Quote:
Originally Posted by fulltilt
But does driving really burn off the condensation? Mine froze up over Christmas after driving 2 hours on the freeway in -17F weather in Iowa. Valve cover gasket finally let go and another driver had to inform me of the smoke coming from under the car in the back. I didn't notice anything, because in -17F, your exhaust looks pretty white as it is and it wasn't rising into my rear view enough to see it. I have the insulated valve now, but I still wonder if keeping the water from getting there isn't the only chance we have? Here is the picture of the insulated valve in case anyone wants to see it:
|
Yes, but it isn't related to the drive you were on when it froze. It is related to all the short trips when the condensation built up in the oil separator valve. You need to regularly get the engine hot enough to burn off the condensation, and keep it at that temperature for a period of time. That is what keeps the condensate from collecting in the OSV. Alternatively, clean the valve and hoses out every year or so.
The insulated valve is an improvement, but won't prevent freezing. That will require a heated valve.
__________________
2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White
Retired:
2008 535i, 6 MT, M Sport, Premium, Space Grey
2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
2002 325xi 5 MT, Steel Grey
2004 Z4 3.0 Premium, Sport, SMG, Maldives Blue
|