1984 380 SL: Timing Chain Upgrade
 

Hi, I'm going to look at an 84 380; is there an easy visual ID for the upgrade to double-row timing chain? I fear the owner might not know (or want to discuss it).
Any advice as to value? no rust, imperfect paint (scratch, chip or two), ACC broken; antenna broken; car looks straight enough. No books/records.

Unfortunately it is a valve cover off job to check.

However, you could get a dentist mirror and pencil flashlite and look in through the oil filler cap, although I think it would be difficult to really see properly. I just took a look at one I'm doing here that's totally dismantled, and it seems possible with the mirror.

Your engine should be duplex chain though.
Check the engine # on the block behind the drivers side head....it will start 116 960 **** *****.
Let us know.

'84's had the double chain from the factory.

Len

'84 380sl
 

Looked at the car today; solid enough, no rust, usual boo-boos. Runs smooth,idles right, smooth, shifts right. Light clunk in right side of rear suspension on bunps; a very quiet squeak, 1xrev, in the area of the trans, follows road speed (flex joint in driveshaft?). ACC responds to controls, not cool, probably needs R-whatever. One wheel bolt missing; probably twisted off; Bundt wheels. Paint OK; could be repaint, but carefully masked if it is. Shows 71K miles. Radio (Becker Grand Prix) dead; antenna dead; windows work OK.
Interior shows typical wear, fading, etc., dash not cracked.
Wanted to look at the soft top, but the hard top would not release in the center-rear. they are working on it.
I found an invoice in the glove box, where an indie replaced the flywheel with a used one, and replaced the starter (rebuilt one with warranty); wonder what happened, chewed up the ring gear, I suspect.

comments?