Just replaced the timing chain guides
 

Did the timing chain guides last night on my 1990 560SEL with 128,000 miles and when I opened it up I found the top drivers side guide already broken in two pieces just sitting there waiting to fall into the engine! I am sure glad it didn't decide to go when I was flying down the road at 145 mph about a week ago!
If you have a Mercedes V8 and haven't done the guides I would strongly suggest thinking about getting it done.

Hard to tell when to do them
 

I did the 3 upper guides in my 88 560SL and thought they were still in great shape when I got them out. I had to really go after them with a pair of side cut dikes to get them to snap or break. Thought they could have gone on for another few years or more. At least I have piece of mind. I'd hate to open it up and see the upper 1/3 just ratteling around in there. Haeart attack.
good on you!

Did you have a pin extractor? or just bolt washers and socket?

No I just had the bolt and washers which ended up being a nightmare as the bolt broke off inside the pin and I had to hammer the pin out with a chisel after finishing braking out the guide. After the pin was out I was able to use two pairs of vice grips to remove the broken bolt and file the mars on the pin so it would work. I still have to do the job on my 90,000 mile 560 so now I know to use a good grade bolt and be very careful!
It sure is a nice feeling to know I got it done just in the nick of time, I shudder to think of that thing rattling around in there like it was!