Cam belt

[johnnyboy]

My 1992 316i came with no service hostory at all so i need to check the condition of the belt. Is it an easy job on one of these, how do i check the condition of the belt without taking off to many bits?? I know i should just change it but can't afford to until end of Feb, so i just need some advice on checking it.

cheers,

John

[DazzyA]

is it not a chain, or am I getting confused with 318?

[Simon]

M40 316i/318i will be belt.

Get it changed if you are unsure of the last change, belt costs less then Ԛ£20, engine rebuild..Ԛ£500+? Which would you prefer!?

[DazzyA]

which ones have a chain then?

[Simon]

which ones have a chain then?

You are getting confused with the 316 M10 engine, which has a chain.

[johnnyboy]

Are there any instructions on the Net for replacing the belt on an M40?

I swapped from the 323i to 316i cos the old 2.3 rusted away and this 316i is a lot tidier. I thought it would be more economical, but there isn't much difference! maybe because its an Auto?

thanks for the replys,

John

[Cheekychunkyfunkymonkey]

I'd get somebody who knows what they're doing, as to my knowledge the M40 doesn't have any markings to guide you in the set up and unless your well clued up this could lead to a unfortunate and highly damaging outcome. Also swap the pulleys at the same time as they will wear and degrade with time and use . I've just had mine done complete with all the ancillary belts and a few other bits at a BMW specialist and it cost Ԛ£160 all in. On further examination the main pully was suffering from bearing fatigue so I'm glad I went the distance and did it right. M40's are probably one of BMW's most infamous engines but mine is on the button and providing your prepared to look after them correctly they do the job.

[Cyruz]

It's taken me over a week to change my cambelt (and not finished yet) but we don't have a 32mm wrench so can't get past the fan ... Is it a good idea to leave the cooling system open with no fluid in for a week , oh well only a cheap shitter.