117 Timing Chain Connecting Link Question
 

Gentelmen

I have been reading several post on different methods of how to pean over the connecting links on the 116/117 timing chains. And in fact I recall doing this myself on several 450's in the late 70's. However I just ordered my timing chain for my 560SL and it came with a 5 piece connecting link.

1 Link with two shafts attached, 2 flat links and 2 of the tinyest Jesus clips I ever saw that I know are going to end up in the internals of my engine if I atempt to use this arrangement.

I would like to know what are peoples thought of this kind of connecting link. Is the pean over version still available. I dont trust those 2 tiny clips.

John Roncallo

I was leary of the small "C" clips too, but used them when I did the chain on the 560. Almost 60K miles since without a problem. Also used the clips on the 4.5 after doing the 560. Be sure to stuff a rag in the chain passage to catch the clips if you should drop them.

I always prefere the 'peen' method. ;) Even when the master link comes with a U clip. I use two hammers....large one as back up and small engineers to peen the pins. 'Been debating buying the 'tool'...so far, never lost an engine. :)