BMW E81 E87 E90 E91 X3 E83 Z4 E85 N46 Engine Inlet Intake Camshaft 7566992

BMW E81 E87 E90 E91 X3 E83 Z4 E85 N46 Engine Inlet Intake Camshaft is a component from the Camshafts group, designed for precise operation in BMW N46 family petrol engines. This used OEM component ensures proper intake valve timing control, which translates into stable engine operation and correct dynamics across the entire rev range. It is a solution for users looking for a technically matched camshaft for specific BMW 1 Series, 3 Series, X3, and Z4 models.

Specifications and technical data

• SKU: 7566992-1
• Mark: BMW (Genuine OE)
• Condition: Used
• OEM Part Number: 7566992
• Substitutable numbers: 7566992, 11317566992, 7507998, 11317507998
• Category: Camshafts

Purpose and compatibility with the N46 engine

The presented intake camshaft is designed to work with the N46 unit used in popular BMW E81, E87, E90, E91, X3 E83, and Z4 E85 models. Its geometry and cam profile are adapted to the engine's characteristics, allowing for proper cylinder filling with the air-fuel mixture and maintaining factory performance parameters. This makes it a suitable choice for timing system repairs where compliance with the manufacturer's original specifications is required.

Function of the intake camshaft

The intake camshaft is responsible for controlling the opening of the intake valves, thus directly influencing the amount of air drawn into the cylinders. In the N46 engine, this is significant for both performance and the engine's operating culture:

• ensures proper synchronization of intake valve opening with piston position,
• supports smooth engine idle,
• influences flexibility in the mid-rev range,
• enables the maintenance of correct combustion parameters.

A well-chosen, original camshaft from this group helps reduce the risk of improper timing operation, knocking, or power loss resulting from the wear of valve control components.

Characteristics of the used OEM component

The offered camshaft comes from dismantling and is an original BMW part, which means it retains factory geometry, surface hardness of the working areas, and machining quality. In practice, this translates into:

• secure fitment to the N46 cylinder head without the need for modifications,
• compliance with factory timing system tolerances,
• the ability to be used as a replacement for a worn camshaft without interfering with other components.

The used component is a good solution for repairs where maintaining the original design and controlling service costs is important, while simultaneously ensuring the proper operation of the engine.

Application in service practice

The intake camshaft for the N46 engine is primarily used for:

• repairs following a timing system failure,
• mechanical damage to cams or bearing journals,
• cylinder head regeneration when the old camshaft shows excessive wear,
• restoring factory engine performance parameters in intensively used vehicles.

Thanks to the preservation of OEM specifications, this component can be safely integrated with existing engine equipment, which facilitates workshop work and reduces vehicle downtime.

Technical support and additional materials

When working on timing systems in BMW engines, it is worth using reliable technical materials. If you want to better understand the relationships between timing components, symptoms of wear, and the cost-effectiveness of using original parts from dismantling, check out the article: BMW N47 timing chain – typical failure and repair using original BMW parts. Although it concerns a different unit, it discusses practical aspects of timing service in BMW engines and the approach to used parts.

If you are planning a comprehensive repair or upgrade of the engine area in your BMW and need other elements from the same group, such as additional camshafts, control elements, or components working with the cylinder head, check the available parts in the BMW Camshafts category.