ATLD,

I don't think bad machines are designed by bad engineers. I think bad machines are produced in America, because engineers are controlled by over paid executives with their head up their ass. They are more worried about share holders than producing a good product. I shy away from American products when possible except for ones that I know produce quality and will respond to consumer questions. I have tried to contact some companies and have ended up in an endless loop without ever getting to talk to someone. As an example I have a nice little $350 compressor in my home garage. The $11.00 plastic fan broke. I have the instructions with part #s. I called Campbell Hasfeld to order the part. I was informed that that division was sold off to Devilbliss. I finally get ahold of Devilblis only to be informed that the compressor division has been sold off to Porter Cable. I finally get ahold of Porter Cable only to be told that that product has been dropped. I now have a useless $300.00 compressor, because of an $11.00 plastic fan. I'm supossed to boost the economy and buy a new unit. IT'S THE AMERICAN WAY. This wouldn't happen in Europe. There are a few quality U.S. companies that I am aware of: Bose, Delta Faucets, Royal Vacuums, Binks Sprayers, and Ruger Firearms.

You may have some merit in your point about the brittle rails. If that is so I would recommend replacing only the inside rail on the left head. That is the only one that breaks. In my 30 years this has been my experience.

I believe your fears are unfounded on the clips, but if it makes you feel better, you can lightly peen the master link even with the clips on.

First of al ATLD ,no the Diesel link will not fit.Than the clips will hold ,cause you dont have side to side movement but stretch movement.Second ,yes the chain will strech and the tensioner will get week,and if the chain is not do0ne at 180k it will RIP.But you are doing it than GOOD..Just make sure you install the ling proper,aand the clip will stay proper.
Harald

chain guides / chain tensioner
 

I'm ignorant of the v8 gassers and am curious as to whether the guides are nylon (plastic) or steel with rubber backing as in the older diesels. When I bought replacements for my 220D I opted for the "newer" nylon guides and chain tension rail made of aluminum with a nylon shoe which rides against the chain. I'm not sure if the nylon/aluminum chain tension rail and nylon guides are a superior upgrade or whether they are merely less costly to manufacture, but not as good as the old steel rubber chain tension rail and chain guides.