Timing Chain Replacement

I am getting to the point on the restoration of my 83 380SL will be ready for paint. I want all the mechanical issue taking care or before the car see's the paint shop. The last issue left is the timing chain. The car runs great no odd noise's. However I do not know when the chain, guides and tensioner were changed last. I do know it currently has the double row Chain. all parts have been aquired. The question is how hard is this job and can a person with average mechanical ablitites do it? I am imtimidated by the dual over head cams. I have the manual for the car and it doesn't look to terrible hard just labor intensive. Or should I take it to a shop? In the past I have rebuilt many small single cylinder motors 2 stroke and 4 stroke. (I used to race dirt bikes) and some ford straight 6's never any thing like this 380 motor though

[Roncallo]

I just did this on my 560. Essentially it is an easy job but screwing up could cost lots of money. I would highly recomend getting the chain guide tool if you are in the least bit uncomfortable its about $55.00. Also for the guides, get the pin extractor tool ~$65.00.

I did my chain and rails without these tools but others who have gone after me have not been so fortunate.

Before installing the valve covers and starting the engine, bring the engine to TDC by only rotating clockwise (If you pass TDC back up way befor TDC and re-approach TDC in the clockwize direction only. Check the timing of both cams and distributor at TDC. ~3/16" off at the cam is about 1 tooth.

Good Luck
John Roncallo