I have a '95 C280 (M104 engine) and have a reoccuring CEL. The code is 'Adjustable camshaft timing solenoid without function (logic chain)' (P1341). My mechanic has replaced the camshaft adjuster magnet and the camshaft position sensor but the light continues to come on (the last time after 20 miles). What else could it be? What else will activate this CEL circuit?

The gear itself(binding)....hydraulic piston sticking in the gear...the MAP sensor that monitors the vacuum change.

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Thanks for the suggestions M.B. Doc. What a help. Are any of these possibilities any more likely than any other?

I recently had a rebuilt throttle actuator put in with a few associated hoses. The EGR tube was also fairly plugged up and was therefore cleaned out. Would anything associated with the throtte actuator or EGR tube cause this 'camshaft timing' check engine light to come on?

I keep on getting the same code 'Adjustable camshaft timing solenoid' but the solenoid/magnet has been replaced along with the camshaft position sensor. The mechanic thinks it may be the OVP relay (even though it looks fine and there's no blown fuse). Is this really a possibility that it's bad and keeps triggering the CEL to come on?

That code is stored in the DM. Assuming everything regarding the function of the camshaft is ok, the DM itself may be at fault. That part has been updated several times. At certain operating conditions the DM will activate the camshaft during decel. While it does this it looks for the engine manifold vacuum to drop a certain percentage, confirming the camshaft is moving properly. When the vacuum change isn't within the specified parameters the the fault is set. The reason the DM has been updated several times is b/c at certain normal operating conditions the criteria for vacuum drop isn't acheived resulting in a bogus C/E light. Instead of throwing parts at a code you should have the car diagnosed by a competent shop to first determine that the function of the of the camshaft and it's associated components is ok. If everything checks out repacement of the DM with the latest version may be the solution. At over 1k$ you want to be sure that the DM will fix the issue before committing.

Thanks so much duxthe1. That certainly sounds like that may be causing my problem. I forwarded the information to my shop. We'll see what they say.

Problem not solved yet. I also had the head gasket replaced. Could it just be that the camshaft timing is not quite correct and setting off the CEL? What are symptoms of bad camshaft timing?

that is likely your problem!!
i have seen that exact problem on two or three cars. the head gasket was replaced, and the cam timing was not put back as it needed to be. the gear on the intake cam has to be turned fully clockwise for the timing to be correct, also the 4mm holes on the back of each cam must align properly. use a 4mm drill bid and align it with the surface of the valve cover gasket area.

Thanks Carson356. That's the answer I was looking for. Is it possible that I've damaged the engine at all by driving it (about 6000 miles) with the timing off a bit? To be honest, it drives perfectly. Thanks again. I'll bring it back to the mechanic that did the head gasket and ask him to check the timing.

no, damage if it was going to happen, would be right away, usually with bent valves, the timing is not out enough to do this typ damage the way you have it. be prepared, he may try to charge you, he will need to remove the valve cover and the front cam cover to see the marks on the cam.

Print this out and bring it with you when you go back...

http://webwench.net/w123manuals/Service/W124/w124CD1/Program/Engine/104/05-2230.pdf

i agree, that is an excellent idea.

Hi guys, thanks for all your input. One more question. The car also ticks on acceleration when it's cold. It takes about 2-3 miles for it to go away. I'm running Mobil 1 0W40 in it and it has 91,000 miles. Is this normal? Is it related to the camshaft misalignment? If it is something major, I don't think I'll even have the camshaft timing adjusted and just get rid of the car. Advise please gentlemen.

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.. and let the next guy try and find it.

At least leave a printout of the cam align I went through the trouble listing in the console.......................................