M54B30 resonance intake controller ticking/rattling

[Mr Whippy]

Mine is ticking. If I unplug it at idle, it stops ticking.

The solenoid that applies vacuum to close the flap at under 3750rpm ish seems to work, when I unplug it, the flap springs open. When I touch the push-rod from the vacuum vessel it feels fixed (ie, not vibrating) so I guess it's working technically right.

But it's ticking, louder it seems as the last month has passed.

Is this a controller on it's way out? Any simple obvious fixes?


I have a non-BMW warranty, but don't want to pay for a garage to check it to have them say it still works, when it's clearly not working right and is getting worse.

Is this a common problem at around 60,000miles/5yrs?!

Any easy checks/fixes/cleaning routines that might help?


http://www.bmwclub.lv/files/04_MS45_DME_Part_1.pdf
Pg 14, 15, 16

£131 for a new 'unit' from BMW, but could this be something simple like the vacuum pipe/feed etc?!


Thanks for any advice

Cheers

Dave

[Mr Whippy]

Well, it seems these have a standalone vacuum pump in them, a small motor drags air out constantly until 3750rpm where it turns off, and opens the flap up (spring opens it up)

I'm pretty sure it's my little motor that is clicking during operation, so probably on it's way out. Just annoying me for now. Also makes me wonder why it operates on the heavier duty cycle (ie, why not operate only over 3750rpm, would be much easier on the pump!)

Has anyone had this part replaced ever, wondering if it has been facelifted!?

Dave