BMW 328i with bearing knock

[RalfMurphy]

Can a daily-drive reliable n20 really be tuned to produce torque numbers that bend even stock rods though 🙈. The platform (especially the high-compression 320) seems to have been purposely designed to explode if it's even even 1 Bhp above stock lol. That said, I might just follow your suggestions 👍

I've read much conflicting information about the performance of this motor over the years. . Some shop just posted pics of S55 rods that were bent, look exactly the same size as N20 rods and they look skinny i.m.o. I've seen a few blocks lying on workshop floors which is scary. But I think this is mostly due to poor maintenance where old dirty gunked up the oil pump (and then you spin bearings) or particulate wore the timing chain guides down. But if you bought your N20 after "the Great N20 Recall of 2013" your guides should've been upgraded. So just keep the oil clean and don't add any additives beyond just plain ol' oil. If you're hands-on, change the oil and filter yourself in 20min.

 

[Steph745]

I've read much conflicting information about the performance of this motor over the years. . Some shop just posted pics of S55 rods that were bent, look exactly the same size as N20 rods and they look skinny i.m.o. I've seen a few blocks lying on workshop floors which is scary. But I think this is mostly due to poor maintenance where old dirty gunked up the oil pump (and then you spin bearings) or particulate wore the timing chain guides down. But if you bought your N20 after "the Great N20 Recall of 2013" your guides should've been upgraded. So just keep the oil clean and don't add any additives beyond just plain ol' oil. If you're hands-on, change the oil and filter yourself in 20min.

Does "don't add any additives" also include the very popular Ceratec?

Apologies to the OP for the thread derail 🙏🏽.

 

[RalfMurphy]

Does "don't add any additives" also include the very popular Ceratec?

Apologies to the OP for the thread derail 🙏🏽.

Yes, apologies to OP for going slightly off-topic. Or is it off-topic?

@Ndumiso did you or the dealership add Ceratec or any other oil additives?

@Steph745 I'm no expert but I have a small (very small but enough to cause suspicion) that additives like Ceratec may be to blame. Every time I visit Goldwagen, they are punting it. Don't get me wrong, it may work on other motors. Porsche spec it from the factory and I saw extensive use in some Dakar/SACCS race buggies.


....but is it right for this engine? Something tells me its not. If the oil pump is known to be finicky, anything that would change the viscosity or lubricity of your oil would be a dead giveaway. They say it "fills gaps in your engine". If your engine has "gaps" there far more serious problems. Maybe it fills gaps a bit too well and blocks the oil pump orifice or oil squirters (does the N20 have oil squirters?). This may also extend to the timing chain guides which seem to share the lube system, by making the plastic too slippery or perhaps making it brittle?

 

[Ndumiso]

Hi guys

Just an update for anyone who might see this thread. I found that the most economical option for me was getting a used engine. I got an engine in very good condition from a 528i. The car runs awesome and I'm so happy to have it back.

Thank you to everyone who offered advice.