Table of Contents

Subject

Page

M Engines - S54B32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Objectives of The Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Purpose of The System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Components
Engine Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Crankshaft and Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Connecting Rods and Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Pistons and Rings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Oil Circuit Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Oil Pump. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Crankcase Ventilation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Cylinder Head. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Coolant Circuit Flow. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Camshafts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Valve Train. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
VANOS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Intake Air System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Fuel Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Ignition Coils. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Clutch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Exhaust System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Review Questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

M ENGINES

Model: E46 M3, E46 M3 Convertible, M roadster, M coupe

Engine: S54B32
Production Date: 2001 MY to Present

Objectives of The Module

After Completing this module, you will be able to:
Perform a valve adjustment.
Identify camshaft markings and correct timing.
Explain the VANOS operation.
Identify piston markings for correct installation.
Explain the oil flow circuit.
Understand the oil pump operation.
Identify the crankcase ventilation components.
Explain the coolant circuit flow.
Distinguish the differences between the intake and exhaust valves.
Identify the intake air system components.
Identify the S54 fuel injectors and ignition coils.

2
M Engines - S54B32

S54B32 Engine
Purpose of The System
The S54B32 engine is an in-line 6 cylinder power plant. This 3246 ccm displacement engine is used worldwide. The engine designation is:
S 54 B 32
Sport Engine Engine Designation

Gasoline Powered

Displacement in Liters

The S54 engine design provides:

1.
2.
3.

Everyday Driveability
Reduction in Weight of Engine Components
Environmental Comparability

5.
6.
7.

Economic Operation
Increased Output (to previous M3)
High Performance

4.

Greater Speed Range

8.

EDR (Electronic Throttle)

The S54B32 is a 4-valve per cylinder dual VANOS naturally aspirated engine with high
torque and high-rev concepts. High torque is developed by a large volume engine at low
engine rpm and a long total gear ratio. High-rev is achieved with a small displacement
lightweight (internal components) engine and short total gear ratio. This powertrain provides the best of both worlds by using a 3.2 Liter in-line 6 cylinder configuration coupled to
a 6 speed manual transmission.
Power Output for the E46 M3:
1. 333 hp at 7900 rpm
2. 355 Nm of Torque at 4900 rpm

Power Output for the

M roadster and M coupe:
1. 315 hp at 7900 rpm
2. 340 Nm of Torque at 4900 rpm

114100001.jpg

3
M Engines - S54B32

Technical Data
Engine Management
Effective Displacement (CCM) Design / Valve Per Cylinder
Bore / Stroke (mm)
Maximum Engine RPM
Power Output (bhp/rpm) M3 / M roadster - M coupe
Weight-to-Power Ratio (DIN) kg per KW-kg per bhp
US Torque (Nm/rpm) M3 / M roadster - M coupe
Compression Ratio
Fuel
Valve Diameter

MS S54
3246 in-line 6 / 4
87 / 91
8000
333 / 315 bhp @ 7900 rpm
5.93kg/kw-4.36kg / bhp
355 / 340 Nm @ 4900 rpm
11.5 : 1
Premium Unleaded

Intake / Exhaust (mm)

Stem - Intake / Exhaust (mm)
Valve Lift
Intake / Exhaust (mm)
Valve Clearance (Adjustment < 35 C Engine Temperature)
Intake (mm)
Exhaust (mm)

35 / 30.5
6.0 / 6.0

Camshaft Spread Angle

Intake (degrees)
Exhaust (degrees)
US Emission Compliance

12 / 12
0.18 - 0.23
0.28 - 0.33
70 - 130
83 - 128
LEV

333
Hp

M3
Hp
Shown

11410003.eps

M3
Torque
Shown
11410004.eps

4
M Engines - S54B32

System Components
Engine Block: The S54 engine block is cast iron in order to absorb the high forces produced by the crankshaft (combustion pressure and high engine rpm).
The engine block has cast provisions for 3 Knock Sensors and
and the Crankshaft Position/RPM
Sensor (on the intake side).
The cylinder bores are 87 mm in
diameter and are spaced 91 mm
on center.
The bare block weighs approximately 105 lbs. (48 kg).
11410004.jpg

Crankshaft and Bearings: The S54 crankshaft is forged steel with 12 counterweights
and a 91 mm stroke. The crankshaft is supported by 7 (60 mm diameter) main bearings
with 49 mm diameter connecting rod journals.
The thrust bearing is a multipiece shell assembled as a unit
and is located on the number 6
main journal of the crankshaft.

