Smoke coming from front and back!

[Rob5]

Hi all,

Yet another problem to add to the list. I recently had the car serviced and the valve cover gaskets replaced at the same time due to an oil leak. The mechanic said that it also has another leak which would be much more involved to fix but will be fine leaving (didn't say where from).

It still has a leak but doesn't seem to be losing much oil as I check levels every couple of days and not had to replace any.

Problem is, ever since the gasket replacement / service it sends out a large cloud of smoke from the exhaust upon start up only, then when the engine is warm and especially if driven higher revs, smoke comes from the top nearside of the engine block. There is also a bad burning oil smell from the engine.

Is the mechanic right that this isn't a major problem because it sure looks and smells like one to me!

Thanks
Rob

[AW8]

Topic name  sounds like adult movie title I would get second opinion from a decent BMW Indy.

[Rob5]

Yeah, unfortunatly this one doesn't seem to be airtight, although there is plenty of lube! 

[AW8]

As you don't have car in signature I trawled your posts - it seems you have a V8 facelift with N62.

There have been some reported issues with valve stem seals on N62 engines.

Gaskets may have needed changing and could still be issue if not done properly. If smoke from engine near gaskets then that's my bet. I might be tempted to ask what torque settings were &/or order bolts where tightened.

Sometimes sorting one engine issue can highlight or worsen another....no idea if it is the seals &/or if this could be linked.

Hopefully someone with more knowledge may contribute.

[Rob5]

Thanks for the reply. I think I have the M62TUB44 engine as its registered 2001, so pre-facelift? I've also done a fair bit of reading about the dreaded valve stem seals and I'm fairly confident that its not got the symptoms. It only kicks out smoke on a cold start and later from the nearside engine bay, where stem seals seem to be more smoke on idle and warm engine.

I think another gasket might be the problem though. As I've had the valve cover gaskets done, what other one could it be? There is also that oil leak to consider as well from the same side as the smoke. I've also read about EGR valve problems but I don't know if that would fit my symptoms.

I'm also wondering if, as this problem surfaced right after a service, if the change in oil has had anything to do with it?

So many problems!

[Horizon]

Rocker cover Gaskets are a problem on the M62 engine, had to do mine on the 840 CI, maybe leaking on to the exhaust manifold, if your getting smoke from the engine bay, they might not have sealed them properly?
Mine was filling the spark plug recesses with oil as well.take the engine covers off and have a look, only a 5 minute job.
The diesels have a problem with the exhaust manifold cracking, not sure if the V8's have the same problem. AW8 is the man for pre facelift V8's. He will be in the know.

[AW8]

Oil in plug holes would do it for sure......easy to check. If it's still on original plugs change them or they will seize in.

If causing change of rocker gaskets I would ensure both done.

Correct torque and bolt tensioning could be a factor......I would ask the mechanics what torque was used.

Failed PCV hoses (at rear and top of engine) can cause issues. If soft they need changing.

An M62 will likely need gaskets and PCV hoses circa 80k.

I am using mobil1 0w40 LL01 some swear buy it - others consider it a bit thin.

Over filling on an oil  change might be an issue. Filters can get clogged so worth ensuring its ok and not a poor quality item....oil filter o rings need changing too.

[Rob5]

Thanks everyone thats really given me something to go on. I'll do some further investigation this weekend!