Hi - I've got a question about installing a timing chain tensioner. My 6-month old one seems to be sticking again. The one before lasted about a year. I'm beginning to wonder if MINI got a bad batch.... Anyway, I've done this before with the engine apart, but this is the first time I will try with the valve cover on (if I can).

I know the routine, but when you do it with the top of the engine open, the procedure says to compress the tensioner all the way until it clicks, install it, then use a lever on the timing chain guide to release it to its tensioned position.

So, how do you do this if the valve cover isn't off? Lots of people seem to do it this way - leave it compressed and let the oil pressure pop it open? I don't think I can get the cap/nut on if I don't squeeze it to the compressed position.

Thanks!

 

I just pushed on the tensioner rail, and the piston popped right out. My engine was out of the car, but I don't see why it couldn't be done with it in the car.

Nik

 

I remember you asked about the tensioner last year, don't think anyone responed though.

It's harder, but you can jam the cap on with the tensioner uncompressed.

 

Thanks for the ideas.

Had a random observation - soaked the old tensioner in brake cleaner overnight. The liquid turned brown and something that looks like mayonnaise came out. I know "mayo" is a common problem with bmw's that don't get driven long enough to drive the water out of the oil. I have never seen it accumulate elsewhere on this engine. After that soak, I submerged it in clean oil and exercised while submerged. Seems much better. I'm going to try putting it back to see how the engine sounds. Just one bolt if/when it gets noisy again....

 

That weird. Hopefully it fixes your problem. Wonder why it would hold water in.

 

For those who install the tensioner with the valve cover still on it's recommended that you pop it prior to install. You'll fight it a bit to get it installed, but using engine torque to pop it can actually damage guides and jump time.

 

Didn't fix my problem, but I did very slowly and painfully find the offending part causing the clatter (note to self - take the rocker arms off and inspect everything from every angle).

Clearly must apologize to the chain tensioner I have slandered...

 

Whats the issues ?

 

I'm curious abut the problem myself. I have a 2004 R53 that developed a rattle a week or so ago. I had also replaced the timing chain tensioner a year ago, and assumed it went bad. Replacing the tensioner with an OEM part did not solve the problem.

 

I know this is an old thread, but wanted to post the resolution. Sorry for not being clear above. Took the whole head off thinking I would find a bad valve, but didn't. Removed the rockers and cam in preparation of sending the head out and discovered the cam was damaged. Really really wished I had taken the rockers and cam off before the aggravation of removing the head.