After some initial reluctance due to the chilly weather, and a bit of friendly prodding from Greg in Australia (where it is summer, btw) I decided to 'bite the bullet', and begin the timing belt change on my 1982 323i Baur this afternoon. I ordered the parts a few weeks ago with the intention of using it as a winter project. I actually plan on doing TWO timing belt projects this winter: the Baur and my 1991 325ix. I did the Baur timing belt when I first bought it in 2010 (actually winter of 2010-11) because the odometer was broken, and it said that it had been done at 231,000. The odometer has been stuck at 242,000 since I bought it (and long before that!), so I am am just going on the elapsed time (approximately 4 years), rather than the mileage guidance. The rule of thumb for the M20 timing belt service (depending on who you ask) is 4 years or 50,000 miles. I am at the '4 years' point, and, since it is a daily driver, I am probably not far from the 50K either. I love this car so I will not wait any longer!
So, Step I: be prepared! It is a little chilly outside, so I want to dress for the occasion! I brought out my good friend: Long Johns Silver!
Yeah, you heard that right! Meet my friend, Long Johns Silver! An invaluable friend when you have to work outside in the winter weather. Accept no substitutes! ;)
N.B. I was very comfortable all afternoon, despite the fact that the temperature actually dropped into the 20's.
OK, now to the work at hand. I followed the standard procedure.
NUMERO UNO: Stay safe! Here is my set up: the front end is up on steel ramps. In the unlikely event that those steel ramps collapse, I have inserted a redundant safety system of 3 ton steel jackstands under the front end. Rear wheels are chocked with 4 x4 wood blocks. Emergency brake is set. I have rocked the hell out of this set up: there is no way it is coming down on me. I can roll under it in complete confidence.
Sidenote: I accepted a delivery for our neighbor today, who was not at home when Fedex delivered it. When she came to collect her package, I was under the Baur on a creeper, preparing to remove the damper. She was very surprised to find me there and asked: "Isn't that dangerous?" 'Yes, it is", I said, "but I have taken proper precautions." ;)
And here they are... I NEVER get tired of reiterating how important it is to be safe! Use redundant safety systems, boys and girls!
Rear wheels are chocked with 4 x 4s, and the emergency brake is set.
Driver's wheel on a steel ramp with a 3 ton jack stand as a backup.
Passenger's wheel is also on a steel ramp with a 3 ton jack stand as a backup.
Steel rim under the chassis as a further safety backup. If the ramp collapses and the steel jackstand fails, the car will fall on this rim, giving me a an escape route, in a worst case scenario. Always do this.
This is my stopping point today: cooling system drained, radiator removed along with all hoses; timing belt covers removed; timing set at TDC. Ready to remove and replace belt.
Rear wheels are chocked with 4 x 4s, and the emergency brake is set.
Steel rim under the chassis as a further safety backup. If the ramp collapses and the steel jackstand fails, the car will fall on this rim, giving me a an escape route, in a worst case scenario. Always do this.
Belt is ready to come off. I put the lower belt cover back on, along with the damper, just to make sure I have the timing marks correctly aligned.To be continued! N.B. this is a 323i M20. (M20b23). It is different from the M20b25, particularly in regard to the placement of the distributor. Stay tuned for updates! This is my weekend project... and .... if I have time..... I hope to do the timing belt on my 1991 325ix also! Although..... it has actually seen very little mileage since I bought it. So, if worse come to worst..... I may put that off until next summer! ;)
A BMW enthusiasts dream, German direct import 1986, with 4 speed automatic gearbox from 635 CSi,factory fitted, with 3 electro-hydraulic drive program switch: sport-economy- 3-2-1
This BMW 325i has a powerful 6 cylinder multy petrol 2.5 litre engine. Lady owner since new. The 1985 BMW 325i will make you the envy of your mates. It has been garaged since it was purchased. It has a full service history available. 46450 miles=74320 km on the clock only.
I like to sell as we have already bought another cars. My car has been trouble free. It belongs to non-smoker. It has just recently had a major service. It has a clear accident history. Watch the heads turn as you cruise the streets. This car is pre catalytic converter therefore much faster than other BMW.This car represents great value at $22,000. It has been certified as roadworthy.
EXCITING FEATURES
This BMW 325i 1985 Sport has a powerful 6 cylinder 2.5 litre engine. Watch the heads turn as you cruise the streets.
This BMW 325i 1985 won't last long at this price $22,000. 46450 miles = 74320 km on odometer only. This car comes with a complete roadworthy certificate.
Some Parts also available incl. new Tachometer in km"