11741265860 - This part is a vintage Electric Switch/Vacuum Valve (Color Code: White) manufactured primarily by Pierburg for early emission-controlled BMW engines. It is no longer available through the dealers. Parts are new (unused) but a little scratched up from sitting in the same bin with others for 30+ years. (9g)
This electromagnetic changeover valve acts as an electrically controlled switch for the engine's vacuum plumbing.
- The Function: When triggered by the engine management system or a thermal switch, it opens or closes to route engine vacuum through small lines.
- The System: Depending on the model, it directly manages Exhaust Gas Recircirculation (EGR / AGR) activation or the Air Pump emission control system. By regulating vacuum to these sub-valves, it ensures the car limits nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions at certain engine speeds or operating temperatures.
Because it is identical in shape to other vacuum valves on the same vehicle, BMW molded this specific variant in white plastic so mechanics would not mix it up with the neighboring red, black, or blue vacuum valves.
This component was used heavily during the late 1960s to the late 1970s across a variety of classic BMW chassis groups:
- BMW 2002 Series (E10): 1968–1976 (including base, tii, and late-model variations)
- BMW E3 "New Six" Sedans: 1969–1976 (Models: 2500, 2800, 3.0S, 3.0Si, and the Bavaria)
- BMW E9 Coupes: 1969–1974 (Models: 2800CS, 3.0CS)
- BMW 5 Series (E12): 1975–1978 (Model: 530i)
- BMW 6 Series (E24): 1977–1978 (Model: 630CSi)
- BMW 3 Series (E21): 1975–1977 (Early European 316 and 320 models with M10 engines)
