The reason I ask is that when my motor (89-300ce) is cold it makes a sound I would describe as "clock, clock, clock, clock" synchronized with RPM. It doesn't sound metalic like piston slap, nor does it click like a lifter. Once warm the noise is completely gone.

I have heard other Benz's also make this sound so it may be normal. For some reason I associate this sound with Mercedes of the 80's so maybe it is something unique to their engines. Could the oil pump make noise like that? Timing chain? Guides?

It almost sounds like bearing noise to me but that would get worse as the oil thins. Any guesses?

Thanks
Jorg