I'll be the first to admit I'm not the expert mechanic that many of you are. But I had just installed a new (German) PS belt and both pulleys were in good shape, so I wasn't trying to compensate for a worn/glazed parts, etc. I made several incremental adjustments, tightening the belt just enough to not slip on the pulley, and no more. I recall checking the belt deflection and feeling satisfied that it was still within spec. Then I proceeded to carefully turn the engine in small increments via the PS pump. I don't see the harm in doing this.

Even if you were to go back and slacken the PS belt slightly once the valve adjusting was done, I'd still find it more convenient to do that than trying to rotate the engine at the crank throughout the whole process. Just my .02, "your mileage may vary".

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1995 E300 200k
1981 300GD unknown km

I think the concern is that you will end up over-tightening the nut on the PS pump to the point where it will be a real PITA to remove if/when you have to replace the PS pump.

I missed that the first time; thanks for the explanation. I guess I didn't feel like I was really honking on the PS nut that hard to turn the engine but I can now see why the absolutely foolproof, safe method is to use the crank.

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1995 E300 200k
1981 300GD unknown km

I always use a remote starter switch. They are easier to use and they are cheap. If you wanted you could make a remote starter switch but I think it would cost more for the parts than buying one. I have had mine for a long time but I think I have seen them for well under $20.

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1983 300SD
200000miles

Agreed, with mobetta also, have a pic in the other computer.

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83 SD

84 CD