Greetings,
Is it possible to change the valve stem seals on a 2013 2-liter Mini diesel (presumably the R58 engine) without removing the cylinder head? Do I need a specific spring compression tool or any other specialized tools?
The vehicle has failed its MOT due to emissions and consumes some oil; thus, the replacement of the stem seals is anticipated to resolve the issue.
Additional ideas are appreciated.
Thank you very much
2013 Mini 2-liter diesel valve stem seals
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It is quite uncommon for valve stem seals to break in diesel engines; it is more probable that the turbocharger is malfunctioning. I have just serviced a vehicle with 78,000 miles, and the failing turbocharger is indicated by oil accumulation on the manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor.
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Thank you for your response, allcarsnew007. The vehicle retains all power. Would it not seem slow if the turbo were failing? Where is the map sensor located for inspection, and is it feasible to replace the valve stem seals without removing the cylinder head? Facial cheeks
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The turbo will leak oil and will not exhibit a power decline until it completely fails. I have not personally encountered a case involving stem seals on an N47 engine, as I have only addressed them with the head removed and have not observed any failures of stem seals. However, I have encountered numerous instances of turbo failure. There is significant damp soot at the exhaust's end, indicating a considerable amount of oil in the exhaust system.
To diagnose a turbo issue, heat the engine, detach the outlet pressure pipe from the turbo, and operate the vehicle. Place a clean white cloth or card in front of the outlet pipe; if it becomes saturated with oil when revving, it indicates a turbo problem.
Injector failure is another factor that might induce smoking. Injectors often exhibit failure. However, oil burning will not manifest; insufficient compression will present as white smoke, as will a breakdown on the compressor side of the turbo.
To diagnose a turbo issue, heat the engine, detach the outlet pressure pipe from the turbo, and operate the vehicle. Place a clean white cloth or card in front of the outlet pipe; if it becomes saturated with oil when revving, it indicates a turbo problem.
Injector failure is another factor that might induce smoking. Injectors often exhibit failure. However, oil burning will not manifest; insufficient compression will present as white smoke, as will a breakdown on the compressor side of the turbo.
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Additionally, a significant amount of black soot is evident on the rear exhaust pipes when touched with a finger. Is it an indication that anything is amiss?
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I added a diesel cleaning chemical to the fuel tank along with £15 worth of diesel, drove aggressively for 30 miles, and it successfully passed the MOT this morning! Somewhat of a success, however I am certain there is further complexity involved. I have one additional year to resolve it. I will certainly examine the turbo as you recommended.
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Another year to address the issue, or until the turbo completely fails, resulting in the engine consuming excessively heated oil and entering a state of diesel runaway. In such a scenario, the engine cannot be turned off and will continue to rev until it runs out of oil, leading to significant engine damage. It is prudent to ensure that the turbo is not deteriorating; if there is oil smoke, it must be investigated.