few issues - advice neede before i get hosed!

[sproule905]

Hey guys/gals,

i've got a 99 328is w/ 180KM on the motor, its 5 spd.

issues:

back in the winter i noticed an irratic sound at idle. like a chugging. so a buddy and I ran it through the computer and it pointed to cylinder 2 fault - so i swapped out the coil form C2 and C4, ran the computer and the fault code showed C4. i have since then replaced the coil and for the most part the chugging went away.

Next, in second or 3rd gear i've notced a lot of hesitation if i give it a lot of gas - could my clutch be on its way out? do you think another coil is gonzo's? i have a feeling since i replaced one a chain reaction could have resulted here.

Last, yesterday i was sittiing in idle and could hear a weird mechanical noise coming form the engine. almost sounded like the electronic solenoid form the heat vent was operating - note: my digital controls were all off.

If anyone has any recommendations i would be very greatful before i send this into the shop.

I believe the clutch needs replacing due to the power loss and sometimes over-revving when i drive.

Thanks for your time.

[sproule905]

thanks for all the insight! 54 views and nothing..

[5style]

Change the spark plugs first, see if that makes a difference. Check vacuum lines and intake boot for cracks, actually remove it completely to inspect, this can't be said enough. Could be a lot of things to be honest. Its hard to say without hearing/seeing it happening.

[EuroSpec_92]

did you put the plastic cover back over top of the coils, i cant remember with my e36w but i know with my e46 if the cover isnt on and you go through a car was the water will go into your spark plug pipes and cause a rough running engine, normally misfiring.
+1 for checking all your vacuum lines and intake.

[EuroSpec_92]

did you put the plastic cover back over top of the coils, i cant remember with my e36w but i know with my e46 if the cover isnt on and you go through a car was the water will go into your spark plug pipes and cause a rough running engine, normally misfiring.
+1 for checking all your vacuum lines and intake.

[sproule905]

changed the plugs back in Feb when I noticed the erratic chugging, but my RPM's never fluctuated at all. I haven't had a chance to check much as my car sits on a train - i've shipped it back home to TO. but i am pretty sure the clutch is on its way out! oh, and yes the plastic engine cover is back on.

thanks at elast for some feedback, guys!

[sproule905]

got my car back today! put some 91 octane gas in it as it's been sitting on a train since June 11th. Anyway, the car is still a little hesitant when accelerating ( only if I stomp on it) but I am going to check out the vacuum lines this weekend.

thanks!

[slemmer]

Let Rocco take a look @ it. I'm sure he'll pinpoint it within minutes.

[sproule905]

buddy ran a computer on it yesterday.. failed O2. i guess this would also cause a bog when i stomp on the gas??

anyway, failed Etest.. high HC content. i believe the failed O2 sensor should be the probably cause.