Planning for new timing chains for OM60x engine

[ah-kay]

I am planning to do a proactive timing chain replacement on OM603 engine. Need some advice from old timers. What do you use to join the new/old chain when you roll the new chain in? I want to know a secure way to make sure that they do not get separated inside the engine.

Thanks

[whunter]

There are many possible options.

The most common for me:
* Use the new link to join them.
* Wrap the link with two tight layers of electric tape.
* Force the taped area against the sprocket, to puncture/seat the area.
* Feed the chain through.
* Use a razor to remove the tape*

I have never lost a chain due to the master link coming off using this procedure.
It only needs to hold for one incredibly SLOW revolution.

I also have the CLIP style master link = special tool kit MB# 602589024000 but rarely use it.


.

[engatwork]

I use the old link that was removed and what is left of the plate that came off of the old link,