timing belt kit checklist

[worangejuice]

timing belt kit checklist
hi guys,
1988 325is 200k+miles
searched and found tons of variables and too much info....
I need a comprehensive list of what I should order when replacing my timing belt.
The minimum was about $130 in parts, the max was $320 in parts.
Just wanted to not have to order a bunch of riff raff, but still cover everything while I'm in there.
Thanks,
Warren

[jlevie]

The most you'd need to do the timing belt is the belt, tensioner, cam shaft seal & o-ring, thermostat, and water pump. If the pump was changed on the last scheduled timing belt change, you don't need the pump. If it wasn't, or you don't know, I'd change it and the thermostat.

[Martin C.]

mmm...I did a quick search for a thread giving pointers in the actual timing belt replacement since I have never done one before. Any ideas? (I do have the Bentley Manual but color photos are nice to see).

Also, you guys see any advantage in getting the 'upgraded' water pump, you know the one with the metal instead of the plastic components?

[worangejuice]

mmm...I did a quick search for a thread giving pointers in the actual timing belt replacement since I have never done one before. Any ideas? (I do have the Bentley Manual but color photos are nice to see).

Also, you guys see any advantage in getting the 'upgraded' water pump, you know the one with the metal instead of the plastic components?

I know! the Bentley manual is negative pictars!!! no!!!
write-ups are always good

[FredK]

There are plenty of pictures in the Pelican Parts writeup.

http://www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/techarticles/101-Projects-20-E30-Timing-Belt/101-Projects-20-E30-Timing-Belt.htm

This is a good time to replace the water pump belt, AC belt, and power steering belt, since they'll have to be removed to get at the timing belt.

[SpecM]

Also, you guys see any advantage in getting the 'upgraded' water pump, you know the one with the metal instead of the plastic components?

that was an issue with early m50s... all m20 water pumps I've seen have metal components

[Philo]

Yep. Unless you buy some chinese stuff, then you might get a plastic impeller. Just check when you buy it.

As for actually replacing the belt, as long as you are somewhat mechanically inclined, relax. Just follow along as the Bentley says, and take your time. If you have a Q or problem, just post it up in here. Read through the Bentley that covers the procedure before hand, and it will tell you everything you will need to buy. I always do Belt, tensioner, and water pump (thermostat if I don't know when it was replaced). Camshaft seal and O ring are nice to do if you feel like going the extra distance, as well as valve cover gasket and rocker shaft seals, but this isn't necessary.

[Martin C.]

Thanks a bunch guys! I am going to be getting my hands dirty pretty soon with this 1990 bad boy. I want to get it ready for the upcoming Spring (sigh...)

[87-325ic]

the timing belt was my first major project on my e30. having never worked on cars before.. it really wasnt that bad. that was such a while ago it seems now.
you'll be fine, write-ups are everywhere, you just really need to do some digging.
now is also a good time to replace the dist cap and rotor too.
also, if your radiator hoses are old, those will be getting removed too, so now is the time to replace them.
also, flush the block and cooling system while its apart.

[txtorquemade]

Ebay .... 269.99 has everything you need

http://stores.ebay.ca/BimmerBum-Co

Link to product you want:

http://cgi.ebay.ca/BMW-E30-325i-325is-325ix-Complete-Tune-Up-Kit-NEW_W0QQitemZ120521588537QQcmdZViewItemQQptZMotors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories?hash=item1c0fa57f39

I would also pick up:

From Pelican Parts:
Spark plug hole seals
Rocker shaft plugs
New coil - 60.50
New wires - 142.25
O2 sensor - 102.00

Fluids:
Oil 20-50
ATF or MT fluid Redliine
Diff fluid Redline


Approx....610.00 and your ALL tuned up, big time, no worries.


Good luck!!

[worangejuice]

Thanks guys!!
just ordered the parts from pelicanparts (as I've ordered alot from them and been thoroughly pleased:))
came out to $162.50, free shipping.
now the 'easy' part , paying money is always hard ;)