thulkkonen,

Not sure how much you know about this tensioner. It was not such a good design by mercedes/cosworth because the original tensioner didn't keep tension on the T-chain unless oil pressure was present (i.e. NOT at startup or shut-down). So now we have the 3rd timing chain design, which rachets to keep pressure on the chain regardless of oil pressure. Click on the 'Fast Lane' link at the top of this page, give Phill (our parts-ninja) a call for the price-I think its a little more than 500 for everything.

No, don't let this go. Figure out if you have the right tensioner and make sure it is installed correctly. These engines are 'interference' engines, meaning that if the cams continue to jump the chain you'll eventually end up with your valves mating with your pistons and giving birth to a huge repair bill. While you're in there getting acquainted with your engine, why not check the valve specs too? They're the other popular cause of head work on these cars-a knowledgable member(JimSmith, i think) of the board had a head-job done on account of the valves being too tight.

welcome to the club/support group


cheers,
dan