Bearing Clearance:
1. Main 0.02 - 0.05 mm
2. Thrust (end play) 0.08 - 0.16 mm

11410005.jpg

The impulse wheel is bolted to the number 6 connecting rod journal counterweight.

5
M Engines - S54B32

The S54 impulse wheel is bolted directly to the crankshaft providing accurate:
1.
2.

Crankshaft Position - Reference

Engine RPM

3.
4.

Smooth Running Measurement

Misfire Detection

11410006.bmp

The Crankshaft Position/RPM Sensor is mounted on the rear of the engine block (below the
intake manifold).
The sensor protrudes through the engine block
(arrow) to scan the impulse wheel gear teeth.
The cast sensor mounting is shown from the
rear view of the engine.

11410007.jpg

The torsional vibration damper is specifically

designed for the higher engine rpm.
The damper is secured by 4 bolts which must
be angle torqued (refer to Repair Instructions
and Technical Data).
Note the installation location for the crankshaft
position locating tool (arrow).

11410008.jpg

6
M Engines - S54B32

Connecting Rods and Bearings: The S54 uses reinforced forged steel cracked
connecting rods:

1. Length = 139 mm
2. Small End (Integrated Bushing)
Diameter = 21 mm
3. Large End Diameter = 49 mm

11410009.jpg

The cracked connecting rod refers to the cap which

is split off leaving rough surfaces on both the cap and
the rod.
Centering of the cap on the rod is carried out through
the structure of the split which eliminates the alignment
sleeves. Pairing codes are stamped into the rod to
ensure proper installation of the cap.
The S54 connecting rods are weight-optimized (+/- 4
grams). Only one set of connecting rods (the same
weight class) is available to maintain balance.

The connecting rod bolts must be angle torqued (refer

to Repair Instructions and Technical Data). The bolts
can not be replaced separately, if damaged; the connecting rod must be replaced (supplied with new
bolts).

11410000.bmp

The S54 connecting rod bearings use end mounted

locating tabs.

Notes: ________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
11410010.bmp

7
M Engines - S54B32

Pistons and Piston Rings: The S54 uses graphite

coated cast aluminum (full slipper skirt) pistons with
valve recesses.
m0000

The piston diameter is 86.965 mm, weighs approximately 470 grams with a compression ratio of 11.5:1.

965
86. I 01
A

S54 32
B

Install the pistons with the arrow pointing towards the

front of the engine.

11410065.eps

Piston Rings:
1. Compression Ring 1 = 1.2 mm Height
2. Compression Ring 2 = Stepped Face 1.5 mm Height
3. Oil Control Ring = Beveled, Spring Loaded 2 mm Height

A Special Tool (ring compressor) is required to install

the pistons.

The pistons are cooled by oil spray nozzles that are

bolted into the crankcase.
The nozzles are tapped into the main oil gallery and
delivers a constant oil spray to the underside of the pistons.

11410011.bmp

The wrist pins are 21 mm in diameter and have tapered

ends (inside diameter) for weight reduction.
8
M Engines - S54B32

11410066.eps

Oil Circuit Flow:

11410012.tiff

1.
1a.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.

