westsidebalto

My 2004 545i (115,000 Mi.) continues to leak oi at a relatively slow rate where I'm not adding more than a quart per oil change interval (7,500 mi. Mobil 1 0W-40). It's probably come time where I need to replace the notorious alternator gasket, the valve cover gaskets, and the timing cover gaskets. The valve covers and alternator gaskets are quite intimidating, with many DIYers saying these are 10 out of 10 difficulty level and can take over 8 hours to complete. My questions about these processes are this:

1) Can the timing cover gaskets be replaced by themselves? In other words, if I don't have the cojones to start the valve cover gaskets also, can I just do the timing covers without removing the VCs or is that a waste of time/effort?

2) I'm a mediocre hack mechanic, who has completed a large cooling system overhaul on the N62 545 (including most hoses, the water pump, thermostat, AC belt, serpentine belt and pulleys, etc), as well as replacing the plugs at 100,000 mi. and replacing the oil pressure switch/rebuilding the vacuum pump. I've also done brake pads/rotors, brake fluid flush, change my own oil, etc. Is the VC gaskets and alternator gasket project too much to handle? I'm considering just taking these to an independent dealer without any idea of what this will cost.

Curious what you all think....

Gee_115

You should probably get a quote first to help you decide. I need the work done as well. Dealer quoted $1900 for Valve covers and timing covers and a further $1200 for alternator. Indy quoted $1300 for valve and timing, a further $850 for alternator. They said none of the labour overlaps.

Personally, I feel I am very adept at working on my car, as I have done almost all the maintenance but this procedure seems very difficult one I would not undertake unless I had no choice. I would try to do the alternator bracket myself that seems very manageable as long as you can find a way to lift the engine(from what I have seen from the DIY). My plan is to use Indy for the valve covers then do the alternator myself.

westsidebalto

Thanks, I was curious about the cost. The engine jacking is tricky. Seems like it can be done with a jack, but either way it's a tough job.

Think it's worth my time to do the timing covers and leave the valve covers to the Indy?

txag_530i

Just do it. The job is just removing nuts, bolts and some gaskets. The engine can be lifted with an engine hoist that can be rented, or an engine support bar.

Worst comes to worse you have the car towed.

H F

Go for it ,, it's doable . If you need some information and pics ,let me know and I'll post some.