Crankshaft locking pin does nothing. I think I'm missing something

[Musicisair]

I'm doing my VANOS and went to lock my crankshaft with the pin and there was no plug (anyone know what to search for to find the part number? I can't find it). Then I inserted the pin and it just bottoms out without actually locking into anything; the crankshaft still spins freely. I rechecked that I'm at TDC and it looks good, though maybe my angle is off. Do these not correlate?

It would also seem that I'm missing a cover between the engine and transmission... should the transmission "internals" really be this visible?


IMG_20170115_131219.jpg

[ThreeD]

Do you have an aftermarket flywheel? They usually do not have provisions for the crankshaft lock tool.

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[Musicisair]

I do! Since I can't lock the flywheel, is there something else I should do instead?

- - - Updated - - -

Found the part number for the plug: 11111714541

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/show...83#11111714541

I also think i'm missing the Covering Plate (#11147838044). Hopefully this isn't a big deal, since I don't think putting that in is going to happen anytime soon.

[pbonsalb]

Flywheel pin is not necessary. Use TDC Mark on pulley and pointer on front cover. Verify with mirror at angle of engine tilt.

[NoLastName]

If your flywheel does have a hole for the pin it's probably going to be a tight fit. I know with my stock flywheel I have to get close to TDC and then BARELY rotate the crank into position so the pin catches. Then it usually takes a slight rocking back & forth to get the pin to fully engage.

Flywheel pin is not necessary. Use TDC Mark on pulley and pointer on front cover. Verify with mirror at angle of engine tilt.

^And this too, if you're unable to determine if your flywheel has a locating hole or not. You can use flywheel pins, marks on the timing cover or even a rod inserted through the spark plug hole in #1 cylinder with a dial indicator to find TDC.