Ouch! I now have 39K on my '07 MCS, just got through paying nearly $500 for a thermostat sensor, and now I'm discovering that I may be out another $1700 for a chain tensioner kit. This is beginning to be an expensive vehicle - although I still love it (no accounting for affairs of the heart).
Has anyone had this problem of the chain tensioner before? Are these two mechanical issues harbingers of more bad things to come?? Do I need to take out a second mortgage to keep this thing in running order???
The chain tensioner is a small part that is replaced from the back of the block. Quick and fairly painless. It sounds like they are recommending the timing chain be replaced due to it being stretched beyond the adjustment capability of the chain tensioner.
The price quoted is about right for a timing chain replacement considering the work involved. I would question why it needs a timing chain at 39K.
__________________
2007 MCS Laser Blue 2010, 2008 BMW Oktoberfest Autocross - Stock Mini First Place
2009 BMW Oktoberfest Autocross - Stock Mini Second Place BMW CCA Driving Instructor/Engine Mechanic/Speech Recognition Specialist
Thanks for your comments. My question would be how does one know if it just needs a tensioner or the "full kit", as they mentioned on the phone at Towne? Can you tell by the sound of it, or do you have to actually take it apart?
I do know that the metallic, rattle sound has been getting louder. It seems to be the most noticeable when it's at idle - then, will pretty much fad when underway (as least as much as I can tell from the driver's seat). I also noticed that it was not so noticeable this morning, when it was cold - and was thinking that maybe that's because the chain was more contracted and not so loose at that point(?)
All: I just realized that I may have posted this topic under an incorrect category. So, I just reposted it under the "Garage" category. I'll continue to check both for responses. Sorry for the confusion/inconvenience. Jim
