BMW Engine Parts for BMW 3 Series E46 (1999-2005)

Elevate your custom installation with the ECS -10AN O-Ring Boss fitting, a crucial component that connects your ECS Tuning Catch Can to a 3/4" ID hose. This fitting simplifies your plumbing setup, ensuring a seamless solution.

Featuring a pre-installed Viton O-ring, this fitting is engineered for excellence, providing a leak-proof seal that resists the effects of oil and fuel exposure, guaranteeing long-term durability.

The 3/4" nipple is thoughtfully designed with barbs to secure hose position effectively, minimizing the risk of hose disconnection. Keep in mind that clamps and hoses are available for separate purchase. These fittings are sold individually, with most installations requiring a pair of them.

A beautiful addition and durable upgrade for your engine

Tired of staring at that bright red plastic oil dipstick? Waiting for a way to add a nice touch to your engine bay without going over the top? ECS Tuning is proud to announce our billet aluminum oil dipstick! Designed to OE specifications with an easy-to-read fill line, we offer three different finishes. Available in black, polished, or clear anodized, we have an offering for every type of enthusiast. Not only does it look better, but also performs better. Because of the durability, it is easier to insert than the factory ribbon dipstick. So, no more fighting with your dipstick to re-install it.

These WPC-treated bearings are the best we have seen! WPC is a shot-peening treatment at a microscopic level. It's perfect for sensitive surfaces like bearings. The WPC treatment removes imperfections and high spots, while creating a surface that retains oil better than the original surface. This greatly reduces friction. The bearings in this kit are original equipment KS bearings that are sent to WPC for treatment. The treated bearings are stronger with less metal fatigue and less friction than buying off-the-shelf bearings from the dealer.

This item fits the following BMWs: 
1984-1991 E30 BMW 318i 318is 318ic 325e 325es 325i 325ic 325is 325ix 
1992-1998 E36 BMW 318i 318is 318ti 318ic 323is 323ic 325i 325is 325ic 328i 328is 328ic M3 
1999-2005 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 325xi 328i 328ci 330i 330ci 330xi
1982-1988 E28 BMW 528e
1989-1995 E34 BMW 525i
1997-2003 E39 BMW 525i 528i 530i
2004-2005 E60 BMW 525i 530i 
2004-2006 E83 BMW X3 2.5i X3 3.0i 
2000-2006 E53 BMW X5 3.0i 
1997-2002 Z3 BMW Z3 1.9 Z3 2.3 Z3 2.5i Z3 2.8 Z3 3.0i M Roadster M Coupe 
2003-2005 Z4 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i 

If you're grappling with issues like crankshaft failures and oil pump breakdowns in your BMW 6-cylinder engines, you're not alone. Even seasoned mechanics can overlook the critical aspect of harmonic resonance control in these inline-6 motors, despite their optimal configuration.

Enter ATI Performance Products in collaboration with VAC Motorsports, presenting a solution in the form of new dampers tailored for BMW 2.5L, 2.8L, 3.0L, and 3.2L straight-6 engines found in various models like the E36 and E46 M3, E9X, and E6X, as well as newer Z3s and Z4s. These dampers effectively nullify crankshaft harmonic vibrations, paving the way for enhanced horsepower and torque output, alongside a reduction in internal engine wear. Say goodbye to issues like fractured oil pumps and timing chain mishaps! By pairing these dampers with a VAC accessory pulley, you seamlessly replace the OEM balancer. Featuring a 7” outer diameter and OEM-style timing alignment tabs, these ATI Super Dampers boast SFI 18.1 Safety Certification, ensuring they're competition-ready.

What sets the ATI SuperDamper apart? It's the remedy for vibration woes in inline 6 engines, especially those equipped with lightweight clutch and flywheel setups. Expect diminished wear on bearings, engine accessories, and oil pumps, all while being compatible with underdrive pulleys.

Included in the kit are the damper itself, a lightweight VAC Billet Crankshaft Pulley, along with all necessary mounting and installation hardware. Note that it's not compatible with S50B30 & S50B32 Euro Engines. For street/track vehicles with air conditioning, opting for the Additional A/C Pulley Option is imperative, given that the OE A/C pulley isn't compatible. Rest assured, all required mounting and installation hardware is included, and the entire package is proudly Made in the USA.

