*** Help With Possible Chain Rattle Noise ***

[Tabbi]

Hi guys, i need some help with my standard 1991 318is Coupe. I am getting a rattle/vibratiin coming through the car from the driver side when under 2000 rpm. The noise clears after that.

Can anyone advise me on what this could be as i have been told it is the chain tensioner......??????

The car has covered just over 81k so is a bit of a suprise to be told it is the tensioner.

Your help will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

[mcspike]

http://www.e30zone.net/e30zonewiki/inde ... n_Problems

Seems to be tensioner. Worth changing even if you aren't sure, pretty horrendous if it goes. but i know nothing so get a second opinion :p

[Tabbi]

Is it the piston type, looks like a bullet...?

I am wondering whether to replace just the tensioner or if it will need a full chain kit....??

[flybmw]

Havd a same issue now. StArt with tensioner and see what happens.

[Tabbi]

I have replaced the tensioner but the problem still persists. The rattle is only present under 2k rpm...........

Any idea of where to go from here guys.....??

[Speedtouch]

Check the condition of the chain and sprockets; try lifting the chain off the sprocket - it should cling to it; if you can lift it by more than 1mm or so, then either the chain and/or sprockets are worn.

[Tabbi]

Is it worth just changing both? And if im in there already, is there anything else i should do at the same time?

[Speedtouch]

I would say that if the chain is badly worn, then the likelihood is, the sprockets will also be worn - this should be visible with the chain off; if the teeth are very pointy, then they need replacing.

Check the usual bearings, water pump, gaskets, etc.

[Tabbi]

Is this something i can tackle myself or is it best left to an expert?

[Speedtouch]

"Straightforward", according to this site:

http://www.esatclear.ie/~bpurcell/318istimingchain.html

[Tabbi]

That does not sound straightforward.... Lol

[sanitroc1]

That's the guide I used as I had never done one before and all went well . It is easer with the cam and flywheel locking tools .
Steve .

[sweep]

are the spoket teeth sharp and hooked?

[DHFiS]

On a low mileage engine like yours I think the problem might be the plastic guides rather than the chain and sprockets.

[Tabbi]

Ive not had the cover off as yet to check..... So annoying..... Only rattles under 2k rpm. Once it gets past that it runs sweet!

It also feels as though it is just holding back aswell until it gets to 2750 rpm.....