Timing Chain Tensioner?

[natebracing]

Hey guys and gals-

I'm a new member with a hard question. I have a '97 ti (1.9L M44 engine) with 150,000 miles. In the last few thousand miles the engine itself has developed a very loud "chinging" sound that increases with RPM. I am fairly mech. inclined, but this is nothing that I've ever heard before. The motor doesn't use any oil and performs well. It almost sounds like valve-train noise (it's definately a metalic sound). I took the serpentine belt off to make sure it wasn't any of the accesories, and the noise is still there. Timing chain tensioner??? (It's never been replaced)

Any input would be appreciated.
-natebracing

[bimmerboi318]

It's hard to diagnose that kind of problem without actually seeing the car, but I would get a stethascope and start poking around. If it's coming from the front timing case, I'd say the timing chain and tensioner(s) need replacement. If it's higher and on the valve cover or farther back on the engine, then lifters, rockers, followers, etc are suspect. I'm not sure how involved it would be to replace those, I've only done valvetrain work on cam-in-block motors, which are fairly easy. Our DOHC engines may be different...You may need someone (or a shop) listen to it for you.

[318tidom]

It's hard to diagnose that kind of problem without actually seeing the car, but I would get a stethascope and start poking around. If it's coming from the front timing case, I'd say the timing chain and tensioner(s) need replacement. If it's higher and on the valve cover or farther back on the engine, then lifters, rockers, followers, etc are suspect. I'm not sure how involved it would be to replace those, I've only done valvetrain work on cam-in-block motors, which are fairly easy. Our DOHC engines may be different...You may need someone (or a shop) listen to it for you.


I'd have to agree. Sounds like the culprit is more than likely the timing chain. You already know this, but replacement of the tensioner is required when changing the timing chain.