Expert: Don Berlan - 4/27/2006

Question
Dear Don i have a Bmw 3 series 318i late 1998 model (new shape) i think it has a e36 motor in it there is a rattling noise when you rev it over 2000rpm at first i thought it was a bearing knock but the noise only starts when you rev the engine so i think its the timing chain, so i wanted to replace the guides and the chain will i have to remove the cylinder head in order to do this or can i just remove the front section .. pls help

Answer
The motor must have alot of miles on it...I have never replaced a timimg chain as they are pretty much maintenance free..with alot of miles there is a possilbility for the guides to wear but noise is uncommon. Yes it is accessable,but I think you should look real close to see if it really is that for a noise.the head does not have to be removed.