Replacing Timing Belt? When?

[mjolnir2k]

Hi,
Just purchased a used 1998 328i with 67,500 miles. I know the car has been regularly serviced (thank you CarFax) however I don't know what was done at these service intervals.

My question is do I need to immediately think about having the timing belt changed? I am guessing it has not been done. In my old car (2001 Celica) the recommended change time was 90k miles, but I am wondering about the BMW's recommended change time.

Thanks in advance.

[Fadec40]

Hi, to begin with you have a timing chain on your 98 328. I don't see any need to change it at 67,500 miles. Not to say that you might NEVER have to replace it, but I believe there is no service interval for replacing the chain on the BMW. What you may want to do is replace the tensioner for the chain.

Just an opinion!

BTW, there are two chains!

[kestrel325is]

Is there a DIY on the tensioner?

[mjolnir2k]

Originally posted by Fadec40@Oct 7 2004, 08:24 AM
Hi, to begin with you have a timing chain on your 98 328. I don't see any need to change it at 67,500 miles. Not to say that you might NEVER have to replace it, but I believe there is no service interval for replacing the chain on the BMW. What you may want to do is replace the tensioner for the chain.

Just an opinion!

BTW, there are two chains!

[snapback]206737[/snapback]

Thanks for the info (I wish my service manual would hurry up and get here). So there are 2 timing chains? Sounds like my poor wallet is going to do some crying when the time comes to replace them.

What's the story on the tensioners? Is there any indicator of when they are wearing out, or do you just change them at a certain mileage point to be safe?

[wulley1]

don't they get replaced during inspection II?

[DesmoBob]

Originally posted by wulley1+Oct 7 2004, 07:08 AM--><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(wulley1 @ Oct 7 2004, 07:08 AM)</div><div class='quotemain'>don't they get replaced during inspection II?

[snapback]206867[/snapback]

[/b]

no.


<!--QuoteBegin-mjolnir2k
What's the story on the tensioners? Is there any indicator of when they are wearing out, or do you just change them at a certain mileage point to be safe?[/quote]chain slapping noise in the front of the engine.

[Fadec40]

I don't think the timing chain(s) is anything to worry about. When the engine gets noisy and you hear the valve lifter noise, worry about it then. Timing belts are the ones that require replacemtn at around 60k or 90k depending on manufacturer.

Save your money and spend it on fun things.

Like I said earlier, I don't thonk timing chains have a service interval.