VANOS Rattle Kit Install Question

[edlvrt]

I plan on tackling my VANOS seals this weekend, assuming the thew VCG comes in the mail tomorrow. Reading over the instructions for the rattle kit, it says I need to use an impact wrench to open her up. Is this really necessary, or has anyone been able to get by with a regular wrench?

I don't own an impact wrench but will get one if it is really necessary. Any favorite brands that won't break the bank if I do need one?

Thanks

Ed

[zj96sc]

The reason you need to use an impact is because you have no way to apply counteractive torque in a way that'd let you use a gradual application of force (ie wrench). What you're holding is a machined smooth piston.

The impact along with the piston clamped in a vice gives you sharp enough impulses countered by inertia and clamping force from the jaw liners to get it crack loose.

Long story short, yes, an impact is 100% required. Get the electric one from harbor freight.

Paul

edit: its on sale for $49: http://www.harborfreight.com/power-t...nch-68099.html

[BimmerWill]

I personally didn't do the anti-rattle kit when I replaced my vanos seals. I would imagine if it is necessary however you can pick one up at a harbor freight for a relatively reasonable price and if you wont be using it very much it should be just fine for an occasional use.

http://www.harborfreight.com/air-too...-wrenches.html

[BimmerWill]

The reason you need to use an impact is because you have no way to apply counteractive torque in a way that'd let you use a gradual application of force (ie wrench). What you're holding is a machined smooth piston.

The impact along with the piston clamped in a vice gives you sharp enough impulses countered by inertia and clamping force from the jaw liners to get it crack loose.

Long story short, yes, an impact is 100% required. Get the electric one from harbor freight.

Paul

edit: its on sale for $49: http://www.harborfreight.com/power-t...nch-68099.html

Beat me to it lol whoops..

[johnrando]

I got the electric one from HF for this very thing... haven't done it yet so no idea if it's strong enough. You have to hit it (the trigger) a few times to get it going.

[zj96sc]

I've used two different HF electric impacts to do two different VANOS jobs, and yes, it has more than enough ass to the do the job. Things are actually pretty powerful. I actually shattered a non-impact socket with one on a different project - they're no joke.

[danewilson77]

I've used two different HF electric impacts to do two different VANOS jobs, and yes, it has more than enough ass to the do the job. Things are actually pretty powerful. I actually shattered a non-impact socket with one on a different project - they're no joke.

+1. And just to confirm....you have to use one. I tried smacking a breaker bar and socket, with the soft jaw liners, and you just can't replicate what an impact wrench does.

Sent from Williamsburg, VA USA

[edlvrt]

Sounds good. Does anyone know if you can buy stuff online from Harbor Freight and pick it up in the store? I am trying to purchase through the Mafia link, but I'd like to pick it up today. No store pickup links pop up at me.

Thanks

[edlvrt]

Another related question. All the parts came in, but I ordered a few extras in case I messed something up, but I am missing a few of those extras. Does the "Blind Plug" #10 in the diagram, ever get damaged past the point of reuse? I ordered two, but only one came in. Should I wait on the repair until I have them, or is it safe to proceed tomorrow with only one spare?

Thanks

[zj96sc]

No, you should be fine. I re-used them both. I think you get new o-rings for it.