Changing belts good for DIY event?

[Adam Gordon]

I'm interesting in attending the June DIY, which would be my first. My question is - would changing the drive belts (E39, 2001 525i) be an appropriate project for a DIY event?

This would be the most involved project I've tackled (I'm a bit of a newbie DIY-er), and the opportunity to take it on in a setting with experienced folks nearby is very appealing.

Any feedback welcome.

Cheers,

Adam Gordon

[mcoupemindy]

I'm interesting in attending the June DIY, which would be my first. My question is - would changing the drive belts (E39, 2001 525i) be an appropriate project for a DIY event?

This would be the most involved project I've tackled (I'm a bit of a newbie DIY-er), and the opportunity to take it on in a setting with experienced folks nearby is very appealing.

Any feedback welcome.

Cheers,

Adam Gordon

Adam,

I'm not a DIY coordinator, so please do not take my word as golden. But ...

Changing belts is usually a relatively easy endeavor. I think that it could easily be accomplished within an hour or so, and if I'm attending, I wouldn't mind helping you out.

[Adam Gordon]

Excellent! That sounds great - thanks.

Adam

[Zchild]

I'm interesting in attending the June DIY, which would be my first. My question is - would changing the drive belts (E39, 2001 525i) be an appropriate project for a DIY event?

This would be the most involved project I've tackled (I'm a bit of a newbie DIY-er), and the opportunity to take it on in a setting with experienced folks nearby is very appealing.

Any feedback welcome.

Cheers,

Adam Gordon

Hey Adam, you've got one of the more perfect jobs for this limited scoped DIY. This event will be scope limited as RRT only has a total of three lifts available. Please sign-up and participate.

[Adam Gordon]

Will do, and thanks. I am looking forward to it.

Separate but related question: my research (Bentley) indicates that I will need two tools to remove the fan (I have also heard that you do not need to remove the fan to do this job). Should I get them myself ahead of time, or are these kinds of specialty tools within the scope of what one can properly borrow from the shop - I am mindful of not wanting to assume anything, particularly with respect to the shop's own equipment.

Cheers.

[mcoupemindy]

Will do, and thanks. I am looking forward to it.

Separate but related question: my research (Bentley) indicates that I will need two tools to remove the fan (I have also heard that you do not need to remove the fan to do this job). Should I get them myself ahead of time, or are these kinds of specialty tools within the scope of what one can properly borrow from the shop - I am mindful of not wanting to assume anything, particularly with respect to the shop's own equipment.

Cheers.

Adam,

There's really no reason to remove the fan to change the belt other than it might make it a tad easier. Don't buy special tools that you'll never use again. I've removed loads of BMW engine fans with nothing more than a big crescent wrench and a 10 mm box end.

Jonathan

[Scany]

I agree with Jonathan, but the tools make it easier. I might make it out there myself and I'll bring the tools if you'd like.

It is very possible also to change belts without removing the fan.

[Adam Gordon]

Scany,

That would terrific, if you are able to bring them along. Thanks!

[Nick325xiT 5spd]

If the 525 is plumbed like the 528, it's surprisingly annoying to remove the fan. Much more annoying than, say, an E46 because of the way they've attached all kinds of crap to the fan shroud. You will need to bring ramps or jack stands as you'll need to get under the front of the car.

(I just rebuilt the VANOS unit in a 528iT, and honestly, I think removing the fan shroud was the most annoying part. Edit: OK, actually stabbing my left index finger with an awl, twice, was probably the most annoying part. But that was my fault.)

[Scany]

If the 525 is plumbed like the 528, it's surprisingly annoying to remove the fan. Much more annoying than, say, an E46 because of the way they've attached all kinds of crap to the fan shroud. You will need to bring ramps or jack stands as you'll need to get under the front of the car.

(I just rebuilt the VANOS unit in a 528iT, and honestly, I think removing the fan shroud was the most annoying part. Edit: OK, actually stabbing my left index finger with an awl, twice, was probably the most annoying part. But that was my fault.)

That sounds very promising for me and rebuilding the VANOS unit then But I also agree I've seen easier solution, like my Tahoe that's got a two piece shroud.

Not to change the subject, but did you rebuild a double VANOS? and it's do-able for mortal men? I have a feeling mine's got a bad seal or something and I'm not up to spending $1k for a completely new one.

[Scany]

Scany,

That would terrific, if you are able to bring them along. Thanks!

Seems like I was already set up fro events in PA that weekend (and there's an autoX! what about spreading things out a bit?). You can still borrow the tools if we'll run in to each other before this, or you stop by my garage and pick 'em up. I'm right by Wisconsin/Mass. Ave., where they intersect not far from the Nat. Cathedral.

[Adam Gordon]

That's too bad that you cannot attend - but I would be very grateful for the loan of your tools. I work in Georgetown so it should be easy to coordinate at your convenience. Let me know when would be a good time for you. Feel free to email me at agordon@kelleydrye.com and we can sort out the details.

Thanks --

Adam