525D it is. Some of the bolts are a bit of a pain but it can be done without to many probs.

 

So is there a definitive cut-off date for when the uprated flaps were fitted. I have a 525d that was reg'd in Jan 05. Any ideas if mine has the updated ones? I'd have a look under the bonnet but every time I get near to anything mechanical I get a nose bleed!!

 

I've heard 04/2004 was the date, but I wouldn't count on it. Do you have the particle filter? All particle filter cars have updated flaps.

 

Sorry for sounding like a retard but if the particulate filter means you have the straight chrome exhaust pipes then yes as I have those!!

 

I have a 530D. Built 7/04, first registered 1/05, and it had the uprated flaps. I wasn't convinced that the extra 0.5mm. was going to definitely avoid one of them being swallowed up, so I went ahead and removed them anyway. So, considering your car was built around the same time as mine, I would imagine that you probably do have the uprated ones.

 

Thats also my current experience and approach, and when you consider when things go wrong people tend to end up on a forum like this I think it speaks volumes, ie I have never seen a post here on these forums from an owner with updated flaps claiming failure.........and if your gonna hear about it first hand here is likely the place you would hear about it.

 

Note!
I've talked with member Hellraiser and he had four broken "updated" 4,5mm swirl flaps. They weren't fully broken when he got them removed, fortunately. Their axels were critically bended and just about to break.

 

Hmm, that puts a different light on the matter then...............

Fek, I have no clue where to start removing my damned inlet manifold (whilst I appreciate there is a guide), let alone the balls to do it, cant afford for my car to be off the road a single day if I screwed it up

 

Grab the bull by the horns! It is actually an easy job to do. Just follow the instructions. It is a huge satisfaction you get after the job!
Or get someone to help you out . Then it's twice as fun.

edit: Umh.... Somehow I managed to make that sound dirty .

 

Anzafin is right, it is easy to follow his guide. Just take your time and place the parts you take off in a safe place layed out in order of how they come off. I have since had my mainfold off a few times now to check on some stuff.