Valve cover gasket replacement

2011 BMW 550I
175,000 MILES • V8 • TURBO • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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NASER NASER
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V8 twin turbo N63 I assume, smell oil after every drive, seems like there is oil around the valve cover gasket. any idea on good instructions on how to tackle it? I know this is going to be a pain but am willing to do it.
Feb 5, 2020 at 9:20 AM
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KASEKENNY
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I included the process for the valve cover gaskets. They are not too complicated but sounds like it is the issue. Clearly if there is oil coming out there then it needs to be corrected because that should not happen.
Feb 5, 2020 at 2:57 PM
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NASER NASER
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Thank you. Do you know what it means in the third picture and others when it says: join screw 1?
Feb 5, 2020 at 3:17 PM
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KASEKENNY
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It means to get the screw started when putting the sensor in so that it is positioned properly.
Feb 5, 2020 at 6:29 PM
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NASER NASER
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Oh i see, the language got me, and what about position screw one and the lose it 90 degrees?
Feb 5, 2020 at 6:33 PM
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KASEKENNY
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Same type of thing. Make sure the screw is in straight. 90 degrees in relation to the mounting surface. Just start the screw and make sure it goes in straight.
Feb 5, 2020 at 7:07 PM
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NASER NASER
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I started taking things apart and i noticed the side of the valve cover isn't showing any leaks, but the back top where a sensor is inserted. also around the pictures attached, is this the turbo cooler or what do you call it? Can't remember, but it also shows oil on bottom of it. this picture shows the part and on the bottom of it is a big hose and where a lot of oil is. Only the first picture, forget the rest.
Feb 9, 2020 at 5:13 PM
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NASER NASER
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forget these.
Feb 9, 2020 at 5:14 PM
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NASER NASER
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This sensor has oil around it
Feb 9, 2020 at 5:17 PM
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JOETECHPRO
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Hey NASER NASER,

The sensor you have a leak from looks to be a camshaft position sensor.

You may be able to get a new seal for this sensor or you may have to replace the sensor.

Your best bet here is to go to a BMW dealer to identify the part and replace. The picture you have should help and if you can physically show them it will make easier.

With oil leaks it is best to start from the highest spot where you can visually see signs of oil leaking.

Once you have replaced the seal clean the leak area and drive to confirm you have fixed the leak.

Regards, Joe
Feb 10, 2020 at 8:28 AM