Timing Chain Help

[Fun 380]

I am looking at purchasing a 1983 380 SL with 130,000. I figured the timing chain should be replaced as it has not been done before. I called a shop and they said that if it is a single roller chain, they do not believe it is available. If it needs to be converted to a double, then the cost is $6,000. The guy wants $3000 for the car and it runs now. I just hate to wreck it by not changing the chain but can't really see spending $6,000 on it either. It also needs an exhaust....

Does it sound right that the single chain is not available and a conversion is that expensive?

[Tomguy]

It is an extensive job but I can't see $6k being justified.

The single-row chain is definetly still available and can be ordered through this site!

[Fun 380]

Thanks, I did a search and found the chain. I feel better now. I think he said that if the chain is available it is a 500-700 job. I just want to be able to get a few fun years out of the car. Sounds like for under 2K I can get exhaust, timing chain, brakes done. I think there may be a wheel bearing problem too, but I guess for a total of 5K I should have a fun car. I have never owned anything like this. I am more of an American Muscle car person. This looks to be a different experience.

[Tomguy]

Wait, your initial purchase price for this 380SL would be $3k? What is wrong with it? If it looks good and runs well, don't even hesitate to buy it, you can turn around and sell it for $6k easily with that timing chain receipt.

[Fun 380]

Originally Posted by Tomguy

Wait, your initial purchase price for this 380SL would be $3k? What is wrong with it? If it looks good and runs well, don't even hesitate to buy it, you can turn around and sell it for $6k easily with that timing chain receipt.

It seems to run well. Makes a wheel bearing noise and the brakes seem to require a bit more pressure than I would expect. It has new tires and a new battery and needs an exhaust. The interior is nice but a little worn down. There is a little rust coming through around the headlights. The car has been in the family since new. If there is something wrong with it other than what I mentioned, I doubt my cousin knows.

I looked on EBay and it looked like the prices were 3-9 K. I told him and he said 3 was fine. He was originally thinking he might get 5K. I'm wondering if I really should give him more for it. He didn't double check my numbers.

[Fun 380]

I also called another guy and he told me the 83 probably had a double chain and didn't need to be replaced yet (130K). He said if it did need a chain, sounds like 3-500 (I think).