Oil Pump Intake (rear of pan)

17.
Thermal Oil Level Sensor
Oil Pump Intake (front of Pan)
18.
Oil Pressure Switch
Supply to Block
19.
Oil Return Flow Line
Supply to Oil Filter / Cooler
20.
Oil Pump (two stage)
Oil Cooler (flow controlled by 95m C thermostat in oil filter housing)
Filtered Oil Return to Main Gallery
Main Oil Gallery (crankshaft, connecting rods, spray nozzles)
Spray Nozzles for Pistons
Oil Pressure Control (back to valve in Pump)
Supply to Cylinder Head
Supply to VANOS Pressure Reducer Valve
Supply to Timing Chain Tensioner
Exhaust Camshaft Bearings
Intake Camshaft Bearings
Exhaust Valve Finger with Oil Collector Hole
Intake Valve Finger with Oil Collector Hole
Oil Filter Housing

The recommended oil for the S54 is CASTROL TWS MOTORSPORT SAE 10W-60 or
CASTROL FORMULA RS 10W-60 SYNTHETIC OIL - PN 07 51 0 009 420 (refer to SIB
# 00 02 00 and 11 06 01). Oil Capacity: Refer to Technical Data or the Oil Capacity
Chart found in the Service Information Bulletin.

9
M Engines - S54B32

Oil Pump: The S54 oil pump is two stage, supply and scavenge. The pump is driven by
the crankshaft with a single row chain.
The oil pump has two separate chambers, the scavenge chamber (1) draws oil from the
pickup at the front of the oil pan. The oil is transferred from the pump through a small pipe
to the main sump at the rear of the oil pan (2).
The supply chamber (3) draws oil from the main sump through a large pipe (4) to supply oil
to the main gallery. The main gallery circuit returns to the pump housing which contains the
oil pressure control piston.
3

Front Sump

1
2
Main Sump

11410067.eps

The oil pressure is tested at the oil filter housing using

the Special Tool #90 88 6 114 390 (adapting retainer
bolt and pressure gauge as shown in the Repair
Instructions).
11410016-1

The adapter retainer bolt replaces the oil filter housing

cover retaining bolt and provides an adapter fitting for
the oil pressure gauge.

11410016.tiff

10
M Engines - S54B32

Crankcase Ventilation: The S54 features a non-pressurized sealed crankcase ventilation

system for the blow-by vapors.

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Intake Manifold
Oil Pan
Oil Separator (Labyrinth)
Cylinder Head Cover
Drainback Tube
Crankcase Vapor Inlet
Crankcase Vapor Outlet
(To Intake Manifold)
8. Condensate Return to Oil Pan
(With Check Valve)
9. Condensate Return To Oil Pan

11410013.jpg

The crankcase blow-by vapors are purged by intake manifold vacuum. The vapors are
drawn from the cylinder head cover (4) through the inlet of the Oil Separator (6). The
Labyrinth (3) separates the oil from the vapors, and the condensate (oil) returns to the oil
pan through the return line (9). The vapors exit the Oil Separator through the outlet hose (7)
to the intake manifold to be inducted into the combustion chambers.
When the engine is running, intake manifold vacuum will close the Check Valve in the return
line (8). When the engine is not running, the Check Valve will open. This allows any condensation (oil) that have collected in the intake manifold to drain back to the oil pan through
the dipstick tube.
Sealing Washers

Port Seals

The cylinder head cover is sealed by a perimeter seal, spark plug port seals and sealing washers under the retaining bolts.
These individual seals must all be properly
installed to prevent oil and vacuum leaks.
11410016.tiff

11
M Engines - S54B32

Cylinder Head: The S54 features an aluminum cross-flow cylinder head designed as a single component that houses the camshafts and valve train.

11410018.tiff

11410015.jpg

The combustion chamber reveals the 4 valve per cylinder arrangement and the optimized
(flow enhanced) intake and exhaust ports. The spark plugs are centrally located in the combustion area for the most effective power and reduced emission outputs.
To remove the cylinder head, the camshafts must first be removed to access the cylinder
head bolts (refer to the Repair Instructions). The timing chain guide rail bolt must also be
removed (upper picture #1) and the special sealing washer must be replaced.
To pressure test the cylinder head, a Special Tool (Pressure Tester Adapter Kit) is required.
Cylinder head machining is not permitted.

