RE: 1987 300TDT - Does anyone know if it's possible to just replace the timing chain tensioner and seal (oil is slipping by it causing a mess on the alternator etc.) without touching/altering the timing chain or timing in general? Is it a simple removal and reinstallation?

Why replace the tensioner if all you need is a new seal?

It's a straightforward removal and replacement but you have to install the tensioner in the relaxed position since it's a ratcheting tensioner than only gets tighter. I think it requires torquing a 14mm hex bit or something like that.

Sixto
95 S420
87 300SDL

Oh, didn't know that. So it is possible to just replace the seal without reinventing the wheel or causing any damage to the timing chain or the timing in general?

I quoted some M103 steps. The OM603 tensioner is simpler. Remove it by turning the big nut (24mm?), replace the crush washer, refit the tensioner and torque to 65 Nm. The manual talks about filling the tensioner with SAE 10 oil but if you keep it level and don't compress it while it's out it should be safe to put it back without further attention.

Sixto
95 S420
87 300SDL

I've had my tensioner out several times, at least six times, and have never had any problem related with it. I just unscrew it and lay it off to the side and then reinstall and tighten. My crush washer has never been replaced when doing this and forms a perfect seal every time. Maybe all that might be necessary for you is to tighten it, as it may just be loose, or looser than than should be!

I read in the manual, when replacing the chain tensioner, make sure the fly wheel pointer is at 0 T.

Does this apply in all instances ?


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