Original BMW Six-Cylinder Timing Chain Tensioner Cylinder for BMW E36, E46, E34, E39, E60, X3, X5, Z3, and Z4 (1994–2006)

On BMW's M50, M52, and M54 six-cylinder engines, this Original BMW tensioner cylinder is part of the timing chain tensioner group. It fits 1994–2006 3 Series, 5 Series, X3, X5, Z3, and Z4 models. BMW names the part cylinder. It belongs to the timing chain tensioner group, and production began in September 1994. A tensioner keeps the chain from running slack, and slack in the chain upsets cam timing and adds wear to the guides. This part is made in Germany and is sold individually.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

This number superseded the earlier 11-31-1-738-861. BMW marks the change as not exchangeable retrospectively, so the two numbers should not be treated as a simple swap. The same cylinder covers many chassis. It fits the E36 (M50 and M52), the E46 (M52, M54, and M56), the E34 (M50), the E39 (M52 and M54), and the E60 and E61. It also fits the E83 X3, the E53 X5 3.0i, the E85 Z4, and the Z3 with the M52 or M54. In the US, the E36 325i and 325is from 1994–1995 used the M50. The later six-cylinder cars used the M52 and M54.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW (Original BMW Parts)
• Part number: 11-31-1-703-746
• BMW part name: cylinder (timing chain tensioner)
• Engines: M50, M52, M54, and M56
• Replaces 11-31-1-738-861 and is not exchangeable retrospectively
• Production start: September 1994
• Sold individually, one cylinder
• Made in Germany
• Warranty: 24 months

Common Questions

Does this replace 11-31-1-738-861?
It is the newer number. BMW marks the change as not exchangeable retrospectively, so confirm your car's application before you order.

Which engines use this tensioner cylinder?
BMW uses it on the M50, M52, M54, and M56 six-cylinder engines across the models above.

PMB supports the BMW M50, M52, and M54 engines with genuine timing parts.

Fitment & Compatibility

Confirm your model year and submodel against the table below before ordering. With over 20 years of parts and fitment experience, PMB Performance can match this to your VIN.