190e 16v cam timing - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

fpietri · #1 07-15-2006, 02:38 PM

Hi everyone, I`m new on this block....a happy ex-beemer and now the proud owner of a 1987 190e 16v euro-spec with only 30K original miles on it. The car ran great for about 2 months and last nite it started sounding different (throaty) and lost power. Then it would not start at all. Not wanting to miss out on any fun, rapidly I pulled out some tools and started probing around (have some automotive mechanics knowledge, I.m an aircraft mechanic/pilot). After checking the usual, ie: fuel, spark, compresion, etc. and still finding nothing, went deeper and found that the timing chain was loose and that 2 timing marks/holes on the cam sprokets were about 15 deg. off....bingo!
I went surfing on the net and came up on this forum which looked very information-filled and friendly. I have looked at some of the files and found that the timing marks/holes should line up with the edge of the head and looking to each other on the inside. Is this correct? Also read that there is a revised, ratchet style chain tensioner, which I did not have. Will get one.
Should I get a new timing chain also?..remember the car has only30K miles. Also, if anyone out there can give any light on the procedure? The files say that Caliber Motors has the tensioner for a good price. Any advice on where to order MB parts besides dealers?
Hope to hear from you soon,
fpietri

jhodg5ck · #2 07-15-2006, 03:53 PM

I'd be Very worried that you bent some valves..I'd do a compression test while you are at it.

Jonathan

fpietri · #3 07-15-2006, 04:11 PM

Thanks for your reply! I did a comp. test and all cylinders checked at 95 plus psi....is this good?
Also, I`m sailing the web like crazy for a chain tensioner but cannot find one. Any help?
Thanx

jhodg5ck · #4 07-15-2006, 05:17 PM

No! THat's BAD... I'm not a 16V expert but I beleive the US cars were 9-1 (about 150psi) and the Euro's were 10-1 (about 175 psi).

I'd say you have some bent valves in there:-/

Drop me an email, I can help you out w/ what ever you may need.

Jonathan

fpietri · #5 07-16-2006, 10:15 PM

Thanks for your repplies jhodg5ck, I tried the compression test as I was looking for the problem and they all checked pretty even at around 100 psi. I will try putting on a new style tensioner with eveything straight, then do another comp. test. Either I bent ALL the valves or I had some compression because all the valves were just closing or opening (with one cam being off some). With luck, I`ll be okay. If not, then I guess I have some little project on my hands. Any help on that tensioner....maybe used??
fpietri

jhodg5ck · #6 07-16-2006, 10:44 PM

All my used tensioners get tossed about 5 minutes after they get pulled:-P

If you need new it's not a problem..just drop a line,
jono@blueridgemb.com

Jonathan

mbdoc · #7 07-17-2006, 09:13 AM

IF the chain jumped...and it did then you have a broken LOWER rail...IF you don't remove the complete front cover & oil pan and replace that broken rail you most likely will have FUTURE chain problems even if you replace the chain & install the modified tensioner!