95 E320 head gasket DIY repair
 

I'm just a few bolts short of removing the head from my 95 E320. All I need to do now is separate the chain timing assembly and loosen the head bolts. The manual is somewhat confusing on this repair. I need someone to hold my hand through this.

There's a pin that holds the side chain guide that needs to be hammered out. What's the best way for a DIYer to remove this pin with the radiator in place?

What needs to be removed as far as cam sprockets go?...both intake and exhaust sprockets?

I've indexed the chain to each sprocket with a mark. When the chain is slack, will it jump off the crank sprocket, making the marks meaningless?

What's size 12-pt torx bit is needed to remove the head bolts?

Lastly, I'd like to verify the installation torquing sequence:
1st step - run each bolt down to 55 Nm.
2nd step - tighten each bolt 90°.
3rd step - tighten each bolt another 90°.

1. You can remove the guide rail pin with a home-made puller. A bolt threaded into the pin with a nut/washer/socket set-up works well. I've done it hundreds of times. I've used the tool by Hazett? as well. 2. Remove only the exhaust sprocket. The intake sprocket includes the cam advance mechanism and there's no need to mess with it. 3. Yes, the chain will fall off the crank gear, but don't sweat it. It's easy to put back on. I've seen some guys hold the chain tight when removing the cam sprocket and then wire tying it to the tensioning rail to keep it on the crank. Either way, it's up to you. 4. I forget the size. I just know it's the BIG one in my socket drawer, sorry. Good luck and let me know how it goes.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?threadid=37634&perpage=15&highlight=E320&pagenumber=1

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?threadid=37925&perpage=15&highlight=E320&pagenumber=2


Here are a couple threads when I did the cyl head gasket on my E320. It is a diyer job - just take your time. Also, you will need the "shortened" version of the head bolt socket to get to the rear most head bolts. I am not sure the size but I was thinking it was not quite a "torx" fastener. You can purchase the correct socket from the Snap On dealer.