All in - pulling the 4.6 engine and trans to fix oil leaks once and for all

[stunt]

Hey guys,

Figured I'd start a thread to document pulling my 4.6 engine and transmission to fix my engine oil leaks and transmission issues and ask questions along the way as they arise.

I purchased the truck about 1 year ago with 134k on the clock. It now has 137k on it. That's right, it has been down for most of the last year for various repairs. I have done the following repair/maintenance over the last 12 months:

• Replaced valve cover gaskets and grommets
• Replaced spark plugs
• Replaced filters (air, oil, fuel, transmission, cabin)
• Replaced engine oil twice
• Replaced differential oil (front and rear)
• Replaced transmission oil
• Replaced transfer case oil
• Drilled out oil pan drain plug and installed TimeSert and new plug
• Replaced radiator
• Replaced water pump and thermostat
• Replaced all coolant hoses
• Replaced transmission coolant bypass valve
• Replaced accessory belts

I also did various cosmetic things, like replaced front and rear lights and side markers, as well as installing an aftermarket stereo with Zapco amps, so I really want to keep this X5 for the long haul.

Anyway, I stated prepping for removing the engine this weekend. I have the Bentley manual and have pretty much been using that as my guide.

I did find it next to impossible to remove the rear bolt on the power steering pump. In order to get to it, I have to remove the alternator cooling duct, and in order to remove it, I have to pull the bumper cover and bumper. At this point, I think I just might remove the rest of the front clip for easier access.

Here are some pics of the progress from this weekend:



Here's a shot of what has been removed so far. I need to make some more room... Lol. Also, the red arrow is pointing to the stiffening plate. All that oil is just from driving it around 500 miles.



Shot from the front



Shot from below. It doesn't really show how bad the oil leak issue is, but you can get an idea.



Another shot from below showing the power steering pump resting on the front cross member.



Once I get the engine out, what should I inspect/replace? I'm going to do the timing chain guides for sure as they are definitely due at 137k!

I'm hoping I can reuse my valve cover gaskets as they have only been on for just over 2k miles.

Other than the oil leaks, engine is running strong, so I wonder if it is worth the trouble to pull the heads?

With the engine out, I pretty much want to do everything I can to ensure it will run good for at least another 100k with no leaks or other surprises if I can.