I have the most current BMW service bulletin about S54 rod bolts. Mine is an April 2002 build. The Service bulletin specifically calls for RE-USING the existing rod bolts (on S54s built before mid December 2002) and even emphasises that each MUST go back exactly where it came from.
Who can confirm this?
Paging Randy Forbes !!
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And to think, those were supposed to be the better updated bearing shells (so yes, they'd already been replaced; any idea how many miles ago?).
Unknown miles since update. Total miles on the car is about 130K. I installed the WPC treated bearings. Per our conversation, the original bolts are in place. The compression tests were very good, so I did not chase rings. Of course, at $1200+, that was a relief. Based on the condition of the bores, the very dry exhaust post and muffler tips, and the dry piston tops, I am confident that they are still in good shape.
I am sure glad I did this on an engine stand !!! It must be a real treat IN the car. Some things I noticed are 1) the inconsistent pull needed to break loose the rod bolts, and 2) the odd and inconsistent wear patterns. I have pulled down dozens of M20, S&M 50/52s, and a couple of M54s. Never seen the odd locations and inconsistent patterns of wear like that.
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