[Dee57]

Some issues I've been facing recently after having my timing chain replaced out of precaution - Solving it remains a mystery!

My car has recently been slightly noisy which several BMW 'specialists' diagnosed as the timing chain so due to the common faults with these, i opted t have my chain replaced.

I purchased all the chains, guides and tensioners required directly from the BMW dealership. Dropped it off at the garage to have it all replaced along with the clutch/flywheel which was near enough shot.

1. Engine out to replace all the parts which was no issue. What the garage didn't tell me at the time was there was a tiny oil leak from the head but they assumed it would be fine with no issues. Got the car back and a little driving later the coolant light appears. I pull over and top it up assuming it's just leveling out from when all the work was done. Drove ok for a short while but was heating inside the car was temperamental. Took it back to the garage who tried to bleed it but after hours of trying they couldn't bleed. Suggested a new gasket for head.

2. Engine back out again. Head Gasket skimmed and new gasket installed. Engine was then put back together. The garage again tried to bleed the coolant system but just bubbles and throws out a lot of air from the bleed screw. Apparently when skimmed, the head required minor skimming, and not nearly enough for it to cause the engine issues.

I've not got a car with cannot be bled, doesn't heat up and no closer to solving the issue - It seems water is being pumped through the system fine as the water pipes do get warn - There's no issues on the diagnostic and both the mechanical and electrical water pump seem to be working okay.

The garage now reckon it's got a cracked block and requires an engine. As i said previously, there were no issues before going in and it only went it to have precautionary work done due to the timing chain horror these cars face. Surely there must be something they're either not doing right or missing?

I was recommended this garage by a friend as they've replaced a fair few of the timing chains on these before so opted for them for that reason.

I've taken the car out of the garage today for a second opinion but not managed to get it to anyone just yet.

Tried the auto vent/bleed procedure but didn't notice the electric pump kick in? Was very quiet.

Tried to manually bleed and the expansion tank is just bubbling away with the bleed screw just throwing out steam and squirts of water!

Absolutely ANY advice relating to this would be much appreciated guys!