So I pulled the DISA, and everything looks fine. The pivot pin for the vane feels tight, doesn't seem like it is going anywhere. The vane is a little loose at it's base, but not bad. I reinstalled and started the engine. Rattle is very much there, unplugged the connector to disable and the rattle stops.

Doesn't seem like there is an imminent failure here, but I guess it's not worth taking any chances. Since I apparently can't get the GAS modification for an aftermarket unit, I ordered the ridiculously expensive BMW part.

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Chief

2004 3.0 6 speed manual