190e 16v cam timing
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
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