B47 timing chain issues appearing ?

[rob_golfgti]

Hi
I’m picking up a 32,000 mile 2017 X3 with the B47 2.0d engine this week.
I thought the B47 timing chain was sorted but a few failures in different BMW models are popping up.

Am I being stupid to worry ?

Thanks

[Elliot2000]

As long as they keep using flimsy simplex chains you will always hear stories of chain failures or stretching. But they are not as common as the internet would have you believe - bmw became well known for snapping chains with the early n47 engine- this wasn’t just down to the chain they were using at the time, there was other factors that affected the early ones.

Most manufacturers that use chains are using similar simplex chains and have been for years.

If you get one - just keep the servicing up to date with decent oil and I’m sure it will be fine

[ashenfie]

You will find the same talk and issue with Simplex chains on the Mercedes forums. VW/Audi have flipflop between Belts and Chains over the years and nether solution works for them. Hopefully we will go back to duplex chains soon.

I have had no issues with my F30, but then again it's been correctly serviced.

[naturalaspiration]

ashenfie said:

You will find the same talk and issue with Simplex chains on the Mercedes forums. VW/Audi have flipflop between Belts and Chains over the years and nether solution works for them. Hopefully we will go back to duplex chains soon.

I have had no issues with my F30, but then again it's been correctly serviced.

Doubt it. Simplex is lighter and now after a few revisions it should conveniently last well below the 2 year warranty runs out. You can permanently switch off stop-start, change oil at half the interval and it should last much longer.

Edited by naturalaspiration on Saturday 1st May 13:06

[naturalaspiration]

ashenfie said:

You will find the same talk and issue with Simplex chains on the Mercedes forums. VW/Audi have flipflop between Belts and Chains over the years and nether solution works for them. Hopefully we will go back to duplex chains soon.

I have had no issues with my F30, but then again it's been correctly serviced.

Doubt it. Simplex is lighter and now after a few revisions it should conveniently last well below the 2 year warranty runs out. You can permanently switch off stop-start, change oil at half the interval and it should last much longer.

Edited by naturalaspiration on Saturday 1st May 13:26

[rob_golfgti]

The start stop system is interesting point. It must put extra strain on the chain but I haven’t read any specialist suggesting it.
I’ll have to see if I can turn it off permanently with Carly or something.
Well I’m glad I’ve not had anyone come forward saying they’ve had a issue with the B47.

[Touring442]

I've not heard of a single B47 chain problem from either the main dealer or specialists. It's a very good engine that should reward sensible service intervals with long life.

[hilly10]

Soon as I start up in my G30 2.0 d I turn the SS off

[mmm-five]

ashenfie said:

You will find the same talk and issue with Simplex chains on the Mercedes forums. VW/Audi have flipflop between Belts and Chains over the years and nether solution works for them. Hopefully we will go back to duplex chains soon.

I have had no issues with my F30, but then again it's been correctly serviced.

Which service checks the timing chain? I didn't think there was a service schedule/interval for the chain/tensioner/guides?

[rob_golfgti]

I presume he means the oil is more regularly serviced than what bmw recommends which is a wise idea.

[Ninja59]

Seen a couple of B47's with issues. Most of the setup is the same as the final N47's...

Like anything I think more oil changes are really the key.

[naturalaspiration]

N47/N57/B47/B57 share the same cam chain - identical part number. The last revision of it that is - as of 03/2014.

http://bmwfans.info/parts-catalog/11318570649/

Edited by naturalaspiration on Sunday 2nd May 10:11