LH Chain Guide Question-107
 

I've started on my major spring work, (86 560SL) and I'm removing my left side chain guide rails. Stupid (but critical) question: HOW does the bottom rail "slide" out? It seems that there isn't enough clearance between the chain/cam gear and the lip of the head to allow this. Or will this problem go away if I remove the top slide rail (giving the chain, theoretically, a little more slack). Even considering this, there seems like very little room here. I'd like to avoid removing the gear. The MB manual doesn't really mention doing either first.

I'm taking my time on this, but would like the LH side of the engine done this weekend. BTW, I'm using the "screw" type pin puller, and it was worth it.

You will need to remove the cam gear, momentarily. Fairly simple just do it with all your marks lined up and keep them that way.