Installing the cylinder head (BMW 3 Series E21)

Thoroughly clean the mating surface of the cylinder head.

Remove oil from the blind holes of the cylinder block using a syringe.

Install the cylinder head and tighten its mounting bolts as specified in the subsection "Detailed technical specifications".

When installing the cylinder head, pay attention to the correct position of the compensation tube and the condition of the sealing ring: replace it if necessary.

Make sure that the crankshaft, distributor sensor and camshaft pulley are in the correct position using the timing marks.

Install the camshaft drive belt and adjust its tension (see "Valve timing mechanism").

Install the timing belt cover after placing the engine lifting paw in place.

Install the TDC sensor and check the gap between it and the torsional vibration damper, which should be within 0.2–2.0 mm.

Install the alternator pulley and put on the alternator and water pump drive V-belt.

Adjust the tension of the V-belt. The normal deflection of the belt when pressed with the thumb should be 5-10 mm.

Connect the electrical wires and hoses of the cooling system.

Connect the throttle control rod and adjust the throttle control actuator.

Connect the vacuum hoses and fuel lines.

Adjust the valve clearance and install the cylinder head cover, tightening the mounting bolts in the sequence shown in the photo.

Fill the cooling system with liquid and remove air from it.