Warm up noise on cold days

[KIRIEIW]

Been having this weird noise which has been progressively been getting louder. It only happens when the car hasn't ran in a good couple hours to were it's completely cold again, worst on cold mornings I want to say. If the car hasn't completely cooled down again, it won't do it. Goes away after maybe .5 miles of driving/ warming up.

Here's a video of the sound:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RfU8jbJTaQ

Thanks guys

[E30-325iS]

Try removing the accessory belts and starting the car, if the noise is still there check the timing belt tensioner.

[KIRIEIW]

I really hope it's not the timing belt tensioner. I think I'll get a mechanic's stethoscope before I take that off again, just did it 5 months ago. Thanks though, first I'll take off my AC belt then power steering!

[KIRIEIW]

Any other suggestions?

[mpowerful]

Check tension on all accessory belts. If like mine and many others the tensioner bolts are crapped out and generally they loosen up over time. Did you replace the water pump when you did the timing belt?

[KIRIEIW]

Of course I replaced the water pump! Haha ok so I cut the AC belt and it still's doing it on cold mornings. I have an extra alternator, but before I go that far I'm going to pick up a mechanics stethoscope and figure out the exact location of the noise.