need tool to extract timing chain pin M104
 

Help. I can't remove the guide pin from my upper timing chain cover/left hand chain rail (see photos). Does anyone know where can I get a tool or the correct size and strength bolt? Dealers I called have to special order the MB tool. I tried bolts I had that don't match any size at the hardware store but sort of fit--they went in about 1/4 inch. (I also tried an M6-10 and it goes in about 1-2 turns. M5 is too small. I'm guessing I need 5.5 in 10 pitch, if there such a thing). I jury rigged a puller from a u-bolt (go ahead and laugh), but both bolts failed by stretching. I wonder if a PO over-jammed the pin into the head.

You need to get a screw that fits the metric thread inside. I believe it would be a M6 x 1.0 or possibly a M8 x 1.25, hopefully someone here knows. My point is you need to use what's in there (obviously), but look carefully at the thread (a mirror might help) It's very possible that the thread has gotten buggered up somehow so nothing will seem to fit right. When you do know what it is for sure, you can clean up damage to the threads with a tap. If you tap it, discard that pin when you get it out and get a new one.

You might be right about M6x1.0; the bolt I used had virtually the same thread pitch as an M6 x 1.0; it was just a tad smaller in diameter. Maybe I could gently try to insert a tap just to see if it fits? Thanks.

pin puller.
 

I just recently had the same problem you are going through. I ordered a pin puller from shoptoolsshoptools.com. they specialize in specialized tools for many cars like mercedes. the tool usually runs about $69.00, although with shiping for me it was $89 :eek: hope that helps

solved
 

:) Thanks for the help. I bought a $2 M6x1.0 tap; it only went in a couple turns until I felt moderate resistance. Looking in with a light and a mirror I could see the first 4 threads or so were nearly gone. I tried my M6x1.0 bolt and it went in with about the same resistance as the tap, so I just screwed it all the way in using a nut driver. I bought a longer bolt and had it threaded at a machine shop for $2 (I offered him $10). It worked perfectly, using an old valve guide. Total cost: just under $6 and far too many hours. Had I known the correct bolt size it would have taken an hour. btw, I had forgotten to order the tool along with my other parts, but yesterday Mercedesshop gave me the best estimate of $17, including shipping vs various MB dealers at $45 to $55.

If I had a buck for every hour I've wasted because I didn't have the correct tool, I'd be rich. :eek:

anyone use this tool?

https://www.ewktool.com/ewk-timing-chain-guide-rail-pin-puller-extractor-remover-tool-for-bmw-mercedes-benz

I’ve used a Braum extractor tool. Cost about $20. It’s basically a mini steering wheel puller

I used a screw and a stack of washers to extract the pin. Screw down to move the pin out, and add more washers if the screw bottoms out.