The main reason all of the VANOS units will eventually fail is because the material used for the sealing rings from the factory is not designed for that type of environment. When this happens the only option that BMW leaves you with is buying a new and expensive VANOS unit with the same sealing rings that failed in your original unit.

The VANOS system found in BMW engines is a great feature (when it’s working properly), keeping your power curve smooth and responsive especially in lower to mid RPM range. What usually goes unnoticed is the gradual loss of power within this range as the vehicle's age due to slowly failing seals within the VANOS unit. The way the VANOS system works is based off of oil pressure triggered by a solenoid that allows for a small range of timing degree adjustment, this is where the power curve is affected. When the seals begin to fail (all of them do) there is less pressure to advance the timing reducing the power in that low to mid range. Because this happens slowly it's very hard to notice a difference until you refresh your VANOS unit, then you easily realize the response you've been missing.

There are a number of symptoms that will plague your car as a result of these failing seals such as erratic idle, engine hesitation, stalling, and increased fuel consumption to name a few. If you've been chasing down any of these symptoms with no fix then this could be your issue.

While you're replacing the seals in your VANOS unit it a good time to install anti-rattle spacers to tighten up the gaps in your stock assembly and get rid of that noisy VANOS clatter.

Seals & O-rings:

The seals  were the main focus of this project since the OE units are built with Buna-N rubber o-rings instead of the ECS supplied Viton rubber o-rings. The Buna-N material quickly hardens from the heat and chemical exposure within the engine, where the Viton is significantly more resistant to these chemicals. This knowledge was also used when it came to the commonly failed o-rings found on the VANOS seal plate, replaced at the solenoid.

Rattle Repair:

When it comes to the VANOS rattle this is commonly described as "marbles in a can", and can be heard throughout the different RPM ranges depending on the engine. These upgraded rings and washers are precision ground from hardened steel to resist wear and deformation keeping your VANOS rattle free. The rattle repair tools are designed specifically for this VANOS anti-rattle repair, design from hardened steel to stand up to the job. Designed to perfectly follow the splines of the shaft for a tight grip when applying the necessary torque to disassemble & reassemble the VANOS transfer gear. The keyed socket was designed with the intent to use a "common" wrench so this can be completed at home in your garage.    

When Servicing your VANOS unit we recommend getting everything you need to replace on the way to service which includes an oil change and valve cover gasket set. Fresh oil and gaskets is the best way to start off a fresh rebuild of any kind giving you the maximum performance of your freshly serviced components.

Don't forget to check out our rebuild PDF to make sure you have everything to get the job done and eliminate the rebuild guess work.

This item fits the following BMWs: 
2000-2001 E46 3 Series M3 M3 Convertible 2000-2006 
2001-2002 Z3 Roadster / Coupe Z3 M Roadster Z3 M Coupe w S54 Engine 
2006-2008 E86 E86 Z4 Z4 M Roadster Z4 M Coupe

BMW S54 VAC Performance Coated Rod Bearing Kit is highly regarded by BMW engine builders worldwide for its superior quality and performance. Ideal for both forced induction and naturally aspirated builds, these coated bearings are designed to be friction-resistant, reducing the risk of thermal breakdowns due to inadequate lubrication. This feature significantly decreases the chances of premature engine failure in street cars and minimizes the risk of spun bearings during high-stress track conditions.

The VAC Performance Coated Rod Bearing Kit is proven to help maintain engine reliability, even in situations with reduced oil pressure.

• Enhanced Durability: Coated bearings are friction-resistant, reducing the risk of thermal breakdown.
• Increased Reliability: Helps prevent premature engine failure and spun bearings under stress.
• Versatile Performance: Suitable for both forced induction and naturally aspirated engine builds.
• Proven Track Record: Tested by customers to ensure reliable performance even with oil pressure loss.

VAC Tech Notes:

• Ensure proper tolerance and size checks before installation.
• Professional installation is recommended due to specialized tools required.
• Returns are not available on any engine bearings.

