at that mileage.

Last year, I wrote this for 1998 528i which is identical to yours:
http://www.bimmerboard.com/forums/posts/199986

Re-installing the Fan Clutch is a pain because of limited space. It is tough to thread it back in; but here is my trick:
http://bimmerboard.com/forums/posts/433110/

NOTE: Do NOT use MTC Fan Blade. Mine broke after 15K miles (last year I was trying to save some $ by using MTC brand).
Use only BMW Dealer Fan Blade.

Lastly, yes I'd do a cooling overhaul because from the description you gave us, there is no indication of a blown head gasket to worry about.

Your car can easily last another 100K.

CNN-090
1998 528i 5sp 98K

• 1998 528i - random overheating - dsionne 2007-12-01 15:41:45 (271 views)
  • Two separate issues (url) - CNN-090 2007-12-02 23:21:56 (202 views)
  • Re: 1998 528i - random overheating - poolman 2007-12-02 20:49:25 (178 views)
  • Yes I'd do a COOLING OVERHAUL (url) - CNN-090 2007-12-01 21:18:15 (205 views)
    • Re: Yes I'd do a COOLING OVERHAUL - dsionne 2007-12-02 18:44:42 (165 views)
      • reporting back - dsionne 2008-01-16 21:31:08 (97 views)