12-17-2023, 06:55 AM | #1 |
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F30 N26 timing chain recs for those using the FCPEuro videos
I just changed out my timing chain and it took me a LOT longer than I thought, so I wanted to share some tips for those who are going to use the FCPEuro video. Some background on my car before I start.
2013 328i n26. 107k mi. Oil changes every 5-6k after the 50k mark. No mods before 3-4 months ago, BM3 stage 1 with charge pipes and FMIC since then. Spirited driving but mostly highway at 75mph in eco mode. No significant slack in the chain. I didn't have much whine so nothing specific prompted me. My chain wasn't loose but my guides were broken at the main connecting points. It's just a terrible design, and unfortunately BMW did not fix it. There is no new support, bulk or sturdier materials at those same points with the new guides. The only change is that the crank and oil sprockets have laser etchings to keep them from slipping. After testing, it fired up the first time, no codes. It runs like it's brand new. Onto the suggestions:
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12-17-2023, 10:02 AM | #2 |
Charles B
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Drives: 335 M235 Z4 944 Turbo
Join Date: Feb 2018
Location: Jersey
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Awesome!! Thanks for sharing. I plan on doing this to my Z4.
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01-01-2024, 11:52 PM | #3 |
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Thank you for the tips and the thorough info! This is one of the most involved, but essential jobs for the early N20/N26 engines.
Were there any signs before you opened the engine that your guides were already broken? How were your intake valves?
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Last edited by fe7565; 01-02-2024 at 12:00 AM.. |
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01-07-2024, 12:11 PM | #4 |
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Great writeup! Fcpeuro is definitely wrong on the position of those two oil pan bolts in their post. I had a small oil leak after following that. And their video skipped tons of details also.
Given that still appreciate FCPeuro as my main resource of reference. The other thing I did differently is I didn’t dropped subframe completely but only 1-2 inches. With engine jacked up high I had barely enough room to wiggle it out&in. It was quite tough though. https://www.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...php?p=29976444 |
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01-16-2024, 07:46 PM | #5 |
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Huge thanks for the recommendation on the crank seal tool! I’m stuck on that now, and I also slightly nicked the block trying to get it out. Drives me crazy that FCP Euro spent 30 seconds on the crank seal, and didn’t really show the method they used to “carefully” pry the old seal from the block.
Now I just wish my engine looked as clean as yours. I’ve got some varnish at ~126k miles. |
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