intake plenum

I was trying to replace the throttle actuator and I am stuck where I have to put back the intake plenum. Clamps can't seem to hold the intake. Every time I try to tighten the screw the throttle bodies pop out.

Is there any tips on holding it to throttle bodies?

Make sure the clamps are loose. Also start from the back. Push down hard. Mine went in without major issues, but in some of the DIYs people complained of difficulty in getting it to seat.

drrust wrote

Make sure the clamps are loose. Also start from the back. Push down hard. Mine went in without major issues, but in some of the DIYs people complained of difficulty in getting it to seat.

I losen the clamps to the max. How much pressure do I need to put to seat it in?
It doesnt seem to fit in no matter how much I press on it.

I recall several comments of having to 'stand' on it. Try to engage the back throttle bodies first. A slight angle may help. Also swear a lot when you pushing down (even if it is to yourself).

It is always frustrating when what would seem to be a simple step does not ha smoothly. Good luck!

This DIY has one of the most detailed info on removing/reattaching the plenum. Hope it helps.

http://www.m3post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1273927

If the clamps are too loose then they will twist out of place when tightening them. If they are too tight, then the plenum wouldn't go into place. Getting all the clamps to the right position and having them loosened just enough (but not too much) is the trick.

Sounds like you are hitting something. I would check for obstructions. You can see or feel a lot as you do this. Use an inspection mirror. My guess is a boot is folding in -- you are not getting perfectly into a boot.

I've had to practically sit on mine to get it seat, even with clamps fully open. Give 'er hell!

I am going to literally stand on it today to get it seated. I do hope the plenum can take my weight without extra damage

Bimmer-M3 wrote

I am going to literally stand on it today to get it seated. I do hope the plenum can take my weight without extra damage

Another thing to try is some lube around the inside of the plenum where it slides over the throttle bodies. I forgot I did this as well when I sat on mine (I'm only 150lbs fyi). Can't remember what I used... obviously didn't care if it entered the engine