Checking V-belts (BMW 5 Series E34)

Replacing and tensioning the timing belt

Checking V-belts

Special tool required:

• At BMW service stations, V-belts are tested on special installations. If special equipment is not available, perform a "finger" test.

Required wearing parts:

• V-belts of the appropriate dimensions. It is recommended to replace all V-belts at once, even if only one of them is worn out. The dimensions of the V-belts are specified in the operating instructions.

The condition and tension of the V-belts of the generator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor are checked. Insufficient tension accelerates wear or failure of the V-belt. If the tension is too high, the bearings in the corresponding units may be destroyed.

The V-belt is replaced in the event of: severe wear, fraying of the sides, traces of oil, cracking, transverse tears.

Check the tension of all V-belts, namely, press hard with your finger on the belt in the middle between the two pulleys located at the greatest distance. In this case, the V-belt should bend from 5 to 10 mm.

For replacement of the alternator V-belt, see the section "Engine".



Power steering pump V-belt: Loosen nut 1 and turn tension roller 2 accordingly. It is also recommended to loosen the two lower bolts on the pump support to make it easier to tilt the pump. After tensioning the belt, tighten bolts 9 again. The air conditioning compressor V-belt is tensioned in the same way.

Replacing the timing belt

For safety reasons, the toothed belt on BMW vehicles is replaced every 80,000 km. Since errors in performing this work can lead to serious damage to the engine, the work must be carried out very carefully. For replacement of the alternator toothed belt, see the section "Engine".

On the 524td diesel engine, regular tightening of the timing belt is required every 40,000 km. Additionally, the static supply torque of the high-pressure fuel pump should be checked and, if necessary, adjusted.

External inspection of the exhaust system

Raise the car.

Check the reliability of the installation of the fastening brackets.



Using a portable lamp, check the muffler for wear or burn marks.

Replace severely deformed muffler pipes.

By stretching and bending the rubber suspensions, check that they are not cracked, otherwise replace them.

Every 60,000 km: Tighten the bolts securing the front pipe flange to the exhaust manifold to a tightening torque of 45 Nm.

Note: Flange connections with tension springs do not require tightening.