When to Change the Timing Chain on a BMW E36?
by William ZaneUpdated November 07, 2017The E36 is the third generation of the BMW 3 Series, and one of the entry-level offerings from the this Bavarian manufacturer. The E36 uses a timing chain to control the timing of the camshafts and the valve train.
Timing Chain
The timing chain on an E36 is fastened to the camshaft with sprockets. using a timing chain is a much more durable method of ensuring the timing on the engine than using a timing belt. A timing belt is a pliable belt that needs to be replaced periodically.
Replacement
The timing chains that E36s use are generally considered reliable for the life of the engine, so it most likely will never need to be replaced. However, any mechanical part can fail. If the engine in question has very high miles (250,000 or more), it may be prudent to replace the timing chain as preventative maintenance.
Considerations
Though the timing chain itself may never need to be replaced, the tensioner that is responsible for keeping the chain tight when the engine is running may need to be replaced. The tensioner can be responsible for a noisy timing chain and replacing it will usually solve any noise problems
References
- "BMW 3 Series (E36) Service Manual: 1992-1998"; Robert Bentley; 1999
- Pelican Parts; BMW Timing Belt Tensioner Replacement; Wayne R. Dempsey
Writer Bio
William Zane has been a freelance writer and photographer for over six years and specializes primarily in automotive-related subject matter among many other topics. He has attended the Academy of Art College in San Francisco, where he studied automotive design, and the University of New Mexico, where he studied journalism.
