This is a complete E46 323i/328i and Z3 2.3/2.8 Crankcase Vent Overhaul Kit that contains the oil separator valve and all of the related hoses on M52TU engines built up to 1/2000 production date. It's made by Rein Automotive (an OEM supplier) and comes with a two year warranty. This kit includes -
- insulated crankcase vent valve / oil separator (Cold Climate version)
- vent pipe
- connecting line
- vent hose
- return pipe
There are two versions of the E46 CCV - standard original and a cold climate version. This kit includes all of the parts for the upgraded Cold Climate CCV system. The Cold Climate CCV has foam insulation around the hoses and oil separator valve and does a better job of trapping heat inside to warm up the oil faster and prevent condensation. The cold oil leads to sludge or even ice that blocks operation of the oil separator. The Cold Climate CCV is recommended not only for colder regions but also if the car is driven very short distances (< 10 miles) and the engine never gets to optimal temperature.
The E46 crankcase vent valve is responsible for separating oil from the air inside the engine and air intake. Liquid oil is returned to the oil pan while oil vapors are sent to the intake manifold to be burned up during the combustion cycle. It's also known as a a PCV, CCV, oil separator, and a cyclonic separator system. Too much oil in the intake air lowers the effective fuel octane, leads to drivability issues, and causes increased emissions. A completely blocked CCV has the potential for very serious engine failure (hydrolock) if liquid oil ends up in the intake. Signs of a failing CCV include: whistling noises in the intake, blueish smoke in the exhaust, high oil consumption, and thick white or yellow gunk under the oil cap.
The E46 crankcase vent system is complex with multiple rubber and plastic hoses running betwee the valve cover, oil separator valve, and the intake manifold. A failed crankcase vent valve (CCV) is rarely the only thing wrong with the system so a complete overhaul is really the best option. Regular heavy acceleration and runs to redline and frequent oil changes will also help keep the system working properly.
BMW Fitments: 3 SeriesE46 (99-05) > 323Ci
E46 (99-05) > 323i
E46 (99-05) > 328Ci
E46 (99-05) > 328i
Z SeriesE36/7 / E36/8 Z3 (96-02) > Z3 2.3
E36/7 / E36/8 Z3 (96-02) > Z3 2.8
