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View Full Version : DIY Spark plugs and Ignition coils for BMW E46 doityourself


gr330zhp
11-15-2010, 03:58 PM
Hey everyone

This isnt my video but Bavarian Autosport's. But I figured it would be useful on here, So I figured I would post.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GN618su1psU&feature=channel
quikryptonite
05-04-2011, 02:25 PM
I was going to replace the valve gasket cover when I replace my spark plugs. Is this something that novice would be able to accomplish? I found a few resources online (youtube video, and an e46fanatics pdf) and it seems pretty straight forward. What is the criss-cross pattern when retightening bolts referring to? Any suggestions or advice? TIA
kayger12
05-04-2011, 02:39 PM
Valve cover gasket is relatively easy. Biggest pain will be getting all of the old gasket out which will likely be very brittle and plasticized.

The criss cross pattern refers to using a cross tightening pattern so that you fasten the cover down in a way that gives you even distribution of pressure as opposed to torquing down one side and then the other. It's similar to how you use a star pattern to tighten lugs when remounting a wheel.
danewilson77
05-04-2011, 05:25 PM
I don't use a torque wrench..though you should if you have one. The torque value is small...I think around 7 ft-lbs. Maybe someone with Bentley could verify....though Beisan website should list it on install.

I usually use my hand, with the extension and socket....to tighten them all up initially. Then I throw the ratchet on and tighten them all in a star pattern, with my left hand to around 7 ft-lbs. This should only be a couple of revolutions past the hand tightening step. Remember....the left hand is used to prevent overtightening. You def don't want to crack the valve cover. Additionally keep in the back of your mind....that the rubber gasket is what makes the seal, and tighter doesn't create a better seal (kind of the same way an o-ring behaves)

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kayger12
05-04-2011, 05:36 PM
10 Nm or 89 Inch/pounds or 7.4 foot/pounds
danewilson77
05-04-2011, 05:45 PM
10 Nm or 89 Inch/pounds or 7.4 foot/pounds

Ha..... 0.4 lbs off! Thanks Keith.

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kayger12
05-04-2011, 06:07 PM
Ha..... 0.4 lbs off! Thanks Keith.

Droid + Tapatalk = FTW!

You were actually closer. It was actually 7.37. I rounded. :)

Droid X. Tapatalk. Use it.
danewilson77
05-04-2011, 06:46 PM
You were actually closer. It was actually 7.37. I rounded. :)

Droid X. Tapatalk. Use it.

:rofl

Droid + Tapatalk = FTW!
quikryptonite
06-06-2011, 10:18 AM
Would it be easier (less messy) to replace the valve gasket cover after draining the oil from the engine during an oil change? I was going to attempt to replace the gasket on my E30 to get some practical experience before attempting it on the ZHP.
billschusteriv
06-06-2011, 10:31 AM
Most of your oil should be in the oil pan. There should only be residual amounts of oil when you remove the valve cover.
quikryptonite
06-06-2011, 10:32 AM
Great. Thanks.
TDiesel
06-24-2016, 02:58 PM
It seems on my 2003 ZHP I do not have the metal brackets holding the coils down nor the metal clips. My Bosch coils just flipped up, disconnected, and popped out. I don't see the ground straps either. Should I be concerned? Could the ground connection be the brown wire rather than the straps?

I'm using these coils, as per Pelican Parts recommendation. They have a bit of a different appearance than the ones in the DIY, no holes for the bracket. http://www.pelicanparts.com/More_Info/12138647689.htm?pn=12-13-8-647-689-M14&SVSVSI=305