Changing 4.4 VCG -how common are timing case cover leaks?
 

I'm currently halfway through a VCG job on this 4.4, and wondering if the timing case gasket(s) are the real failure. The leak appears to be right at the front corner where that joint is...common failure? Looks like a lot more trouble to replace them, and this car is just a flipper for me so any input?

On a side note, one of the VCG metal washers dropped right in a cylinder hole and wedged perfectly on top of the spark plug. I ended up having to smash a magnet in half to get it in there and lift it out. Hate to say it but that little faux pa cost me a few days.

if you are already in there do your upper timing cover gaskets while you can pretty cheap and they can and will leak. they are pretty easy to do with the valve cover s off just pull out vanos solenoid and move a few things. worth it to do for me because to do the upper timing cover gaskets you have to remove valve covers anyway

Yeah, kinda what I figured. Thanks

If doing the upper covers you will want BMW tool 83 30 0 493 364

Edit: and Wurth black rtv silicone

Thanks, JB. Tried to Google that tool but not much luck...is that the guide or assembly tool? Would you mind describing its purpose? I've changed several BMW VCG's and never had a tool. Unfortunately the car is disassembled and waiting for them now is problematic (unless someone in Charlotte area has them for loan?). Think I'll have significant trouble without the tool?

I was not able to find Wurth but do have some sealant. I typically place it only on the lobes/half moons and the lower front corners. What's your recommendation?

Yes, the half moons and front corners of the vcg, and upper and lower corners of the upper front covers. A drop of any black rtv would do. The tool is used to uniformly compress the front upper covers down against the front lower cover while installing the upper covers to the cylinder heads.

Edit: I suppose the valve covers could be used to do this.

Ah, I see. I think the past I've more or less just manhandled it into the right place...obviously not ideal. Guess I could bolt the valve cover up like you're saying (without the gasket) while the timing cover is bolted up but loose. That would depress the cover evenly, then tighten up the bolts on timing cover, remove and reinstall the VC.

Yeah man! Hope it goes smoothly for ya.