I completed installing all the parts behind the inner timing cover; the crankshaft timing sprocket and nose bearing, the timing chain and the chain tensioner and rubbing block. Then I installed the inner timing cover. Before installing the inner timing cover, I replaced the front main seal.
This year engine uses the single row timing chain and comes with a master link which is very convenient. The older dual-row chains were continuous and I had to cut the chain to remove it which was a bit of a hassle.
You can read about how I do this work here:
I shot three short videos that summarize the procedure I documented in the write-up.
VIDEO: 1983 BMW R100RS Install Crankshaft Sprocket and Nose Bearing
VIDEO: 1983 BMW R100RS Install Timing Chain
VIDEO: 1983 BMW R100RS Install Inner Timing Cover
If you have the older engine with dual-row timing chain, here are links to how I did the same work with the dual row chain. The procedure is pretty much the same. That said, the better method for removing the continuous dual-row chain is to use bolt cutters, not grind off two pins on a link, as that creates a lot of shrapnel that you have to clean up.
Interesting, I’ve never worked in a BMW engine before.