Camshaft timing chain housing (M43TU engine) — removal and installation (BMW 3 Series E46)

Note: A new gasket and a new rubber seal are required for assembly. A thin metal plate is also required for assembly (see text).

Removal

1. Remove the camshaft timing chain, sprockets, tensioner shoe and chain guide as described in paragraph 7.

2. Remove the chain tensioner as described in paragraph 8.

3. Remove the generator (see chapter 5A).

4. Remove the generator support bracket.

5. Remove the oil filter housing. Prepare for oil leakage. Replace the gasket and O-ring.

6. Remove the engine oil pan (see paragraph 13).

7. Unscrew the chain housing mounting bolts and remove the chain housing from the cylinder block. Prepare a new gasket.

Installation

8. Thoroughly clean the mating surfaces of the chain housing, cylinder block and cylinder head.

9. Make sure the chain housing dowel pins are intact and in place at the bottom of the cylinder block.

10. Apply a bead of sealant to the surfaces of the chain housing where it contacts the cylinder head and the chain covers. Insert a new rubber seal into the groove on the top edge of the chain housing (Fig. 9.10).



11. Install a new gasket onto the pins in the cylinder block.



12. To prevent the rubber seal from shifting when installing the chain housing, BMW recommends tool 11 2 330. The tool can be replaced with a thin metal plate, the size of which allows it to cover the entire surface on which the seal is located.

13. Lightly lubricate the top surface of the seal and both sides of the plate with grease. Place the plate on the seal.

14. Replace the chain housing by aligning the dowel pins with the corresponding holes. Screw in the bolts and tighten them to the specified torque (Fig. 9.14).



15. Carefully remove the plate from the connection between the chain housing and the cylinder head.

16. Install the oil pan (see paragraph 13).

17. Install the oil filter housing with a new gasket and sealing ring.

18. Install the generator support bracket, then install the generator (for details, please refer to chapter 5A).

19. Reinstall the tensioner assembly as shown in paragraph 8.

20. Install the chain guide, tensioner shoe and chain as shown in paragraph 7.

Original publication posted on the website: BMWman.ru