I got the valves checked. After getting a set of mm feeler guages, I also needed to find a 27mm socket to turn the engine with. 1 1/16" does the job in a pinch, the engine must be turned CW if you are standing at the front of the car. In other words, it likes to be 'tightened.'

My next question is-

Where do I get the shims from? My local dealership says that they may take up to a week to get from germany, depending on what ones I need. Of course, I won't know what i need till I have the exhaust cam off! I'd rather just do the job once and not have my car opened up for a week. Are these something that a machine shop might have or could easily fabricate? Or how much is the "Kit" that mercedes sells?

thanks,
dan r.