Timing chain and guides? Never heard one tapping like that before when bad, and this isn't my first BMW. Would I not be seeing cam position sensor faults if so? Not debating, just trying to learn since I never thought of chains/guides as a potential root cause.

I didn't realize the chains and guides were a concern on these N63, but I know my M62 can have issues.

If the guides are trashed, will they show bits in the oil pan like on an M62? I can drop that tomorrow easily. Thanks!