Vanos Solenoid done... WOW, what a difference

[m3f_PurpleM3Pursuit]

The engine has about 23k on it.



I noticed it because I was getting very weird results on the dyno. A very bad dip around 5k rpms in power that looked like VANOS should do its thing, but instead I just loss power and then its spraying oil in my engine bay.

damn with 23k thats very surprising... i would have expected that at much higher mileage.. unless it was a used unit..

[m3f_m3ss_978d165483]

I got 72k on mine ,and sputters during WOT .(sometimes)

[m3f_Supabimma_cc72c2aa80]

hey guys... thought i'd make an updated since i started this thread.



the best combo of regaining lost torque is the two chain tensioners and the vanos solenoid. All three really helped the car feel alot more like it should and im glad i got them taken care off. the only thing left is the vanos unit itself but i will replaced that eventually. for now its doing good though (minor marble noise but not nearly as much as it used to be).

[m3f_Blue///M3_b1b8166d3a]

Did you scan your ECU before? Did it throw any codes for the VANOS unit?

[m3f_Supabimma_cc72c2aa80]

nope no vanos codes thats why i don't think the vanos is bad enough to replace yet necessarily. it still makes noise. but i think that the two chain tensioners and vanos solenoid really helped the car much smoother and much better. I'm glad i replaced them first. down the road i will replace the vanos unit itself but for now im happy.

[m3f_mania]

mine made 206 hp but there was no dip in the power curve ,how would i notice if my vanos was playing up.is the vanos on a 94 a big noticable step or is its power delivery gradual.

[m3f_jaza45]

where are the chain tensioners located ?> is there a DIY

[m3f_Supabimma_cc72c2aa80]

lower chain tensioner is super easy ~ 5 min. its on the left side of the block, half way down just above the headers (gold knob stickin out). you unscrew and replace. pretty damn easy. the upper one involves alot more work.