I am in the middle of changing the head gasket on my m104 engine (300e 2.8 1993). I am very familiar with the correct way to set the timing as i have been researching it extensivly. so today i take a shot at installing the chain. i insert the 4mm drill bits in the correct locations on the cams. i made sure that the engine is at TDC, and that the drill bits are flat with the surface, i also retard the engine by rotating the cam-follower clockwise until it stops. i put on the chain making sure it is all tight, and then before installing the tensioner, i rotate the engine one full rotation to check.

here is what happens after 1 full rotation. the intake cam dowel (where the drill bit goes in) is slightly higher than the surface of the head. the one on the exhaust side is slightly lower than the head surface...


so what is the possible cause/ remedy for this ? am i a tooth off ?

thanks,