Engine noise (diesel-like) 318i '93 4cyl

[jrubio]

My '93 318i (E36 4cyl 117k miles) makes a rattling engine noise after I run the car hard. The rattling noise sounds like a diesel engine. I've been reading how problems with the VANOS unit will cause a diesel like engine noise, but I'm not certain that my vehicle is equipped with VANOS. Comments appreciated on what could be the cause and cure for the rattling noise.

[Yurick]

Could be a loose timing chain.

[Jeron]

For reference here is the answer I gave in my reply to your email:

I'm pretty sure it does not have vanos.

Sometimes chain slap or chain rattle can be described as a diesel sound. If that is the case it is most likely your chain tensioner which is a very easy replacement.