Hi All,

I'm looking for your opinions on changing the timing chain on a 1970 220 with approximately 100k miles. There is no chain noise on startup, and oil pressure always goes up very fast, but I still wonder about eventual chain failure.

I asked my local shop that specializes in vintage MB, they told me unless I'm getting noise they wouldn't recommend changing out the chain. They reported that the chains on these models are very reliable, and don't necessary need to be replaced. They did suggest that the tension rail could/should be inspected, probably at the same time as a valve adjustment.

So I wonder, is he right, is the chain reliable even at 100k? What should I look for in a worn tension rail? And should I also look at the straight guides?

What are the indicators that would indicate it's time to replace the timing chain?

All thoughts much appreciated. Cheers!