12
M Engines - S54B32

Coolant Circuit Flow:

11410019.jpg

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6,7,8
9.
10.
11.

Coolant Reservoir (2 bar system)

Thermostat Housing (80 C thermostat)
Heater Core
Water Pump
Coolant Temperature Sensor
Coolant Outlet (from cross-flow cylinder head)
Coolant Return Pipe
Radiator
Coolant Return Line (from heater core)

The S54 uses a high efficiency water pump (4) to enhance the Cross Flow cylinder head
design.
The cross-flow design ensures even temperature distribution through out the cylinder head.
The coolant flows from the engine block on the exhaust side into the cylinder head.
The coolant flows through (across) the cylinder head and exits at the intake side through
three outlets (6,7,8). The coolant is routed through the Return Pipe (9) to the thermostat
housing (2).
13
M Engines - S54B32

Camshaft Drive: The camshafts are driven by the

crankshaft using a double-roller timing chain.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Crankshaft Sprocket
Aluminum Guide Rail
Intake Camshaft Sprocket
Exhaust Camshaft Sprocket
Short Tension Rail
Long Tension Rail (with 3 Lubrication Holes)
Hydraulic Tensioner

The chain is routed from the crankshaft over a guide rail

to the intake and exhaust camshaft sprockets. A two Oil Outlets
piece hydraulically tensioned guide rail lubricates (three
11410014.eps
oil outlets provided) and self adjusts the chain.
Camshafts: The S54 cast iron overhead camshafts are hollow and are strengthened by heat treating the journals and
cam lobes. The duration and lift (12 mm) of the lobes are the
same on both camshafts.
The camshafts are not interchangeable, therefore they should
be marked before disassembly.
The camshaft lobes have oil grooves (shown by arrows to the
right) that provide lubrication from the camshaft journals to the
lobes and the valve fingers.

11410068.eps

The camshafts must be removed and installed with the press

fixture (Special Tool #90 88 6 114 380 as shown in the Repair
Instructions).
11410014.tiff

The camshafts are timed with the bridged location tool

(pinned into camshaft as shown in the Repair Instructions).

11410013.tiff

14
M Engines - S54B32

The VANOS enhanced camshaft spread angles

are:
Intake (E) 70o - 130o
Exhaust (A) 83o _ 128o

11410021.bmp

The camshafts are supported by 7 bearing journals machined into the cylinder head.
The bearing journal caps are location specific.
The markings are:
1.

E=Intake Side Number 2 - 7

2.

A=Exhaust Side Number 2 - 7

11410018.jpg

The first camshaft bearing journal also serves

as the thrust bearing (unmarked).
This two-piece bearing flange is forged to support VANOS axial loads.
The thrust bearing flange is bolted to the face
of the cylinder head. This component is not sep arately available because the journals are
machined with the cylinder head.
11410021.jpg

15
M Engines - S54B32

An impulse wheel is mounted on the end of

each camshaft for position detection. The
impulse wheels are secured by a removable bolt
(1).
The intake camshaft impulse wheel has 6 lugs
and the exhaust camshaft impulse wheel has 7
lugs (with gap).

11410015.tiff

Valve Train: The camshaft lobe actuates the

valve finger (rocker arm) which rotates on a finger (rocker) shaft. The valve finger is secured by
a spring clip and contacts the valve clearance
shim (9 mm diameter) to open the valve.
The adjustable valve clearance set by various
shim thickness is:
1.
2.

Intake 0.18 - 0.23mm

Exhaust 0.28-0.33mm

Set With Engine Temperature < 35o C

Two feeler gages and a holder with a magnetic

tip (Special Tools) are required to adjust the
valve clearance. The cam lobe must be rotated
away from the valve finger for maximum clearance.

1141011.tiff

22

215

The shims (shown by the arrow to the right) are

available in sizes from 1.72 to 2.52 mm at 0.04
mm increments.

To access the valve clearance shim, remove the

finger securing clip. Slide the finger away from
the valve spring to expose the shim. Use the
magnetic tip holder to extract the shim.

