Hi guys I have ordered a Timing Chain tension tester to check the free play in the timing chain on my N12 1.4 non turbo engine. I can find information for the spec for the N14 and N18 engine, below 68 mm ok, above 68 mm replace the chain, should I use that spec for testing an N12 engine?.................Thanks in advance, I would be lost without this forum [img]data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7[/img]

 

Here's a link to the related BMW service bulletin --- https://web.archive.org/web/20200706...81_minidoc.pdf Yes, it's written for N14 and no mention of the N12, but note the referenced cause of the problem is the tensioner, not the chain. Based on this info, I suggest you look up the various differences between the two versions (N12 and N14) of tensioner, chain, and guides --- https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/select If both engines use the same tensioner then I'd use the same measurement. I'd be more confident if the chain and guides were also the same, but they probably aren't.

Regardless of part numbers, if your chain has more than about 50K miles, I'd consider changing it anyhow --- more as a precaution rather than a necessity. Maybe wait 'til "you're in there" for something else, instead of doing it ASAP. And FYI --- my N14 chain free play, when new measured 2 20/64" or between 58 and 59mm. 2 43/64" is just under 68mm

Hope this info helps ---

 

A german shop offers this tool to measure timing chain wear:
https://www.xxl-automotive.de/spezia...ette-fuer-mini

The measurement principle is the same. The tool is suitable for (amongst others) N12, N14, N16 and N18 engines. However, the supplied washer is only to be used with the N14 engine (of those listed here).

I have the tool here, the width of the washer is 4.15mm. Hence, the threshold for the N12 (as well as N16 and N18) is 63.85mm (instead of 68mm).

 

Thanks guys for the excellent info, I am going to measure it tomorrow, and I will let you know the results, fingers crossed it is below the threshold!

 

Update....installed the tester, but being able to tighten it to the specified 0.6nm is not possible as I do not own a torque wrench that goes that low, so tightening the rod by hand wearing disposable gloves it reads 58 mm, any idea how or a guide to tightening to 0.6 nm ?

 

You probably over tightened it by using your fingers
0.6 nm is the metric equivalent of “finger tight”

Based on the information provided by @oldbrokenwind your chain sounds like it’s in great shape. If your tensioner is still in one piece, just reinstall and be on your way.

 

I used one of these.
5 in-lb is 0.56 nm.


I also have one of these, but the price went
up about $35 more since I bought it a year
or so ago.

 

Hi Guys, I am just going to replace the Timing Chain, best safe than sorry, any tips on doing the job?

 

Here's a BMW procedure on replacing your timing chain --- https://bmwrepairguide.com/mini-r56-...er-n12-engine/ Check their home page for several more commonly used procedures.

 

Hi guys one last question, and I do appreciate all the advice you have given. I ordered a timing chain set that is supposed to contain everything......and I have found it does not include a new crankshaft sprocket or bolt.....And I am having a real problem finding them separately, can I get away with using the original sprocket and bolt?.....Hope so!

 

Sprocket yes. Bolt NO! This is one of the three TTY bolts that must be replaced each time it's accessed. Use the RealOEM parts list to get the part number and order it from one of the NAM parts suppliers. Most of them sell it separately.

 

I ordered 2 new Vanos bolts, 1 Crankshaft sprocket, 1 Crankshaft bolt from Peugeot for the 308 VTI 1.4 2007 (same engine, and cross-checked the part numbers) they will be in tomorrow 28 Euro Result !

 

Hi guys, in case anyone wants a heads up on a very cheap scanner that can reset the vanos this is it.