M44 Block Warp?

[MikeLiv]

Hi guys,

I've been reading around this forum for a couple of weeks and figured it was time to join. Anyway just wondering if anyone has any experience with M44 blocks warping. I bought a 1998 318ti with what seemed to be a blown head gasket. Ended up that the head was warped but OK otherwise. Got it back from the machine shop but just figured I'd grab some knowledge from anyone offering before I slap it back on there. I've put a straight-edge on the block and it "looks" ok but I was checking if any of you guys have additional experience on this subject. Thanks.

[ti cali ed]

Chances are the block is good. The head made out of alm transfers heat at a diff rate then the cast block. Check the block for any pitting and clean it well. I a lot of times when changing a head gasket with spray the block with a cooper adhesive just as an added precausion. If the head wasn't warped I'd say go ahead and reuse the head bolts and just check them for damage. But since the head needed resurfacing DO NOT USE THE OLD HEAD BOLTS. I'd also use a brush and clean out the head bolt holes in the block and run the bolts in one time without the head just to make sure none of the threads were damaged in the block. Only ever had issues once but would of been easier to check before the head was sitting in place.

[zoner]

It's pretty tough to warp a cast-iron block. Not impossible, but very difficult. If it checks out fine with a straight edge and feeler gauge, and you've already had the head milled, I'd say you're probably good to go. Definitely do not reuse the old head bolts, and definitely replace the two plastic water fittings in the back of the head and the block (one in each location) before you bolt it all back together. Use Genuine BMW parts for both fittings- not aftermarket.