Replacing timing chain and gaskets on M42

[intelitre]

Bentley fails to describe the procedure for replacing a timing chain, gaskets, rails, etc on a 91 318is w/m42 engine. Do all the pulleys, waterpump, thermostat housing, radiator, etc have to be removed? Thanks

[billb]

Bentley fails to describe the procedure for replacing a timing chain, gaskets, rails, etc on a 91 318is w/m42 engine. Do all the pulleys, waterpump, thermostat housing, radiator, etc have to be removed? Thanks

Here's a great website for the 318iS.
http://www.esatclear.ie/~bpurcell/index.html

I have not done timing chain or rail yet, but did upper and lower cover gaskets. When I take it all down again, I'll do head gasket, profile gasket, timing chain, the works. I've only got 87k indicated on mine, so it might be a little while before I do all that.

I love mine...Jr loves his too. Here's a pic of mine.
http://www.bimmer.info/bmw/fgump/yakimaleft.jpg

Here's Jr's in action...love this picture!
http://www.esatclear.ie/~bpurcell/index.html

Bill B.

[Jr ///M5]

Invest in a Haynes manual that covers E36 models. The M42 engine evolved into the E36 and was only available in the convertible and 318iS models for 1991. The Haynes will suffice for breakdowns on the engine. You might find something on New Jersey's BMWCCA website, I used a procedure written by Warren Brown (not the same warren that's on the 5er board) and it was spot on for replacing the profile gasket on my 318iS.

You will need a special tool to lock the cams in place so you won't risk bending all your valves. Double and triple check your work, you only get one chance.

Ask to borrow books from Bill B........lol, I know you will be needing it soon, so I'll be returning it probably the day after your track day...=) Wouldn't want you to have any other influence other than the instructors...=)

Good luck with your work, if you need any help, feel free to post, someone here will eventually answer...

Jr
'91 318iS 70k miles
'91 ///M5 101k miles

[WarrenBrown]

I've done the timing chain, guides, sprockets and tensioner in mine. It is not a difficult job. The profile gasket is way harder. It is a good time to replace the water pump also. I read the Mike Miller article in the Roundel. He gave me the scare since my car was making lots of chain noise. In the end things looked pretty good, not as Mike described. I think my problem was the tensioner but couldn't have lived with not knowing.

Warren Brown
91 318is
95 525iT