R&R'ing the Cylinder Head to Thermostat Hose?

[Danksies]

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=UC73-USA-04-2008-E82-BMW-135i&diagId=11_3972

has anyone taken off the plastic flange that connects from the engine cylinder head block to the thermostat hose (number 7 in the realoem link)? i do believe it has one of those fasteners without any clips or ears to release the tension with.

the only somewhat useful info ive found has been "break the plastic flange with a hammer" or "use a dremel CAREFULLY to cut the metal band", and i dont own a dremel . http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1167668

 

[R.G.]

The hose comes with the flange clamped on ($50)

Those permanent clamps are a pain in the ass but you can grab some good thin metal sheers from home depot and try that way if no dremel.

What are you trying to do?

Edit: You do not need to remove that fastener to remove hose from block btw

 

[Xshadows]

You can pick up the plastic end re-made and CNC'd from aluminum on ebay for like 25 bucks. I'm at work and don't have access to the link right now but I'm sure you can find it quick with a google search.

 

[ryanmamikel]

The plastic end, connecting to cylinder head, always breaks when it is removed. Not sure if it is the heat it is exposed too, but the end that secures the o-ring pretty much crumbles apart. An aluminum upgrade is something I would definitely entertain if I have to remove mine at any point in time.

 

[Swedishpowah]

http://m.ebay.com/itm/BMW-335i-1153...LUMINUM6061-/182218057115?nav=WATCHING_ACTIVE

 

[Danksies]

Thanks for the replies. Knock on wood, but I seem to have one of the well maintained n54s out there. I did an oil filter housing gasket replace, coolant and oil change, and while I had everything off I checked my engine to coolant hose flange. I didn't take pics since I was at a friend's and it was my birthday, but the plastic was completely fine. Inside had some discoloration (most likely from oil), but it's honestly still good. I'm probably just going to order a new hose completely, since I already have the aluminum flange replacement, and replace it all together cause it's at 88,xxxk. Appreciate the replies and tips though!