I have an e60 550i 08 LCI. It's my baby. About a couple weeks ago, it stopped charging the battery, but I had replaced the alternator about 2-3 months before. I took it in to the dealer and they quoted me around 2000 dollars to fix!!!
They said the upper timing covers were leaking all over the alternator causing it to fail.
Is there any way I can do this myself? My indy quoted me about 1900 dollars, and I love this car way too much to give it up.
It has 99xxx miles on it, and I love working on it.
I'm not seriously mechanically inclined, but from the look of this video:
It looks like i could do it myself. Any ideas? Could i replace the alternator and place some sort of cover on the top to prevent oil dripping onto it?
any help is appreciated!
(and yes I did use the search)
-Kal

 

I would probably not attempt this if you aren't mechanically inclined. Unlike bmw straight 6s the v8 valve cover gasket doesnt seem likes its very easy to do. If it isn't leaking very badly, you could put a metal plate on top of your alternator to prevent oil from spilling on it but you should probably get the leak fixed.

Replace valve cover gasket DIY...help

 

I see. I was worried about that. I'm hoping the metal plate idea will work, but if it doesn't I guess It's time for a new car

 

Putting a cover is a band aid fix. You'd still have the problem. Our V8's are notorious for this kind of leak unfortunately, both the valve cover gaskets and the alternator gasket (and the ever so dreadful coolant transfer pipe - which I had already replaced). I have my alt gasket in hand ready for install and am now waiting for my valve cover gasket sets, along with the other associated parts to tackle this in the upcoming weeks. You may not be "seriously mechanically inclined" just yet but, if you have the patience and willingness to take on a challenge, you can absolutely fix it. You said it yourself - "It looks like I could do it myself" Plus it'll save you a ton of $$$ and you'll feel a sense of accomplishment for fixing your pride and joy!

 

If you know how to turn a wrench then you can do it. You might not know how but their are tons of DIYs for that job. You follow the instructions and take your time it will only take your Saturday. Make sure if you decide to do it do everything else while you have your engine apart.

 

Of course you can do it,
dont be scared!!!!
study about it so you know what to do
then just take your time

you will love learning and love the feeling that you did it!!!

 

It would b a project from hell with no experience and little or no proper tools. Its a matter of moving or removing things to get to the Alternator. If the quote included a gasket seal for the valve cover is included, the price is reasonable. My 2010 550 Msport was $1,400.00 and the 05 545 Sport was $4,000. for Chains and Valve covers.

 

I'm on the same boat with you My topic https://5series.net/forums/e60-discu...1/#post1572737