have a 1995 318i , automatic, 127,000 kms. Last few weeks there is a chain rattle noise occuring from engine area, when car idles from cold start. Once car is revved up, the rattle goes away. I am thinking the timing chain tensioner need replacing. Previous posts indicate this is a very easy, and inexpensive job. I have a Bentley manual, and I will be following it when changing the part. But, I was wondering if the timing chain can be observered with cover off, and engine running. Probably NOT !! So, when I remove the cover, and inspect the chain, how will I know if the tensioner needs to be replaced? Should there be ANY slack in the chain? Anything else I should be looking for?
Thanks

check the tension on the chain as stated in the bentley. there should be minimal slack on the chain, its like the drive belt if it to elastic something is wrong. i think 127000 kilometrsor or about 88000 miles is really low to be replacing the chain something is wrong in there. if in doubt get the car check out by a mechanic but if hes has to get in and take everything apart to tel you its the chain and its going to cost you an arm and a leg, just replace the the chain and tensioner, etc, etc.
i just think 90k miles on a chain is garbage there suppoed to last like 150k - 200k miles or more, the rubber t-belt in my acura lasted 90k miles.
keep us posted on what happens and g/l