Rogue Engineering has developed a power pulley kit that reduces the drag on specific pulleys while allowing others to remain at their same efficiency. This allows for perfect operation in daily driven vehicles without a hiccup or stutter. However, when the demand for power is requested, the power pulley kit allows for the freed power to become apparent.  The term "power" pulley is a bit of a misnomer. Underdrive pulleys actually free up power by reducing the drag caused by the accessories.  These pulleys are based off a calculated percentage from factory dimensions, so that particular component speeds are safely reduced without affecting their true purpose.

Rogue Engineering Power Pullies are CNC machined from 6061-T6, heat treated aluminum and specially coated with a MIL-A-8625 Type III hard coat anodize finish. This kind of anodizing is not to be confused with a Type II cosmetic anodize finish (typical colors such as red, blue, silver, green, etc.). The hard coat anodize finish actually builds a small surface layer on top of the aluminum, preventing wear.

This part fits the following BMW engines:
S54

This part fits the following chassis:
E46, Z3, Z4

Modern emission regulations require a closed PCV/Breather system for cleaner operation. However, inefficient oil particle capture can lead to excessive oil vapor ingestion, causing carbon buildup, reduced performance, and fuel economy. ECS Tuning's updated ECS Baffled Oil Catch Can, now with an easy-to-empty 1/4" drain fitting, is engineered to collect toxic blow-by gases, minimize carbon deposits, and reduce oil contamination within engine oil. Recirculating oil vapor ensures emissions compliance without venting to the atmosphere.

• Key Features:
• Highly Efficient Oil Separator: Strategically positioned 4 chamber baffle system maximizes oil/air separation and minimizes oil droplets in the intake tract.
• Integrated Dipstick: Knurled and black anodized oil dipstick simplifies oil volume inspection.
• Reservoir: Available in 6oz or 8oz capacity with a 1/4" NPT drain plug fitting.
• Serviceable: Easily removable baffle plates and drain plug for cleaning.
• Easy/Customizable Installation: Combine with the ECS Universal Bracket Kit for simplified installation and adjustable mounting locations.
• Leak-Free Fittings: Machined -10AN ORB (O-Ring Boss) fittings available for secure connections (fittings sold separately).

VAC's S54 Vanos Hub is designed as a direct replacement for the fragile BMW OE Vanos Hub which typically fails due to a broken drive pin. The VAC Hub has an Upgraded Drive Pin design, which is larger in diameter, as well as more material on the outside wall of the pin. In addition, the hub is made from 4340HT Billet Bar and heat treated to the same BMW OE Rockwell Hardness spec. The upgraded design is not only significantly stronger, but the larger diameter Drive Pins also minimize the huge clearance (approximately 1mm) that was in the original design by BMW and reduces the clearance to 0.2mm. This is critical in helping greatly reduce or eliminate the VANOS noise.

Also, this upgraded design eliminates the need for modifying the Pump Ring or having to buy a replacement, which further saves you money!!!

Modern day emissions regulations require the use of a closed crankcase ventilation (PCV) system to recirculate combustion blow-by gases from the crankcase back in to the intake to be burned.  Unfortunately, these blow by gases contain water vapor (which is a byproduct of combustion) and pick up oil mist from and the windage cloud and cam lubrication system as they travel through the crank case.  Due to less than 100% effective air/oil separation in the stock PCV system, some oil mist and water vapor gets carried back to the intake tract and over time cause oil deposits in the intake manifold, intake ports, and on the back of intake valves.  All will eventually lead to poor performance and reduced fuel economy, and the presence of this oil mist in the intake charge may even increase the risk of engine-damaging detonation. 

With forced induction, track use, and/or extended high RPM usage, these symptoms increase as the factory PCV system is overwhelmed, and a catch can becomes a must for your E46 M3. This kit is a direct fit making this an easy reversal if desired as well as maintaining a clean appearance by utilizing the open "smuggler's compartment" on the passenger side of the engine bay.

ECS engineers developed a catch can that utilizes a strategically designed 4 chamber baffle plate system engineered to create multiple changes in the direction of airflow to cause oil droplets to fall out of suspension, maximizing the efficiency of the PCV air/oil separation.  A dipstick is integrated into the cap so you can monitor the oil level, and the can is easily serviced.  At each oil change simply unscrew the canister and empty the trapped oil with your regular used oil.  The ECS Oil Catch Can is CNC machined from billet 6061-T6 aluminum and with a stealthy black anodized finish for lasting durability and appearance, and includes everything needed for an OEM-like fully reversible installation.  

