1987 BMW 528e 1987 BMW 528e tapping noise on valve cover

SHOLT46

MEMBER
1987 BMW 528E
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
160,000 MILES

I had to replace the water pump and fan clutch. In the process you have to remove the distributor, rotor, and timing cover. The rotor was broken so needed a new one. After everything was put back after water pump and fan clutch got replaced, there is now a bad tapping noise under the valve cover. This wasnt there before and obviously has been caused by something we did in the process. We didnt replace the distributor cap or wires, just the rotor because it was damaged. Does anyone know what would be causing the engine to sound rough with the tapping noise now?

thanks

1 Reply

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

I would need to hear the noise to comment on it, unless a broken rocker or something under that cover that got there during the work, I'm a bit miffed as well. Pull the cover and look around is my recommendation.