A small but potentially big issue.

[Mclassy]

Im looking at buying an iX that has a clean rust free body, BUT it seems like it needs a major valve adjustment. My question for you guys is basically, does this motor have a tendency to be very noisy? Could it be the timing belt or water pump?

[Dominic49]

m20 = typewriter....

[Mclassy]

good that's a little more refreshing. Ive never heard an e30 motor that loud though!

[kenika65]

Change the timing belt, adjust the valves, and run an oil additive then if its still loud you have problems.

[Mclassy]

Change the timing belt, adjust the valves, and run an oil additive then if its still loud you have problems.

Yeah I actually had plans of doing the first two once in my possession. Ill try the oil additive as well. My signs are pointing to the timing being massively off.

[cappa240]

Maybe ask the guy if you can do a valve adjustment before buying it? That way if it's not the problem, you know what you're getting into or can avoid it altogether... 2 hours of your time is cheap insurance against dealing with a major headache.

[StereoInstaller1]

Yeah I actually had plans of doing the first two once in my possession. Ill try the oil additive as well. My signs are pointing to the timing being massively off.

Timing is not adjustable on an M20, so that ain't it.

Pull the valve cover off and look carefully at the camshaft. Look for grooves where the rocker arm pad rides on the cam. If you see a big freeking trench, the thing needs a new cam and likely as not a fresh head.

This would be good ammunition to beat them down on the price...

[Mclassy]

THANKS! I just brought that up to the seller. Ill be waiting for his response.

[Bmjpv]

noisey valves

If your cam lobes are worn, it's because the oiling tube is dirty or cause it's and auto (lower RPM at Idle) which gives lower oil pressure at idle . The back half of the tube will drip but the front section will be dry causing wear at idling. Up grade/modify the tube . joe

[Mclassy]

Thanks! Im actually thinking of turning this car over to my buddy. So, please by all means keep the helpful comments pouring in. Id like to make sure he gets it in good running condition.