Well, I got the head cleaned up a little and I think you guys where spot on. My initial thought was the valve looked to good to have caused that much damage. The exhaust valve must be one hard bugger. It does not have a mark on it. However, found a lot of play in the valve guide and the rocker is worn with a small flat spot. I’ll spend some more time cleaning and testing other components tomorrow. Thanks to all for making me focus.

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1983 500SL Euro