Resurrecting the $500 560SEL
 

So, I've been able to make a little progress on the 560SEL, though not much due to limited time on my part.

Here's what I'm noticing so far.......

First, I had to raise the idle mixture to keep it from stalling. Now it will "idle" around 1100 rpm, but it surges and dips as something is clearly amiss. It feels like it might be missing on a cylinder intermittently. Fuel delivery seems okay based on rudimentary tests done without a pressure gauge.

I can hear a slapping sound from the front that sounds very timing-chainy. Not sure if this motor exhibits slapping on a bad chain/tensioner or just self destructs - input appreciated. I'm very new to the M119.

Transmission seems good and firm from the very limited test drives I've given it so far. I'm hesitant to drive it much until I know more about the state of the timing chain guides, which are dark and old, but don't appear cracked at all. I think I'm going to just do them to be safe.

A couple of the cam lobes have some wear, both on intake. Nothing too extreme, but there is a bit of wear going on. It does not appear that it's in the middle of a self-destruct, but it is a bit odd (in my mind) that all the cam lobes look great except for two. Oiler seems to be working fine. Guess I need to make sure to use an oil with plenty of zinc.

I will hopefully find out more this weekend, please reply to this thread if anything jumps out at you.


Thanks!

Whats a good oil with zinc? Any recommendations?

Probably needs a full tune-up...plugs, wires, cap & rotor. Also check for error codes if the car has a check engine light.

M119 engine...? Are you sure?

Thanks for the replies. Wires, cap and rotor all look new. I have to pull the plugs out this weekend to have a looksie. I'm guessing they're fouled at a minimum.

As far as the the oil with zinc, I'm not entirely sure but folks on this forum seem to like Delvac and Rotella. My '90 300SE has the newer hardened cam and so doesn't need the zinc additive according to MBDOC, IIRC. So in other words, it's something I have yet to purchase, much less form an opinion on.

The slapping noise has me worried, let me tell you...

Chevron DELO from Sam's or Wal-Mart...

re: DELO 15W40 with zinc: http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/256829-first-oil-change-looking-advice-tips.html?highlight=delo+zinc

117 engine in the 560 SEL.

Did you see any timing chain marks on the heads below the valve cover lips near the timing chain.Timing chain noise is usually just at cold start up until the tensioner fills with oil then it goes away. Check out the chain marks ASAP. You may have a weak tensioner. A replacement may be in order.