Head Gasket Repair

[FireMedic530]

After doing a cooling system overhaul recommended by Indy to fix an overheating issue, which did not solve the problem, I had a pressure and hydrocarbon test performed. Positive on hydrocarbon and cooling system was building pressure over time. Usually after 45 minutes of driving expansion tank releases. Wish he had done this test before the overhaul. Now wants $4500 to repair. Have decided to do it myself with help of friend who has built race engines. Is there a guide around like the one for the 3-series head gasket replacement. Does the gasket usually fail or the head warp pulling threads out of the block? If there is minimal leakage does this indicate gasket failure or head warping. Any advice or help appreciated.

[Jeron]

You didn't list your year but the basic repair is the same for all the BMW 6's. If yours is and M54 engine with Dual Vanos then timing the engine is slightly different but not really harder.

Try Bentley and DrVanos.com for a guide to re-timing the engine.

If the head were badly warped you would probably be having more severe issues. The machine shop will mill the head back to new.

Expect $100-200 in tools, $300-500 in parts, $350-550 for the machine shop bill and $100 for oil, coolant, assy lube, anti-seize, loctite. While you are there you may want to replace a few extra parts like hard to reach hoses, exhaust hangers.