Hi,
I've noticed recently that my tappets (I think) are very noisy on start up and until the engine warms up. Whats stange is that they sometimes get very noisy after the engine has warmed up too.
Just after a bit of advice really; if it is them are they expensive to do DIY? Or, is it likley to be the camshaft? I have a 316i by the way.
Joe
M40 engine Tappet noise
Moderator: martauto
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Karan
- Married to the E30 Zone

- Posts: 8004
- Joined: Mon Jan 10, 2005 11:00 pm
- Location: Cheshunt, Hertfordshire
its very likely that the cam is also buggered
these engiines suffer from poour oil feed to the head components hence the excessive wear
goona be pricey for parts, i rebuilt one of rthese heads and its not thatbad but not as easy as a m20 head
Karan
these engiines suffer from poour oil feed to the head components hence the excessive wear
goona be pricey for parts, i rebuilt one of rthese heads and its not thatbad but not as easy as a m20 head
Karan
- Brianmoooore
- E30 Zone Team Member

- Posts: 49359
- Joined: Mon Jan 10, 2005 11:00 pm
I've a 318 M40 that does that. Been doing it for the whole 15000 miles I've had it. Still goes as well as it's supposed to.
It's a common characteristic of M40's that have done more than about 60k miles. My advice is to ignore it, or at most try a different oil.
It's a common characteristic of M40's that have done more than about 60k miles. My advice is to ignore it, or at most try a different oil.
ive got a 316i mine did it untill 150 000 miles then i had the cam shaft replaced. i only had it done because i lost power it stopped revving over 4.5k rev and up to that point it was ok but noisy. i also do 3.5k mile a month in mine and never let me down.
Is it easy enough to check the cams if I take the rocker cover off? I will also try a thicker oil and see if this helps. Something I've noticed recentlry is that it feels quite rough when the 'ticking' is loud, usually when its cold.
I had a full camshaft kit put on 50,000 ago its been sweet with regular oil changes,but cant belive it ~I am aware that the noise is beginning to increase again top end!!!!
You could try to replace just the oil spray bar ,(these tend to clog) cost yer about Ԛ£12 might help.
Or do what Iam going to do and drop in an M42.

