Timing chain replacement: BMW E87, E90 N40, N45 (N45B16A, N45B20A)

🧭 Before you start

Fits: platform codes 116I, |, 316I, 320SI

• Timing position: the crankshaft or camshaft is set and locked during this job
• Special tools named: locking tool, locking pin
• Renewed: bolt

Don't miss

• Always renew the timing chain

🔧 Engine codes this applies to

📋 Procedure

Preparation and removal

1. Camshaft locking tool:
2. Crankshaft centering tool:
3. Always renew the timing chain
4. Always use new gaskets
5. Chain tensioner locking pin:

6. Remove the ignition coil cover
7. Balance shaft tensioning tool:
8. Spark plugs
9. Lock both balance shafts
10. Use the special tool
11. Older type:
12. Inlet:
13. Newer type:
14. Exhaust:
15. Lock the flywheel
16. Use the special tool
17. Pre-tighten the bolt
18. Loosen the centre bolt of the crankshaft gearwheel/vibration damper
19. Remove the special tool
20. Turn the crankshaft to TDC for cylinder 1
21. Loosen the camshaft gearwheel bolts
22. Remove the crankshaft hub
23. Remove the access plug
24. Remove the access plug
25. Remove the special tools
26. Remove the chain guide rail
27. Remove the timing chain and one of the gearwheels together

Installation and checks

28. Stage 3:
29. Reconnect the connector(s) from the solenoid valve
30. Refit the inlet camshaft adjuster
31. Fit the timing chain onto the inlet camshaft gearwheel
32. Stage 2:
33. Renew the bolt and tighten
34. Refit the exhaust camshaft adjuster
35. Fit the timing chain onto the exhaust camshaft gearwheel
36. Renew the bolt and tighten
37. on the left- and right-hand sides
38. Align the camshaft gearwheel marks as shown
39. Use the special tool
40. Tighten the camshaft gearwheel bolts
41. The timing is set when the special tools fit correctly
42. Refit the cylinder head cover
43. Refit the spark plugs
44. Refit the ignition coils
45. Renew the crankshaft front radial seal
46. Remove the flywheel locking tool
47. Stage 1:
48. Tighten the bolt
49. Stage 2:
50. Fit the vibration damper
51. Refit the ancillary drive belt
52. Remove the tensioner locking tool
53. Refit the air filter housing
54. Refit the mass airflow meter
55. Reconnect the battery earth cable

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