engine tick - alternator? Intake?

[MikeMiersma]

New to the forum, but had a question about an engine tick.

I drive a 2003 m45 with 104,000 on it. About 5000 miles ago, it started a tick from the engine. Sometimes it is intermittent and other times it is constant. I couldnt figure out what it was and when it was into the mechanic for another repair, they claimed it was the intake manifold making the tick. Didnt give me any other information other than it had to be replaced. Quoted me at 3500.00

I started to check around myself with a stethascope and found the loudest tick from the alternator. When I turn the lights on, the AC on and crank the sound system, the tick gets much worse and constant. Additionally, I just had the idler pulley bearing changed last month after it failed and threw my serpentine belt.

Other info: It ticks a lot less when in park or nuetral. When its in gear, the ticking subsides quite a bit. The alternator seems to work fine. Keeps my battery charged, but I hate the ticking. Its very loud.

Anyone with some info/advice/similar problems, it would be great to talk.

[quick25]

I had a "ticking" noise coming from my engine just recently and the dealer finally found it to be the alternator after a week of looking for the problem. Mine ticked below 1000 rpm and all my electronics worked fine. They replaced my alternator and I have no problems now. Also, I have an 06 M35. Good luck, hope this helps.