98 328i Sedan problems (several)

[RKramden]

Hi all

I happened across this site/forum while trying to troubleshoot my son's car. First I've had one of the coolant flange nipples break at the firewall (car overheated). I didn't discover it until I was replacing coolant in it today & saw it pouring it out. I also saw it leaking from (I believe) the water pump vent hole. So, my question on this issue is, can the flange be replaced as a separate unit or do I have to replace the heater core with it? If it can be replaced separately, does anyone have an online vendor that I can find it at?

Second problem, we replaced the cam sensor (car wouldn't start, check engine light on and scan indicated bad sensor) and we still cannot clear the code. The car now runs, but I should say rather, we clear the code and it returns almost instantly. Am I correct in assuming that the sensor is probably a defective one? It's an aftermarket unit so it wouldn't suprise me.

Third and final problem (for now) is there is a knocking noise in the right rear over bumps. It seems to come from directly under the right rear passengers seat. I've already replaced the shocks and upper mounts. I wonder if anyone else has run across this problem and can clue me in to where to go next.

Thanks for your assistance

[drz]

About the second problem: try getting the codes read again to determine whether you are getting the CEL due to the same problem or maybe something else

Third problem: knocking sound or metallic rattle? If the latter, it may just be a lose heat shield. That has been the case for many an E36 owner.

Good luck!

[RKramden]

Thanks Drz,

Starting with the 3rd problem...it's a knock, you can actually hear it when you are standing outside the car. I used to work for a dealer (mechanic) and ran across the heat shield issue back in the 80's with Subarus, so I'm familiar with that noise. Unfortunately I'm not that lucky that it would be that.

As for the code....it's still a P0340 Cam Position Sensor A Circuit (Bank 1 or single sensor)

As for the first issue, I found an online vendor in Cali. that has what I need and at resonable prices (mostly OEM to boot).

it's BimmerSpecialist.com

[johnnyBgood]

Knocking noise in the rear........maybe after checking your heat shield, check the fuel tank for looseness, the foam on tank straps shrink, leaving a gap.....& finally I had this issue too! Rear trailing arm bushings......this made a real loud knocking noise over bumps!

United Bimmer - BMW Enthusiast Community and Forums : Bimmer Technical Help
johnny,

[marti5]

2. I replaced my sensor three times in one day all after market, got one from BM no probs

3. Get hold of the exhaust whilst running and hold it tight, move it about a bit, could be a worn rubber mounting or there is of course the prop shaft.

[Montizzle]

That thunking noise is most likely your RTABs or your RSMs. Both are weak and are known to fail. I recommend replacing both with the heavy duty aftermarket alternatives

[johnnyBgood]

+1 with Montizzle......most likely rear trailing arm bushings....(RTAB's).

johnny,

[marti5]

Guys, correct me if I'm wrong but, Post 3 , he says you can hear it whilst standing next to the car ? if it was rear trailing arms how would you hear these, whilst the car is stationary????, you may know something I dont ?

[RKramden]

Marti, sorry for the mis-understanding. I meant that if the car enters the driveway (and I'm outside) I can hear it when it hits the little edge of the driveway. The car is moving at this point, just that it's audible to ppl standing outside.

Johnny,

Haven't heard that one about the fuel tank...I'll check it when the weather warms up a bit (20F this AM). I was considering the RTAB or the final drive carrier mounting bushings

Thanks