BMW Switch to Viton for Valve Cover Gaskets?

[a5m]

Looking into replacing valve covers and all related gaskets and first found NRW's Viton gaskets, then dug some more and found a post on another forum about BMW switching to Viton for the E46. Was curious if the same was done for the E9x? Found someone claiming the same for the E39 so I assume it's across the board if true.

[a5m]

Bump?

[spammysammich]

At the price the genuine gasket retails for it should be viton but I’m totally willing to bet it’s just some cheaper buna variant. Shit like this is where bean counters win in product design.

[a5m]

Yea makes sense. OEM fit and quality is the best so might just go with that instead of NRW. Couldn't find much on their upgraded Viton gaskets.

Was looking at MPorium Vanos Cups. Their Installation Kit comes with Elring gaskets. Don't think I want to go that route either, unless they're the OEM manufacturer for the gaskets involved for the job.

[spammysammich]

Look up the data sheets between buna n or whatever junk BMW makes their gasket out of and viton, then decide. There is a reason people choose viton or other better performing elastomers when cost isn’t a factor. And a reason why every BMW leaves puddles of oil.

[a5m]

Originally Posted by spammysammich

Look up the data sheets between buna n or whatever junk BMW makes their gasket out of and viton, then decide. There is a reason people choose viton or other better performing elastomers when cost isn’t a factor. And a reason why every BMW leaves puddles of oil.

Hmm you make a good point. Might be worth splurging on Viton. Just fitment of aftermarket parts is a concern. One thing OE exceeds in regardless of choice of material.

[zcp312]

getting ready to do mine, is NRW the way to go then based on forum search?

https://www.nrw-design.com/collections/e9x-m3

[amrazM]

Originally Posted by zcp312

getting ready to do mine, is NRW the way to go then based on forum search?

https://www.nrw-design.com/collections/e9x-m3

Yes NRW for sure, they are the way to go.