Thanks for the breakdown on this. The bolts from the manifolds to the midpipe are studs on mine, so I can't just get those out. So, I unbolted the entire exhaust - save that bolt that holds the midpipe to the transfer case. It's amazingly rusted.


None of the studs on my front manifold came out, so that's probably bad for me. I can't imagine how I can wiggle that off with all the studs on. There's about 3/4" between the manifold and the subframe rail.


Fortunately, I don't have to get this thing on the road quickly. It is going to be a ton of work this way, but I have the time.

Whats the update here? I have a very annoying ticking and puffing from my 02 3.0 cats. I need to get on the job soon..

Both of my cats were gone getting both P0420 and P0430 codes. I posted on thread #20 on how to remove the cats.

Thanks for the steps.

Couple questions. Did you have to remove the arm off the engine the attaches to the engine mount?

Did you have enough clearance for your manifolds to drop? I couldn't tell based on the comments.

Did the majority of your studs unscrew off the head verses staying in like the should? I see you ordered new ones regardless.

How long did this take you?

I am looking to get these for my 3.0 2002. Thoughts?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/BMW-X5-3-0L...6/253086527915

See replies in red

Thanks a bunch. Are you saying it's impossible to remove them with the studs in? I would prefer that method.

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I can't really say if manifolds can be removed with studs still in the head. Maybe others can chime in who have done the same job.

I had a P0430 code for a long time. All my IM monitors passes but the secondary air. So I checked the air pump when engine is cold. I feel it blowing. I put a vacuum meter on the vacuum line to the valve and there's good vacuum.

I bought a foxwell NT510 and I activated the vacuum valve while the engine running and pump unplugged. I dont feel any exhaust coming out. I know my E53 2001 does not have a check valve. So exhaust should come out.

I removed the valve and I can see a lot of carbon. I cleaned it with throttle cleaner throughly. Put it back. Code did not clear. However 24hours later the CEL extinguished and all my IM monitors are "green".

I bought a replacement valve anyway, the amount of carbon in the port of the cylinder hear is about 1/4" thick, I dont know how to get that out.

Hope it helps someone. If you see all your IM monitors green except for secondary air, it might not be the cat.

Cat replacements
 

Like you, Chedeng, I'm getting those dreaded Cat codes. Passed inspection last year, but I'm concerned I won't make it next November. I'm hoping my southern X5, avoiding most road salt, will be an easier task than you faced. Given the age of our vehicles, I expect most all of us will be doing this soon. Mine turns 13 tomorrow, and has 215k on the odometer. I'll look through your posts on this thread before I drive off that bridge .....:dunno: