Early/Late model valve train noise

[sarcasmkillsme]

I've been wondering lately about the valve train noise between my car, a '87 325is and my friend's '89 325is. My valve train is so much louder than his and I think I've noticed this before with early/late model M20s. Both our cars have low miles (under 60k),the valves are adjusted to spec and our engines run fantastic. Are late model heads build to tighter tolerances or...is the valve cover thinker? lol

Anyone else thought about this or have reason why this could be?

[SpecM]

its not an early/late thing. Its just the consequence of maintenence, or lack thereof

[sarcasmkillsme]

its not an early/late thing. Its just the consequence of maintenence, or lack thereof

See, I think this is just an easy excuse. My car has been very well maintained by myself and by the previous owner and I have a massive book of receipts to prove it. My friend's car has no documents to speak of. I also am very easy on my car and don't beat on it. So...anything else?

[SpecM]

See, I think this is just an easy excuse. My car has been very well maintained by myself and by the previous owner and I have a massive book of receipts to prove it. My friend's car has no documents to speak of. I also am very easy on my car and don't beat on it. So...anything else?

nope just me again

I wasn't accusing you of not maintaining your car, but all wear parts wear differently car to car. Have you tried new adjusting cams, maybe yours are worn?

[sarcasmkillsme]

nope just me again

I wasn't accusing you of not maintaining your car, but all wear parts wear differently car to car. Have you tried new adjusting cams, maybe yours are worn?

Oh I wasn't feeling accused. I just wanted to keep the conversation moving on to new ideas.

What do you mean by adjusting the cam? Could worn eccentrics be a possible cause too?

[txtorquemade]

I have a 87 325is and 90 i. I notice the 87 to have markedly louder valve train noise. Cant say either engine is pristine though. Both pretty beat on.