Time Bomb - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

ewenjo · #1 10-09-2006, 12:02 PM

Me again! From what I heard about the single link timing chain I feel I am driving a time bomb. I have 82 380SL with 68000 miles (just acquired). The chain is indeed a single link. It looks good and is tight. ( I removed the RHS valve cover for a look). What is the advice? Change it now to a replacement single link? Since I don't drive the car that much what is the life of the replacement? Or do I change it to a double link? If a double link is there a kit available? and is there a good step by step procedure to follow?

page62 · #2 10-09-2006, 01:27 PM

Double link conversion is expensive. If you have deep pockets, do it. Otherwise...

Unless you know for sure the chain has been replaced at least once, replace the chain and guides NOW. Do so again at 100K miles (because it's easy to remember). Continue to replace chain and guides every 50K miles...as opposed to the 100K mile change for the double-row chain.

This is not an absolute guarantee against timing chain failure...but then again even double-row chains have been know to fail unexpectedly.

kbannister · #3 10-09-2006, 02:56 PM

Ditto on the replace it NOW. In order to switch it to double row, you would need to either block the engine up and remove the sub-frame or remove the engine in order to get the timing chain cover off. That is in addition to the parts (cam sprockets, crank sprocket).

When you replace the chain, you should also replace the upper guides and tensioner while you are at it.

Even beyond the mileage, which is above the recommended limit for replacement, that chain is 24 years old.