Quote:
Originally Posted by scourtaud23
the worst part were the oilcheck tube and the power steering pump (the bold behind the alternator that nothing can get to. The only way I managed was to pull off the lower timing cover with the timing pump still attached and moving it enough to access that bolt.
I also had issues with the webasto heater and the coolant lines running all over the place, I had to take it out as well as a few coolant lines at the bulkhead.
I used the chinese tools to set up the timing (blue case) and they could be massively improved by adding a cover plate that would prevent them from moving off the head so easily. If there is a next time, I'll try to make one up that holds onto the oil plates over the cams. I also had to grind the vanos socket as there was a ridge inside from bad manufacturing but that was easy.
If I hadn't bought those (because amazon prime made it quick), I'd probably go for the german auto solutions kit as it seems easier to use.
After the fact, I wonder how hard it would be to simply pull the engine out to do the job, it would make it soo much easier and pleasant.
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The horrible bolt behind the alternator is easy to do with a through hole socket. If I didn't have that I don't know how I could get it off and on. Done it a few times now. I'll try to find a picture
The dipstick tube is not that bad you have to find the right direction to get to it (I think I got it from the front). The right combination of extension and swivel is key.
People that have pulled the engine say it adds 6-7 hours and can be worth it for the ease of doing the job. My ¢¢ is that you will have a very hard time applying 350 ft·lb of torque to the crank bolt when the engine is not attached to a 5000 lb counter weight. Even the 135 ft·lb on the cam shafts could be difficult on an engine stand.
I used timing plates from GAS German auto solutions and they are held down by the oil distribution stud. Works perfectly.
You can get vanos solinoids off by loosening the timing cover and reaching inside with a 27? mm open end wrench.
The yellow arrow shows the obstruction that disqualifies a normal socket but the through hole socket goes into the ratchet and reduces the height by about 7-8 mm. Even that is a very tight fit to get in there however. Get a through hole ratchet set if you need to do the job it will pay for itself on that one otherwise impossible bolt.
Crescent X6 kit it's one of the best tools ever made. Not just through hole they are spline and bite into the fasteners like you wouldn't believe.
The reviews often complain no 16mm in the kit but there is a 5/8 which is the same.