bmw servicing (timing chain)
Discussion
Hi everyone, hope ur all doing good!
im looking at the possibility of buying a 325/330 ci sport probably 2002/2003 reg and was just wondering if anyone knows about the timing chain?
i.e. does this need changing if so when?
also do you know if there are any other components that need changing baring in mind most of the models i may be pursuing wouldnt exactly be spring chickens i.e. between 50-80k in mileage as an average.
just wondering what theyre like in general in terms of reliability on these fronts.
thanks guys!
James
im looking at the possibility of buying a 325/330 ci sport probably 2002/2003 reg and was just wondering if anyone knows about the timing chain?
i.e. does this need changing if so when?
also do you know if there are any other components that need changing baring in mind most of the models i may be pursuing wouldnt exactly be spring chickens i.e. between 50-80k in mileage as an average.
just wondering what theyre like in general in terms of reliability on these fronts.
thanks guys!
James
A timing chain should easily last over 100k miles. I have a VAG engine and the service book recommends the chain is replaced at 120k miles. Changing a chain shouldn't cost much more than a cambelt if it needs doing.
However, in most cars with a timing chain, it is lubricated using the engine oil so if the oil wasn't changed on a regular basis (ie. check any potential purchase has full service history), then the oil passages can get blocked by dirty oil etc, and as well as causing other mechanical problems can cause the chain to wear faster.
Good thing about chains is they give you pleanty of warning when they are on their way out (the infamous death rattle). Not sure about the BMW but my v5 makes a load of noises at start up but this dies down within about 20-30 seconds.
However, in most cars with a timing chain, it is lubricated using the engine oil so if the oil wasn't changed on a regular basis (ie. check any potential purchase has full service history), then the oil passages can get blocked by dirty oil etc, and as well as causing other mechanical problems can cause the chain to wear faster.
Good thing about chains is they give you pleanty of warning when they are on their way out (the infamous death rattle). Not sure about the BMW but my v5 makes a load of noises at start up but this dies down within about 20-30 seconds.
Neil.D said:
The chain is a lifetime item and needs no adjustment. Although its curious as a motorcycle has new chain and sprockets at service time.
The only BMW that benefits from a new chain is the E30 - although that is more debated than the VANOS issue - so dont go there.
Subtle differences - on a bike the chain and sprockets are exposed to the environment so road grit acts as a wear agent. Plus they see a tiny bit more power put through them.The only BMW that benefits from a new chain is the E30 - although that is more debated than the VANOS issue - so dont go there.
And an E30 has a timing belt, not a chain. 60K/4 year replacement or risk breakage with valve and piston collision - not sure what there is to debate about that one.
[quote]the infamous death rattle
[/quote]
Anyone have an audio sample of what this sounds like? I've no reason to suspect any problems with my 2001 E46 330Ci, but at 104k I am wondering if I should factor in a change in the not-too-distant future. If I knew what I was listening for, I'd feel a bit more comfortable about putting this to the back of my mind, of course...
[/quote]
Anyone have an audio sample of what this sounds like? I've no reason to suspect any problems with my 2001 E46 330Ci, but at 104k I am wondering if I should factor in a change in the not-too-distant future. If I knew what I was listening for, I'd feel a bit more comfortable about putting this to the back of my mind, of course...
oktapod said:
said:
the infamous death rattle
Anyone have an audio sample of what this sounds like? I've no reason to suspect any problems with my 2001 E46 330Ci, but at 104k I am wondering if I should factor in a change in the not-too-distant future. If I knew what I was listening for, I'd feel a bit more comfortable about putting this to the back of my mind, of course...Sample 1
Sample 2
It's usually not the chain that becomes the problem but a tensioner or on VAG engines, wear of the sprokets the timing chain passes over.
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