318i Engine Diagnosis (HELP ME!) - BMW Forum

rbm318i · 07-19-2007, 01:35 PM

Hello everyone,
This is my first post on the forum but I really need some answers.

I have a 318i which just recently according to the shop which did my work had a timing chain failure. Prior to this failure the car ran fine for the most part but always had a slight "clicking" noise coming from the engine bay. It almost sounds like a tractor, or a diesel engine. Anyways

After the fixed my car it still doesn't run perfect. It's drivable though. Now the clicking is a lot stronger and I am really worried about this. This is what I think.
1. I think I may have problems with my valves. Do m42 engines need to have their valves adjusted regularly? I have not done this since I bought the car, (used at 140,000 miles, not its at 190,000).
2. Could my valves be bent from the timing chain problem. Would my car still drive if this was the case, becuase it does?
3. Is it possible to do a valve job myself, with a good bentley book?
4. I've focused on valves because thats all I know. Anyone have any other possibilities?

I'm feeling really blue because I used to love driving my car, but now whenever I drive I just cringe because I hate that sound, and it hurts me probably more than its hurting the car. Please help.

Thanks

92 325I · 07-19-2007, 04:08 PM

has the car ever ran out of oil?
what year is it?
bimmers that old ars supposed to rattle a little,but not nuch?
maybe the valves neede to be adjusted

Karluver · 07-19-2007, 04:55 PM

Hi 318i owner,
You have heck'a lot of mileage on that 1.8 4cyl engine. I don't think replacing the timing chain cause the valve to bend. If one of the valves is not seating properly, it will give out tick...tick..tick noise which keep pace with how fast the enginer is turning, even when idling. Why not get the garage who replaced the timing chain to check it ?? I think a valve job is too difficult for DIY --- unless you are a qualified mechanic. Hope that helps.

rbm318i · 07-19-2007, 04:56 PM

Thanks for responding.
The car has never run out of oil to my knowledge. Also the rattling got signifantly worse after I had the timing chain changed, so I'm assuming its not a normal rattle/click.