Son of a...

[nestorb98]

In the process of replacing the valve stem seals a valve spring ball cup dissapeared...poof!...abracadabra!!!...unbelievable!

I don't think it dropped into one on the little holes on top of the head (that were conveniently placed to swallow this tiny part).. but if it did drop in there how do I take it out?...

Does the head now have to come off?

This is my spare 1988 190E 2.3 with 100,000 miles and I really want it to last. So if there is the possibility of a small part like that rattling inside the motor...where would it go? Or is there a filter that might stop it down the line and prevent bedlam from happening.

Thanks in advance for your illuminating answers and Happy Holidays to all!