this is from the exhaust manifold side; the cylinder head cover gasket seems to be fine from that area. it's very clean no dripping. and around the exhaust manifold seems to be clean as well. However, I see residue where the cylinder head meets the block in multiple areas under the exhaust manifold. it's in so tight place that I have to take few parts (turbocharger, the vacuum near the exhaust) to investigate further. my gut analysis thinks there is microscopic fumes escape in the exhaust cycle (see image) due to slight damage to the gasket under pressure.

it's so complicated with this M57 in comparison to other engines where there is no DPF and cooler. I just don't believe the amount of work involved with this task. to take the cylinder head gasket I have to remove the exhaust, engine left support arm, lower subframe to get to remove the DPF to enable remove the exhaust manifold to clear for cylinder head removal. now here is a kicker, to remove the head after all this work you have to remove the cams, to get to the bolts that hold the cylinder head to the engine block which ultimately you will require the need to time it back when re-installed.

from the intake side, you have to remove the usual and so many parts. so Question to BMW engineers if you are reading this, who was on the design committee to make this process such a complicated one, why-why BMW? do you guys consider maintenance and preventative measures in your design? or just put things together and don't care about after the fact as long as you are making x$$$$ in profit.

it's so frustrating; if I was that type of a guy who has the ability to sell something knowing there is something wrong with it without saying anything. I would have put back together and sold it. but I am not that guy. so any pointer is truly appreciated it to get this damn thing back on the road.

Attached Images