'91 318i M42 Chain Tensioner

[AlexJ]

These parts came out rust-free. I hit them with some degreaser last night and rinsed with water afterwards, then left them laying out in the humid garage all night. I'll hit them with some Evapo-Rust before they go back in.

What's your take on the cracked rubber in that longer rail? Fine? Risky?

[bmwman91]

Replace all of it. There is probably enough rubber gone from the sliding surfaces that the tensioner is working extra hard.

[AlexJ]

I found a portion of the rubber delaminating from the metal, so it's getting replaced. As for the tensioner guide, I'm going to reuse it. The grooves aren't that deep, 2 to 3mm, and everything else appears to be intact. So, besides that and the sprockets, everything will be new.



It'll take 2 weeks to get everything in. In the meantime, I have an engine bay to clean, and a valve cover and intake to paint. :)

Thanks all for the help.

[bmwman91]

Good call. Keep the project pics coming!