Cold start noises (E34 540i)

[MTechnik540i]

Hey folks,

The 540i has been resting in the garage for a few days (3 days), probably never seeing less than 40 degrees. Anyway, went to start it up this evening and it turned over with no issues, but that was followed by a very loud tapping noise that eventually dissipated after a few seconds. It was unusually loud, and a little alarming. Running an Amsoil 20w50 Synthetic oil, and wondering if the weight could have had any effect on this.

Anyway, any help would most appreciated.

[Ross]

The oil pumps on those are know for becoming...um, loose. The tapping was probably from the oiling system draining out , perhaps from a loose pump at the bottom of the system.
20w50 flows fine at that temp.

[MTechnik540i]

The oil pumps on those are know for becoming...um, loose. The tapping was probably from the oiling system draining out , perhaps from a loose pump at the bottom of the system.
20w50 flows fine at that temp.

Yeah, now I've tightened and safety wired the pump's cover. The car spent the evening outside last night, and this morning started without any abnormal noises.

Maybe I should explore this avenue though.

[Paul in NZ]

could it be just the hydraulic lifters pumping up after draining?

[MTechnik540i]

Top.

[Macv]

I get the tick this time of year and change my oil to 1w40. Ticking stops.

[bubba966]

20w50? Why so thick?

I've been running the Amsoil Series 2000 0w30 in my M-Sport. Works great, no noise (unlike the Mobil 1 the PO always put in it). Heavier oil is going to raise oil pressures. Higher oil pressures have lower oil volumes being pumped through everything. Less oil volume is higher heat & lower lubrication.

You might want to try running the Series 2000 0w30 on the next change and see how that works for you.