I think the new style valve stem seal - updated version not allowing the oil to pool inside the seal should make a big difference. After thinking about AGAs description of the improvements, it makes perfect sense on why the old seal style allowed so much oil consumption. The top of the valve guide was constantly submerged in a puddle of oil. The new style has removed that cavity, so even as the new seal wears, the oil will naturally want to expel to the outside of the seal. So the moral of this story is, be sure when you replace your seals you have purchased the new style (red in color).

Martin pointed out to use the new style valve guides (red). I'm not sure if you can even buy the old style anymore (which I wouldn't do). Which would mean BMW acknowledged the issue, but choose NOT to address the situation free of charge for the poor design...same as that bloody cooling pipe......

Watched the demo and DIY video. Great tool! I certainly would purchase one if/when I need to do the job.

you don't need it for yours. If you buy an X5 with the N62, you might need it.

Isn't the 4.6 the older N62 with less horse power?????

I've seen the old style valve stem seals (at least pictured) for sale on the internet - the new & old style have the same part number - this is just a word of warning - if purchasing valve stem seals from a source other then the dealer, beware that you are not purchasing someones old stock.

M62.

wow nice tool

That's right - The N62 is 4.4 (325 hp) and the N62TU is 4.8 (360 hp)

You're right. I should get that permanently in the memory bank.

I always refer to my engine as a 4.6, don't relate to the M62 designation.

I don't know about others but I read so much about the smoking problem and other problems like those involving transmissions etc. I get to the point that I have to remind myself that not all of the problems I read about are going to happen to me.

I still think the tool is great and a justifiable tool purchase--------------for those with N62 engines, of course.

so, is there a consensus on this tool? where do we stand on this - the tool is being shipped - has anyone already used it and if so, how are the results?

obviously, there is a tool kit - is there a list of the parts needed for this job? the necessary parts for the valve job, and maybe a list of parts for other, optional (or, maybe not so optional) jobs, like that pipe that is buried somewhere deep in the engine...

if i am not an engine DIY type of a guy, is there a possible rental option of the tool? how much time should be expected to be spent on this job (based on time and labor rates, one can estimate the labor cost)?