S52 cam chain tensioner...

[bwh13]

I think I have to replace the main tensioner in the side of the block. The chain makes a whirring noise if the engine is revved up. I didn't change the tensioner as the engine only has 57K on it...but the engine had been sitting around for at least a year...

Even though I have the Bentley, it never says if I have to put the engine at TDC on #1 cylinder or anything like that to remove/install the tensioner.

Can anyone confirm the proper cam position, etc to do this?

[e30serg]

Here you go:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/techarticles/101-Projects-16-Tensioner-Upgrade/101-Projects-16-Tensioner-Upgrade.htm

[bwh13]

Thanks, I thought maybe it had to be aligned at TDC.

It turns out it is probably the VANOS unit. I had the BMW tech listen to it and that's what he thought. It's pretty loud, but he said it won't hurt anything.

Time to save up a few $ and get the Dr Vanos unit...

[bostonbmw]

Or you could do it yourself and save some $$$

http://beisansystems.com/procedures/vanos_single_procedure.htm