Timing Chain
 

How does normal timing chain wear (stretch), effect performance?
Thanks,
BDBENZ:)

A stretched chain will retard the cam, meaning valve events happen later. This will move the power band up in RPM. So basicly a stretched chain means less low end, more top end.

A diesel mechanic friend of mine will bump the timing ahead just a skosh on an older MB when they come into his shop. It usually helps, if not he'll set it back to where it was. It will usually start better without so much smoke as I remember. I did it to my 79 before I rebuilt an 80 eng for it.

Depends how much stretch..if it's just a degree or two you won't notice much.. If you have 7-9 degrees stretch (the most I've seen) then you'll lose some of your low end grunt but the car will work better up top.

If you want to improve things I would remove your ignition resistor. It will be bundled up w/ the wires on your drivers side inner fender well..up towards the front of the car you'll find a small (1/2 inch square, 1/4 inch deep) plastic thing w/ the numbers 2481 (those will be relatively big). It will have electrical tape wrapped around the bottom and on to the wiring harness. Unwrap the tape and pull the resistor. Your initial (0-2500rpm) timing will move from about 3 to 12 degrees... If you don't already you will Absolutely need to run premium in the car..

Jonathan

Thanks for the information. :D