I'm currently replacing the heads on a 1979 450 SL (4.5L engine) and see in the manual I requires a Mercedes Tool P/N 123 589 03 61 00
valve spring depressor. Since local Mercedes dealer does not sell tools, is there a US manufacturer of an equivalent. Any other tips appreciated.

Thanks in advance.
Dennis

HAVE YOU TRIED ANOTHER DEALER? THIS TOOL IS AVAILABLE FROM MBUSA, ETA APPROX 24 HOURS TO ANY DEALER. IF YOU CAN'T FIND ANYONE TO ORDER IT FOR YOU, GIVE ME A CALL 1-800-338-7487, ASK FOR PAULA IN PARTS, PRICE $365

I went and build a tool to compress the valves but that lead me to another problem.

There is a special tool to check valve travel/adjustment using thrust spacers, but is there a second method to do this?

The procedure for adjusting the hydraulic compensator travel is a long and hard process. It can't be done without the tool. The tool is available from a dealer. The adjustment should only have to be done after a valve job.

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
LEAD TECHNICIAN FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

Thanks for the response. The heads are replacement (although not exchanged - I stil have the originals) so its has new valves etc although the original cams etc. I therefore have no choice but good thru the process. I wondered if it could be accomplished with a dial indicator if the "tool" was not avialable? Thank you

The special tool has a specific, go no-go, type configuration and a gauge built in. I don't know of any other way to do the adjustment. You will also need may different shims to do the work. I would suggest to let a pro do it so you will not have to invest in all of the tools.

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
LEAD TECHNICIAN FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM