11 31 051 Replacing timing chain (M62 VANOS from 9/98): Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 BMW X5, 2002 BMW X5, 2001 BMW X5, and 2000 BMW X5. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Installation of timing chain is described separately from removal. Assembly sequence for removal and installation is different.

Check guide, reversing and tensioning rails, replace if necessary.

NOTE: There is a small bore in the throttle ring (1).
Check throttle ring (1), replace if necessary.

Insert throttle ring (1) in reversing rail
Replace O-ring (2) and insert in reversing rail
Replace O-ring (3)

Coat O-ring (3) with oil as lubricant.

Fig 1: Identifying O-Ring And Throttle Ring

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Install reversing rail and insert screws (2 and 3).

NOTE: Screws (2) with M6 thread.
Screws (3) with M7 thread.

Tighten screws (2 and 3).

Tightening torque for screws (2 and 3), see 11 31 10AZ in ENGINE - TIGHTENING TORQUES

Fig 2: Installing Reversing Rail

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NOTE: Engines in E53 (X5) have an external oil separator. Grub screw (1) and angle section are not fitted.

Replace grub screw (1).

Insert grub screw only until it makes contact with angle section (1) without play, do not tighten down.

NOTE: The grub screw (1) secures the angle bracket in the cylinder head.

Fig 3: Replacing Grub Screw

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NOTE: The position of the camshaft adjustment unit when fitting and feeding on the timing chain is not assigned and can be freely selected.

Install timing chain over reversing rail, camshaft adjustment unit of cylinder bank 5 to 8 and over crankshaft sprocket wheel.

NOTE: Install timing chain inside screw-in pin (1).

Fig 4: Installing Timing Chain Inside Screw-In Pin

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Feed timing chain (1) onto camshaft adjustment unit of cylinder bank 1 to 4.

Fig 5: Feeding Timing Chain Onto Camshaft Adjustment Unit Of Cylinder Bank 1 To 4

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Raise timing chain slightly in area of guide rail.

Slide guide rail over guide pin until retaining lug can be heard snapping into place on lower guide pin.

Align timing chain to guide rail.

Fig 6: Identifying Guide Rail Area

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NOTE: Engines in E53 (X5) have an external oil separator. Screw (1) is not fitted.

Insert screws (1 and 2).

Tighten screw (2).

Tighten down screw (1) for oil separator.

Fig 7: Tightening Screw For Oil Separator

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Replace O-ring (1).

Install oil guide for bow cover in the pivot rail.

Insert screw on tensioning rail.

Fig 8: Replacing O-Ring

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Press bow cover against the timing chain. Secure bow cover with a plastic strap (1).

Tighten down screw on tensioning rail.

Fig 9: Securing Bow Cover With Plastic Strap

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Install timing case cover at bottom.

Install upper oil sump section.