BMW 116D Timing Chain Failure

Most commonly seen at Reconworks, this BMW 1 series N47 came to us with a suspected timing chain failure. After the engine was removed and stripped down we found exactly that had occurred. Like most BMW N47 engines we find the middle chain snaps causing damage along the way. This damage includes the guides as the chain wraps itself around the fuel pump sprocket (this is more common when timing chain failure occurs with the vehicle travelling at speed.

In addition to this we have a cracked camshaft carrier, bent camshafts, broken rocker arms and a damaged timing cover. As the failure is quite violent we are left with lots of debris in the engine. Timing chain failures can vary in damage caused, in some cases the chain will stretch and or the guides will fragment and break. When this happens it is common for the oil pickup to become blocked. This is why every time we carry out a full engine rebuild, changing any damaged internal components along with new main and conrod bearings, head gasket, piston rings, complete timing chain kit, any gasket or o ring requiring replacement, rocker cover gasket, oil, oil filter & coolant. We will even strip and inspect the oil pump for wear, clean or replace as necessary.