89 525i distributor cap - BMW Forum

haggus · 09-06-2009, 02:45 PM

I'm looking to change my distributor cap , rotor ,and ignition wires. The bentley manual recommends removing the fan and shroud for easy installation. Well I don't have the tools required to do this. I found a site I can buy them from, but it's a 150 bones I'd rather not shell out at the moment. Has anyone replaced one without the BMW special tools? Is there a good place to buy these specialty tools or must they be geniune BMW? I know from previous experience that using the directions always make the job go better, less frustrations and tool throwing. Anyway looking for some input before I go ahead and start and lose my car for days while I wait for tools and or parts. I'm located just outside Victoria BC 89 525i M20

Thanks

Haggus

Torque · 09-06-2009, 02:55 PM

I've taken it off on a m30 before and it was tight but it can be done ... I think there's about the same amount of room on the m20. Either way, I'd give it a shot and see ... worst come to worst, you can't get it off and you have to do up the 3 bolts that hold it on.

That said, the pulley holder and wrench can be purchased at BMW Parts and BMW Accessories | Bavarian Autosport for about 80 for both. Some people even report being able to borrow/rent them from the local parts store (though not all will have them).

haggus · 09-06-2009, 03:55 PM

Thanks for the info bavarian autosport looks like the way to go for tools if I need them I guess I'll see if there is enough clearance to do without first.

Torque · 09-06-2009, 05:44 PM

btw, for a even cheaper solution, get a 32mm regular wrench, then use an angle grinder to grind it down and make it thin to be able to get it onto the nut on the fan. Then use a rubber mallet and keep smacking it until it lets go ... doesn't require you to hold the pulley since the impacts loosen it ever so slightly each time (might take a few minutes but it works).

haggus · 09-06-2009, 06:45 PM

Well it's very tight but it can be done. I can see why they recommend taking the shroud and fan off. The old cap and rotor needed to be replaced the contacts were black and there was biege dust inside the cap. I also had a nick in the coil wire. I did the ressitance check on the coil primary was close secondary was higher than the book calls for but I don't think it needs to be replaced. I thinkmy meter needs to be calibrated as well so as long as it's close to what I need it's ok. I guess I'll putting a list together of tools I'll be needing now the wife and kids will know what to get me for x-mas and fathers day.

DonJ · 09-06-2009, 08:21 PM

I found the tools on Ebay for $27 plus shipping and that included the tool for holding the clutch. They still have some outh there - it was a "buy it now" instead of a bid. Do a search on "BMW fan clutch". They also have just the wrench (no clutch holder) for $15.00.

But check your local auto parts stores. Some of the chain stores offer a free loaner program and they should have the ones you are looking for. I would've loaned some from a local store here but someone had used them and not brought them back.