A while back some folks on this list helped me discover that I had a timing chain guide break which apparently caused the timing chain to jump a cog/tooth on the left cam shaft, resulting in some interference issues with the pistons and valves. At the time I thought I'd turn that car into a parts car. But now I'm considering fixing it (I like the car - '91 420SEL w/130k).

The only engine I've ever had the head off of was from my Ford 800 tractor. That was pretty straight forward. There looks to be a bit more involved in removing a head from a V8 Mercedes. I'm only looking at removing one head (left side). The right side appears to have held the timing.

If you have any tricks or tips on head removal, I would appreciate hearing them.

Also, I'm thinking it will take about 3-4 hours to tear into it far enough to properly assess the damage. Am I being too optimistic about the time required?

Thanks.
-Brett

I would think removing the head and replacing the TC guide along with head gasket should take 12-15 hours assuming you don't run into anything else.