My 1999 E300D Turbo has 172000 miles on it, original owner. I have heard that the timing chain needs to be replaced, along with the other tensioners and etc...My question is WHEN?

Thanks!

There are a bunch of differing opinions on when to do this but you need some information first. Look at it, measure the chain slop, note where your timing marks are, look at the cam sprocket /teeth etc. for wear.

I believe there is a gauge on the harmonic balancer located at the front of the engine. If you are at 5 degrees or more it needs to be replaced. I replaced mine at 4 degrees.

The belt tensioners, etc need to be replaced more often than the timing chain.

__________________
Ed
-1984 Mercedes 190D 2.2 5-speed gray market(bought@30,000 miles) (Sold back to original owner@170,000 miles)
-1999 Mercedes E300DT (245,000 miles)
-1999 Mercedes S500 Grand Edition (80,000 miles)

Ed,
Thanks for the information. I will have my mechanic check the harmonic balancer to see if it's more than 5 degrees and report back.
Dave