Head Gasket change question

[cook28]

Just tore down a 328i to replace head gasket and am reviewing reinstall from Wayne's 101 E36 book. The Bentley said to install the head bolts after the cam lockdown tool is installed but the project book shows it doesn't matter. I turned back off TDC about 30 degrees to avoid destroying valves so I would think it doesn't really matter unless I go back to TDC without timing cams. The reason I'm asking is I am waiting for the cam tool and don't want to get ahead of myself. Thanks for any feedback.

[Jeron]

If the cams are installed then you need to have the engine and cams each set to TDC so you don't damage a valve. Without the cam tool installed there is a chance the cams may slip to a different position and damage a valve.

[cook28]

Thanks Jeron, I now have the tool and the primary gear has been installed to the left of the slots but I am now having doubts about the proper install for secondary gears. The Bently and Wayne's 101 sort of conflict with regards to alignment. The book states to install the dummy tensioner and remove any slack in the chain. If I follow this step won't this change the timing position since the primary gear now advances more toward center of holes instead of far left. Wayne simply states install the tentioner and finger tighten but nothing regarding any slack removal. My understanding is that the exhaust cam and intake holes should now be centered. Should I procede with minimum tention and keep them to the left of the slot or remove slack which moves the primary more toward the middle. I don't know if this is a critical point in the cam timing. Please help!

[Jeron]

Another good writeup of how to install and time the Vanos is on Drvanos.com

Read that and see if helps.