Timing Chain, 72 280 SEL 4.5

I am about to go to the west coast to look at a 72 280SEL 4.5 and have a question about the timing chain on this model car. As far as I can tell from my research in the archives here, the chain, guides and tensioners should be changed every 100,000 miles or so. Is this correct? This particular car has 150,000 since a major rebuild and no timing chain work since. I am concerned about the drive back east in this condition. One archive post talked about removing the passenger side valve cover and inspecting the guides for wear. This seems like a good start, but considering the cost of a failure, not worth the risk for a long drive back to the east coast. What is a reasonable price for parts and labor at a typical shop. one post suggested $700. Another alternative is to use a commercial transport to get back east and do the work myself. I have done timing belts, and american V-8 work, so I am not too afraid except for special tooling for the chain pins. Are there any other special tools required? I thought I read something about a special tool to feed the chain in.

Many thanks for any advice offered.


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Deezel
87 300TDT
150,000 miles

[Benzmac]

This old V-8 used the metal rails with plastic glued on. I have never seen them fail. I hope they left these when the engine was gone through. I think, but am not sure, that the replacement are the crapy plastic rails. I'd look at the invoice and see if timing chain rails were installed. In either case, I'd think that you should be OK. Just be SURE to have a QUALIFIED Mercedes Tech look at it before purchase.


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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

Do you mean that if orig rails are installed there are no timing chain worries? Please clarify. And yes, I am trying to line up professional prepurchase in LA. The owner is very cooperative!

Thanx,

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Deezel
87 300TDT
150,000 miles

[MikeTangas]

Deezel,

Was Franz able to fit you in, or suggest someone closer to LA?

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Mike Tangas
73 280 SEL 4.5

Franz helped and I hope to be out there the 6/15 & 6/16. I'll send more later!


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Deezel
87 300TDT
150,000 miles