The time might be nigh for at least one of my Vanos units. I'm seeking advice from the collective on next steps.
The Noise
The Beast (2002, 88k) has recently (2 weeks) had increased "thumping" or "knocking" sound which is more pronounced when warm. I'm not talking about the "diesel" sound, more of the "thump thump" at engine rpm rate. To me, it sounded a lot like this video. (I'll keep looking for more Vanos-related sound videos).
YouTube - E39 M5 -- Not a rod bearing noise...
No codes. No (discernable) running change in performance.
The Diagnosis
I took it in to my indy, did oil change, rear diff fluid change, and changed the plugs. He diagnosed it as a Bank 2 Vanos problem. He mentioned that putting your finger on the unit you could definitely feel something going on.
No GT-1 test performed. Codes read, but the car was not throwing any codes.
The Plan
Here's where I need advice from those that have come before me. I figure I should at least get an opinion from an S62 expert in the area. Boston folks, does this mean Turner? My indy is great (Autobahn Automotive), but he recognized that he's never done an S62 Vanos, so I need to go somewhere else and have them do the full GT-1 active test and report back. There is definitely noise, so something is up.
The Prognosis
So, I figure I could be in for (in increasing order of pain):
* Vanos solenoid(s)
* De-gunking Vanos bank (http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/e39-m5-e52-z8-discussion/128809-good-bad-vanos-long.html)
* Replacing Vanos with Dr. Vanos rebuilt unit
* Replacing Vanos with new unit
* Taking it to the dealer and asking for it to be "fixed"
No more guesses until it visits the experts. I will report back but any words of wisdom are appreciated.
The Noise
The Beast (2002, 88k) has recently (2 weeks) had increased "thumping" or "knocking" sound which is more pronounced when warm. I'm not talking about the "diesel" sound, more of the "thump thump" at engine rpm rate. To me, it sounded a lot like this video. (I'll keep looking for more Vanos-related sound videos).
YouTube - E39 M5 -- Not a rod bearing noise...
No codes. No (discernable) running change in performance.
The Diagnosis
I took it in to my indy, did oil change, rear diff fluid change, and changed the plugs. He diagnosed it as a Bank 2 Vanos problem. He mentioned that putting your finger on the unit you could definitely feel something going on.
No GT-1 test performed. Codes read, but the car was not throwing any codes.
The Plan
Here's where I need advice from those that have come before me. I figure I should at least get an opinion from an S62 expert in the area. Boston folks, does this mean Turner? My indy is great (Autobahn Automotive), but he recognized that he's never done an S62 Vanos, so I need to go somewhere else and have them do the full GT-1 active test and report back. There is definitely noise, so something is up.
The Prognosis
So, I figure I could be in for (in increasing order of pain):
* Vanos solenoid(s)
* De-gunking Vanos bank (http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/e39-m5-e52-z8-discussion/128809-good-bad-vanos-long.html)
* Replacing Vanos with Dr. Vanos rebuilt unit
* Replacing Vanos with new unit
* Taking it to the dealer and asking for it to be "fixed"
No more guesses until it visits the experts. I will report back but any words of wisdom are appreciated.