11410051.eps

16
M Engines - S54B32

The finger (rocker) shafts are secured with locating

bolts (one per side) at the back of the cylinder head (1).

11410012-1.tiff

Remove the threaded access bolts (1) from the rear

face of the cylinder head and push the shafts through.

11410012-2.tiff

Both finger shafts are hollow, the exhaust shaft

is unique because it supplies oil to the camshaft bearing journals.
The exhaust shaft receives oil from the main oil
gallery through the transfer hole (arrow).
The intake camshaft is lubricated directly from
the main oil gallery.

11410026.tiff

The valve fingers are identical but must be

marked for location when previously used.
Lubrication for the slide contact is provided
from the camshafts (lobe grooves) and an inlet
hole (arrow) allows lubrication for the finger pivot
journal.

11410027.jpg

17
M Engines - S54B32

Valves and Valve Springs: The intake and exhaust

valves are lightweight in design to reduce reciprocating
mass. The valve diameter is:
1.
2.
3.

Intake 35 mm
Exhaust 30.5 mm
Stem-Intake / Exhaust 6.0 mm

The exhaust valve stems are sodium filled to enhance

cooling.
CAUTION! Consult the Repair Instructions before performing any repairs and for proper disposal of sodium
filled valves.
11410028.tiff

The valve spring assembly consists of two progressive

tensioned valve springs.
The springs are marked for correct installation due to
progressive tensioning (paint stripes facing down
towards cylinder head).

Notes: ________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
18
M Engines - S54B32

11410030.tiff

VANOS
Performance, torque, idle characteristics and
exhaust emissions reduction are improved by
variable camshaft timing (VANOS).
The S54 engine uses double VANOS to adjust
the spread angles of the intake and exhaust
camshafts.
This system uses a high pressure (100 Bar) control system that ensures responsive and accurate camshaft adjustments to meet the high performance requirements of the M Engines.

11410032.tiff

The VANOS unit is mounted directly on the front

of the cylinder head.

The VANOS unit contains the hydraulically actuated mechanical drives (1), the electronically
controlled oil pressure regulating solenoids (2)
and the 100 Bar pressure regulating valve (3).

5
4

The back view of the VANOS unit shows the

inlet oil supply pressure reducing valve (4) and
the radial piston high pressure output pump dri- 3
ven by the exhaust camshaft (5).

11410072.eps

The VANOS solenoid electrical assembly (removed from the VANOS unit) contains four solenoids.
Two solenoids are required for each adjusting
piston circuit, one for advancing and one for
retarding the camshaft timing. The solenoids are
controlled by the ECM.

11410073.eps

19
M Engines - S54B32

The adjustment shafts contain two sets of

splines that engage with:
1.
2.

Camshaft Sleeves (Straight Splines)

Chain Driven Sprocket (Helical Splines)

11410037.jpg

The camshaft sleeves are bolted to the end of

the camshafts and engage with the straight
spline of the adjustment shaft shown above.

11410074.eps

The chain driven sprocket and spacer sleeve

assembly is shown to the right (one assembly
per camshaft). The sprocket engages with the
helical splines of the adjustment shaft shown
above.
The exhaust camshaft sprocket assembly has
two drive lugs that must be aligned with the
radial piston oil pump during installation.
11410075.eps

20
M Engines - S54B32

11410039.bmp

VANOS mechanical operation is dependent on oil pressure applied to position the control
pistons. The double VANOS camshafts are infinitely adjustable within the mechanical travel limits of the drive gears.
When oil pressure is applied to the control piston, the piston moves causing the splined
adjustment shaft to move. The straight splines slide within the camshaft sleeve. The helical
splines rotate the camshaft drive sprocket changing the position in relation to the camshaft
position which advances/retards the camshaft timing.
The total adjustment range of the intake camshaft is 60.
The total adjustment range of the exhaust camshaft is 45

The default mechanical stop position without VANOS influence is:

Intake Camshaft = Retarded (130 spread angle)
Exhaust Camshaft = Advance (83 spread angle)

21
M Engines - S54B32

Oil is supplied from the main gallery through the

front of cylinder head (arrow) to the inlet pressure reducing valve.

