E46 320d Swirl flap removal

[red997]

So, this weekend I will finally get round to ditching the swirl flaps;
I already have the required blanking parts;

any pointers and/or links to sites / video that clearly show what to do ?

I think I understand the basics, but want to be sure !

Cheers

[helix402]

If you haven’t done already change all the vacuum pipes under the inlet manifold for silicon ones. You can put a screw in the pipe the goes to the flap actuator. You don’t need to fully take the manifold of the car, just lift it up.

Do not drop any orange o rings into the engine. Cover all inlet ports to prevent this.

[iSore]

They're a bit of a tt to do if it's your first one. Obviously upper engine covers, pollen filter housing and rear bulkhead cover off. Watch the two connectors on the back - one for the fuel rail sensor, the other for the manifold pressure sensor. The bolts/nuts are easy enough to get to. The manifold slides up off the studs but go easy. On the underside of the manifold are one or two more vacuum sensors, and it's as dark as a bag in there. With the manifold lifted up you can either pull the sensors from the manifold or disconnect the vac hoses. Neither is particularly easy. Watch the stainless sleeves in the manifold bolt holes as they love to drop out. The 10mm dipstick tube securing bolt can be a tt to refit. When refitting, 'glue' the orange sealing rings in place with grease so they don't fall off.

It's a frustrating, fiddly and dirty oily job to do but take your time, don't force anything, take loads of notes and pics with a phone. I disconnect the battery as well. Replacing the various vacuum hoses is bloody fiddly as well. I did one 3-4 weeks ago and it reminded my why I dislike E46's so much.