Thanks. Actually, its a 1985 380SE (3.8L V8), that is a 100% rust free southern car, no dents and excellent interior (MB-Tex), but has severely dull paint on the top, hood and trunk. My username was from years ago when I joined here. The only thing I had to do to it when I bought it was mew mufflers, radiator cap (seal was leaking) and it still needs rear brakes- which I have, just need to install.
I am not sure if the "bottom ends" are as indestructible on the 3.8L as it is on the 5.0L. ????
I would not mind spending $30, or even $100 for those little "rails", but its the 2-4 hours of labor that would stop me. I have no patients and I would probably never get it back right anyway.
The main reason I have not spent alot of $ on it is because of the lifter tapping/knocking noise @ 1500-1800 rpms, due to worn camshaft (so I am told). Knocking has not gotten any worse, but knowing my luck, I would spend $$$ on chains/rails, etc. and it would konk out. I figure I have already got my monies worth out of it. I really do not need it, with a new car in the works, but I really like it and would like to keep it is a second car.
Too bad that MB did not put some sort of "sensor" on these cars to warn of worn chains/rails/guides/tensioners.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tomguy
You only paid $1000 for your 560. It may be a rustbucket but it also has only 267k. The bottom end is indestructable on these. Keep up on the oil changes and at LEAST spend the $30 on rails and a weekend to replace them. Don't condemn your engine to death because of $30 in parts and 2-4 hours of labor (4 if you're taking breaks every 15 minutes for a beer or to watch the game like I do on jobs this easy).
If your 560 ISNT rusty, then for the love of god, change that chain too. Take care of the engine and 300k WILL pass by with ease.
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