Having the top end rebuilt on 87 560SL

[domchang]

My 1987 560 SL, 122k miles, went into the shop to have the timing chain replaced, but once the valve covers were off, more damaged was found by the mechanic! Not only the chain but the rails, gears etc associated with the timing chain. He showed me some scoring marks on the valve cover where the chain had apparently been hitting the valve cover and worn some grooves!

He noticed tapping noises coming from the hydraulic lifters so they have to be replaced along with the oil pump, chain etc.

While he's got the engine taken apart he'll also check the valves, cylinder heads and guides I am told.

Estimate is almost $6200 counting labor. I was bummed out but then realized that the tapping noises I'd heard on cold startups would have only gotten worse and required repairs down the road.

Not sure about the valve job but think that its probably related to the hydraulic lifters needing replacement that they need to be checked.

Basically, he tells me that I'll have a brand new engine top end, and that the bottom end of these V8s are damn near indestructible so it'll be like having a new engine on the old girl.

I know that I have to get the timing chain replaced along with associated hardware....but have been waffling all weekend so far on whether to put off the valve job and the lifters....any opinions out there?

The car was seeming running smooth and strong before I took her in for the timing chain replacement....no smoke going downhill, getting 16-17mpg, great acceleration.

thanks in advance