May not be cosmoline.... (archive)

Possibly a clear-coat of sorts that is commonly sprayed on bare aluminum surfaces, especially those that are polished smooth....keeps them from oxidizing/corroding. Over the the years the engine heat makes it turn yellow and it's probably harder to remove at that point. It will come off when still clear and I've seen that jelly-type of paint remover work well (can't remember name). Nasty stuff, tho'

Just my thoughts..

DH
++++++++

: : Cosmoline. What you see is the preservative sprayed on by the factory to protect the engine during shipment. It's supposed to be removed by the dealer during pre-delivery prep, but most don't bother. Once it "cooks" on, it's virtually impossible to remove. I've tried everything - solvents, mineral spirits, you name it, none of them work.

: : If you ever need to have your intake gaskets replaced, you could send the manifolds out for bead blasting - which will remove the cosmoline. Short of that, it's a hideous sight lot's of BMW owners have to live with because of lazy dealers.

: Phew!!

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