How to replace Engine Valve Cover Gasket for X5 4.4?
 

Hello everyone,
I have X5 4.4 2002 early model with 125K miles.
Last weekend I replaced the spark plugs and noticed some engine oil sitting around plug 7 and 8. not much though. I managed to clean it and replaced all with new plugs.
Question here is: Do anyone of you know how (DIY) to replace the valve gasket on 4.4 model?

I managed to took all 11 screws out but I could not remove the valve cover to remove the gasket, do I need to remove the plugs as well?

earlier post with pics somewhere here - not just valve cover, but valve gaskets need to be replaced - just had that done at my Idaho dealer - will stop by my dealer to find out what needs to be removed for access

Did you have to replace both or just one side? if you don't mind, how many hrs did the dealer charge on labor?
Thanks

have to look that up, but I don't think they broke it down - reason?..., my Idaho dealer gives me some price breaks (or at least the service mgr & mechanic do) - had that done with spark plugs, fuel filter ($208), both differential service, brake service, radiator flush, tranny service, and replaced broken rear door lock ($341) for a total of $1616. individual prices are what I can remember from original workup, plus labor rate is less out here. they had it for 5 days, as some parts needed to be ordered - will get the bill from the car later and will post what I can here

of, yeah, some hoses also - the ones behind the 4.4 engine (2- ~30mm dia) 2nd time for these as they wear out from the inside (42k & 104k) - to check yours, feel if they are flexible and feel soft, then they need replacement - believe these are coolant hoses

Hi Ahadi try this link its same as e39 v8 4.4

Covers

I will give it a try.
Thanks

okay, got the bill (still have to get to the dealer) - right front valve cover gasket was leaking (+ 100k tuneup)

spark plugs, distributor for trans. fluid, fuel filter w/ pressure re., brake fluid, antifreeze, door lock w/motor actuator, torx-bolts w/washer, clip natur(?), water hose, rubber seals, one set of profile gaskets = $683 parts + $868 labor, then tax & misc +$1616

the workup prices included parts & labor, so the door lock was $215(p) + $126(L) = $341

fuel filter $107(p) + $101(L)

mostly I don't quibble over prices, they have a standing order from me to replace anything that is marginal, or due to be replaced - work consisted all in the above post plus transfer case service

hold the phone chaps ,
there are more diy`s on e38 tips and tricks , link is on this forum home page .
here is a pic showing the clips that hold the connector box to the injectors , better pics are on the link .
ok found all relevant pics so here ya go and good luck.

Thank you all!!!
I will give it a try.

Thanks for the write up!

I am adding this you tube link showing how to just pull off the wiring box without the need to remove those retaining clips .
BMW M62 Valley Pan Gasket Replacement - YouTube

There is no need to take out each individual fastener on the fuel injectors! Just unscrew the 2 10mm bolts holding the junction box in place and pop it off all at once. It is easy to re-install that way to. Save yourself some headache!

I wish I had known about this when I did my valve covers. I must have spent 8 hours wrestling with those wretched fuel injector retaining clips!

so true !!
 

Two years ago I did my timing chain guides and valve cover gaskets there leaking a little bit ,ive been messin with them injector clips and took a break and found this Iam going back and trying this right now .I hope it works!!!!!

Good luck! Let us know how it goes. I'm in the exact same situation as you - doing this job "by the book" with the injector clip removal method is just sheer misery, so I'm anxious to see if the "easier" method really works.