Timing chain cover gasket replacement on 4.4

[Multibeemer]

I'm in the process of replacing the timing cover gaskets on my 03 4.4i, as I know they're leaking. I got the valve covers off without much difficulty - even the dreaded injector clips came off without much trouble. But the timing chain covers look to be significantly more challenging, as there's quite a bit of stuff in the way. I haven't found a whole lot of info online about this job, and what there is leaves me with some questions. There is some discussion about whether or not it's necessary to remove the vanos solenoids. I don't understand why it would be necessary to remove these, as there seems to be plenty of room in front of them. Here's a picture - I assume the thing the screwdriver is pointing to is the solenoid in question:



There is also some discussion of needing a 32 mm socket to remove it, but mine is held to the timing chain cover with a pair of M6 bolts. Why would I have to remove this solenoid to get the timing chain cover off?

There's also discussion of the need to use some sort of special tool to get the timing chain cover to seat properly against the head when re-installing it. It sounds like something you put underneath the valve cover in place of the gasket that protrudes forward and presses down on the timing chain cover when you (temporarily) tighten down the valve cover, helping the TCC's gasket to seat. Then, you remove the valve cover, and install it with its gasket. Is this tool absolutely necessary? Anybody have any creative alternatives they've fabricated?

And I have a general question about how much stuff I actually have to remove the get the timing chain covers off. For example, do I have to remove the radiator hoses? What about that hard aluminum line that appears to be part of some sort of vacuum apparatus that bolts into both TCC's?

Basically, I'm asking if there's anybody out there who's done this job who can offer me a few tips to make it a little faster and more efficient. Thanks.

[Multibeemer]

OK, I've answered a few of my own questions. The vanos solenoid is actually connected to the head via a 32 mm retaining nut, so removing it would require a 32 mm deep socket. The two M6 bolts only hold the rubber seal assembly. And I was able to get the passenger side timing chain cover off without removing the vanos solenoid, but it will be interesting to see if I can get it back on the same way. The drivers side may be a different story as well, so I may end up a proud owner of a shiny new 32 mm deep socket.

[Spanker]

It might be a bit more work.....but worth the extra piece of mind. Should change the timing chain guides.

[X5only]

Originally Posted by Spanker

It might be a bit more work.....but worth the extra piece of mind. Should change the timing chain guides.

Are you referring to parts 10 and 7, 7 and 10 in the parts diagram?
RealOEM.com * BMW E53 X5 4.4i Timing gear, timing chain, cyl. 1-4

RealOEM.com * BMW E53 X5 4.4i Timing gear, timing chain, cyl. 5-8

I'm getting ready to do both the timing covers (oil leaking) as well and already bought the necessary parts but not the guides you're mentioning (car is at 112K miles). What typically goes wrong with them? Symptoms?

[X5only]

Confirming what Spanker pointed out- apparently the guides are not known to be an issue on the 4.4 with N62 engines (years 2004+) but for M62TU and M62 engines definitely a good PM to do while doing the timing covers.
http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...ain-guide.html