Checking the valve guides (BMW 3 Series E36)

When carrying out repair work on a cylinder head with leaky valves, it is not enough to grind or replace the valves and valve seats. In addition, it is necessary to check the wear of the valve guides. This is especially important on engines that have high mileage. Worn guides do not ensure valve centering and cause high oil consumption. If the wear is significant, the valve guides should be replaced (work at a service station).

Remove the valve.

Clean the guide bushing with a cylindrical reamer.

Insert the valve into the guide sleeve from the combustion chamber side.



Check its play when moving the valve laterally in both directions.

To check, apply a steel ruler or install a pointer indicator. The clearance should not exceed 0.5 mm.

If increased play is detected, treat the valve guides and install valves with increased stem diameters (work at a service station).

Caution: When machining or replacing guide bushings, the valve seats must also be machined.

(The original article is posted on the resource: «bmwman.ru»)