560SL timing chain

[Emmerich]

What is the recommended change interval for the timing chain on a 560SL?

thanks
Fred

[maheath]

Chain stretch can be measured. I think you want to replace the chain at 3-5% stretch. The real problem is the guide rails. If you want to check the rails, pull the left valve cover and check the rail. If it looks old or brittle, replace all of the upper rails immediately. The parts are cheap, it's the labor that runs up the cost.

My 560SL broke an upper rail at 96k. The floating chunk had not caused any damage yet and was discovered when a leaking valve cover seal was being replaced. I got lucky.

[cbdo]

Usual recommendation for the guides is 100K, but it's probably worth adjusting that for age; in my case, I found when I had it done at 148K (not long after buying the car) that it probably had never been touched.