To remove the head from a Mercedes 4cyl. diesel without splitting the timing chain?

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1999 E300 Turbo - 112K miles
1987 300D Turbo - 89K miles
1984 190D 5spd - 152K miles
1969 220D Auto - 170K miles

Yes, in fact it is standard procedure to not split the chain. You need to remove the cam sprocket, roll the engine over until the mark on the back of the cam sprocket lines up with the mark on the front cam tower, if you have one of those paint pens you can also mark the chain and sprocket. Some people prefer to hang the chain by a bungee cord others say you can just lay it down in the engine and the chain guides keep it from falling off inside.

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Chris
64 190D R.I.P.
80 240D W/617 engine -for sale
82 240D -for sale

Line the timing marks up first before removing the timing chain gear sprocket.

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel

If you are interested in the tools you need and factory proceedure see this site:
http://www.pauldrayton.com/uploadfiles/merc/Service/W123/w123CD2/Program/Engine/615/05-115.pdf

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel