Original BMW Lower Left Timing Chain Guide Rail for BMW 540i, 740i, 740iL, and 840Ci M62 (1996–1999)

Mounted at the lower left of the timing case, this Original BMW timing chain guide rail steers the chain on the M62 V8 in the BMW 540i, 740i, 740iL, and 840Ci. Chain-driven timing is naturally noisier than a belt, and guide rails quiet it with a plastic guide face that the chain rides against. That plastic wears with mileage, and once it wears down to the metal, the result is a timing problem and heavy noise from the timing case. For that reason this rail is a common replacement on higher-mileage M62 engines. BMW lists it as Guide rail at 193 grams, sold as a single piece, and it is made in Germany.

Original BMW Parts carry a 24-month parts warranty.

Production of this number began in September 1995, in step with the M62 V8, and no superseding part is shown. The same rail serves three chassis: the E39 5 Series, the E38 7 Series, and the E31 8 Series. This rail occupies the lower left position.

Technical Details

• Manufacturer: BMW, genuine factory part
• Part number: 11-31-1-704-945
• BMW part name: Guide rail
• Position: lower left
• Engine: M62 V8
• Weight: 193 g (0.4 lb)
• Sold as one piece
• Production start: September 1995
• Made in Germany
• Warranty: 24 months on Original BMW Parts

Common Questions

How do I know the guide rail is worn?
A rattling or clattering noise from the timing case, especially at startup or idle, is the usual sign. Severe wear can let the chain slip, bringing misfires, stalling, or hard starting.

Is this rail made in Germany?
Yes, this genuine BMW guide rail is made in Germany.

PMB supplies genuine BMW timing components for the E38, E39, and E31 V8 cars.

Fitment & Compatibility

Check the table below for the exact year, model, submodel, and any listed notes. Send your VIN and PMB Performance will confirm the fit, drawing on more than 20 years in the trade.