Doru,

What kind of tool did you use to retrieve your part? I've tried a telescoping magnet, with no luck. Do you think a flexible magnet would work better? I also tried the shop vac method, but my shop belongs in the scrap heap - it barely produces any suction, so I'll either have to borrow a neighbor's, or buy a new one (which I need anyway). And I tried a boroscope, but I can't see anything useful with it - too much reflected glare off the metal parts, it seems.

I also tried turning the engine (clockwise), and it rotates without any problem, so the piece doesn't seem to be wedged between the chain and the crank, or at least not tightly enough to impede the movement of the crank.

If I decide to bite the bullet and remove the lower timing chain cover, is there anyone who would be interested in buying the crank pulley securing bar when I'm done with it? It's $70 at Pelican Parts, so I'd sell it for $50 when I'm done with it. Thanks.

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2003 X5 4.4i
1992 Porsche 968
2007 328i
2014 Subaru Forester XT