Tool to pull timing chain rail pins?
 

To anybody who has pulled the pins that secure the timing chain rails (especially on a M119 engine): What tool did you use and how well did it work? I understand there are slide hammer tools and some that use a small puller with thrust bearing. Could one just tighten a bolt over a number of washers into the pins to pull them?

Thanks in advance
Bob Johnston

I made an extractor for a 617.912 (diesel) engine out of a 8mm bolt and nut from Lowe's. I threaded the nut all the way up to the head, slipped on a couple of washers and a short socket about 3/4 inch diameter with open side away from the washers. Screwed the bolt into the pin then used an wrench to tighted the nut down against the washers and socket. THe end of the pin is about 5/8 inch in diameter so make sure you have the socket centered. Once I pulled it out about 3/4 of an inch it came free. Good luck.

Here's how I did it.

Of course, that was before Craig Morris made me a beautiful replica of the MB tool, with a notch to clear the webbing on the engine cover for a tru perpendicular pull on a couple of the pins which are close to the webs. That one stays in my garage!