theweeknd24

Hey all. I am having issues with doing the upper timing cover gaskets on my 06 550i specifically on the driver side. I want to know if anyone can give me a step by step DIY on how to get to some of the lower Etorx bolts on the bottom of the cover because there is some obstruction with the oil cooler lines running right by them. Please shed some light on this. I have tried searching google and have found no DIYs for the 550i but only for the 545i . Thank you all.

CVTBenhogan

Try this link. Using this as a reference for my DIY. It's 3 parts and very detailed.

theweeknd24

That still doesn't help me. I'm talking about the upper timing cover gaskets. How would I go about disassembling? The driver side especially.

CVTBenhogan

I'm sorry not to have read your post closely. You probably seen the youtube 545 video (e60 timing covers). I'd would assume main bolts are the same and just move as much as you can. Again sorry I can't help and will find myself in the same boat in a few months. Good luck.

theweeknd24

I appreciate the attempt, but that video with the 545i has a different setup on the driver side with more lines obstructing the lower bolts on the timing cover. let me know if you attempt to complete this job. id love to hear solutions to this madness. its just a pain and i feel as if i have to remove a lot to just get to a couple bolts.

theweeknd24

Can anyone else shed some God-like light???

H F

In order to get to the lower bolts on the timing cover .You have to remove the top alternator bolt , loosen the lower bolt and rotate the alternator clock wise . If you cant get enough clearance , remove the lower bolt and the alternator will drop some and move to the right a little farther . That will give you enough clearance to get to the lower timing cover bolts . The oil cooler lines cant be moved as they are bolted to the thermostat on the alternator bracket behind the alternator .

theweeknd24

thanks H F. I do appreciate the help. ok so ive gotten down to that part but the oil cooler line that bolts to the bracket is obstructing one of the lower bolts to the upper timing cover. do i have to remove that oil cooler line by unbolting it? i just dont want to do something that i can get around but by looking at it, i think thats the only way to do it. i hate how the 550i is a lot confusing than the 545i is.

Gee_115

Did you ever figure out how to do this repair? I could use some guidance. Does anyone know if there is a TIS out there on how to do timig cover gaskets on the 550 with oil cooler?