Originally Posted by aureliusmax (Post 1235813)

guys. if you have zero compression in cylinder 7, you are having burnt valve that is warped and not seating on the valve seat. there's no point in doing anymore checks, OP already took over valve cover and the keepers/springs seem to be undamaged and that was the only check needed. while other member's posts are coming from a good place, it's really all a waste of time after the compression was determined as zero and then checking physically valve gear from the top after removing the cylinder cover.
Replace the engine head with a good used unit, or remove and send damaged head for repairs.

Originally Posted by 80stech (Post 1236082)

At least when it's that bad you have less decisions to make! ;) Good thing you took EOD's advice and got the camera scope first, that saved pulling the head off.

Originally Posted by aureliusmax (Post 1236083)

I have a 4.8L block... but a 4.4 ... maybe just call around local wreckers and have them take out an engine for you!

Originally Posted by Aidzer0 (Post 1236689)

I have found a replacement engine, 156k km on it. I got the trans with it too since my trans is high miles and I just wanted to be safe since I will be there already.


So I see its not really possible to pull the trans + engine out with a cherry picker, I was wondering if it would be possible to pull the front clip off, which would then give me the space I need. Has anyone gone this route?


Apart from the alternator bracket and the valve covers. Any gaskets I should do while the engine is out? I would prefer not to separate the trans from the engine. But maybe it would be wise to do it and sort out that rear coolant cover?


Thanks!

Originally Posted by aureliusmax (Post 1236708)

the only seal you won't be able to reach with the transmission connected is the rear main seal, which you should do since it will be easy with transmission and engine out. how can you be so lazy to have a complete engine and transmission out but then not want to separate them and do the job properly

I have no idea why you have problems finding an engine. I see another parts E53 with a 4.4 engine for $1000 another one comes for sale every week in my area

Originally Posted by X5chemist (Post 1236709)

Redo the coolant system. Anything you can't reach without removing major parts should be updated for preventative maintenance.

Originally Posted by Aidzer0 (Post 1236754)

Its not laziness so much so as needing to take time off of work to do this along with getting my wife up and running again. Also I will be doing this job myself and my back has not healed since an accident last month, so I am trying my best to trim down on extra work where I can. I am just trying to simplify an already massive job.

And I just said I would prefer not to separate the 2, if its advised, I would do it without hesitation.



As for the availability, I live in the sticks in Manitoba, shipping is outrageously expensive, along with no 4.4l being available, all the junk yards I called near me (within 4-6 hours drive) did not have any BMWs, let alone specific engines. Most BMWs available here are base models anyways.







Cheers! Most of the coolant items were replaced, Rad, Expansion tank, hoses, pump, thermostat. I will be swapping over the new parts from old engine to new one with brand new gaskets.