M3AN

You might want to x-post this to the Wanted to Buy section - I'd also check in with Brent (BM World) and Ray (HellBM).

Where did you get the spoiler if you don't mind?

Crank locking tool, timing check bridge (it's not a lock) and rattle kit tools, yes. It looks like 90* but I've never found any specs to confirm that.

True that Glenn, hunting in the dark is difficult and I see that's your point when I re-read your original post. I support your diagnostic advice. Nevertheless, he's going to have to do the VANOS eventually so jump on in I say, might get lucky with the noise!

To be fair Glenn, a S5x VANOS overhaul isn't a risky or complex procedure and if you don't do the rattle kit then there are no timing implications. The only thing you really need to be careful of this the valve cover bolts. However simple though it's a time consuming job so the cost/benefit/risk equation doesn't really lead itself to a shop job in this case (I've not seen it quoted for much less than $1,000 + parts and consumables). I totally get where you're coming from, if you want a professional job take it to a professional but I also think that committed and careful enthusiasts with the correct tools can do a simple job perfectly adequately. A non rattle kit VANOS job is very simple on these engines. I'd certainly suggest your recommended approach to anybody who wasn't committed and careful! Which reminds me @Danger, I have the tools you need if you're going to do your VANOS, send me a PM when the time is right.

Yes, but not for S52 or S50, only S54 (because bottom end bearings were designed or manufactured poorly). The reason is that at the time, and even still today, HTHS is not a headline value on oil packaging and in some cases can't even be found, consumers might have a hard time getting the correct data to make their decisions. Since a quality 60 weight oil is guaranteed to have a (very) high HTHS rating it's also assured of being in a very safe range. I somewhat doubt a 60 weight oil or a HTHS of over 5 cP is required for the S54 but it's considered "safe" by BMW and I'd not recommend against it when it's advised by the manufacturer.

No, I'm afraid this isn't correct. At operating temperature an (x)w60 will be significantly thicker (higher viscosity) than an (x)w40. And unless you're regularly experiencing -30*C temps a 0w oil is doing you no benefit. Furthermore the bigger the gap between the kinematic viscosity numbers (0 and 60, 10 and 60, 5 and 40 etc.) the less stable the viscosity is over it's operating range and more stability is always more desirable (because it affects temps and pressures). Ultimately you need three things in motor oil: 1. A "winter" (w) viscosity to suit your climate. In the south of the South Island a 20w is probably fine (-15*C), in the north of the North Island you could get away (easily) with a 25w (-10*C). 2. A HTHS (High Temp/High Shear) rating of no less than 2.9 cP. HTHS is the modern, accepted measure of how "good" an oil is at lubricating under load. 3. The lowest possible kinematic viscosity range (the difference between the "winter" viscosity and the operating viscosity). In a good synthetic oil the operating viscosity, as long as it's 30 or above, is irrelevant unless specified by the manufacturer (e.g. S54 engines). Age has nothing to do with it. As long as the 10w40 you're using has a HTHS of 2.9 cP or higher (and this can be difficult to find data on) then it's a much better choice than 0w60 or 10w60 for your engine. Some oil manufacturers publish HTHS for some or all of their oils but many do not (yet). S54 owners got jipped when they were required to start using 10w60 because it's a real compromise oil. It has a massively high HTHS (over 5 cP I believe) to prevent abnormal wear but a massive operating range (less stable) and a huge operating viscosity (less efficient). An engine that requires such a high HTHS is almost unheard of (2.9 cP to 3.7 cP is "normal").

776 days smoke free for me (I have an app for that!) and lovin' it. So, just over two years. I've saved about $13,975 (at the old price of ~$20 per pack) which is a real bonus. I love every minute of being smoke free and have no desire or temptation to ever smoke again. I feel guilty if I wake up having dreamed about smoking but also relieved that is was only a dream. Food tastes better, beer tastes better! And nowadays with the level of social isolation expected of smokers it's great that I don't have to leave a social setting just to go and have a cigarette. Can't believe it took me over 20 years to decide to kick the damn habit. There's noting at all good about smoking but i couldn't see that (through the smoke) when I was a smoker. I can assure people that you don't need cigarettes to cure boredom, do something with your hands or relieve stress - they're just excuses to avoid the effort of quitting.

Lol, how ghetto are those smoked tail light covers?!

Not to mention a good dent in the hood.

Check you clutch fan also, your symptoms sound like it's on its way out.

$37k? And no mention of VANOS or subframe overhauls. Heck for $37k I'd expect the rod bearings to have been replaced also. I say dreaming.

Good bulk discount that!

I wouldn't recommend using an adjustable crescent spanner for anything. But yes, get a proper (cheap) 32mm spanner and rubber mallet.

Yep, looks real good in that dash/console.

You should get a new high pressure line from BMW and any hydraulics shop can make a low pressure line for you. They degrade from the inside out so you shouldn't use old ones.

We've used these guys before: https://www.facebook.com/MCRAutomotiveNZ

I wouldn't, they shouldn't but it may depend on the colour of your car. These look best on black IMHO.

Wow.

Wut? Not done already?

No, I like his on screen persona. He threw his toys out of the cot and assaulted somebody. You can't do that. Period. It's unforgivable.

Let me know if you do decide to sell the spoiler, I could be interested. Also interested in your under tray and what you decide to do there. I need something.

Clarkson had to go, whether he wanted to or not. The BBC did the right thing in dumping him, it's just a bit of a pity he's apparently landed on his feet and the BBC are suffering because he's an immature, self-entitled wanker. Even a King can't be allowed to get away with murder.

+1 for FCP and also schmiedmann.com is excellent. Also check out our site sponsors also, many offer a discount for members.

Most places around me are 95 except the occasional BP or Mobil.