E46 M3 Valve Adjustment - DIY - Part 1

[bmw628csi]

Not bad but there are better videos

rotate engine clockwise also, you went backwards.

[cncmastr]

@bmw628csi Thanks for the feedback. I am pretty sure I was the first to make a video for the E46 M3 valve adjustment. Next time, you can make your own video.

[lackodeniro]

you said "find a smaller shim " doesnt that increasing the gap? you wanna make the gap smaller why you go with smaller shim? You wanna go upwords!?

[mathewmeiers]

@lackodeniro Im also confused by this, I assume he said this backwards.

[BMWPOWERization]

I have an E46 330i and the only performance item I have is the Signature Motoring performance CAI for about $160. The performance kit adds around 13.5HP on the dyno, sounds freaking great, and installs in under 30 minutes. Highly recommended.

-13.5 HP increase

-Lifetime filter

-SOUND AWESOME

-30 min. install time

Aside from the power gain, the SOUND is amazing at higher RPM but sounds normal in regular driving. I’m thinking about added high-flow exhaust next.

[pimparuchi]

That is not right moving the crankshaft counter clock wise. The correct way is clock wise otherwise you put to much pressure on the valves.

[Griggles2]

I watched the first minute of this vid and couldn't take any more. You never "Never" turn a chain driven engine backwards! Sorry but major fail in my opinion.".

[mallydangerous]

Could I ask where did you get the clearance numbers? Thanks.

[hutch430]

If you're going to use calipers...always use the thick part of the calipers, not the thin portion.The ideal way is to use micrometers, much more accurate. I never adjust the lower end. It's a very good way to burn up an exhaust valve.

Nice video, BTW.

[cncmastr]

@hutch430 Thanks for the heads up. The whole thing was a learning experience. I'll keep this tips in mind for next time.

[nsrimmer84]

Thanks for the video. It looked like you were having a tough time turning the engine over. Not sure if your spark plugs were removed or not, but that would make it easier.

[cncmastr]

@nsrimmer84 Yes, spark plugs were removed. I did the VA because I was doing a complete Inspection II, which does call for replacing spark plugs.

[ZeroG21]

Nice instructions video. I didn't really use it as a step by step to do the job, but it was nice to watch some perform the procedure before I went and did it.

[u07t17]

Awesome work Bro!! Thanks so much for this!

[odortiz]

thanks for taking the time to educate us. you really shouldn't turn the engine backward. you put tension on the chain tensioner when it is not backed by oil pressure. you should spin the engine clockwise.

[cncmastr]

@odortiz : You are 100% right, the engine should be turned clockwise.

I'll give you some background. By the time I got the valve cover off (which takes a long time), I left the car in reverse (its an SMG) and every time I turned the engine it went backwards. If I turned the engine the other way, it would have moved forward towards me and the end of my garage wall. Next time, make sure the car is NOT in gear and turn the engine clockwise.

[cncmastr]

Thanks for the comments. The valves should be inspected every 30,000 miles. Adjust as necessary.

[ashperkins]

Great Vid. I'll add to favorites incase I get an e46m3 someday.

Question: What mileage interval do you do this adjustment?

[cncmastr]

@ashperkins Google search this term: "Service_Checklist_2004_US.pdf­"

Also search these items for a more comprehensive list: "mike miller old school maintenance schedule"

[cncmastr]

@ashperkins Different schools of thought, Mike Miller says every 60K for the S54 engine. Inspection II from BMW says every 30k.

[bimmersgarage]

Phenomenal DIY and very thorough video!

Keep up the great work. I'm looking forward to more vids in the future.

[ondafly]

fairplay for taking the time to video this !