BMW N63 - User Manual

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SI B11 16 14

ngine

May 2015

Technical Service

This Service Information bulletin and attachment supersedes SI B11 16 14 d

ated May 2015.

designates changes to this revision

UBJECT

N63 Engine: Check the Timing Chain

MODEL

F01 and F02 (7 Series Sedan) produced from 9/2008 to

6/2012

F04 (ActiveHybrid 7) produced from 4/2010 to 6/2012

F07 (Gran Turismo) produced from 9/2009 to 6/2012

F10 (5 Series Sedan) produced from3/2010 to 7/2013

F12 (6 Series Convertible) produced from 3/2011 to 7/2012

F13 (6 Series Coupe) produced from 7/2011 to 7/2012

E70 (X5) produced from 3/2010 to 6/2013

E71 (X6) produced from 7/2008 to 6/2014

E72 (ActiveHybrid X6) produced from 9/2009 to 9/2011

INFORMATION

This bulletin outlines the procedure for checking the

engine timing chains for wear, and should be completed

in conjunction with SI B11 06 14, “N63 Customer Care Package.”

The N63CCP and N63 Engine Check the Timing Chain are NOT mandatory Technical Campaigns or Recalls.

hey should be completed only based on parts availability, workshop capacity, and the customer’s

schedule.

Performing the test plans identified in the procedure below will detect wear at an early stage and, if necessary,

provide a repair solution. To avoid future valvetrain wear, the vehicle must be reprogrammed and a shorter oil

service interval must be retrofitted via ISTA/P.

Finally, drain and replace the engine’s oil and filter.

After completing all necessary repairs included in the N63 Customer Care Package and the Timing

Chain Check, the vehicle must be test driven for up to 30 minutes to ensure that the repairs were

performed to the highest standard.

AFFECTED VEHICLES

This Service Action applies to E70, E71, E72, F01, F02, F04, F07, F10, F12, and F13 vehicles with the N63

engines corresponding to the production dates listed above.

PROCEDURE

Page

2015

https://www.bmwtis.net/tiscode/cgi

bin/bulletin.aspx?sie_path=/tsb/bulletins/htm_store/235

...

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Summary

N63 Engine: Check the Timing Chain

MODEL

Lists affected vehicle models and production dates for the N63 engine.

INFORMATION

Provides context and important notes regarding the timing chain check procedure.

AFFECTED VEHICLES

Specifies the vehicle models and engines covered by this service action.

Procedure Steps

Timing Chain Test Plan Paths

Details specific diagnostic steps for different model groups using ISTA/D.

Engine Oil Service Interval Retrofit

Instructions for updating the vehicle's engine oil service interval using ISTA/P.

Parts Information

Sublet - Materials

Lists specific parts and quantities required for the service, including engine oil.

Warranty and Labor Information

Warranty Information

Details reimbursement procedures and defect codes for the service.

Labor Operations

Lists labor operation codes and descriptions for timing chain checks and replacements.

Summary

N63 Engine: Check the Timing Chain

MODEL

Lists affected vehicle models and production dates for the N63 engine.

INFORMATION

Provides context and important notes regarding the timing chain check procedure.

AFFECTED VEHICLES

Specifies the vehicle models and engines covered by this service action.

Procedure Steps

Timing Chain Test Plan Paths

Details specific diagnostic steps for different model groups using ISTA/D.

Engine Oil Service Interval Retrofit

Instructions for updating the vehicle's engine oil service interval using ISTA/P.

Parts Information

Sublet - Materials

Lists specific parts and quantities required for the service, including engine oil.

Warranty and Labor Information

Warranty Information

Details reimbursement procedures and defect codes for the service.

Labor Operations

Lists labor operation codes and descriptions for timing chain checks and replacements.

This document outlines a technical service bulletin (TSB) concerning the N63 engine, specifically addressing the procedure for checking and, if necessary, replacing the timing chains. It also details related maintenance and programming tasks, as well as reimbursement procedures for qualifying customer-pay repairs.

Function Description:

The primary function of this bulletin is to guide technicians through the process of diagnosing and rectifying timing chain wear in N63 engines. The timing chain is a critical component that synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshafts, ensuring proper valve timing for engine operation. Wear or stretching of the timing chain can lead to incorrect valve timing, reduced engine performance, increased emissions, and potentially severe engine damage. The diagnostic procedure involves using ISTA/D software to measure timing chain elongation, which is an indicator of wear. If the timing chains are found to be stretched beyond acceptable limits, the bulletin provides instructions for their replacement.

