Engine or transfer chain noise

Tiny
CHRIS BURGE
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 BMW X5
  • 3.0L
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 235,000 MILES
At exactly 2500 to 2800 rpm I have a louder than ticking noise in center of engine bay. I am a mechanic, but cannot pin point this. It gets louder with a heavy pedal. It sounds twice as loud as a heat shield vibrating. I was thinking the transfer case chain. I had the front end up and it seems like it is looser when moving a wheel left to right.
Wednesday, February 15th, 2017 AT 12:44 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 34,330 POSTS
If it is engine noise, the vehicle does not have to be moving for the noise to occur. For noises in the transfer case, it has to be operating, meaning you have to moving.

Are you familiar with the "Chassis Ear"? That will allow you to listen while you are driving.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Wednesday, February 15th, 2017 AT 1:37 PM
Tiny
CHRIS BURGE
  • MEMBER
  • 21 POSTS
It will make the noise when in neutral. I made a video of the noise. https://youtu.be/il3LUO4sCbU
So that chain will not be move when in neutral right?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Wednesday, February 15th, 2017 AT 3:24 PM
Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 34,330 POSTS
This computer pile will not play internet sound.

Also, consider using a stethoscope to look for the source. Your engine uses a timing chain with a spring-loaded tensioning device. If the chain is loose or worn, it can slap against the housing and make a rattling noise.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Wednesday, February 15th, 2017 AT 6:23 PM
Tiny
CHRIS BURGE
  • MEMBER
  • 21 POSTS
Okay thanks. Would I be able tighten this tension-er? I am on all data and it states screw plug for tension-er is 40 Nm and cylinder for chain tension-er is 70 Nm. Thanks again for the help.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Wednesday, February 15th, 2017 AT 7:04 PM
Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 34,330 POSTS
Those are just the tightening specs for the parts that hold the tensioner spring. You can remove the housing to inspect the spring, but more than likely any problem in this area will involve the internal shoe that puts the pressure on the spring.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Wednesday, February 15th, 2017 AT 7:30 PM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Related Engine Noise Content

Engine Noises
GUIDE
Engine Noises
Today's car engines are designed with more complexity and moving parts than ever before. When you hear abnormal noises there is something wrong. Some high output engines...
VIEW MORE