I found my mysterious coolant leak finally, yesterday afternoon when I had the intake manifold off (for GP change). Coolant seeping down the block from the HG on the back corner of the engine, by the oil filter.

My Christmas present? I get to change the head gasket. Yay!

Is it possible to do this without disrupting the timing? I saw some photos somewhere where the cam shafts were locked into place using a drill bit (or proper MB tool if you have that) into a hole in the front of the head. Then the cam sprocket was zip-tied (with multiple ties) to the chain. At that point, you can unbolt the cam sprocket and remove the head but timing remains intact.

Is this a valid procedure?
Any bolts or other hardware that isn't reusable?
Any tips on this job for a first-timer?

Big Thanks in Advance.

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'98 E300 turbodiesel