please help!! my Beemer hates ME!!!!

[douluvbeemers]

I have a 2002 325i, and it seems to be quite upset with me! I just replaced the valve cover gasket, because it leaked terrible. So, now, after doing that and making sure none of the oil has reached any of the coil packs, or spark plugs.....she runs AWFUL!!! When i start her, it takes roughly 30 seconds for the idle to catch, and to stop spitting and sputtering. Upon acceleration, she whistles, and hesitates. I really need someones help please.....this is very frustrating!!!

[Lord Vader]

Maybe its because you keep calling it a Beemer, and doesnt like to be referenced as a motorcyle?

When you replaced the VCG did you replace the plugs as well? Was everything torqued back to spec? Improperly torqued plugs can cause missfires and other issues. I would start with that.

[douluvbeemers]

Yes, we did check and replace the plugs. However, there was nothing wrong with them, and they were torqued back to factory specs. She just spits and sputters, which leads me to believe that there may be an exhaust leak issue. I just do not even know where to begin! I hate to take it to just ANY mechanic, as the jack asses around here perplex me! i'm just at a loss, as I have no clue what to even start to look for!!!

[kerryf]

I would retrace all of the hoses that MIGHT have been disturbed by the gasket replacement looking for cracks/loose attachment. If you do not find anything leaking, go through all wires that might have been disturbed for loose connections or missing insullation.

Good Luck

Kerry

[Lord Vader]

Unplug your MAF. If it smoothes out your idle, then you know the MAF is bad and needs to be replaced. Try cleaning the MAF before replacement though,