You just stepped into the 6th circle of hell, i hope you love doing mechanical work, bmw v8 and timing chain guide issues go hand in hand, oh yes dont forget the oil pump cog coming loose on this.
Its doable if you have a good equipped toolbox, a lift and all timing tools and the patience of a couple of saints.
But its fascinating you stepped into this.
Pm me if you want advise on repair when youve torn it down, dont wait till the slipper rail or wishbone timing rail breaks, because it will cost you the entire engine if it does.
Btw
Replace all cooling system parts, about 300 to 500 euro worth of stuff but good prevention of future headache.
Should have bought a 530i, its a much more enjoyable car, specially the steering feel, 540i e39 still uses recirculating ball steering gearbox.
