I have an 04 545i that I'm trying to replace the vanos solenoid o-rings on. I've tried oil, grease, starting them on the solenoid, and starting them in the engine. I'm out of ideas and very frustrated. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

 

I'm not sure what you're trying to do... You just want to replace the o-rings?

if so.. they should come out fairly easily once you remove the solenoids. Are you having trouble getting them off?

 

They came off easy but the new ones are just a tiny bit thicker so they won't go back in. I just finished replacing my valve cover gasket, alternator gasket, timing cover gaskets, sparkplug tubes, vacuum pump oil pressure switch and every other o-ring I can find. These are the last four.

 

They are a little tight.

I put the o ring in the head first (make sure it is not too far in) then slide the solenoid in. the solenoid slides in until it hits the step, that's when you have to put more pressure to slide the solenoid further to seat. A dab of engine oil helps

 

I would assume they are the correct size o-rings. just some twisting and pressure should pop them in

 

Got em! I took the advice from someone on the 5 series forum and left the solenoids in the freezer for the day and then went with healthservices method of starting with the o-ring in the engine. Thanks!

 

Oops I meant bimmerforum

 

Did you have any vanos noise?