This is a genuine BMW screw plug with gasket ring, part number 11 36 1 438 338. The number stamped on the part is 11361438338; BMW's catalog files it under the short number 1438338. You will find it on our Engine shelf, under Other Engine parts. It supersedes the older number 1435628, so a part carrying that number is the same part.
It fits every E46 body style (320i, 323i, 325i, 328i and 330i, 1999–2006), with the M52, M54 or M56 engines — and the European-market versions.
BMW draws it on 3 diagrams, among them Cylinder head Vanos (11_2170) and Cylinder head attached parts (11_3178). It weighs about 30 g (under 0.1 lb).
We have not had one on the shelf yet. Request it and we will tell you when one comes off a car.