The ECS Oil Catch Can is made from aluminum and with a stealthy black anodized finish. The location is key as heat will evaporate the oil and send too much vapor back into the engine (where cooler air will turn it back into fluid). The ECS OCC also has a factory-like appearance. Having a kit designed specifically for your E46 M3 makes for a clean looking setup that any skill level mechanic can install. 

Note: Since the crankcase vent system is considered part of the overall emissions system, installing this may be a violation of local, state, and federal laws. While exemptions are made for track/race and off-road use, check with your local state inspection facility on using this in street-driven vehicles.

*Click here for installation instructions*

ECS Oil Catch Can Features:
+ Increases air intake efficiency
+ Promotes engine longevity
+ 4 chamber design promotes excellent air/oil separation
+ Large In/Out ports (no tapered sizes that slow flow)
+ Anodized black lightweight aluminum
+ Made in USA

This item fits the following BMWs
E46 M3 2001-2006

Meet modern emission regulations while preserving engine performance with the ECS Baffled Oil Catch Can. Designed for BMW and MINI vehicles, this system efficiently captures blow-by gases, preventing excessive oil vapor ingestion into the intake tract. The innovative 4-chamber baffle system maximizes oil/air separation, reducing carbon build-up and pollutants. Featuring a 1/4" drain fitting for easy maintenance, this catch can minimizes oil deposits, ensuring cleaner emissions and enhanced engine performance.

Key Benefits:

• Efficient 4-chamber baffle system for maximum oil/air separation
• Recirculated design reduces oil ingestion, promoting cleaner emissions
• Durable 6061-T6 billet machined body with anodized black finish for longevity
• Integrated dipstick and sealed reservoir for easy oil inspection and maintenance
• Serviceable design with removable baffle plates for cleaning
• Easy installation with customizable mounting options and leak-free fittings
• Engineered and manufactured in the USA for superior performance and durability

Note: Not for sale or use in the state of California on any pollution-controlled vehicle as per the California Air Resources Board.

Rogue Engineering has developed a power pulley kit that reduces the drag on specific pulleys while allowing others to remain at their same efficiency. This allows for perfect operation in daily driven vehicles without a hiccup or stutter. However, when the demand for power is requested, the power pulley kit allows for the freed power to become apparent.  The term "power" pulley is a bit of a misnomer. Underdrive pulleys actually free up power by reducing the drag caused by the accessories.  These pulleys are based off a calculated percentage from factory dimensions, so that particular component speeds are safely reduced without affecting their true purpose.

Rogue Engineering Power Pullies are CNC machined from 6061-T6, heat treated aluminum and specially coated with a MIL-A-8625 Type III hard coat anodize finish. This kind of anodizing is not to be confused with a Type II cosmetic anodize finish (typical colors such as red, blue, silver, green, etc.). The hard coat anodize finish actually builds a small surface layer on top of the aluminum, preventing wear.

Fits the following BMWs:
2000-2006 E46 BMW 323/325/328/330

Rogue Engineering has developed a power pulley kit that reduces the drag on specific pulleys while allowing others to remain at their same efficiency. This allows for perfect operation in daily driven vehicles without a hiccup or stutter. However, when the demand for power is requested, the power pulley kit allows for the freed power to become apparent.  The term "power" pulley is a bit of a misnomer. Underdrive pulleys actually free up power by reducing the drag caused by the accessories.  These pulleys are based off a calculated percentage from factory dimensions, so that particular component speeds are safely reduced without affecting their true purpose.

Rogue Engineering Power Pullies are CNC machined from 6061-T6, heat treated aluminum and specially coated with a MIL-A-8625 Type III hard coat anodize finish. This kind of anodizing is not to be confused with a Type II cosmetic anodize finish (typical colors such as red, blue, silver, green, etc.). The hard coat anodize finish actually builds a small surface layer on top of the aluminum, preventing wear.

This part fits the following BMW engines:
S54

This part fits the following chassis:
E46, Z3, Z4