Any info on original vs new cams for '87 300e?

[Sopicki]

Hi folks,

Looks like I'm replacing my cam and I'm debating finding a used cam vs a new cam. I've got an '87 300e and the parts suppliers only have the new hardened cam and rockers (and misc. other parts that are required for the swap) available. Apparently MB upgraded the original chromed cam for a hardened shaft at some point. If the original is replaced with the hardened cam the rockers have to be replaced too. The parts alone are $900 for this repair. I suspect that the original cam and rockers were susceptible to extreme wear as occured in my car and changed the whole setup to avoid what happened to my car.

I'll spend the money on the new stuff if recommended, but I'm just wondering if anyone can lend an opinion to this situation.

Thanks,
Bob Kopicki
Massillon OH