[bmwtpt]

Hey guys. In the middle of a vcg change. Is it necessary to take out the coil shields and plugs to get the cover off? I have all the bolts out already, the valvetronic motor is out, and the ignition wiring harness is moved aside. The coils are also removed. I had my plugs replaced 20k ago, and they look clean, so I was hoping to leave plugs and coil shields in place, but didn't want to take cover off if this would damage them to leave them in place. Any advice? Also, cover seems pretty stuck on there. Any advice for getting it off without damaging anything? Any and all help is welcome. I have the Bentley, but honestly, it's a little short on details. The forums here have been equally if not more helpful!

Merry Christmas!

[AlanAZ]

Plugs should stay. Refer to these threads:

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=775317

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=697252

[bmwtpt]

Originally Posted by AlanAZ

Plugs should stay. Refer to these threads:

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=775317

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=697252

Thanks for the quick reply. Can I leave the coil shields in as well?

I saw those other posts. They are both great, and really helped a lot. I'll feel better when this is done!

[AlanAZ]

I haven't done this myself, but it looked like in both cases they came out.

[Jhe]

I'm in the middle of the same project as we speak. From what I experienced and gathered, they recommend you replace the spark plug sleeves anyway. I managed to nget it off myself, but I would recommend yanking them, it made the difference of me getting the cover off and not getting it off. Again, I was alone, but the gasket replacement kit includes the aluminum sleeves..... and the valve cover gasket and sleeves is about $40. Far less expensive then potentially damaging something trying to save them. Just my sorry opinion. Good Luck