Does anyone have a DIY to replace the coolant on a 2001 3.0 E53?

[John Galt]

I looked around the site, but could not find one.

[wallyx5]

There is a plastic drain bolt on the bottom of the radiator on the drivers side. You will need to remove splash guard which will take about 5-10 minutes. There is about 5-7 bolt to remove.

When draining open up the coolant cap.

Note: there is also a drain bolt under the engine which is more complicate to get to. If you want instructions let me know. Using the drain bolt under the radiator will get you about 85-90% of the coolant.

[John Galt]

How tight should I put the radiator drain bolt back in?

What is the procedure for the engine block drain?

What is the refill procedure?

Thanks for all this!!!

[ARTRIGA]

This post has more than just coolant drain/refill, but should give you a good idea: http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...mp-sensor.html
Good luck.

[we350z]

I didn't torque the plastic bolt since TIS says something like 2.5NM and my torque wrench isn't that sensitive. I would put it on hand tight then snug it up. Don't go nuts on it. Just check to make sure nothing leaks out there upon refill.

You should also drain from the engine block for doing a complete flush...

[John Galt]

Is there a crush washer on the engine block drain bolt? If so, what is the part number for the replacement?

[CharlieHustle]

Dont torque the plastic drain bolt...its very brittle. I would replace it for peace of mind. I had the head crack off, leaving only the threads to seal the radiator.

[John Galt]

Originally Posted by CharlieHustle

Dont torque the plastic drain bolt...its very brittle. I would replace it for peace of mind. I had the head crack off, leaving only the threads to seal the radiator.

Good point, does anyone have the part number for the drain bolt?