Is there a black cloud following my 87 16 valve? Still will not idle. New over-voltage relay, Fuel system pressure checks in at 86 psi. Took off the valve cover and found the top rail broken. Two pieces recovered. One the size of a thumb nail is MIA. Should I go after it? Probably in the pan. Does the oil pump have a screen?? The motor still has good compression, with all cylinders within 10%. Number three is a little sluggish on the first stroke. Planning on replacing the chain, top rail and tensioner. Can you easily get to any other rails to replace them? What else to look at for the idle problem? If you hold it at a stready 1000 rpm, it will clean itself up and surge to 1400 and then load up(?) or drop down to 800. Any advise.... Thanks

Don't stop there!! If the upper rail is broken so goes the lower two rails!! Some one had just replaced chain on 16V engine in the car I just bought. Both lower rails were broken when I pulled the pan & front cover. Also the distributor drive gear was worn out! This takes about 10-12 hrs & requires special tools. How long since last valve clearance check. The 16V requires a special chain tensioner. All of a sudden you are spending over $1000 but if you don't they it's going to cost a lot more!!

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190E 2.3 ITS RACECAR
1986 190E 16V

[This message has been edited by M.B.DOC (edited 06-25-2000).]

I checked the valve clearances when I discovered the broken rail. The exhaust were a little tight, at the lower range of the tolerance provided (.30mm +-.05), Intake are o.k.. Can you get the oil pan and front cover off with the motor in the car? What special tools are required?

It can be done, but is tough. I have done this by loosening the engine mount bolts and using a screw jack to lift the engine high enough to pull the pan. The pan has to come off before the front cover.

Yes the oil pump does have a screen, but if a piece of the rail pin falls in, it will eat through the screen and kill the engine. Ask me how I know. I have had this happen to my car before I knew the insides.

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Benzmac:
Donnie Drummonds
1992 500E (very soon I hope
1981 280GE SWB
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