What method is used to get the cam gear and chain back on the new cam ? Does the tensioner need to be loosened and if so, what is the procedure ? If a washer has strayed down the timing cover does it simply go to the sump or will the cover need to be removed ? Thanks in advance for your input. I used the zip tie method of keeping the chain and gear in synch.

remove the tensioner, install gear w/chain. DO NOT REINSTALL THE TENSIONER AS-IS. Push out the center pin towards the chain side, install the tensioner body, reinsert the pin from the outside, then the spring and the cap. It works by both oil pressure and the spring, plus it ratchets so if it fails it won't leave you with a very loose chain. Tensioner removal may allow the spring to ratchet the pin forward. If you install in that position the chain will be a bit tight and will shortly self destruct.

So, did you loose a washer???? If so and it made it down to the sump I don't see a problem unless you corner hard, causing it to move. If it's on a chain gear or guide something will turn to toast. After the tensioner is back on, turn the engine by hand first. Even that may not be enough if its halfway down and later falls onto something that moves. Find the washer: bright light, magnet if its steel, etc.

__________________
Hanno
'79 6.9 Sold (after 27 years)
'83 280SL, 5 spd.
'94 E320 Sdn. 5 spd conversion
'02 E320 Sdn.(on loan to mom!)
'87 300E (5 spd. conversion) Sold
'05 E500 Wagon

Hanno,
Got it. Thanks for the help. Now to see how long the new/used lumpstick lasts.

Couldn't find the washer in the timing case or sump with a magnet so poured a quart of oil down the case to wash it down. Found it with the
magnet through the oil drain but had to remove the oil pickup to remove it as the drain hole was too small. PITA but a small one as those things go and as Murphy dictates...