M40 lower sump removal and refitting

Post Tue Apr 09, 2013 4:57 pm

Hi all, I've read on here and elsewhere stories about things coming loose inside the lower sump on M40 engines and as I'm about to service mine I thought it could be an idea to whip the sump off and check all is ok. So two things,

1. I this worthwhile doing?
2. Is the gasket a BMW only item?

Cheers.

Post Tue Apr 09, 2013 5:45 pm

1. Depends whether you want to risk total engine failure or not
2. A number of companies manufacture gaskets on behalf of BMW

Read this:

http://www.e30zone.net/e30zonewiki/inde ... Sump_Bolts

Post Tue Apr 09, 2013 6:09 pm

Thanks. I assume this is applicable to the M40 too?

I've tried GSF for the sump pan gasket and they don't stock, I'll try ECP tomorrow.

Post Wed Apr 10, 2013 11:37 am

stew72 wrote:Thanks. I assume this is applicable to the M40 too?

I've tried GSF for the sump pan gasket and they don't stock, I'll try ECP tomorrow.

The M40 sump cover is in two parts (on the E30 M40)...the lower one is easy to remove and put back. I have done it and used the original gasket with RTV silicone sealer and have no leaks....best to get a new gasket though.

The upper sump cover is impossible to remove as the cross member is in the way.