WARNING:V8 Timing Chain Tensioner & Guide Rails

MLue1 · 05-12-2009, 12:19 PM

I normally don't do cross post between forums but in this case I think it necessary. The E38 and X5 guys have been seeing some engine noises and other problems related to Timing Chain Tensioner & Guide Rails failures, since the V8 in our E39 is the same, this applies to our cars as well.

My car sounds fine so I will be doing the replacement of the lower timing chain tensioner as a maintenance item, just soon as I receive the part from Jared at EAC Tuning.

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum...hain+tensioner

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum...d.php?t=873820

TheMadChigga · 05-12-2009, 01:17 PM

Another '99 owner, I'm going to do it this week, mine is making noise already and its really getting to my nerves with the noise.

martinM5 · 05-12-2009, 01:44 PM

wow that looks like a HUGE job...

myndgone · 05-12-2009, 01:52 PM

I think you're supposed to replace the tensioner every 80K anyways, no?....

MLue1 · 05-12-2009, 02:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by myndgone

I think you're supposed to replace the tensioner every 80K anyways, no?....

I don't think it is listed but I think if it had lasted this long on my car if I replace it I should be good to go. The theory is that if the chain is prevented from going slack the guides should remain intack for a longer peroid of time. The new chain tensioner has a longer effective length so hopefully it's more effective in taking up any excess slack in the chain.

Dado 540 · 05-12-2009, 03:00 PM

I've gone through this on bimmer forums as well, and its scray.

Mark you have a pic of the tensioner?

Here some scary photos.
Is this the chain guide rail that deteriorates (red arrow)?

rzrdxl · 05-13-2009, 02:08 AM

Thanks for the heads up, Mark!

careless7 · 05-13-2009, 10:04 AM

Who engineers these things? And do they still have a job?

MLue1 · 05-17-2009, 02:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dado 540

Mark you have a pic of the tensioner?

Here is a pic of a new Lower Chain Tensioner for the M62TU engine.

Use this DIY guide:
http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum...&postcount=151

Edit: Right now Autopartsway has good prices and availability on the Lower Timing Chain Tensioner 11317531813 and the Gasket Ring 07119963355:
http://www.autopartsway.ca/AutoParts...er=11317531813
http://www.autopartsway.ca/AutoParts...er=07119963355

myndgone · 05-17-2009, 02:48 PM

^^

Pretty easy to replace!

Oyster · 05-21-2009, 11:33 AM

Thanks for sharing links and discussion. I have this on my to-do list

Qube · 05-21-2009, 07:41 PM

Sounds like a rattle can of paint. I've got a whine, which I think is from the fan clutch.

Trouble65 · 05-22-2009, 08:23 AM

Tensioner and guides should last you 200,000Miles if not more, depending on your driving sytle and oil used. Your timing chain will outlast your car.

MLue1 · 05-22-2009, 11:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Trouble65

Tensioner and guides should last you 200,000Miles if not more, depending on your driving sytle and oil used. Your timing chain will outlast your car.

The key word is "should" by most accounts or directly comparing the old part to the new, the new part has been modified to have a longer effective operating "reach" to further compensate for wear or chain streatch.

Dado 540 · 05-22-2009, 01:52 PM

I can't understand why the guides are not made from more tolerant material. You would assume that's something you would never have to worry about.