Hey guys,

1979 240d....
I had a post on here about a rough idle when warm, Ive done almost everything I can do myself with no improvement. I've decided to check the Injection pump timing, but am having a strange problem...

I have the mercedes factory service manual for my engine, and it lays down pretty clearly the procedure for timing the ip. I have the special drip tool and I checked the timing EXACTLY as outlined in the manual. The only problem is, it doesnt start dripping untill about 10 AFTER top dead center! Its supposed to be 24 before. I even pulled the valve cover off to make sure I was on the compression stroke for number one (had both cam lobes up on #uno while lined up with the marks on the crank pulley and the notch on the cam) I had the regulator on the ip set to WOT, as outlined in the manual, as well as removed the spring and that other little piece from the i.p. before putting the tool on.

Am I looking at the marks on my crank pulley correctly? It seems like I should be looking to time it at the marks to the LEFT of the zero mark, because thats 'before' that piston hits the top. The car idles rough, but it doesnt run THAT rough, i'd think 30 degrees off would make it pretty much undriveable. Is there something wrong with the I.P.?

I am officially stumped, and I dont want to muddle with my car any further until I have a little more insight..

P.S. there appears to be NO cam chain stretch. There shouldn't be any need to mess with the pump, but its free and i had the tool. Also the engine sat for a very long time without being run, and i wasnt certain if that would have some effect on the pump.

Thanks a mil

Seth