Timing belts and chains for BMW

Every owner of a BMW car knows that proper control over the condition of the timing drive is of particular importance. It is best to replace it every 100 thousand kilometers, along with the tensioner, shock absorber, water pump and stars.

Despite the fact that the replacement distance is indicated in the manufacturer's operating instructions, you should not rely on this regulation completely. Otherwise, you can miss the right moment, and then you will have to pay a large amount of money to bring the engine to working condition.

When is it time to change the timing belt on a BMW

First of all, it is worth finding out what the timing chain is and when it should be replaced. The design of this assembly, whose task is to synchronize the operation of pistons, valves and the ignition system, is very simple.

The crankshaft and camshaft sprockets become the location of the chain, simultaneously driving the water pump.

To ensure the correct tension of the chain, a special device called a chain tensioner is installed. If the chain breaks, the intake and exhaust valves will stick into the pistons and the engine will need a major overhaul. The engine must not be used until the repair work is completed.

Most often, motorists face the following problems:

The appearance on the instrument panel of the indicator "Check engine"

This point is becoming the most common problem for car and truck engines. The reason for its inclusion in the instrument panel is the detection by the electronic control unit (ECU) of an error code in one of the systems present.

The total number of existing error codes exceeds 200. To accurately identify the cause, it is better to diagnose in one of the reliable car services.

Increased fuel consumption

During normal operation of the engine, it ensures that fuel is burned at a rate that allows it to be economically consumed. But some parts of the fuel system, such as air and fuel filters, mass air flow and oxygen sensors, are gradually exposed to pollution and wear.

If they are not replaced in time, which is becoming the most popular reason for increased fuel consumption, it will increase your consumption.

Screeching brakes

In such a situation, you should take the car to a mechanic as soon as possible, it may be necessary to replace the brake pads or discs.

Replace the timing chain only when it is stretched. It is worth considering not only the period of use of the machine, but also the conditions of its operation.

Reasons to replace the timing chain on a BMW

The location of the timing chain is the engine, so it does not experience external influences and operates almost silently. But this feature can cause frequent breakdowns.

The impact on the performance of the machine is carried out depending on the quality of the oil poured into the engine and its quantity. If there is not enough lubrication, you will need to replace the part as it wears out.

Timing chain replacement is necessary for the following reasons:

• The tensioner has fallen into disrepair;
• Malfunction of the hydraulic chain tensioner due to low oil pressure. The chain is tight and the teeth are slipping;
• The chain can also slip as a result of worn camshaft gears;
• If low quality oil is used, the belt may need to be replaced;
• The chain may fail when operating at high loads or in high-speed mode.

The main reason a timing chain may need to be replaced is because it is difficult to access. This complicates the prevention and timely detection of a malfunction of the timing drive. Compared to the fixing strap, it is hidden under a large number of casings. To perform the inspection, you will need to disassemble the engine, and not all drivers can handle this.

Replacement is carried out every 100 thousand kilometers, since the engine has a high oil temperature, and plastic parts can simply melt. The presence of a hum when the engine is running at high speeds will help determine the presence of a malfunction.

Replacing the timing chain on a BMW

The chain replacement technology is simple, but requires a special tool, without which nothing can be done.

The sequence of actions will be as follows:

•       Draining engine oil;
•       Disassemble the motor housing and replace the gasket;
•       Remove the valve cover and replace the gasket underneath;
•       Disassemble the timing system;
•       Wash and clean the engine from carbon deposits;
•       Install a new timing chain;

Reassemble in reverse order.

Particular attention should be paid to the fact that during this process it is also necessary to replace the bolts, the front crankshaft oil seal and the timing sprockets.