'01 X5 3.0i engine replacement project

[Eric Giles]

As mentioned in my post here http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...ck-x5-3-a.html , I am replacing the M54 in this X5 with another M54. The original motor has a cracked head/bad head gasket, so it is easier, quicker, and cheaper to swap in a known good motor than to fix the current one.

The motor was purchased from a salvage yard that sells on ebay and has good feedback. I was able to get the engine out of a '02 530i with 107k miles that had been rear ended and totaled. The motor was tested before removal and has a 6 month warranty. Price with freight shipping was $890, which isn't a bad price for a relatively low mileage M54B30.

Not much to show as of yet, since we just started the process last night. First thing to do was get the replacement engine prepped.



Valve cover removed...things look nice and clean.


Intake manifold, all wiring, and oil filter housing removed.


So far I replaced the valve cover gasket and installed new spark plugs. The hard plastic coolant lines have been removed, and we degreased the engine the best we could. Tonight I will install the new coolant pipes, new water pump and thermostat, replace the oil filter housing gasket and reinstall the housing. The Vanos solenoids will be removed and cleaned liberally with carb cleaner to prevent any sticking.

While I am dong this, my friend that is part owner of the shop we are using will be prepping the X5 for engine removal. Our goal is to have the new engine in and running by this Sunday evening. i'll try to take plenty of pictures and keep the thread updated on our progress as time permits.