Hi Gang,

While the M5 is in bits for some overdue maintenance I've been driving the '90 535M I sold to my dad - 240,000kms.

Today on my commute I noticed a strange noise seeming to come from the engine as I braked firmly to a stop with the clutch depressed (last ~10km/h, not coasting from +80k...). The sound is like a groan from a bad bearing which changed pitch with some revs. Once I accelerated from the traffic light the noise disappeared. I can re-create the sound now at will.

What do you suppose it could be? I'm thinking it may be end play in one of the engine driven accessories (WP, alt, PS, AC) or maybe the fan clutch. Dad has been mentioning this noise but this is the first time I've been able to hear it myself.

TIA,

Anthony

PS: I'd forgotten what a torque monster the 535 is compared to the M5 - quiet too. The M5 really sings at high revs and while it does have more torque at peak than the 535 it just doesn't pull the same around town unless you flog it a bit. Not that I mind flogging it... More than a bit actually...