Original BMW Upper Timing Chain Guide Rail Clip for BMW 540i, 740i, 740iL, X5, Z8 Alpina, and Land Rover Range Rover (1996–2005)

Inside the M62 V8 in BMW's 540i, 740i, 740iL, X5, and Alpina Z8, this small Original BMW clip fastens the upper timing chain guide rail to the chain tensioner. Each tensioner uses one clip, so an engine needs two. BMW's parts data gives a weight of 4 grams, and the part has been in production since September 1995. In a timing drive, guide rails hold the chain on its path between the sprockets, and the tensioner keeps the chain under load. This clip keeps the upper rail and the tensioner located together. The clip is sold individually.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

Every application BMW shows for this clip uses the M62 engine. That includes the E39 540i, the E38 740i and 740iL, the E53 X5 4.4i and 4.6is, and the Alpina V8 version of the E52 Z8. The part number has no supersession, so the same clip is correct across the whole M62 run. Because each tensioner takes one clip, plan on two per engine when the timing case is open.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW
• Part number: 11-31-1-742-176
• BMW part name: Clip
• Function: secures the upper timing chain guide rail to the tensioner
• Quantity: 1 per tensioner, 2 per engine
• Weight: 4 g (0.14 oz)
• Production start: September 1995
• Sold individually
• Warranty: 24-month Original BMW parts warranty

Common Questions

How many of these clips does my engine use?
Two. Each of the two tensioners on the M62 takes one clip to hold its upper guide rail.

Does the clip differ between the 540i, 740i, and X5?
No. BMW uses this same part number on every M62 application it lists, with no supersession.

What does the clip actually hold?
It fastens the upper timing chain guide rail to the chain tensioner.

Order both clips with your M62 timing parts from PMB and keep the job moving.

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.