11 degrees of timing chain stretch operation
 

I replaced the timing chain and tensioner in the '81 300D this weekend. Prior to replacing them there was 11 degrees difference showing (looking at the mark method) between the cam and crank timing marks. I am going to have to come back to the chain slide rail. Anyway, after changing it out there is a substantial improvement in the way the car starts. I used to have to give it some fuel to get it to crank and no longer have to do that:). I will probably be pulling this engine soon to replace the wear elements in the bottom end. Just thought I would share my experience running a car with 11 degrees of stretch. Oh yea - other than the starting issue the car ran out and idled fine.

Jim, how was the tensioning rail at 244K?

That is what would bother me the most.

Based on a good visual inspection it is time to change the tensioning rail.

My plans are to pull the engine later this summer and go through the bottom end. I already have one engine with the block/head at the machine shop and need to finish that one before I start on another one.

Where is your spirit of adventure ?
It is much more exciting to have all your projects completely apart at the same time... and on the same workbench adds another level to the challenge.

Keep me posted on any power or mpg improvements, that would be interesting to find out.

.........got that a/c system torn apart yet on the 240D???.............:D


..........another summer coming............what's that.........the third without a/c??:eek:

My wrecked 85's donor engine has about seven degrees of stretch using the same method of testing. It had a stumble on cold startup that I never could get rid off. I adjusted the valves, balanced/tested my injectors, did a diesel purge, ect. and it still missed when cold. The '84, which has about two degrees of stretch, fires right up, no stumble and I don't have to give it any extra fuel. I should have the 85's donor engine out in the next couple of weeks and I'm going to completely go over it, including the chain and rails.

Brian,
I evacuated, vacuumed, added some oil and charged the a/c on the 240D and it seems to work fine. I am not going to be surprised if it last awhile too. All I found wrong was a leaking schrader valve stem.
It is my current daily driver:).

Jim, my comments were directed.........with a little poke.......to Greg........who suggested that all projects get torn apart at the same time. I was curious if his 240 got it's a/c torn apart yet............;)

To Brian and Rick
 

I regularly head towards town ... a 45 minute drive... intending to go to the parts store to get stuff for the AC on the 26 year old 240d..... As I drive in using one of the three parts vehicles .. 92 honda , 95 Ford pickup, 95 Continental... all using R134a .... my brain gets so cold that I can't remember what I was going into town for... so I just head to the closest Candy store... Tractor Supply or Welding supply or Woodcraft...
I can't get excited about fixing the AC with the driver's seat so worn out...and the pool doodles are not long lasting materials... . the seat Randy let me borrow from Sublett's old car ( with built in arm rest ) is even worse ...and the seat belts won't fit the old buckles.

Wow that is a lot of stretch. Was the chain making any audible noise?

........bet it has nothing to do with stretch........

.........like the mechanic who drives around with no brakes..........:eek:

talking about the original subject matter on the chain not the A/C....although it could be related......

My mistake........thought we were on the other thread with both cam and IP timing retarded.......:o