don't wait too long on the thermostat. important that the engine run at the correct operating temp...temp needle at high noon. my broken thermostat led to additional CCV gunk which can cause serous problems. the only truly hard part about the thermostat is the clutch fan. but that's definitely doable. you will figure it out.

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2005 X5 3.0i - 71k mi (9.2018) -> 81k (9.2019) -> 100k (9.2021) -> 123k (8.2025)
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SOLD : 2003 X5 3.0 - 177k mi (9.2018) -> 186k (9.2019) -> 205k (9.2021)
SOLD : 1997 328is Coupe - Hellrot Red
SOLD : 1988 528e w/ Bullseye s256 / MS2 Extra / GC Coilovers / Yukon Coils ~ 300+ HP