I second JCD's statement.... in addition I would not consider the offset key a " bandaid " approach... because I think a chain will stretch/wear more when first put into service in a given period of time than later, after it has lapped itself smooth... all assuming proper oil and filter changing over the life of the engine... The only distance that matters is only half the length of the chain, the tensioner takes up the extra slack on the other side.... and the injection pump is set independantly... so since MB considers this OK,,, so do I ...

I have the same preventative maintenance affliction as yall do... I tried to get a mechanic to change the oil pump when I first got my 81 wagon... just on principle.. I had done this on Fords, Chevys, Toyatas about every 100k as a matter of principle... he would not do it... and the more I am around MB's the more I am thinking... if not actually broke... leave it alone. It is not easy to think that way , we may need to form a support group for those of us afflicted....and I am only half kidding... Greg