Bentley manual

[pNwReiter]

Got my repair manual in the mail the other day and was reading in the timing section, because my chain guides just went out on my '01, and it only covers up to '98.... is there a newer version out there or do I need to get a specific manual for this..?

[waters17]

I don't think I used the Bentley at all when I did my guides. -maybe for torque specs?


There are quite a few diy guides on the forums. I spent most of the time cleaning parts when I did mine.

Here are a few
http://www.bimmerboard.com/forums/posts/876903

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=806173

JimLev has a great video on timing the motor, but I can never find it because he calls it the 540tu or something.

[JimLev]

Right here....
https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/s...a-540tu-engine

Let me know if you have any questions.

[JimLev]

No there isn't a newer E39 Bentley manual.

[geargrinder]

And yes its missing stuff. Plenty of stuff "just isn't in there" at all - mainly interior/body related. Sometimes there's just the facelift/TU issues like you say. I have a hardcopy set but can't say its very useful most of the time. TONS of instructions on 'obvious' stuff you don't need instructions for ("to remove the engine covers, first open the hood using the hood opening lever located in drivers footwell...") but then a crapshoot when its something where you're really puzzled and its tricky. Can't say its useless and I"m not ready to burn mine exactly but its not great.

If you're talking not just timing but the whole guide job, in addition to Jims material, here's some other bits.

http://www.beisansystems.com/procedu..._procedure.htm
http://www.germanautosolutions.com/d..._tools_diy.php

[dwgates]

lots of info here and I found this one helpul as I bought the timing tools from them...
http://www.germanautosolutions.com/d..._tools_diy.php
I agree the Bentley manual isn't always the handiest reference and it's of no use at all if there are beemer factory tools and you don't have a source or want to cough up the cash. So far the only actual factiory tool I've picked up for my 540i's is the crank holder because my impact wouldn't budge that harmonic balancer nut. Others have had better luck...