BMW Engine Parts for BMW Z3 (1996-2002)

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

If you're not sure if your Vanos seals are bad then the only question you need to answer is if you've replaced them. Every unit from the factory came with the same failure prone o-rings and seals, even the re-manufactured units you can still get today. The only real fix is by replacing the seals and o-rings with material that is built to last in the oiled, extreme temperature environment found in these kits. 

A premium product replacement with easy to follow instructions makes rebuilding your Vanos unit a must. Even thought the power loss is barely felt it's the opposite result once you replace the seals, every car that gets rebuilt ends up wowing the customer and all of them saying they didn't realize what they lost. 

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.

Rebuild instructions : http://bd8ba3c866c8cbc330ab-7b26c6f3e01bf511d4da3315c66902d6.r6.cf1.rackcdn.com/PDF_12017_BMW_M5X_Dual_Vanos_Rebuild_Kits.pdf

This item fits the following BMWs: 

1999-2005 E46 BMW 323i 323ci 325i 325ci 325xi 328i 328ci 330i 330ci 330xi 
1999-2003 E39 BMW 525i 528i 530i 
2004-2010 E60 BMW 525i 530i 
2004-2006 E83 BMW X3 2.5i X3 3.0i 
2000-2006 E53 BMW X5 3.0i 
1999-2002 Z3 BMW Z3 2.3 Z3 2.5i Z3 2.8 Z3 3.0i 
2003-2005 Z4 BMW Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i 

SEE T#338745 BMW S54 3.2L Schrick Camshaft Set 280/272 12.5mm Lift is the perfect performance upgrade for enthusiasts seeking to enhance their engine's capabilities. With over 40 years of experience, Schrick is dedicated to producing high-quality camshafts that deliver exceptional power and reliability. Designed for both street and track applications, these camshafts offer an impressive balance of performance and drivability. The intake cam features a duration of 280, while the exhaust cam has a duration of 272, with a valve lift of 12.5mm. These new "cast" cams from Schrick closely resemble the stock E46 M3 CSL cams, ensuring a smooth idle and a significant increase in horsepower throughout the RPM range. With a peak gain of 15 horsepower and no loss in low-end torque, these camshafts are a top choice for BMW enthusiasts.

Key Benefits:

• Enhanced Power: Delivers a peak gain of 15 horsepower.
• Smooth Idle: Maintains a factory-like idle quality for everyday driving.
• Linear Power Increase: Provides a steady increase in horsepower from midrange to redline.
• Compatibility: Designed to fit the BMW S54 engine with new rocker arms required.
• High-Quality Construction: Crafted from top materials for strength and durability.

Still looking for more power after bolt-ons? High performance camshafts from Schrick are the way to go. These cams are a direct replacement for the stock cams and give a solid 15+ horsepower boost at the top end and great midrange torque increases too! More gains can be expected with intake and header upgrades and custom software tuning. A slightly lumpy idle is expected at cold start but will be smooth once at operating temperature. This set is just a great all-around cam upgrade for the S54!

These Schrick cams were initially developed for the M3 CSL but they also work great on the US and other non-CSL S54 engines as well. With more duration they are a great match to high flow headers, no cats, or CSL intake manifold upgrades. These are the new "cast" cams from Schrick which require new rocker arms (Schrick recommended or BMW part #11337833259). Professional installation is a must due to the intricacies with the double VAN0S.

Schrick Technical Information / Specs

This item fits the following BMWs:

• 2001-2006 E46 BMW M3
• 2001-2002 Z3 BMW M Roadster M Coupe
• 2006-2008 E85 BMW Z4 M Roadster M Coupe

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.