'Tis the season to break down. HUGE oil leak, ~1L of oil on driveway.

[Ghost-Flame]

Oil Separator and Intake Manifold DIY - E46Fanatics

Here's the diy link

Oil filter housing gasket is more gradual. Main bearing seal? I have not experienced this one yet, on a ford or chevy main seal failure is more gradual, at least in my own experience.

[TheGodfather]

Originally Posted by Ghost-Flame

Oil Separator and Intake Manifold DIY - E46Fanatics

Here's the diy link

Oil filter housing gasket is more gradual. Main bearing seal? I have not experienced this one yet, on a ford or chevy main seal failure is more gradual, at least in my own experience.

Hey, thank you for the info. Now that I am calming down, a little bit, I am beginning to agree that this is likely the common oil separator failure issue. I am hoping the damage is isolated. If all I have to do is replace the CCV and hoses that would be great. I hope there are no other failed gaskets involved (valve cover etc.) Or tons of oil and water in the engine.

Ahhh the ol' routine:

1. Break down
2. Immediately consult Xoutpost
3. Call flat bed
4. Get official diagnosis confirming what you already know ($100)
5. Listen to Indies/dealers astronomical quote
6. Source parts
7. Hesitate when deciding whether I want more time, or more money (DIY or take to shop)
9. Do I have the tools? will it be warm enough outside? When do I need the car? How cheap are the tools I don't have?
8. Decision TBD.

[Ghost-Flame]

usually these don't fail at the same time. Valve cover gasket is a 3 or 4 hr job but very straight forward. the water stays contained in the os there should be any in the engine, also the extreme heat created drives out any moisture that gets in there. good luck.