Rut row..I think I have an oil leak

[johnnyrad]

So here comes another project for my XI. It appears I have a slow oil leak. I think it might be the oil filter housing gasket. Well at least that's what my thought is. Found some DIY's on e46 fanatics, but wondering if any family members have tackled this job. And do I really need to remove the alternator? Any tips for me? I might tackle this job this weekend.

[danewilson77]

A few have done it here. David (Mtnman) most recently.

KG used this diy.

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=657887

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

[johnnyrad]

Thanks Dane...I probably should have searched a bit more. That actually looks like the best DIY on the subject. A lot work for a $5 part, but at least it's only five bucks.

[nike001]

[bcleaver]

I also need to tackle this but decided to wait until I replace a whole bunch of other parts up front (power steering hoses, overflow, etc.) So I've done some research. Below are some links that will hopefully help you as I've spent a lot of time researching this and can hopefully save you some legwork. Post a write-up if you end up DIYing it as I'd love to hear how it went.

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...=torque+values

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum....php?t=1070662

http://www.bmwtips.com/tipsntricks/oil/housing.htm

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=657887

[johnnyrad]

Post a write-up if you end up DIYing it as I'd love to hear how it went.

Roger wilco bcleaver, thanks for the links.
Might need some extra Scooby snacks to tackle this job.

[Newjack]

Roger wilco bcleaver, thanks for the links.
Might need some extra Scooby snacks to tackle this job.

This video is also incredible helpful to see what is going on before you actually go and do it. Familiarize to save lives.

[kayger12]

It's not that bad a job. Kind of like the vanos-- nothing difficult, just a little time consuming.

As the DIY says, just keep track of the filter housing bolts as they are different sizes.

[Mtnman]

I did this 3 weeks ago. Pm me with any questions. It is straightforward, but tedious. U will change pwr steering fluid, so get some atf fluid for that. Might want to buy new reservoir while ur at it, as the filter is built in to it. Ur gonna spill oil when u crack the housing. Be ready for it. Its a great time to clean the engine too, after the housing is back on but the other shit is still off. Good time to replace pwr steering lines too. Good luck. Be patient. Label everything.....including wires. It will help.

Sent from my DROID3 using Tapatalk

[johnnyrad]

This video is also incredible helpful to see what is going on before you actually go and do it. Familiarize to save lives.

Thanks newjack. Love to see vids of DIY's.

Thanks Keith and Mtnman. Will post pics with writeup. I enjoy diving under the hood so much more then doing brakes, suspension and such. I hate that shit, but this I think I will enjoy.