E30 Maintenance Issues

[peteM3power]

G'day everyone,

Just a quick note to say that I am currently looking at buying a '91 318iS that has done just under 72k miles and would much appreciate it if some of you guys could help me with a couple of maintenance questions that I have regarding this car:

1. The owner tells me that the timing chain was replaced about 5 years ago and assuming that the 72k miles of the car were spread out equally over the last 13 years, this would mean that it should have been changed approximately 28k miles ago. The owner tells me that it is probably due for another change. How many miles do timing chains normally last for? Keep in mind that this car was city driven.

2. Having only covered 72k miles in it's life, are there any other components that should have been changed on this car so far? For example, is it normal for a water pump and/ or oxygen sensor to need replacing (or to have been replaced) at or before approximately 72k miles?

To anyone who can help me out, I thank-you in advance and would just like to say that your help, advice and/ or opinion is much appreciated,

--Pete

[Spaz]

Re: E30 Maintenance Issues

G'day everyone,

Just a quick note to say that I am currently looking at buying a '91 318iS that has done just under 72k miles and would much appreciate it if some of you guys could help me with a couple of maintenance questions that I have regarding this car:

1. The owner tells me that the timing chain was replaced about 5 years ago and assuming that the 72k miles of the car were spread out equally over the last 13 years, this would mean that it should have been changed approximately 28k miles ago. The owner tells me that it is probably due for another change. How many miles do timing chains normally last for? Keep in mind that this car was city driven.

2. Having only covered 72k miles in it's life, are there any other components that should have been changed on this car so far? For example, is it normal for a water pump and/ or oxygen sensor to need replacing (or to have been replaced) at or before approximately 72k miles?

To anyone who can help me out, I thank-you in advance and would just like to say that your help, advice and/ or opinion is much appreciated,

--Pete

1. you pretty much never have to replace a timing change. but if he has done it all the better. the chain does strech but it takes alot of running hours and miles. normally chains are only replaced if they have a problem. i've seen chains last 300+kms (in in canada sorry for diff units)

2. at 72k miles, you can expect to do a majour tune up soon.
A. this includes spark plugs, wires, fuel filter, oil filter, oil, belts.
B. possibly a coolant flush, brake fluid flush, power steering fluid flush, rear end fluid change, transmission service (auto), trans fluid change (manual). the more old fluid you can change the better.
C. you may want to replace all the coolant hoses right about now, as they weaken over time. i know some companies sell kits with all hoses. its the best way to go. also flush the system and put oem bmw coolant in.
D. Brakes, Sturts, Tires, Bushings. you only will need to replace what is gone. check it out your self or have some qualitfied do it for you.

the best idea is to take it to a shop and get them to check over the car very well. then you can determine exactly what it needs. and how much its going to to cost you.
most shops charge about an hour to do this.

hope this helps you out. if you need more info don't hesiate to contact me.

[peteM3power]

Cam,

Thankyou very much for your help. That overview was great. I think I'll ask the owner a few more questions and then (like you said), have a pro' look it over if I get positive answers from my questions,

Thanks once again,

--Pete

BTW, If anyone else has any other ideas, I would much appreciate it if you could post and offer me your advice, Thanks!

[Spaz]

no problem.