riddle me this, riddle me that...

[Mike]

I did a valve cover gasket on my e53 x5 m54b30. I probably put 10k on the truck before deciding to replace the valve cover gasket, due to being lazy. This engine had a very consistent lifter rattle on cold start, that was undeniable, and borderline obnoxious. I replaced the valve cover gasket, and visual inspection of the valve train showed no cause for panic, looked like its been getting oil changes within a reasonable amount of time. Buttoned the truck up, and who would expect it, THE LIFTER NOISE IS NO LONGER PRESENT. Ive put 1k on the truck since the repair, and its definately gone!

[Swanny]

Are there cam cover trays on the m54 like the m52tu? I know mine was consistently "ticking" as it popped loose and oil was making it tap against the valve cover.

[Mike]

I think the intake cam had that black plastic cover over it. I didnt mess with it.