Is there a schedule for replacing the timing chain on a 240D, or do you wait until you hear it rattling? Is the roll-in chain o.k., or should you really tear down the motor and replace the guides and tensioners as well? I'm assuming if the chain snapped, a lot of damage would be done, right? Thanks
Greg

MB suggests the timing chain be inspected for stretch whenever the valve cover has been removed for valve adjustment( about every 15k miles). The only rails that wear can be replaced with out major engine teardown!

If the chain does break it is a disaster!! Bent valves and other damage!
I always have them checked at every 15K E service. (The reason for this is the valve cover is already off for the valve adjust)

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

Every 15K????

The MB dealer up here quoted me $1200 in labor for the replacement of the timing chain on my '86 300SDL 6cyl. Is this typical?
I put 15K on in 8 months.

Thanks,

Rachel

CHECK every 15K with the service...Most will last a good 100 to 150K!! INSPECTED as MB DOC said.

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Benzmac:
Donnie Drummonds
1992 500E (very soon I hope :)
1981 280GE SWB
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

Supergirl...cant say that I've changed a chain on a Diesel but I'd imagine that they would have to remove all the injectors ....

Damned if I'd be holding the new chain against the timing sprocket....

:)

Understood. But $1200?? And the MB dealer said there is pretty much no way to check the chain, unless you pull everything out. Is that correct?

supergirl,

I am very concerned about your dealer telling you such a thing. There are marks on the crankshaft damper and marks for the timing chain pully. It's a relatively simple operation to remove the valve cover and turn the engine to top dead center and see where the timing chain sprocket aligns. If it does not align properly the chain is stretched.

Unless one of the pro techs responds that there are no marks on your particular model (in which case I will be VERY surprised) they should be able to do this without too much trouble.

I hope their not trying to take advantage of you.

Good luck,


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Larry Bible
'84 Euro 240D, 516K miles
'88 300E 5 Speed
'81 300D Daughter's Car
Over 800,000 miles in
Mercedes automobiles

ColMc: I see you know nothing about Diesel timing chains! What the hell would you have to remove the injectors for?????