I will go read that section in the MBZ manual! Sounds like this head is OK. From my experience, I believe there is a wide range in the cap-nut adjustment so I dont think there would be any problem getting the proper clearance, even with the valve seats and valves ground. If I do have a problem, I could grind a little off the top of the valve stem, allowing the cap nut to screw in further (I dont think the sodium core is up in the stem)...I really dont think this is a problem, but I will do as you suggest...set up on bench first before installing the head.

Again,

Thanks very much

Mark

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1984 300TD Wagon, 407,800 mi (current daily driver)
1985 300DT Sedan, 330,000 mi (gone to that great autobahn in the sky)