jj546

Has anyone removed a V8 through the top? I know the dealer drops it out the bottom, but I am short one vehicle lift. It is time for a clutch, numerous oil leak repairs and valve seals. Car is an '05 545 w/160K.

BimmerFan52

Photos at end of post #2 show N62 being removed from 545i through the top.

BMW E60, 545i N62, Engine Removal, Rebuild, Installation - Bimmerfest - BMW Forums

DavidF

My preferred method is out through the front. This way, trans stays attached and hood can stay on (service position). Basically, just remove the front bumper and core support, tilt/lift engine slightly to clear cross member and out she comes. It is relatively easy to remove the nose of the car...only issue from some is opening up the a/c and subsequent recharge.


Incidentally, I have done all the OP is wanting to do with the engine still in the car. But, not all at the same time. Just recently dropped trans to reseal back of engine block and front of trans. Valve stem seals, coolant transfer tube, and cleaning secondary air ports was back breaking work for sure (leaning over the fender for 22 + hours or so).


Whichever method is chosen, good luck.

jj546

Thanks to both, I've seen that post before, but forgot where and searched the wrong forum. I hope mine goes a little easier especially since I have the air cooled alternator and no active roll, steering or auto trans. Lots less plumbing.

evolotion

HAvnt done a v8 only inline 6's but autos can come out the top as you only need the flex plate to clear the gearbox without removing bonnet OR slam pannel. removing front crank pulley helps rather a lot too. on a manual im not so sure it will come out without either dropping the gearbox first, or removing the front end (or alteast unbolting the slam pannel and a few other things to get the extra few inches required)

DavidF

Is the "slam" panel the same thing as the "core support". Never had heard the term slam panel...must be a Scottish/British thing.

evolotion

sorry, slam panel refers to the panel the bonnet (or hood lol) latches or "slams" onto. I forgot I also drop the frotn subframe so all the bolts are only in by a few threads, helps get the sump over the crossmember.