It is supposed to be this clean?

[CdAe30]

So, ive been working on replacing damn near everything on my newly acquired 325is, From the cooling system, ignition, vacuum, bushings, brakes and body work. I began working on replacing gaskets under the hood yesterday, and when i pulled the valve cover, i was met with what looks like a brand new head. Mind you, it has 168k miles on it, and has never been replaced. Its a two owner car, and i have all the service docs as well. Has anyone seen a head this clean on a higher mileage(ish) engine?

[roguetoaster]

That's odd, I don't even see oil residue, but there must be some unless you wiped it off.

In any case, well maintained engines can look like that, or someone may have used a cleaner prior to your acquisition. Considering how messy the rest of the bay happens to be it's odd.

[CdAe30]

That was straight after i had taken the valve cover off, I didnt wipe anything myself, and the nuts holding the cover on had substantial dirt on them, so i cant imagine the cover was taken off anytime recently. Regardless, im impressed!

[rturbo 930]

It looks like it hasn't even seen oil. Strange. To be on the safe side, I think I'd probably prime the oil system before you start it, which isn't hard to do.

[CdAe30]

That was the plan indeed.