timing chain

[lazyE30]

ok so i have to replace the headgasket on a bmw 318(m10) and i ve got it down to taking the timing gear off.. heres the question im really lazy so i figured i could just slip the gear off and force it back on...like i did with my honda but the belt on the honda started slipping off but its a belt... i figured if this is a chain it cant slip off....right? would this work i already have it at tdc, if not how do i get to the tensioner? is it behind the water pump?

[Dave]

http://www.amazon.com/BMW-E30-Service-Manual-1984-1990/dp/0837603250/sr=8-1/qid=1161285544/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/002-7475422-0204060?ie=UTF8

[bumpstop335i]

cant go wrong there

[318isbmw]

absolutely amazing manual, comes in handy very often

[lazyE30]

is it that much better then a chilton..which kinda sucks but thats what i got

[jimbixjr]

The service manuals are awesome because they are exactly that, service manuals. Those are the books that technicians at dealerships use. I bought a book like that for my 86 535i and it tells you everything. How to diagnose engine and tranny problems to what diameter the connecting rod lobes are on the crankshaft. The books are awesome, you should definetly buy one!

[SoopaGhetto]

The tensioner is that long tube looking thing that sticks out towards you (follow where the chain goes down and you cant miss it). Has a 19mm bolt...once you loosen it, it will relive tension on the chain. You could remove the chain sprocket held on by 4 10mm bolts to the cam. jus make sure the chain doesnt fall in :-)