytime you take it out.

[nsjames]

it "adjusts" the flow of coolant differently if you have an AT or MT car, as the AT car has an external heat exchanger for the trans that needs coolant flow.

Just make sure you buy the right one for your car. Other than that, it's a drain plug.

[RayLivingston]

No offense, but I don't think that is correct... The blue part is the drain plug, which can be removed and re-installed.

Here is a photo of a slightly different style one:

https://www.e90post.com/forums/attac...1&d=1356856356

https://www.e90post.com/forums/attac...1&d=1356856356

But why is it not JUST a plug? Why two pieces? And why is it referred to as a "flow adjuster"??

[nsjames]

Originally Posted by RayLivingston

No offense, but I don't think that is correct... The blue part is the drain plug, which can be removed and re-installed.

Here is a photo of a slightly different style one:

https://www.e90post.com/forums/attac...1&d=1356856356

https://www.e90post.com/forums/attac...1&d=1356856356

But why is it not JUST a plug? Why two pieces? And why is it referred to as a "flow adjuster"??

the sleeve is not the plug, you're correct.
but it's highly likely that in trying to remove the drain plug the sleeve gets damaged. So you just buy a new one every time you mess with it.

I already explained why there are different versions.

It isn't rocket surgery, just make sure you get the right one and install it.

and by the right one:
long is AT
Short is MT.

edit:
it also takes forever to drain the coolant if you pop just the plug, vs seconds to dump the coolant if you just pull the whole thing.

[Dave92N54]

Originally Posted by mapleleaf1773

This is the drain plug, that is all.

One time use. A new one everytime you take it out.

I'm sorry, what? I've removed and reused my radiator drain plug more times than I can count. Never once had an issue...

[bluewater328]

Originally Posted by Dave92N54

I'm sorry, what? I've removed and reused my radiator drain plug more times than I can count. Never once had an issue...

Then you're lucky. Seal goes eventually (and sometime the Phillips top). So better to replace an <$10 part as assurance.

[Dave92N54]

Originally Posted by bluewater328

Then you're lucky. Seal goes eventually (and sometime the Phillips top). So better to replace an <$10 part as assurance.

I'm assuming you mean the o-ring on the drain plug? That you can get a replacement for less than $2 at any local parts store? I just don't see the need to replace it everytime... just don't hulk it down and you're fine. Snug it up and it seals...

[Welcome to NBA Jam]

Originally Posted by Dave92N54

I'm assuming you mean the o-ring on the drain plug? That you can get a replacement for less than $2 at any local parts store? I just don't see the need to replace it everytime... just don't hulk it down and you're fine. Snug it up and it seals...

This. You definitely don't need to break the control sleeve every time you want to drain the radiator. The blue plug, if leaking, is like $3.

[Dave92N54]

Originally Posted by Welcome to NBA Jam

This. You definitely don't need to break the control sleeve every time you want to drain the radiator. The blue plug, if leaking, is like $3.

I mean, if you wanna replace it everytime, go ahead I don't care but yeah, absolutely no NEED to do so.

[bluewater328]

Originally Posted by Dave92N54

I'm assuming you mean the o-ring on the drain plug? That you can get a replacement for less than $2 at any local parts store? I just don't see the need to replace it everytime... just don't hulk it down and you're fine. Snug it up and it seals...

Originally Posted by Welcome to NBA Jam

This. You definitely don't need to break the control sleeve every time you want to drain the radiator. The blue plug, if leaking, is like $3.

Don't disagree with either of these statements. Just a choice and more like "I dont want to go back in there if I dont have to."

[gary02453]

Anyone can comment please on specifics of installing the coolant-drain-SLEEVE (aka Adjustment Screw p/n 17117521781) back? It looks like a bayonet-type attachment, but I clearly broke it when reinstalling.

[Welcome to NBA Jam]

Originally Posted by gary02453

Anyone can comment please on specifics of installing the coolant-drain-SLEEVE (aka Adjustment Screw p/n 17117521781) back? It looks like a bayonet-type attachment, but I clearly broke it when reinstalling.

Align the tabs with the holes and press in, then turn clockwise until you hear an audible "click." It's locked into place at that point.

https://www.e90post.com/forums/showt...php?p=12960625

[e90yyc]

2023 prices:

MT part: $65.

AT plug: only” $23.