Messages

1

Engine + Driveline / Re: Upper oil pan replacement

« on: July 27, 2014, 01:13:15 PM »

So I went ahead and replaced my upper oil pan and will explain how I did it for future users' reference. Faced with the choice between removing the suspension components or lifting the engine to get out the upper oil pan, I chose the lift option. Here's what I did:

1. Put the the front end up on stands
2. Removed the fan shroud and fan
3. Removed the hood
4. Used a small lift to slowly raise the engine. I had read from other e30 models (m20 engine, for example) that you could keep the nuts of the engine mounts attached at the very end of their threads and still lift the engine just enough to pull the pan out past the suspension. From my experience, that doesn't work with the m42, and I ended up tearing my motor mounts. Sucks, but they were the originals so could use replacing anyhow. Either way, if you want to keep your motor mounts make certain you completely remove the nuts before lifting.
5. I would say you need at least six inches of lift to slide the pan out.
6. This has been covered in other posts, but make certain you count all your pan bolts since those 6 near the sump (on the inside of the pan) completely worked lose and were sitting in the bottom of my lower pan.
7. Cleaned both pans, replaced gaskets (using RTV black) and carefully (with help) slid the pan back into place.

Point is, you CAN replace the upper pan on an M42 by slowly lifting the engine a minimal amount.

Cheers!

2

Engine + Driveline / Re: Gasket between upper oil pan and tranny?

« on: July 27, 2014, 12:50:47 PM »

Thanks Wazzu!

I figured there wasn't one - reassembled accordingly. Just fingers crossed that this all works.

3

Engine + Driveline / Gasket between upper oil pan and tranny?

« on: July 25, 2014, 10:44:43 AM »

Hello Everyone,

I recently posted a thread asking for instructions for replacing the upper oil pan. Nothing came back and I went through the process, so will try to update my post with pics for future users.

However, now that I'm putting the new pan back on I'm not sure whether is supposed to be a gasket between the upper oil pan and the tranny (specifically the left side as you are looking at the flywheel). I have circled in green the area in question on the two pics below.





Is there supposed to be a gasket here? I've searched ECS Tuning and Pelican Parts and nothing has come back that would be a match.

Thoughts? Suggestions?

Thanks!

4

Engine + Driveline / Upper oil pan replacement

« on: April 18, 2014, 05:41:01 PM »

I really apologize as I'm sure this post exists somewhere already but my searching is yet to turn it up.

I have a cracked lower and upper oil pan in my '91 e30 318i. Is there someone with a play-by-play instruction on lifting the engine to slide the upper pan out and replace it? Preferably with pictures?

I'm basically looking for confirmation that all I have to do is loosen the motor mounts and don't actually have disconnect my cooling system/power steering/exhaust systems to get this pan out and (the new one) back in? It does seem like I just need an extra inch or two to clear it, but I also don't want to break anything while trying to lift the engine...

Thanks and sorry for what I'm sure is a very tired re-posting of a subject!
 

5

For Sale / M42 engine and transmission parts

« on: August 16, 2012, 11:36:16 PM »

What is the serial number on the head? I'm definitely interested...did either you or the buyer have it pressure tested recently?

6

For Sale / Anyone need M42 Block or Head?

« on: August 16, 2012, 11:34:07 PM »

Ps. Pics would be great!

7

For Sale / Anyone need M42 Block or Head?

« on: August 16, 2012, 11:33:32 PM »

Hey!

I would definitely be interested in the head...is it already apart? Has it been pressure tested?

I'm in MD so I would need it shipped (you're in FLA right?)

8

Engine + Driveline / About to do cylinder head swap...questions

« on: August 10, 2012, 12:30:24 AM »

Hey everyone!

I've been frequently consulting this forum but had yet to join until I had a question I couldn't find the answer to. That time has now come, and I am proud to be joining with you all!

THE ISSUE:

I was having overheating issues followed by that all-to-familiar sweet white smoke coming out of the tail pipe. Sadly, instead of a blown head gasket or TCPG, there was a small crack near one of the valves in cylinder #2. Not repairable, or at least not at any of the machine shops around here (DC).

My question is two-fold:

1. Any PARTICULAR recommendations for sourcing a new cylinder head? I used the FAQ on this forum and have located a few places that say they have the part. I was just wondering if anyone here would go out of there way to recommend a particular supplier?

2. I followed the bentley manual as well as Tim Thurber's write-up on removing the head. I have my chains wired tightly to the cam sprockets and made markings to get the re-assembly exact, assuming I would be putting back the original head. Now, if I buy a replacement head described as "complete rebuild with cams and tower", should I expect to have to adjust the valves when I install the new head, or can I just place it down with the new gasket and assume its good to go?

Thanks in advance for your patience and help!