Quote:
Originally Posted by andrewwynn
Timing chain guides can last 300-400 miles if you change the tensioner regularly.
If your symptom is primarily rattle at start that fades that's the initial loose chain symptom and you can catch or before any damage occurs.
I didn't see your year to know if M62 or N62. It's uncommon for N62 to have guide trouble but I've seen it.
You can use a flexible snake camera to look at the chain/guides through the oil fill port. If the plastic has started to disintegrate don't run the engine, tow it to where you'll fix it
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That is really great info. Thanks andrew.
Sorry to hijack your thread OP but I believe my questions are somewhat useful for you as well since both our engines are from the same family of bmw v8s, assuming you also have the M62 engine.
My symptom is the loud rattle at start that lasts but a few seconds. So this could be the initial loose chain symptom?
My X5 is the 2003 4.6is with 95,000 miles when I purchased it in 2018. I've replaced the tensioner with an OEM part from ECS that same year.
What else do you suggest I do to reduce this initial rattle?
I've changed the spark plug earlier this month. Along with new valve cover gaskets on both sides and the lower oil pan gasket.
I also changed the engine oil and added a bottle of engine oil saver.
The first couple of starts after the reinstall was extremely smooth and quiet. But the loud rattle soon returned and the noise is there every morning during cold starts.
What else can I do to reduce this rattle? Short of replacing the TCG?
I love the idea of getting a snake camera into the engine through the oil fill port. Will try that to check on condition of the plastic guides.
Thanks again!