It has been many months since I have messed with my 87 300td to get it running. If you are interested - this was the thread.
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=269891
After rebuilding the injectors Sean Watts came over to the house and helped me narrow it down to the injection pump. He was able to get me a really great pump by Monark, direct from Germany- MB's supplier now. What a nice unit!
Anyway, while removing the vacuum pump we noticed that the timing chain holder ("assembly basket"-held in by three bolts) was already in the car! I'm pretty sure it was not supposed to be there and maybe left there by a prior mechanic. I bought this tool thinking I needed to support he chain when the pump comes out. Since I had the old style vac pump I went to the local wrecker who has this engine and removed his newer vacuum pump. I was shocked to see that same retainer piece in that car too.
IS THIS SUPPOSED TO BE THERE or should it come out? -See picture- I can't imagine two mechanics left them in, or is is suposed to be there?
I'm ready to assemble now but need to be sure. Any help would be great
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1987 300TD 147,000 miles- Palomino leather interior, 1995 facelift and body cladding, E350 wheels, Rebuilt suspension and sport springs, rebuilt turbo, New Monarch injection pump and injectors....and the list goes on and on...