Can't Find Timing Mark Access / 190E 2.3 8V (M102)

[David Wilson]

I am trying to adjust the ignition timing on a 1985 190e with the 2.3
8 valve engine (M102). I can see the timing marks on the crankshaft balancer when looking from under the car. But I can not see the pointer on the chain case, or the timing marks and pointer from above.

Has anyone here ever had this problem? How does someone time this engine? I hate to have to do it by "ear" as you never really know if it's correct or not.

[David Wilson]

bump

[bbarcher]

Yes I had this exact problem, but there is a line of sight. It is very narrow, but you can see down to the balancer from above if you are at just the right angle looking down. It helps to mark the balancer with a bright color paint to get the timing marks clearly visible. That makes it easier to see from above. Just keep trying, shining the timing light down at different angles, go slowly and try to focus on where the balancer is down there--not on what's in the way. If I remember correctly, I was standing to the right (when looking at the engine from the front of the car) of center, and looking down from above. There is a timing pointer that looks like the tip of a nail, and it sticks out above the balancer. Try to get a hand in there while the engine is off, and clean the pointer, or get some bright paint on it so you can see it easier. Don't use the same color as on the balancer, you need some contrast. Once you locate the pointer by feel, you will better know where to look from above.

I took some photos when I did this awhile back, and unfortunately, they don't show the timing pointer from above, due to shadows, the picture gives an idea of the viewing angle required.

[David Wilson]

I didn't use my timing light when I was looking for an opening. I'll give it another look see this week end. Thanks for the info.