Timing chain tensioner - help please
 

I've just changed the head gasket on my E200, M111 engine .

All went really well, until I can to refit the timing chain tensioner.
I followed the Haynes book really carefully, adjusting the plunger in line with the tensioner body, fitting that to the block, but when I came to fitting the spring and end piece - it was all but impossible, because of the strength of the spring!!!

I took two of us to do it finally. One to push the end piece onto the spring, and another to turn the hex head on the end piece with a spanner. Should it be that hard?
Have I over-tensioned the timing chain?
I've finished for the night now, but I've got the manifolds to fit and so on tomorrow.
Please advise me!

Thanks all.

Bazzman
Surrey UK
W124 '94 E200.:confused:

Generally on all Mercedes Timing Chain Tensioners, the springs are really tight. If you have to replace the tensioner and try to get that spring back in, it really can be a Real Pain In The Butt! Sometimes if you are lucky you can get it on the first try before your hand strength gives out, but after that it becomes a real chore.

Thanks for that!
Exactly as you say, if you get it 1st time, great. If you lose the thread, your strength gives out. It was so awkward, and coupled with the fact that I hadn't found any comments on it here, I thought I was doing it wrong.
Anyhow, all started up fine, 1st turn of the key, and so far, so good.
Cheers for your reply.

Glad you were finally able to get it in and that it is working fine now! :D