I thought I'd run a compression test for a piece of mind yesterday and upon removing the plugs they all had oil around the threads and at the bottom of the barrels, slight as it was I wanted to make sure this could be just a rocker cover gasket issue before buying one, I would assume this is the cause of my hot oil smell when driving as well.
Another couple of issues if anyone can help is that I think I've not got all the fixings for where the wire attaches at the handbrake end, has anyone got a picture I can look at?
Also the light to the right of the low pad wear sensor started to light up everytime I braked the other day when the engine was running, any idea what may be the cause of that?
Oil around spark plugs M52 + hand brake light
Moderator: martauto
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Brianmoooore
- E30 Zone Team Member

- Posts: 49360
- Joined: Mon Jan 10, 2005 11:00 pm
Definite cam cover gaskets issue. Very common. Check the plug 'leads' haven't been damaged by the oil.
Only 'fixings' for the cable at the handbrake end is a couple of nuts.
Light is brake fluid level, and hopefully just needs a top up. Level drops as the pads wear.
Only 'fixings' for the cable at the handbrake end is a couple of nuts.
Light is brake fluid level, and hopefully just needs a top up. Level drops as the pads wear.
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Green
- E30 Zone Squatter

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- Joined: Wed Mar 17, 2010 11:00 pm
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Ah Christ that was replaced last year, I've ordered a new one for tomorrow to take my time with, may well be worth using some instant gasket on it this time around though!
Brake fluid level is fine so unsure what that's about :s
Brake fluid level is fine so unsure what that's about :s

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Brianmoooore
- E30 Zone Team Member

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- Joined: Mon Jan 10, 2005 11:00 pm
No instant gasket required! That stuff breaks off into little balls which find their way into the oil pick up filter.
http://bmwfans.info/parts/catalog/E36/S ... ead_cover/ Did you change the two bits up the middle, as well as the one around the edge.
Brake fluid level drops when you brake, as well as being thrown forwards.
http://bmwfans.info/parts/catalog/E36/S ... ead_cover/ Did you change the two bits up the middle, as well as the one around the edge.
Brake fluid level drops when you brake, as well as being thrown forwards.
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Green
- E30 Zone Squatter

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- Joined: Wed Mar 17, 2010 11:00 pm
- Location: Santa Pod
Yeah I did, cleaned the surface up last time and fitted it with no extra sealant. Perhaps the gasket moved when I put the cover back on. Suppose I'll find out this afternoon. Afterwards I will check the brakes when it's running again. I'll come bump this up if I can't resolve the issue, cheers Brian I always appreciate your help!

