Timing chain...need to change?

[safrul]

Hi, just want to ask stupid and open question. Someone said to me that BMW timing chain dont need to be replace. If its loose, you can just tighten it. REALLY ??? i also heard that bmw dont have timing chain... .. errr !!ok, if have to change, when u all usually change it? by mileage or when it give some chain noice? HOW much ?thanks

 

[chairoger]

Normally timing chain no need to change unless got heavy damage due to ????. Older models dont have timing chain BUT they do have timing belt. Timing belt do need to change but they are relatively quieter compared to timing chain. Anyway,timing chain's much more reliable and tahan lasak.

 

[ersalle]

So far from what i know only M20's and M40's are timing belt, the rest are mostly timing chain. Timing chain needs to be changed if only it is noisy due to slack in tensioner meaning the chains have stretched to its maximum.

 

[Lee36328]

Safrul,

just did mine, also a '97 e36 328, and here are there parts and costs.

Part number Description List Price (RM)

11311432176 timing chain lower 357.50
11311432177 timing chain upper 187.50
11311703717 timing tensioner 216.50
11311722651 upper timing guide 99.50
11311726480 guide rail 149.25

After that, engine runs smoother.