Beyond the timing chain check and replacement, the bulletin also covers several interconnected functions:

Engine Oil Service Interval Retrofit: This involves reprogramming the vehicle's control modules to adjust the engine oil service interval to a shorter duration (12 months or 10,000 miles). This modification is intended to mitigate future valvetrain wear by promoting more frequent oil changes, which are crucial for the longevity of engine components, especially those involved in valve timing.
Programming and Coding: The procedure requires the use of ISTA/P to reprogram and code all programmable control modules to the latest software version. This ensures that the vehicle's electronic systems are up-to-date and compatible with any new components or operational parameters resulting from the timing chain repair and oil service interval retrofit.
Engine Oil and Filter Change: As part of the repair and maintenance, the engine oil and filter must be drained and replaced. This is a standard practice after significant engine work and is essential for optimal engine lubrication and performance.
Pre-Start Engine Preparation: Before starting the engine for the first time after timing chain replacement, specific steps are outlined to ensure proper oil circulation and prevent dry starts. This includes filling the engine with oil, connecting a battery charger, removing the electric fuel pump fuse, and cranking the engine for a specified duration to build oil pressure.

Usage Features:

This technical service bulletin is intended for use by authorized BMW technicians and service centers. It provides a structured approach to addressing a specific engine issue, ensuring consistency and correctness in repairs.

Diagnostic Workflow: The bulletin outlines a clear diagnostic workflow, starting with a vehicle test and proceeding to specific test plans within ISTA/D. This systematic approach helps technicians accurately identify timing chain wear.
Repair Instructions: For timing chain replacement, the bulletin refers to specific Repair Instructions (e.g., 11 31 052), ensuring that technicians follow established procedures for disassembly, replacement, and reassembly.
Software Integration: The heavy reliance on ISTA/D and ISTA/P highlights the integration of diagnostic and programming software in modern vehicle maintenance. Technicians must be proficient in using these tools to perform the required checks and updates.
Parts Management: The bulletin details a specific process for ordering parts, noting that certain timing chain components are "blocked from ordering" and require manual release through a PuMA Teileclearing Engine case. This controlled parts distribution ensures that only necessary parts are ordered for confirmed failures.
Reimbursement Procedures: For qualifying customer-pay repairs performed prior to the bulletin's release, a clear reimbursement procedure is provided, directing customers to an online portal (www.BMW-RP.com) to submit their requests with required documentation. This feature ensures that customers who have already addressed the issue can be compensated.
Post-Repair Verification: After all repairs and programming are completed, a test drive of up to 30 minutes is required to ensure that the repairs were performed to the highest standard and that the vehicle operates correctly.

Maintenance Features:

The bulletin incorporates several features aimed at ensuring proper maintenance and preventing future issues.

Proactive Wear Detection: The timing chain test plan is designed to detect wear at an early stage, allowing for preventive repairs before more severe damage occurs. This proactive approach is a key maintenance feature.
Shorter Oil Service Interval: The retrofit to a shorter oil service interval (12 months or 10,000 miles) is a direct maintenance enhancement. More frequent oil changes are critical for the N63 engine, as proper lubrication is essential for the timing chain and valvetrain components.
Engine Oil Pan Gasket Replacement: The bulletin explicitly emphasizes the importance of replacing the engine oil pan gasket (seal) during timing chain replacement. Failure to do so can lead to oil leaks and additional workshop visits, highlighting a critical detail for long-term engine integrity.
Parts Return and Inspection: All replaced parts are subject to 100% return and inspection at the Warranty Parts Return Center (WPRC). This ensures appropriate usage of parts and helps monitor the quality and necessity of repairs, serving as a quality control measure.
CBS Data Reset and Correction: After the engine oil service retrofit, a CBS (Condition Based Service) data reset and, if applicable, a CBS correction must be performed. This ensures that the vehicle's service interval display accurately reflects the new, shorter interval, guiding future maintenance.
Documentation Requirements: The need for detailed documentation, including the submission of a PuMA case for parts ordering and the itemization of labor operations, contributes to a robust maintenance record. This documentation is vital for warranty claims, future diagnostics, and tracking vehicle service history.
Battery Charger Requirement: The instruction to connect a battery charger during programming and diagnostic sessions is a crucial maintenance detail, preventing voltage drops that could disrupt software updates and potentially damage control modules.

BMW N63 Specifications

General

Configuration	V8
Aspiration	Twin-Turbocharged
Bore	89 mm
Stroke	88.3 mm
Compression Ratio	10.0:1
Fuel Injection	Direct Injection
Displacement	4.4 L
Fuel Type	Gasoline
Valvetrain	DOHC, 32-valve
Torque	450 lb-ft (depending on variant)
Cooling System	Liquid-cooled
Oil Capacity	8.5 L (depending on variant)