JustCarsForum - Your Ultimate Automotive Community

Could you please explain the source of the oil seeping out of the hole adjacent to the number one plug tube in the attached screenshot of my 2004 N46 engine?

I am grateful.

To set the scene, I've been tracking down a 002a83 vanos issue while also replacing the oil pump, strainer and o-ring, as well as the cam sensors, solenoids, sprockets, housing for the oil filter and cooler.

With renewed vigour, I removed the top in an effort to diagnose the problem. After turning the engine over without plugs, I noticed a respectable flow at the journals, but I also noticed oil dripping from this hole for no apparent reason.

Has anyone seen anything similar? Thanks for any suggestions; I'm thinking this is the source of the oil pressure that's locking the intake vanos into their initial position and then becoming limp.

The solenoid valves, cams, and valvetronic assembly have all been removed. I thought this hole shouldn't be open, but it is—it runs straight into the main oil supply chamber for the vanos solenoids and the front camshaft bearing. To prevent the pressure from escaping, I believe a block or valve should be installed.

Would anyone happen to have an old head from one of these lying around? I was hoping someone could take a look. Sure, I'd be grateful.

Thank you

I noticed that when I turn the key, there are oil pump pulses in the area that I would consider to be excessive leak-bye. It seems that this drilling at the ends of the solenoid valves is there to drain any leak bye from the solenoids.

It is time to start over.

Although there was a significant amount of leakage from the chain tensioner, the bearing ledges are in excellent shape.

Thank you