Help! I'm stuck on the thermostat for my car!

[almamater78]

I am planning to replace the engine thermostat and EGR thermostat during the next weekend. I am seeking guidance from anybody who may own a comprehensive instructional resource for this task.
After seeing many films on the subject matter, I have developed a reasonable level of confidence. However, I am want to ascertain whether there is a more authoritative source of information available.
Furthermore, in the context of replenishing and venting coolant, is there a prescribed procedure for a mechanical water pump?


The BMW E60 520d is equipped with an M47 engine, which has a 4-cylinder configuration.

[Bluewhaleeee]

I successfully completed the same task of doing maintenance on an E61 vehicle equipped with the same engine, using the Haynes handbook as a reference guide. The task at hand was quite simple; nevertheless, the primary screws securing the thermostat exhibited severe rusting, rendering the torx socket unable to effectively engage. Consequently, it became necessary to remove the water pump and thermostat as a unified entity, afterwards replacing both components.

The radiator drain cap had become detached, necessitating the removal of the bottom hose as an alternative method of draining.

The process of refilling involves the use of two bleed ports, namely the one located on the EGR thermostat and another that is concealed on the return line in close proximity to the expansion tank.

The process for replenishing coolant is as follows:

The process of filling a cooling system

Loosen the bleed screws.

The number provided is 18. Activate the ignition mechanism and adjust the heater control to its highest temperature setting, while simultaneously selecting the fan speed to operate at a low level. This action initiates the activation of the heating valves.

The number provided by the user is 19. Detach the filling cap of the expansion tank. To avoid the formation of airlocks, it is recommended to gradually introduce the coolant into the expansion tank.

The number provided by the user is 20. To start the process of coolant renewal, it is recommended to commence by introducing a few liters of water into the system. Subsequently, the appropriate amount of antifreeze should be added, followed by more water to complete the top-up.

Once the coolant that is free from air bubbles has emerged from the bleed screw(s), proceed to firmly tighten the screw(s).

The number 22 is the subject of discussion. To facilitate the removal of any trapped air inside the system, it is advisable to apply pressure to the top and bottom hoses of the radiator when the level in the expansion tank begins to increase. After expelling all of the air, proceed to replenish the coolant level until it reaches the maximum capacity. Finally, reattach the expansion tank cover.

The number 23 is the subject of discussion. Initiate the activation of the engine and sustain its operation until it attains the standard operating temperature, afterwards ceasing the engine's function and allowing it to undergo the cooling process.

The number provided is 24. It is advisable to conduct an inspection for potential leaks, with special attention to areas around components that have been recently disturbed. It is recommended to assess the coolant level in the expansion tank and, if deemed insufficient, proceed to replenish it accordingly. It is important to acknowledge that in order to get an accurate level reading in the expansion tank, the system must be at a low temperature.

[almamater78]

Is it worthwhile to get the manual? Am I excessively ruminating about my perceived inability to do a task, yet often possessing adeptness in such matters? Additionally, the identification of all bleeding sites is challenging.

[Bluewhaleeee]

The instruction has proven to be rather useful; yet, it is conceivable that one may do the same tasks by using online resources such as YouTube and Google.

I believe that this work is very achievable for those with a proficient understanding of mechanical tools, and in the event of encountering difficulties, it is likely that other individuals within this community would readily provide their assistance.

Additionally, I had difficulty locating the second bleed port during the task, resulting in my failure to open it. However, if you carefully feel along the upper surface of the coolant hoses in close proximity to the expansion tank, ensuring that the engine is turned off and cooled down, I am certain that you will be able to locate it, as it is only concealed from immediate view.

[almamater78]

I will attempt to provide a response without incorporating further information. Do you possess a photograph depicting the locations of the bleed points?

[Bluewhaleeee]

The first item has been identified and marked with the color green, while the second item is believed to be concealed along a coolant pipe located underneath the region indicated by the red marking. The precise location of the second item is not immediately recalled, although it was seen during previous tasks conducted in the vicinity, initially leading to the assumption that it was absent.

[sighn34]

Is the location of the thin return pipe on the expansion tank not situated elsewhere?
The screw type on the EGR is same.

[sherlockHOME]

Last year, I conducted a statistical analysis using the e61 m47 model. I vaguely recall seeing rusty bolt heads throughout the process. I had to remove the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler, and in the process, I accidentally damaged the primary thermostat cover while attempting to grab a faulty bolt with pliers.

[BMW_Fan2020]

In the case of my previous E90 330d, the water pump was connected to the thermostat, and due to a sheared bolt, both the water pump and thermostat required replacement. It may be advisable to consider replacing the water pump, since I have had a similar failure with an E46 330d in the past.