Advice before I take the head off
 

I am about to break the chain and remove the head bolts. I know that the TDC has to be set and marked but the markings on the front balancer are confusing and the cam gear sprocket has markings as well.
This is for a M102 (190E 2.3 8V).
Should I even worry about all this? Will it be simply advisable to line up piston #1 to its highest point once the head is gone and I can actually see this in action then just worry about where the cam should be? In that case how would I ensure that the cam in the head is where it's supposed to be before I mount the head back in?

When I did my m103 head, I just removed the sprocket with the chain still on, hung a wire from my garage ceiling, and suspended it. I then removed the head, no problem. hillbilly thing to do, yes. however, I had no timing issues when I got it back together.

I am installing a new chain, guides and tensioner so that's not an option.

Another question: Will I need some gasket when I remove the engine block front cover?

my memory is failing
 

Its been over a year since my head replacement. If I remember correctly, (dont quote me), I used tube gasket for the upper timing chain cover. I dont know if it is the same for the rest. :confused:

You mean like RV stuff?

One way to do it is to wire the chain to the sprocket and remove it from the cam. Then do your thing with the head. When the head is back on, use the sprocket to position the cam. Then break the chain and roll the new one in.

^^
Very smart!!!

What's the best way to detach the sprocket? It looks like it will be very tight and attempting to loosen the nut will force the engine to turn counter clockwise.