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Thread: E46 318i N42 Rocker Cover Gasket / Valve Cover Gasket

  1. #1
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    Nov 2012
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    E46 318i N42 Rocker Cover Gasket / Valve Cover Gasket

    Hey all,

    I need to swap out the RCG / VCG on the N42. I done this a few years back on a friends N42 also but was wondering you guys could clear up a few things;

    1. Main question being regarding the use of gasket sealant. Right now the existing gasket has some on due to when the ring and seals were done, the garage decided that to use it and reuse the old gasket. Yes I know...
    I think if the part is installed properly then why is there a need to use it? If you recommend I use some, where to apply and which product would you recommend?

    2. Is it worth buying new bolts to fix the cover back in place?

    3. I was interested in hearing your opinions on cheaper RCG as the branded or BMW ones seem to cost a hell of a lot. I'm always one to use genuine parts or at least Bosch etc but I figure if a cheap one gets maybe 2 years maybe 3 then I don't mind repeating the job in a few years.

    4. Lastly is it worth doing any other work while the cover is off? I have a feeler gauge and was wondering if it's work checking / adjusting the valve clearances (if this is relatively easy enough for a kind of competent mechanic)

    Thanks for any responses

    Lee

  2. #2
    dworthy's Avatar
    dworthy is offline Wagon meister :) BMW Tech Expert
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    So here are my thoughts:

    1) Yes, use only in the half-moons will need any RTV, and only in the corners of said half-moons. Just a dab will do.

    2) No, these are not torque to stretch bolts.

    3) Erling is the OE provider for that gasket, so if you find one on ebay, ect. Just make sure you get the ones for the bolts as well, aka the donuts.

    4) Valve are considered non-adjustable, as they have hydraulic lifters. But do have a look for any sludge, shinny particles, ect.
    Darin
    Current:
    16 220i Active Tourer Platinsilver MET (C08)/Dakota Black (PDSW), P7ACA, P7LDA, P7LHA, P9BDA, 6sp Manual - Wife's new toy!
    05 325it Electric Red(438)/Gray(N6TT) ZCW, ZSP 5sp Manual Back set cover, trunk mat, Euro Infra-Rot front windshield, and mud flaps! Mr. Wagon My new Winter car.
    05 M3 Imolarot II(405)/Gray(N5TT) ZCW, ZPP 6sp Manual C.F. Lip, CSL diffuser, SSK, Euro Infra-Rot front windshield and a trunk liner! Mr. Go_Fast Stored for the Winter
    Past:
    95 318is Montreal Blue Met (297)/Beige(K1SN) RIP, killed by an Idiot.
    84 M535i gray market Burgandy Rot Met/Black Leather Lowered by Intrax on bilies, poly everywhere, B&B cat back system, K&N, and a hitch! Da Beast - Still running w/400k+!
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    79 525 euro Green/Green RIP
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