Ticking Noise?

Post Sat Jan 29, 2005 1:36 am

I just picked up an '89 325i from a co-worker. Sweet car but it needs some work. I noticed a ticking noise coming from the intake manifold/ valve cover. I thought I might need to do a valve adjustment, but a friend of mine told me that it was the fuel injectors making the noise and that it is normal and all E30s make it. Can anyone give me more information on this? Thanks much in advance.

Post Sat Jan 29, 2005 6:57 am

your mate is right most E30 with the Bosch fuel injection system make a light ticking noise from the injection, most audible inside the car in my opinion. Mercedes do the same

Post Sat Jan 29, 2005 7:57 am

A ticking noise is also associated with blowing exhaust manifold gaskets.

Post Sat Jan 29, 2005 10:50 am

Valve adjustment is part of normal servicing, so check them first and see if the ticking goes away. Use a piece of garden hose with one end stuck in your ear and move the other end around the engine to see where the noise is coming from.
Not related to above, but find out when the cambelt was last changed.

Post Sat Jan 29, 2005 3:32 pm

My co-worker just had the timing belt changed before I got it so thats good for another 40k miles or so. I going to do the valve adjustment tomorrow. I hope that helps because that noise is ruining the beautiful sound of the straight six. Maybe I'll just get a really loud exhaust :lol:

Thanks for ur help all!