Pressure Reducing Valve: The pressure

reducing valve supplies oil to the radial piston
high pressure oil pump. It is located between
the cylinder head and the VANOS unit.

11410042.tiff

The valve ensures the oil pressure supply to the

VANOS pump is 0.5 Bar regardless of the varying pressure from the main oil pressure gallery.
The pressure reducing valve is pressed into the
VANOS unit and secured by an o-ring.
11410080.eps

100 Bar Pressure Regulating Valve: The 100

Bar pressure regulating valve is mounted in the
VANOS unit. This valve regulates the pressure
produced by the radial piston high pressure oil
pump.
11410002.eps

Note: The 100 Bar pressure regulating valve is

not adjustable.

VANOS Accumulator: The VANOS accumulator ensures that there is a sufficient volume of oil
under pressure to adjust the camshafts under all
engine operating conditions.
The accumulator is Nitrogen charged and is
located on the exhaust side of the engine behind the A/C compressor. It is connected to the
VANOS unit by a high pressure line.
11410076.eps

22
M Engines - S54B32

11410044.bmp

1.
2.
3.

Engine Oil Pump

Engine Oil Filter
Pressure Reducing Valve (0.5 Bar)

7.
8.
9.

Exhaust Camshaft Inlet Solenoid Valve

Exhaust Camshaft Outlet Solenoid Valve
Intake Camshaft Outlet Solenoid Valve

4.
5.
6.

VANOS Oil Pump

VANOS Accumulator
100 Bar Pressure Regulating Valve

10.
11.
12.

Intake Camshaft Inlet Solenoid Valve

Exhaust Camshaft Control Piston (Advance)
Intake Camshaft Control Piston (Retard)

VANOS system hydraulic operation:

When the engine starts, oil from the main engine oil pump is fed under pressure to the
pressure reducing valve.
The oil pressure is dropped to approximately 0.5 Bar and fed to the radial piston high
pressure oil pump.
The pump is driven by the exhaust camshaft and the 100 bar pressure is built up by the
pressure regulating valve. The volume of pressurized oil is stored in the accumulator
supplying both adjustment pistons. Both pistons are held in the default position by the
high pressure oil.

23
M Engines - S54B32

 At the same time the high pressure oil is available at the inlet solenoids of both adjustment pistons.
VANOS adjustment is carried out by the ECM pulsing the inlet and outlet solenoids to
allow pressurized oil to the back side of the adjustment pistons. The surface area on this
side of the piston is larger so that the oil pressure is greater and the adjustment piston
will move causing the valve timing to change.
The piston is connected to the adjustment shaft. As the piston moves, the shaft turns
the helical splines varying the camshaft sprocket position in relation to the camshafts.

CAUTION! The VANOS system is under high pressure (100 Bar). Consult the Repair
Instructions before performing any repairs.

Workshop Hints
When installing the intake camshaft, a visual
sight is the cam lobes on cylinder number 1
should be pointing horizontally inwards (as
shown on the right).
When installing the exhaust camshaft, the cam
lobes for cylinder number 1 should be pointing
horizontally inwards (refer to Repair Instructions for detailed graphics).

The VANOS function test can be performed by

using Special Tools:
#90 88 6 126 411
#90 88 6 126 050
Regulated Compressed Air (2-8 bar)
Refer to the Repair Instructions for the VANOS
function test procedures.

24
M Engines - S54B32

Intake Air Plenum: The intake air plenum is

designed for maximum volume required for the
S54 engine. The air filter housing and intake
manifold are different on the M roadster and M
coupe as compared with the M3 due to the
under hood dimensions.

