M42club.com - Home of the BMW E30/E36 318i/iS

DISCUSSION => Engine + Driveline => Topic started by: oldskool3 on November 01, 2008, 04:50:53 PM

Title: tensionner question
Post by: oldskool3 on November 01, 2008, 04:50:53 PM

Hey guys I am looking at 91 318i for a DD. It is going for $600 but it needs a new tensionner. My question is how long can you drvie on a bum tensionner before it will damage the rest of the components. I am hoping to just swap in a new tensioner and drive it. I don't want to get involved in changing all the guides and chain. Thanks very much

Title: tensionner question
Post by: Rogan on November 01, 2008, 06:58:04 PM

The answer for that is relative to how long it's been in need of replacement, but there's no standard answer.  Since the tensioner is so easy to change, it's best to do it right away, before the chain 'jumps' teeth.  then it's done.  If it does, count on replacing the head and possibly pistons..

Title: tensionner question
Post by: strad on November 11, 2008, 12:27:20 AM

Put in a new tensioner and see what happens.  You might get lucky and stop whatever noise you're hearing just by doing that.  If it doesn't get quiet after that, then you'll have to get in there pretty quickly and replace all the worn parts in the chain system.

Title: tensionner question
Post by: JP 91iS on November 11, 2008, 12:34:39 PM

Be aware that a few people on this board have replaced just their tensioners which put renewed strain on their worn chain components causing them to fail.

I would pull the valve cover off and inspect the chain and sprockets.