Hey guys,

I'm new to the mini crowd (formally a ls1 guy) just wanted to get into something different, that got better mpg and handled better.

I used this forum a ton when deciding to buy a mini, so I figured this would be the first place to start with a problem.

I have a 2006 S 6 Speed, with 65k on it. Since I got it a couple weeks ago, it had a mysterious ticking noise that I noticed at idle.

Here's a video, I'm not sure if anyone could really hear the sound apart from the engine, but its like a rhythmic clicking.

Now if you guys think it is a crank pulley, is it better to stick with OEM, or is the ATI better? (I know us small block guys love their stuff)

 

sounds like it could be timing chain. but yes the ATI damper is the way to go dont go back to stock.

 

Isn't 65k kinda early for a timing chain?


Most cars I know of are 100k+



Also, it seems that the noise is only present at idle/light load (under 2000rpm)

 

Does it go away when you depress the clutch?

Nik

 

No different with clutch in or out, I've heard of that trans noise before.



This is definitely pulley side

 

I had an 04 with that same ticking noise.. In your video there is a round black cylinder type thing right above your yellow dipstick.. it has hard plastic lines running to it.. that piece which I cant remember anymore what it is called (think PVC valve) is what was making a very similar ticking noise as what I hear here.. easiest way to know is while its running try to put your hand on it...you will feel it pulsing.. see if that is what it is..lol..

 

Is it called fuel-evap something. Has a vacuume line and electric running to it, right next to where ground strap attaches??

 

Thanks Alex That is what was ticking on my MINI..lol..

 

That can looks like some kind of purge valve, but that's not causing the ticking, any other ideas?

 

I just noticed that the belt seems worn and needs changing. I'm obviously going to change this, but could this alone cause the noise?

 

It could be the belt tensioner too. My timing chain went at around 70K so it's possible. Actually was the plastic guide that failed not the chain itself.

Like others have said go with the ATI crank pulley when the time comes. The OEM ones don't last.

 

I'm going to replace the belt, see what that does, check damper for wear, and finally check the guides.

I'm leaning towards the guides because it seems like an issue that only presents at low oil pressure situations (idle/low rpm), but disappears just below 2000rpm.


Thanks everyone.

 

When my chain guides failed they did the same thing. Noise at idle and low speeds. Get the rpm up around 2000 and it went away. Sounds like your on the right track there. If it is the chain guide and its broken in pieces replace the oil pump. Your right there anyway. Better to be safe than have to tear it all apart again.

 

Just fixed it!


The top bolt on my tensioner stop was missing and rattling around with the motor running.
I found a bolt in my garage that happened to fit, but was a tad long. Trimmed it down, and threaded it in. Took it for a drive,no more noise.


Thanks for your help guys, I'm glad it was an easy fix. :cheers:

 

Good to hear! Glad it was an easy fix.