Vanos Solenoid O-rings install [N62]
 

I have a question on the installation of the O-rings. Specifically the larger one on the Vanos Solenoid.
Reading on another forum "do not fit the large o ring onto the solenoid, instead, coat it in oil and fit it into the counterbore on the front of the head."
When I installed mine I put the O-Ring on first at the base. Not sure if I installed it correctly because I can see the ring looking at the Solenoid once its installed.

That's normal. Whether installed first on solenoid or bore, the result is the same. Make sure the seal is lubricated with engine oil. However, installing on the bore first runs the risk of it being pushed and dropping into the engine. You will then have to fish it out or, if you're unlucky that it fell deep down hidden in a crevice, you will be forced to remove the valve cover to get it out. Don't ask how I know:bustingup

Here're the official BMW steps on it's installation.

https://www.newtis.info/tisv2/a/en/e...ontrol/BUh2ABe

"Don't ask how I know"...always funny to me.
Thanks I did it the original way I was doing it by putting it on the Solenoid first.

I think I disagree. Should not be able to see rings and you should push them into the bore first. They go in to a step about 10mm in so there is no way that you should be able to see them. (Assuming 4.8is is the same) Need to push the solenoids pretty hard to get them in.
I know this is probably too late but I wanted to continue the thread.