Can anyone tell me an aprox. labor cost to change the timing chaing, gears, and tensioner on a 1980 300SD? Thanks

I'm guessing that a good mechanic can change the timing chain, the tensioner, and the upper sprocket within three hours. Now, if you need the crankshaft sprocket changed, that's a completely different problem. I'm not sure on that, but, it's significantly more time.

Also, if you need to change the tensioning rail, you must figure another three hours for that.

We have three MB mechs in the area and one (who really knows MB Diesels) BMW/Merc mechanic. The indy that does BMW and MB is the cheapest at $98/hr and very good with the diesels.

Haven't had him do all that much but as an example:
Ship to stern inspection pre-purchase of the car: 1hr, included full report of what needed to be done, plus estimate ($6K, but it's a long list Used it to get the car for a buck ).

Valve adjust, valve cover gasket, timing chain check: $105.

I would think that $400 should be the top for labor (+ parts) based on this guy.

Mind you he's not perfect, he did quote $50 for injector return lines
-nB

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'83 300D Turbo
Current: ???K mi - 19.2mpg -> 17.4mpg -> 22.9mpg ---> ODO Died
bought at: 233.8K mi - 10MPG For $1.00
3.5 cylinders work: 320 320 100 340 280
Got insurance? FarmersReallySucks.Com

Thanks for the "reality check" sometimes I wonder about doing my own work, then i read a post like this

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1985 Euro 240D 5 spd 140K
1979 240D 5 spd, 40K on engine rebuild
1994 Dodge/Cummins, 5 spd, 121K
1964 Allice Chalmers D15 tractor
2014 Kubota L3800 tractor
1964 VW bug

"Lifes too short to drive a boring car"