Head Removal

[91318isfoundation]

oK i got the bently manual for the m42 engine and im going to start removing my head within the next few day is there ANYTHING i should be aware of that the book does not tell me? anything anyones learned from trial and error please let me know i want to do it once and do it right

[ZeroG]

oK i got the bently manual for the m42 engine and im going to start removing my head within the next few day is there ANYTHING i should be aware of that the book does not tell me? anything anyones learned from trial and error please let me know i want to do it once and do it right

I don't know if this will apply to cars with head bolts, but I had head studs and the damn timing chain would get caught on the guide rails when I would try to lift it off.  I ended having to remove the crank pulley (244 ft.lbs), the AC compressor and bracket (PITA!), and then loosen the drivers side rail.

Special Tools
Cam locking tool
TDC Pin
Crank pulley holder

Just a tip before you lift the head make sure that you have a pan underneath the engine.  When I lifted it coolant and oil came flooding out.

[91318isfoundation]

UPDATE++++++
took head off today turned out i cracked it anyone know what a refurbished head goes for or a used head? does any one have a used head laying around?
i just need sum $$$ figures so i know what im getting myself into also is sending it out to get welded and shit a good idea ? cause i DRIVE my cars HARD any input would be greatly appreciated

[turbo_negro69]

well, a used head from pick-n-pull is cheap (but good luck finding one)
a used head from a salvage yard that specializes in bmw wants $600-700
a used head on here willl go from $150-250
and i don't know about welding it to fix it.:confused:

[Tonyb]

I paid 200.00 for mine with 76 on the od.

[Alpine003]

I have a crack free head for rebuild. I think a couple valves might be bent but not sure. I do have all the spare valves needed from another cracked head that you can use. Click on my sig for details.

[91318isfoundation]

OK was searching the net last night found m42 from 95 318ti got 186000 on it guy wants 200- guess he swapped it for m50 that good price?

[kowalski]

yes its a good price. make sure to do some compression checks and everything else. However you will need all of the electrical components as well as that m42 runs knock sensors

[unmole30]

hi guys did you take any pics of removing the head? mines overheating and i suspect its the head . . . . . cheers

[monty23psk]

I got a good amount of pics from my rebuild. Let me know what you need....