E46 M3 Shown

The flow characteristics of the one-piece plastic

shell is enhanced by internal funnel cones to
direct the intake air to the throttle housings.
11410043.jpg

The plenum is attached to the throttle housings

by rubber sleeves. A Special Tool (clamp pliers)
is required to secure the one-time use clamps.
External Air Distribution Pipe

11410044.jpg

Intake Air System: The S54 uses six individual throttle housings operated by an EDR
actuator (1 electronic throttle control). For low engine speed (low load) and idling, intake air
is provided by an idle air actuator (2). The valve regulates air flow through an external air
distribution pipe to the individual throttle housings. Fuel tank vapor intake is regulated by
the Evaporative Emission Valve (3).
Refer to the Repair Instructions for the procedure to adjust and synchronize the throttle
housings.
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M Engines - S54B32

Fuel Supply: The fuel is supplied through a

Non Return Fuel Rail System. This system is
used on the S54 for LEV compliancy.
The fuel supply pressure is controlled by the 5
Bar fuel pressure regulator integrated in the fuel
filter assembly. The regulator is influenced by
engine vacuum via a hose connected to the
external air distribution pipe. The fuel exits the
fuel pressure regulator supplying the fuel rail
and the injectors. The E46 M3 fuel filter assembly is located under the left front floor area (next
to the frame rail).
The fuel return line is located on the filter/regulator assembly which directs the unused fuel
back to the fuel tank. The fuel tank hydrocarbons are reduced by returning the fuel from this
point instead of from the fuel rail.

E46 M3 Shown

11410045.tiff

11410045.tiff

The S54 uses Bosch (4 hole plate) fuel injectors.

The ECM controls the fuel injectors to regulate
the air/fuel mixture.
The injector identification markings are:
1.
2.
3.

BMW Number
Fuel Injector Code
Manufacturing Date (week 06 year 2000)

4.

B+ Voltage Connection
11410046.tiff

Ignition Coils: The S54 uses pencil type ignition coils manufactured by Bremi. The six individual ignition coils are integrated with the spark
plug connector (boot).
The coils are removed by lifting the swivel latch
connector retainer to release the wiring harness, apply a slight twist and lift the assembly
upwards.
NGK DCPR8EKP dual electrode spark plugs
are used.
26
M Engines - S54B32

11410047.tiff

11410048.bmp

Clutch Assembly: The S54 clutch assembly is

specially designed to transfer the high torque to
the driveline and dampen vibrations throughout
the rpm range.
The clutch assembly consists of:
Hydraulically Dampened Dual-Mass Flywheel
Diaphragm Type Pressure Plate and Drive Disk

11410048.tiff

Exhaust System: The US S54 uses two high

performance stainless steel exhaust manifolds.
The catalytic converters are integral with each
exhaust manifold.
Each exhaust manifold/catalyst contains a pre
(1) and post (2) oxygen sensor. The sensors
require a Special Tool (crescent wrench with
swivel adapter) for removal.
The E46 M3 exhaust system is a dual channel
up to the muffler. By using the M-mobility kit,
additional clearance is provided for the 40 liter
half-shell muffler with four outlets. The M roadster and M coupe have separate dual mufflers

11410049.tiff

E46 M3 Shown

11410048.tiff

27
M Engines - S54B32

Review Questions
1. What is the valve clearance and at what temperature should it be checked?
Intake __________

Exhaust __________

Engine Temperature _________

2. The crankshaft mounted impulse wheel on the S54 provides:

________________ _________________ _________________ ________________
3. What does the term cracked connecting rod mean?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
4. What is the function(s) of the oil pumps on the S54?
______________________________
______________________________
5. Regarding the Crankcase Ventilation System, what is the purpose of the Check Valve
in the oil return line from the intake manifold?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
6. When installing the camshafts, they should be installed based on what visual sight?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
7. What is unique about the exhaust finger (rocker) shaft?
________________________________________________________________________
8. What are the two differences between the intake and exhaust valves?
_______________________________
__________________________________
9. What must be aligned with the radial piston high pressure pump when installing the
VANOS unit? ____________________________________________________________
10. Where is the fuel pressure tested on the E46 M3 and what is the nominal pressure?
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
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M Engines - S54B32