E30 318i M10 engine rattle, what is it?

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Trebor333
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Thu Aug 25, 2011 6:55 pm

Hiya Guys and Gals,

I'm having a problem with my 1986 318i m10 engined e30. The engine has developed a rattle since I've changed the spark plugs, HT leads, dizzy cap and ignition coil. The car ran fine before and when I first started it up after changing everthing it was fine until i went for a test run and i noticed the rattle once I got back. The car still runs fine but the engine rattle its getting annoying, does anyone have any ideas as to what it could be? and/or if its okay to still drive with it or shall i get sorted straight away?

Any Help would be much appreciated.
adit
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Thu Aug 25, 2011 7:32 pm

impossible to say whether it is still ok to drive until you have established what the problem is.
i drove an M10 engine with a rattle/knocking at very slow speeds and low revs and it completely seized! 8O
the oil pump had packed up i think
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johnl320
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Thu Aug 25, 2011 7:52 pm

Rattle could be timing chain tensioner, or guides, Does it rattle when cold or all the time? Listen for a rattle coming from the front of the engine, it can be more prenounced at certain RPM, When was the oil last changed?
Let me know if you need any bits, I have a 318i M10 lump at work that is about to go to heaven.
johnl320
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Thu Aug 25, 2011 7:57 pm

Why did you change the coil, did you already have a problem ?
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Trebor333
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Fri Aug 26, 2011 3:26 pm

The rattle does appear to be coming from the front of the engine at hot or cold and does seem to be louder at idle. Oil was last changed no more than 4000 miles ago and is a healthy level with no leaks. I changed the ignition coil as it was the original and whilst I was changing the rest I thought it would be worth renewing the coil as well.

Thanks for the help.
Andyboy
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Fri Aug 26, 2011 3:44 pm

Spark plugs tight? If one comes loose you'll get an odd noise.
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