Engine makes a whistling sound :S

[pgrindstaff]

After further inspection today I determined that my cats are bad. Per instructions from another forum, i tapped on the cats with a hammer and heard the rattling of the honneycomb. I hadn't started the car yet so decided to start it up and drive it around the block. Idle was still rough but there was no sound. When I got on the road there was a ton of white smoke when I got on it which is not good. And as I pulled in the driveway the whistling started back. So there's just bad news all around, pretty much need a whole new exhaust and there is still something wrong with the engine. I guess at this point it is gonna be best for me to get the dealership involved and let them give me the bad news. I have a feeling fixing this car is going to cost much more than it is worth, which really sucks. I'll let you guys know what the verdict is hopefully tuesday, until then, thanks for the help.

-patrick

[Evan]

that white smoke is probably coolant being burned... the pcv plate is not functioning and it's letting oil into the intake... i'd bet $100 bucks on it

exhaust is cheap.. no biggie... don't go to the dealer yet

[pgrindstaff]

Ok, I'll hold out on the dealer. Bavauto has a Crankcase Ventilation Non-Return Valve (PCV) Repair Kit. Is that what I need or should I call BMA and get the pcv plate from them? The kit from bavauto includes:

11 61 1 729 728 Intake Manifold Gasket
11 61 7 501 562 Intake Manifold Rear Cover - with oil separator valve.

If that is what I need i'll get that ordered monday and put it on thursday or friday. Oh, are there some good instructions on how to change the pcv plate? I looked through my bentley and all it did was mention it.

Thanks for your help.

[Evan]

there is a comprehensive list of parts and great instructions around here somewhere... you're going to change the PCV plate and gasket.. the throttle body gasket... intake gaskets (4 pieces)

BMW is probably your best bet in terms of service and price and I think they'll be able to ship them to you quickly. Check and see.

I just noticed your mileage again... I'm wondering if you should have the dealer perform a leakdown/compression test before you do anything else. The test will give you a good idea of what type of condition your motor is in...

You don't want to go spending $100s in parts if it isn't necessary and/or prudent.

[whiskychaser]

My dad just got home and listened to the awful noise my car makes and thinks that it could possibly be a bearing.

Tell your dad I for one agree. Use a VERY long screwdriver with the sharp end away from your ear and use it like a stethoscrope. Should help you identify the problem area. Keep the screwdriver/you away from any bits that move. Noises are a pain to track down so wish you luck

[pgrindstaff]

Found this list in another post, looks like I need a bit more than the bavauto kit, http://www.bimmer.info/forum/showpos...54&postcount=1

whiskeychaser: Thanks for the idea, I might give that a try this afternoon. I must say however that I really hope it is just the pcv plate and intake gaskets.

[Ross]

Your noise sounds like a accessory bearing to me as well. Take Bin's advice by removing the belt. Anything that makes this much noise will probably wobble like mad and be very noticeable just turning by hand, no need to reinstall belts.
As for the smoke, well, a potentially failed water pump and white smoke are usually omens of a failed head gasket.
Good luck.

[632 Regal]

dont forget the front plate gasket, i replaced my intake and pcv plate but didnt think about the front plate gasket which now leaks and whistles throwing the lamda code also.

Found this list in another post, looks like I need a bit more than the bavauto kit, http://www.bimmer.info/forum/showpos...54&postcount=1

whiskeychaser: Thanks for the idea, I might give that a try this afternoon. I must say however that I really hope it is just the pcv plate and intake gaskets.

[Evan]

i've been thinking about this and i recommend you stop by the dealer and tell him you're a local student and you have this car and you ened a leakdown/compression test... see what kind of price he'll give you.. and try to negotiate it down a little bit... get to know him.. take him a pint of Absolut or something

then go talk to the parts guy and tell him you will be needing a bunch of parts and get to know him... another pint of whiskey..

get to know them better and you'll have a better chance of being able to pick their brains

[pgrindstaff]

Haha, good idea. I actually did go ahead and set up and appointment at the dealership for tomorrow morning because there are so many different possibilities. I am not sure I can offer them alcohol or anything tho, kinda hard to get any when you're 19. I'll definately see what I can do though by making friends with the parts and service guys.

Thank you all for your help, I'll definately let you know what the dealer says tomorrow.