No trick to change the chain, though. You will need to drop the pan to get the oil pump chain off first, and it helps to have small fingers to remove the oil pump before removing the pan IF you plan to actually remove it (if the gasket is torn up, for instance). Early sprockets have 3 6mm bolts while later ones have one center fastener.

While it's out, you might consider cleaning the pump (and especially the oil pressure relief valve assembly) in carb cleaner. They tend to stick in high mile engines.

Also, if your engine doesn't have a oil pump chain tensioner, you might consider either adding a shim or two to adjust your pump chain or replacing it at the same time.

Bob

I'm getting ready to change the timing belt in my '88 535is, next week possibly. This will be my first try at it. Are there any tricks of the trade above and beyond what is detailed in Bentley's? Any additional tools that should be on hand or substitutes that can be used in lieu if the BMW special tools? And other parts that should be replaced at the same time?

Anybody in the Austin, TX willing to give me a hand? I'll buy the beer and pizza.

Thanks for any input.