Im sure that MB also recommends using the special link fitting tool for the chain, Not Hitting with hammers no matter how carefull you are!! or how big your anvil is! The reason that split spring retained chain links are frowned on I think as Michael suggests, is a question of Dealership support, just like BMW and their service interval indicators!, not a question of reliability!
Over the years I must have travelled a million miles on split links!, no probs whatever!

__________________
http://i190.photobucket.com/albums/z...0TDnoplate.jpg

Alastair AKA H.C.II South Wales, U.K. based member

W123, 1985 300TD Wagon, 256K,
-Most recent M.B. purchase, Cost-a-plenty, Gulps BioDiesel extravagantly, and I love it like an old dog.

W114, 1975 280E Custard Yellow,
-Great above decks needs chassis welding--Really will do it this year....