[BashShah]

Well engine front is pretty wet.
Left side looks good.
First and final thought was VCG.

But looking at eBay, there is like 3 or 4 manufactures of this gasket.
Which one is OEM, and which is recommended by forum members?
Also plan on doing PCV Valve using the RB PCV.
And replacing plug sleeves.

Any other suggestions? On any other items I need to address?

DN

[NGEE]

If it's the front of the engine are you sure it's not the OFHG?

So after having done the VCG myself, here's what I recommend. Replace the VC. They are known to crack. A new VC from getbmwparts is just north of $300. By the time you purchase a new gasket and bolt set (if you're doing that) and PCV, it just makes sense to go full monty on it. The new VC comes with the gasket, new bolt set and a PCV.

Getbmwparts.com - Tischer counter pickup: PN11-12-7-565-284 $342.71. That's for my 2007 N54.

The RB PCV is cool and all, but a brand new OEM is just as good!

Why replace the plug sleeves? One word on the DIY - when you pull those plug sleeves keep track of the snap-ring clips at the bottom! Easy to lose - don't want to have to pull the VC AGAIN to see if you left it in there - ask me how I know

[BashShah]

Originally Posted by NGEE

If it's the front of the engine are you sure it's not the OFHG?

So after having done the VCG myself, here's what I recommend. Replace the VC. They are known to crack. A new VC from getbmwparts is just north of $300. By the time you purchase a new gasket and bolt set (if you're doing that) and PCV, it just makes sense to go full monty on it. The new VC comes with the gasket, new bolt set and a PCV.

Getbmwparts.com - Tischer counter pickup: PN11-12-7-565-284 $342.71. That's for my 2007 N54.

The RB PCV is cool and all, but a brand new OEM is just as good!

Why replace the plug sleeves? One word on the DIY - when you pull those plug sleeves keep track of the o-ring clips at the bottom! Easy to lose - don't want to have to pull the VC AGAIN to see if you left it in there - ask me how I know

Thanks for the tips.
I did not know that the VC came with the gasket and new PCV and bolts.....almost sounds like a Bonus.....LOL

as or OFHG - I did that earlier this year.....hmmmm now wondering if it is leaking again so fast.....like March.
The wetness is to the left of the OFHG ....I will try to get a Pic.

as for the Plug sleeves, - I have 1 cracked......I can see it on number 5 with the engine cover off.....clear as MUD.
just thought to replace all of them.

would the new VC come with new Sleeves?

Thanks again.
DN.

[GetSomeE92]

When you did your OFHG, did you replace the oil cooler gasket as well? That could be the source of the leak if you did not.

[NGEE]

VC does not come with new sleeves. But I'm trying to suss how the thing could crack - it's aluminum. Maybe it's just words. Bend? Tear? Sure you're not looking at the north/south seam?

[BashShah]

Originally Posted by GetSomeE92

When you did your OFHG, did you replace the oil cooler gasket as well? That could be the source of the leak if you did not.

I do not have an oil cooler......damn it.

[BashShah]

Originally Posted by NGEE

VC does not come with new sleeves. But I'm trying to suss how the thing could crack - it's aluminum. Maybe it's just words. Bend? Tear? Sure you're not looking at the north/south seam?

Guess I will take a picture of this as well.
I am a DIY....but by no mean an expert.
I have worked on quiet a few BMWs from 2000 models to 2011.
Mostly 3 series but mostly body work.

Trying to save a buck.

DN

['02onthebrain]

Brand doesn't really matter. I got the elring one from ECS, it was $27.95. I had to swap a bad coil while I was in there and also decided to swap my plugs at the same time. You can reuse the same bolts and I would not get a new VC unless you know it is already cracked of course. If you go slow and steady it won't crack. If you crack it you can JB weld it up until you can get a new one. A new VC seems like a big waste of money to me. For $27.95 and a few hours of my time my engine was back in tip top form.

[NGEE]

Originally Posted by '02onthebrain

A new VC seems like a big waste of money to me.

Yeah, that's a good point. I guess it all depends on perspective. Mine is this: ain't gonna be doing this twice*

(*although I did, because of that damn plug sleeve snap-ring )

[BashShah]

I agree with both of you.
So first I decided to actually find out where the leak is.
Then check plugs for oil.
Then post picture and ask advise.

Don't mind car being down for 2 weeks.

Then decide what I need.

But greatly appreciate the feedback.
Guys like you guys....make it worth having a BMW.
Joined many forums.....this is the best.
Hope I can pay it forward....

DN

[iDriveanXi]

For what it's worth I bought "Victor Reinz" brand from pelican parts. Fit was 100%. Cost was $22.50

[BashShah]

Originally Posted by iDriveanXi

For what it's worth I bought "Victor Reinz" brand from pelican parts. Fit was 100%. Cost was $22.50

I did my OFH gasket.
Think this is any tougher?

DN