Hi, I'm hoping someone in the Richmond Va area has a fan removal tool for a 97 M3 that I can borrow. I need to change my belts. Any help is appreciated.
Special tools? Although it is nice to have all the special tools for every BMW job this particular task can be easily completed with a long 32 mm or 1 5/16 inch wrench, a long thin screw driver to hold between the opposing fan bolts while the others are loosened, and a 10MM? hex driver for the tension-ers. It also maybe time to do the water pump, thermostat and belt tension-ers while you are in there. Enjoy, but watch those knuckles!
I have one in C'ville. 32mm wrench, but you can get one at a bicycle shop if you want. Remember, it is left hand thread! I take a hammer to the wrench and it usually comes off. If you ever get stuck, visit my old boss, who now works at Fritz's on Cary St. (he used to own Bavarian Motors but had to shut the doors due to the economy.) Anyhow, good luck and let us know if you have any problems. BTW, if you are extremely clever (lazy and clever anyhow), you can do the belts without removing the fan.
Thanks! Fritz's is really close by, so maybe I'll swing by there. I tried the screwdriver and hammer bit, but that nut is really on there tight.