Do not crank the engine with VANOS
unit removed. The splined shaft on
the intake camshaft might slip out of
the VANOS spline teeth, causing the
intake cam to no longer be positively
connected to the timing chain,
allowing for possible piston/valve
interference.
Note:
The VANOS unit will contain a small
quantity of oil. Place shop towels to catch
oil as unit is removed or tilted.
CAUTION!
If the VANOS adjustment unit is
replaced, or if operations are
completed that may change the timing
of the camshafts, the camshaft timing
must be checked as described later in
this chapter.
Camshafts and valvetrain,
removing
Remove primary camshaft chain
tensioner cylinder (
arrow
).
CAUTION!
Primary camshaft chain tensioning
piston is under spring pressure.
Press down on secondary chain
tensioner and lock into place using BMW
special tool 11 3 292 or a similar size pin.
Cylinder Head Removal and Installation
http://ebahn.bentleypublishers.com/BMW/3/E46/Repair%20Manuals/1...
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