M88 timing chain/guide replacement guide

[Output Flange]

Does such a thing as a guide to replacing the timing chain, guides and tensioner for the M88 exist, either online or in print? Would be a handy thing to have to hand.

[Output Flange]

S'alright, I pulled the covers off the engine and it all looks fine, so no need to change anything.

As you asked.

[E24man]

The M88 chain tensioner uses a very weak spring and a lot of reliance on oil pressure in a piston; problems with oil, oil pressure, the piston or any worn bits can cause a whizzing/whirring sound which can cause excaessive wear on guides and sprockets.

Replacing the M88 tensioner with the E36 M3 tensioner which uses a smaller piston and much stronger spring can reduce the risk of timing chain problems.

Hth.

[Output Flange]

Not a lot, no

[E24man]

Sorry for the late reply, I hadn't seen the thread.

One of the tell-tales of a weakened tensioner is a whizzing/whirring sound when you rev the engine.

Because of the length of the chain (it's a relatively tall engine) and the extent of movement of the tensioner guide rails there have been occasions when a slack chain has actually slipped a tooth on one or more sprockets leading to serious problems - this can also happen with the M10 and M30 engines if similarly abused/neglected.