um...BC, when i stated i 'double checked' it, i said i'd lined up the mark i made from the chain to the sprocket back when i removed it months ago. (please see my earlier post): anywho, i was trying to make clear that these marks lined up, and were re-assembled this past week as i found it back then.

that's why i said the lesson of this thread is don't take anything for granted on a used car with multiple previous owners/mechanics. i'd suggest that this thread is DEFINITELY NOT useless. i try to include as much information, diagrams, and photos as i can in all my posts to help not only my stupid self, but all those who may follow.

(btw, thanks BC for the advice that helped get the chain to move a link on the sprocket...that came in handy again for me when flipping the sprocket, and is one of those tricks that i bet forum folks'll be usin' on into the future.)

__________________
-lee
'83 300CDT (286k)

former proud owner of:
'85 mercedes euro 300TD
'80 mercedes 300TD
'77 mercedes 280e
'80 mercedes euro 250
'82 mercedes euro 250