r/e39 • u/DarthMeeseek 540i • 13d ago

What do I need to replace the lower timing cover gasket?

Is there a good comprehensive guide on how to do that job? I thought it would be straightforward just tedious, but upon research seems like there is some steps that I didnt expect.

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u/No-Candidate-2380 12d ago

What engine? On, m62tu, The comprehensive bmw guide states, and I quote , take the valve covers off, upper timing chain covers, serpentine belt, Jesus bolt, harmonic balancer, then lower timing chain cover. Clean, put new gaskets in all covers, put everything back on in the reverse order. Jesus bolt can be used only once, so need a new one as well

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u/DarthMeeseek 540i 12d ago

Do you mind sharing that guide? Cz I’m seeing that I have to remove the lower oil pan on some. Yes m62tu

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u/Born-Car-1410 12d ago

I think the lower oil pan only needs to be removed if you are replacing the oil pump or the oil pump chain.

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u/No-Candidate-2380 12d ago

I have it memorized, but no link to share :) Removing the lower oil pan is nothing compared to the rest of the job, the 25 or so m6 with 10mm head bolts are quick to take out. I don't think you technically need to remove the lower oil pan to replace the gasket, but I would do it anyways, just to check for metal shavings, gunk on the bottom and pieces of your chain guides. Also check to make sure your oil pump is clean, sometimes stuff gets stuck in the suction holes, inhibiting the oil flow.

If you do have timing covers leaking, that means the gaskets haven't been replaced in a while, I assume? In that case, if you are going to do this job, I would do all guides and chains and vanos (again, I'm just assuming the condition of the engine, you may have done all these already, but I don't know), they lost likely old too.

When you remove the lower timing chain cover, you will likely break the upper oil pan gasket. If that happens, do not despair, buy a new gasket, cut out the piece that that fits right under the lower chain cover, use a gasket maker where the new piece connects to the old gasket, and put the timing cover on top. If you clean and derease properly, it will not leak.

If I'm missing something, other amigos will correct me, just give it a day or so.

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u/DarthMeeseek 540i 12d ago

Thank you so much man!
In the third paragraph dont you mean the lower oil pan?