Tapping

[Stevieabz]

Hi, What can I do (other than adjusting the valves) to stop the tapping in my 325i Sport?

When I got the car it had hardly any oil in it. Obviously I had to drive it home. What does not having enough oil in the engine do to it? And what can I do about it?

Obviously I have enough in there now, but still the tapping.

Thanks.

[kam-325i]

you'll never stop the tapping sound on a M20, just make sure the clearance's are set right...

with it being run low on oil, I would check the condition of the cam lobes and followers, also check that the oil feed pipe for the cam is not blocked.....

[Stevieabz]

Cool.. thanks

Do you know if cam lobes and followers much to replace? I only ask because I've adjusted the valves once and the tapping didn't really stop. I'm going to have another go at it but am wondering if its worth replacing some things if its not to much.

[kam-325i]

you'll never stop the tapping, that's due to the way the system works.

You can replace the cam and the followers if they are badly worn. Always check and set the followers with the engine stone cold. have you checked that the oil pipe over the cam shaft is not blocked ?
There are a series small holes in the pipe, these can get blocked up with old oil and cause wear on the cam lobes and followers.

[Stevieabz]

I will check the oil pipe tomorrow and redo the valves once I get a chance with a stone cold engine. Thanks again.

[Kos]

Did you not think it may be wise to go to a garage and get some oil for it before you drove it home

[kam-325i]

the only time an m20 is quiet is when it is switched off...

FFS Will, That has just cracked me up !!!!!!

[Stevieabz]

Haha cheers lads.

It was cold, wet and very dark. I just wanted to drive and get it home! Front tyre's had 11 and 9 psi in them AND no power steering.. I thought wtf have I just bought.

[kam-325i]

you'll be alright....the M20 is quite a strong motor, give it a good service and you will be surprised how well it responds.