E39 2000 BMW 528i - How to replace Air Valve Vacuum Hose

[Bimmer2000Aug]

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[m735is]

If the hard line (#3) is missing, you'll have to do it by feel/mirror. You do not have to remove the intake. If #3 is still there, be careful, it's probably brittle, just connect the hose to it.
I ran just a rubber hose all the way back, my #3 was crumbling.

[m735is]

I couldn't try anything, #3 just crumbled.
If it feels OK, slightly twist the hose?

[rdl]

Replacing the vacuum hose is straightforward except for detaching it from the solenoid valve at the rear of the engine. I strongly recommend releasing the solenoid valve from its mounting bracket before trying to change the hose. I'm certain that I would have broken the valve's nipples if I'd tried to do it in situ.

The solenoid valve can be removed without pulling the inlet manifold - but it sure isn't much fun. See this post for my brief DIY. Mine is a 2003 M54. With a little luck the design will be the same for yours.
http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...6&postcount=35
The link within that post is also worth reading.
Good luck

[djb2]

Replacing the vacuum hoses for the secondary air system?

I took every piece off, several times, when I couldn't get the OBDII monitor to report as ready. (Unrelated -- it was solved by replacing the oxygen sensors.)

It's actually quite easy on the e39, although you do need to work by feel around the rear side of the intake manifold.

Start by removing the covers over the spark plugs and the fuel injectors, and the left side cabin air intake. An experienced person could work around the covers, but you can't the first time.

The most difficult part is learning how to unclip the air valve solenoid. You'll need to do it by feel. It's easy... once you know how to do it. If it doesn't come off after a minute of blind fondling, you'll at least have a pretty good feel for where the replacement hose goes when you refit it.