316i se compact, Timing belt or chain?

[2pies]

Hi there,

I have recently got myself a W plate 316i se compact (1895cc) with just over 80,000 on the clock. I asked the chap who I got it off if it had had a new timing belt fitted recently because of the mileage and was told that it had a timing chain instead. Whilst nosing around under the bonnet I have noticed a belt opposite the radiator at the bottom of the engine running over a few pulleys. Is this a timing belt? Or is there a timing chain and a separate belt that powers the alternator, water pump etc.. I have no reason to believe the bloke I got it off has ripped me off, I am just concerned he may have been mistaken.

[badj]

Its a chain

Theres two belts usually, one for the water pump and viscous fan, and another for powersteering/alternator if I remember rightly.

[NealP]

Theres two belts usually, one for the water pump and viscous fan, and another for powersteering/alternator if I remember rightly.

Not on a 316 there isn't.......electric fan, not viscous .

[badj]

really? older ones had a fan. Bleugh, they dont make them like the used to