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

This tensioner is for either the Water Pump or Alternator on cars with the mechanical belt tensioner system. Please check to ensure your car does not have the hydraulic tensioner. This tensioner comes with the pulley assembly.

OEM Schaeffler (INA, LuK, & FAG) is an engineering company that focuses on high-performance, precision manufacturing. With their individual brands INA, Luk, and FAG providing exceptionally high quality parts directly to BMW, as well as countless other automotive companies, their history of reliability and variety of offered parts makes Schaeffler a go-to replacement parts provider for all of us here at Turner Motorsport.

As a leading source of high performance BMW parts and accessories since 1993, we at Turner Motorsport are honored to be the go-to supplier for tens of thousands of enthusiasts the world over. With over two decades of parts, service, and racing experience under our belt, we provide only quality performance and replacement parts.  All of our performance parts are those we would (and do!) install and run on our own cars, as well as replacement parts that are Genuine BMW or from OEM manufacturers. We only offer parts we know you can trust to perform!

Only for cars with Mechanical belt tensioner systems.

This item fits the following BMWs:
1992-1998 E36 BMW 323is 323ic 325i 325is 325ic 328i 328is 328ic
1999-2005 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 325xi 328i 328ci 330i 330ci 330xi
1991-1995 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 2.3 Z3 2.5i Z3 2.8 Z3 3.0i
2003-2005 Z4 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i

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

For Alternator / Water Pump Belt

Hydraulic Belt Tensioner for E36, E46, E39 6-cyl models. This is the oil-filled tensioner that keeps the main drive belt in the proper tension. Over time the piston seals inside allow fluid to leak out. The tensioner becomes frozen or inoperable. Replacement is the best corrective action to take. This can be done during any belt or pulley service or anytime the fan is off the engine.

OEM Schaeffler (INA, LuK, & FAG) is an engineering company that focuses on high-performance, precision manufacturing. With their individual brands INA, Luk, and FAG providing exceptionally high quality parts directly to BMW, as well as countless other automotive companies, their history of reliability and variety of offered parts makes Schaeffler a go-to replacement parts provider for all of us here at Turner Motorsport.

As a leading source of high performance BMW parts and accessories since 1993, we at Turner Motorsport are honored to be the go-to supplier for tens of thousands of enthusiasts the world over. With over two decades of parts, service, and racing experience under our belt, we provide only quality performance and replacement parts.  All of our performance parts are those we would (and do!) install and run on our own cars, as well as replacement parts that are Genuine BMW or from OEM manufacturers. We only offer parts we know you can trust to perform!

NOTE: These BMW's may have been equipped with either a mechanical or hydraulic tensioner. Only for cars with Hydraulic Belt Tensioners. Please check before ordering.

This tensioner pulley fits the following BMWs:
1991-1995 E34 525i (M50 engine)
1992-1999 E36 325i, 325is, 328i, 328is, 323is
1995-1999 E36 M3 (M3 3.0 & M3 3.2 liter)
1997-2003 E39 525i, 528i, 530i
1999-2000 E46 323i, 323Ci, 328i, 328Ci
2001-2005 E46 325i, 325Ci, 325xi, 330i, 330Ci, 330xi
2001-2006 E46 M3 coupe & convertible
2000-2006 X5 3.0 liter (E53 chassis)
2006 525i, 530i(M54 engine)
1997-2002 Z3 & MZ3 2.8, M Roadster, M Coupe
2003-2009 Z4 M Coupe and Roadster

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

ECS Tuning introduces the solution to your engine bay aesthetic concerns with the Billet Aluminum Oil Dipstick. Say goodbye to the bright red plastic eyesore and elevate your under-the-hood style effortlessly. Designed to OE specifications, this dipstick boasts an easy-to-read fill line and is available in three stunning finishes: black, polished, or clear anodized.

• Billet aluminum construction for enhanced durability
• Easy-to-read fill line for convenient oil level checks
• Available in three finishes: black, polished, or clear anodized
• OE specifications ensure a perfect fit
• Improved ease of insertion compared to factory ribbon dipstick
• Aesthetic enhancement for your engine bay

Upgrade your engine bay's appearance and functionality with the ECS Tuning Billet Aluminum Oil Dipstick. No more struggles reinstalling your dipstick; enjoy a sleek and high-performing addition to your vehicle.

Since getting their start in 1981, Active Autowerke has earned a well-respected reputation in the BMW community for engineering high-quality power solutions for popular BMW models. This supercharger kit will produce 425 horsepower and 295 ft.lbs. of torque on your BMW, while retaining platform integrity and daily driveability. Unique to the design of the Rotrex supercharger is the traction drive system, which eliminates the lag often found in other centrifugal supercharger setups. Power delivery is smooth and dependable, and 100% reversible to stock if you so choose, since each system is designed as a self-contained unit. best of all, when you crave more power, this kit is fully upgradeable to Level 1 and Level 2 specs.

Kit features:

• Rotrex C38-92 trim supercharger running 5.8 PSI of boost
• Active Autowerke GEN 7 intake manifold
• Active Autowere dual blow-off valve setup
• Active Autowerke Air Filter
• Alpha N software tune w/ SIMON2 interface
• 6 high-flow fuel injectors
• Dedicated oil cooling system
• All mounting hardware, plumbing, hoses, & clamps
• Illustrated instruction manual & installation guide
• 2 year warranty with free tech support

Base Prima supercharger Dynojet results:
Boost: 5.8 psi
Stock Horsepower:  285.4 WHP @ 7500 RPM
Stock Torque: 232.36 LB-FT @ 5250 RPM
Supercharged Horsepower: 426.69 WHP @ 8150 RPM
Supercharged Torque: 297.99 LB-FT @ 7200 RPM