BMW 316 1981 - belt or chain?

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paulalbion
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My E21(s): 316 manual

BMW 316 1981 - belt or chain?

Post by paulalbion »

Is the E21 316 chain driven or cam belt?
I presumed it was cam belt and phoned for a quote to get it changed but then received a phone call saying its chain driven.
I probably look seriously retarded not knowing this but I just want to know for sure just incase.

Paul


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Jeroen
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My E21(s): '81 323i Baur
Location: The Netherlands
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Re: BMW 316 1981

Post by Jeroen »

Yup, the M10 4 cylinder engines are chain driven, the M20 6 pots by a timing belt.

That and many more specs can be found on our Tech Specs Page or the FAQ section.
Regards/groeten, Jeroen
Reck
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My E21(s): 83 316, 1.8 M10, RHD
Location: Manchester, UK

Re: BMW 316 1981 - belt or chain?

Post by Reck »

Chain. If you want to do some maintenance on it you could always replace the chain tensioner, as they tend to get a bit tired with age and let the chain rattle about a bit.
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