325i Timing belt replacement - BMW Forum

jefftheref · 02-08-2004, 01:36 PM

I need some help. I lost my timing belt. Had the head re-built, pistons and block looked OK. Re-assymbled engine, got it running (very rough) inspected for leaks found oil all over the floor, shut engine off ASAP. Now I can't find where the oil was coming from. Did I miss something? Followed the Bently manual. Could my block be craked?

1991 325i convertible

Jeff

BMWJNKY · 02-08-2004, 05:19 PM

Did you put in a new cam seal and camshaft retainer seal? There is a red o-ring that goes on the back side of the camshaft retiner if that is cracked or missing that would cause an oil leak. Also did you install a new intermediate shaft seal, it is the same part # as the cam seal?

CLW · 02-08-2004, 05:27 PM

Jeff,
You might check the 4 rubber plugs in the head that seal the valve cover to head. Two in front and two in back. If these are not replaced when for example the valves are adjusted they will tend to leak. New valve cover gaskets do not contain these seals. See Bentley Fig. 4-33, 4-39, 4-40, etc. to locate. Then again might be an oil pan gasket or something simple like a loose oil filter. Have had the oil pressure sending unit leak quite a lot of oil too. Doubt you have a cracked block. They tend to leak coolant rather than oil out side the crankcase. You need to locate exactly where it is originating from first by cleaning the entire engine then search.

BMWJNKY · 02-08-2004, 05:38 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by CLW@Feb 8 2004, 07:07 PM
Jeff,
You might check the 4 rubber plugs in the head that seal the valve cover to head. Two in front and two in back. If these are not replaced when for example the valves are adjusted they will tend to leak.

I completly forgot about those

ghead

e30 dude · 02-09-2004, 02:53 AM

speaking of timing belt and the 4 rubber plugs, i had a leak due to these plugs. i've replaced them and now the leak problem is gone. however, i can't help but wonder if my timing belt needs to be changed due to oil contamination from oil coming out of the plugs and onto the belt.. my belt was just replaced 20T km ago.. whattaya think?

jefftheref · 02-09-2004, 07:20 AM

CLW,

Searched for the rubber plugs....found them in the gasket kit I had set out for the trash. Thanks for the great call!!!! Saved me a lot of trouble...next time your in Olrando I owe you a beer.

Jeff