Originally Posted by BimmerM3inGA

Well, this isn't what I would categorize as a typical DIY job. It's definitely not for the faint of heart. Modern BMW engines are complex, but not anything exotic. I was intimidated by the job at first, too. I have torn down plenty of BMW I6 engines, but had never done any major work on a V8. And it has very little in common with the 6's.
But if you have experience with mechanical work, which it sounds like you do, then you should be able to handle it.

You said you already have the parts. But you may want to take a look at ecstuning.com because they have a comprehensive kit (item #ES2526337) which includes all the parts you'll need including all the little gaskets and seals. The only thing not included in the kit that I'd recommend you also replace are the camshaft sealing rings. You need 6 of them - 3 for each cam. They are part #11311705512 and the instructions on the Beisan site mention replacing them, but they are not in the kit.

If you're thinking about buying a Bentley manual to help with the job, I can save you 100 bucks. This procedure isn't covered in the manual. Why, Bentley?

If you have any questions, feel free to ask. It's been a few months since I did the job, but it's still pretty fresh. Plus, I think I might be about to do it again with my 2002 X5 4.6is.