This weekend was the first BMW CCA National Capital Chapter (NCC) DIY date that worked for me this year. BMW of Sterling hosted the club on Saturday and I was able to do some simple maintenance on my E46 M3.
I changed the oil and the coolant. To drain the coolant the traditional way in an E46 M3 is rather involved, including disconnecting the radiator hose since there is no radiator drain plug. I came in hoping that Sterling would have a coolant vacuum machine like the one I used at Annapolis BMW to change the coolant in my E39 M5. Fortunately they did, saving me lots of time and hassle.
BMW tech Ricky was generous with his expertise on setting up the machine. Like most things BMW, it’s not quite as simple as it looks. To ensure getting as much old fluid out as possible, you should run the machine multiple times, stopping and repositioning the hose to get it down as far as possible. It’s not possible to get it all, but you can get most of it.
He also explained that since the connection is pressurized, you can also quickly check your coolant system for any leaks. The radiator hose constricts when the system is pressurized and the fluid starts flowing, old out and new in, a 50/50 mix of BMW coolant and distilled water.
At any time, you can stop the flow of coolant and watch the hose. If it inflates back quickly to normal, that means there is a leak somewhere in your system. It should stay constricted for at least 30 seconds. Fortunately mine did so no leak.
BG CT4 Coolant Transfusion Machine Connected
Members obviously need to engage a tech to use a dealership machine. But in general we try to avoid asking them too many questions, since they are there doing their jobs. Fellow members are happy to help, and there is almost always someone who has done the job you’re doing and can share firsthand knowledge.
The legendary S54 engine – slightly dirty bay
The M3 has a few cosmetic touch ups coming up, which I’ll write about when I find time to get them done. The next DIY I attend will be with the M5 – something on one car or the other is almost always due. These DIY events alone are worth the price of membership in the BMW CCA.
BMW maintenance is a lot easier when you turn it into a hobby, and tackle with a friendly bunch of like-minded enthusiasts.