Tor

Still strange.  Replaced  1 x vanos solenoid valve but behavior is the same.  So I replaced bank 2 solenoid with a new one and moved solenoid from bank 2 to bank1

Car still cuts out and stalls with Bank 1 solenoid  connected.  Remove connection to solenoid for bank 1 and car runs fine. 

The only thing I can think of is that there is a short somewhere in the wiring  to solenoid on bank1?

Any other suggestions?

Bought a 540i with broken timing chain guides before Xmas, as the car was in such good condition (except the chain guides)

Spent 2 months replacing chain guides, since then has not run right.  First problem, I did not use the proper timing tools. 2nd problem once I fixed that and used the correct timing tools thanks to a forum member, the car would stall at 2500 rpm when hot, sounded terrible.  Then would start and run OK

My neighbour suggested Vanos issue, so I disconnected the wiring to the Vanos solenoid and car runs perfectly (noise gone, does not idle ok) but I am happy.  Will replace the solenoid and should be ok to go.  

GREAT CAR.  Look forward to getting it road legal and using it!

Waiting for a new timing chain tensioner.  Noise is not due to a failing bearing as issue is there also when serpentine belt removed

Looks like it is a vanos solenoid issue, timing incorrect causing pinking.  Removed electrical plug to solenoid on bank 1 and car runs fine

Hoping someone has some ideas.

I have a 2001 540i bought with broken chain guides.  To cut a long story short, I replaced guides, did not use timing tools, then as car had weird behaviour, redid timing this time using proper tools (the timing chain was off by 1 link)

So engine now sounds good (it did before retiming), BUT after getting warm with revs > 1500 the engine stalls with a terrible mechanical noise (got me worried first time).  Then restarts and engine is all sweet until next time it stalls

I thought it may be a failing bearing in  the alternator/power steering pump, but cannot understand why it stalls the car.  Removed drive belt and all bearings are good.  Have run the car a short time without the serpentime drive belt and it reved happily to 5000rpm.

Put belt back on and same behaviour as previously, stalls with a mechanical noise

The car has been at 2 different mechanic's, one our local Bmw guy but no suggestions for what needs fixing.  The Bmw guy recorded Vanos fault Bank 1/possible cam sensor fault, but his was before i redid timing

Any suggestions for what i need to check?

Car is all back together, have had a short drive, all good, but running rough, just as if it is running on 6  or 7 cylinders.

Have it booked in for diagnostic scan next week

Nearly there, just need to refit waterpump and tighten crankshaft bolt, then refit the rest.

Very excited as car is in great condition, but I have not heard motor running, so here is hoping all is good!.  Should know this coming weekend

Have bought a 2001 540i with broken timing chain guides.  Found when  checking parts prices that I can buy parts for approx 50% of NZ suppliers prices from UK or USA.  Was a bit reluctant due to high freight cost.

Ended up buying from Aus,  info@runautoparts.com.au.  Worth checking out for parts, so far I am very happy with their service and prices.  Freight was only $15

Have found someone who will hire me the tools

Hi All

I am new to forum but have over the last years gone through several BMW from 318/320/728/X3 . All except X3 as project cars, e.g cheap cars with issues, I just like to tinker.

My last project is a very clean 2001 Bmw 540i , 170 ks with broken timing chain guides. 

I have after a few days swearing got the Crankshaft bolt off and access to change the chain guides.  

Does anyone have a camshaft alignment toll that I can buy/hire or borrow?