Timing Chain Tensioner Kaput?

[jeff_b]

Hey guys, does the end of this tensioner look normal? This is my first M42, and am unfamiliar. Half of the surface is shiny bright, like nickel or chrome plating, the other half looks scrubbed off. It still plunges and responds, with oil flowing. Fuck it or chuck it?

[xwill112x]

it rubs against the tensioner rail and that doesn't look abnormal, but i would go ahead and replace it if it's out.

[jeff_b]

Thanks for the reply. Is there an advantage using the M44 tensioner over the M42 tensioner?

[txleadfoot]

looks worn to me. i've not had much luck putting in a used tensioner anyway. i would replace it.

[z31maniac]

Thanks for the reply. Is there an advantage using the M44 tensioner over the M42 tensioner?

I thought they didn't even sell the M42 tensioner anymore, just the M44, could be wrong though.

Why did you pull it to begin with? Was it rattling/clacking or something?

Also keep in mind if you have a good tensioner, but a rattle at idle, it's most likely the oil pressure control valve.

Mine failed on my M42 right after I got it, replaced the tensioner, etc. And it was that $25 part.

[KenC]

The M44 one is the only one available now.

I've never had one look like that when I've pulled it out.

I'd just replace it. Cheap insurance.

[3bvert]

I thought they didn't even sell the M42 tensioner anymore, just the M44, could be wrong though.

Why did you pull it to begin with? Was it rattling/clacking or something?

Also keep in mind if you have a good tensioner, but a rattle at idle, it's most likely the oil pressure control valve.

Mine failed on my M42 right after I got it, replaced the tensioner, etc. And it was that $25 part.

ditto

[jeff_b]

Great insight, guys thanks. It looked fubar to me as well. It's been sitting for about 6 years or so, but it does run and idle.

I'm troubleshooting a coolant leak/radiator not cooling issue. Once I had the condenser/fan out, I figured I may as well pull the radiator to get the water pump changed. I decided to do the intake preheat coolant line delete.

I'm also chasing a massive oil leak(s), and figured since there was oil all over the a/c and bracket, it was time to delete.

Since the valance was bashed when the POs kid brother ran it up on a curb, I pulled it and the bumper to straighten it out while off the car, add fogs ('92 318i cabrio ftw), install a volvo lip the right way and also facilitate access for a/c condenser/fan deletion. At this point decided to do the electric fan conversion when I finish up (still in work).

Since all the other shit was out of the way, the damn oil filter housing was right there, probably leaking. I wanted to pull it. I saw I needed to pull the alternator bracket first. I took out them out.

Then I pulled it and the filter housing. Now I can see all the stuff I need to delete for the intake heater. Since the opposite side of the timing case was also all mucked up with oil and such, I figured the tensioner washer was played. I may/may not have lost it....I'm not sure if it was even in the to begin with....either way, it's MIA. I pulled out the tensioner, and we've come full circle.

E30s are crack rock.

A before pic:

[jeff_b]

Looking at that long post, I think I had too much bourbon when I typed it.

Cliff notes:
1. cabby leaks coolant and lots of oil
2. I am tearing it apart like a man possessed
3. it is fun

[KenC]

motivation :)

[KenC]

Shoot me a PM if you have any questions. I just got done with a full rebuild.

[jeff_b]

Holy shit. That's what I hope my motor will look like someday. Thank you for your PM offer, I will definitely take advantage of it!!