S54 rod bolt torque

[snaponbob]

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?

[snaponbob]

Paging Randy Forbes !!

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[Randy Forbes]

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?).

[snaponbob]

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.