So I've got the special tool for crimping the master link. I'm at the point of installing the middle and end links that came with the chain. I'm having a hell of a time trying to push the master link through the middle link as pictured; the links won't just slip on because I was told they are press fitted on. Are the links that tight going through the pins?

The tool doesn't seem to be pushing it....it seems I might bend something when I'm turning the bolt on the tool. Any suggestions?

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In the past I have used a magnet to help hold the center pin plate properly aligned.

Yep, you ain't getting on the tool hard enough.

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Jim

The tool can press the 2 pins in before you flatten the pins for good. You rearrange the head somehow. Read the instructions. I have not done a timing chain but oil chain. What I did was to press the pins into the holes on a vise first then undo it. It makes the insertion much easier when you try to crimp it for good. You can't do it on a vise now as the chain is mounted.

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Not MBZ nor A/C trained professional but a die-hard DIY and green engineer. Use the info at your own peril. Picked up 2 Infractions because of disagreements. NOW reversed.

W124 Keyless remote, PM for details. http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/mercedes-used-parts-sale-wanted/334620-fs-w124-chasis-keyless-remote-%2450-shipped.html

1 X 2006 CDI
1 x 87 300SDL
1 x 87 300D
1 x 87 300TDT wagon
1 x 83 300D
1 x 84 190D ( 5 sp ) - All R134 converted + keyless entry.

The side of the Head for pressing the Link on has a little Magnet buit into it to hold the Link; thats the waye it is on the One I have.

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel

One pic shoses the Magnet that holds the Link Plate to the Tool; however, if you are not careful the whole head of the Tool can slide off.

The othe pic shows the head in the positon to crimp. One of 2 ways that head fits so you need to decide what position it goes in.

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel

My tool had no instructions.

Well I finally got the master link on. I had to remove "foot" portion of the tool that is held in place with a hex nut to have enough clearance for the jaws to push the master link through to the other side. You were right, I didn't turn enough on the tool bolt but it eventually went through to the other side! Then placed the "foot" portion of the tool in place and turned the "head" portion of the tool around to crimp the rivits. I got them crimped and it looks like the rest of the crimps on the chain.

The Timing Chain Crimping Tool does not come with instructions and if I remember correctly the CD Service Manual set does not have detailed Instructions either.
Oddly the Haynes Mercedes-Benz Diesel 123 Series, 1976 thru 1985 4&5Cyl Manual has Instrustions on changing the Timing Chain and shows some use of the Crimping Tool.
And, for some reason the same Manual has a lot of info on taking apart Manual Transmissions.

I believe the same Crimping Tool is als used on some BMWs. There may be some BMW Manual out there that has a detailed description on using the Tool.
Alls Well That Ends Well.

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel