Timing chain: Is it worth replacing it...? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

dhjenkins · #1 12-11-2009, 06:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TylerH860

Not worth doing on a 1000 project car. Worst case scenario, the chain snaps, and you can get yourself a $500 junkyard motor and have extra parts.

That's ridiculous.

If he doesn't have the tools to do a simple timing chain switch, he damned sure isn't going to have what he needs to swap a motor.

I mean christ, if his indy is going to (over)charge him $2k-$3k for a simple chain swap, what are they going to want to swap out a whole motor? $10k?

I got my project car for $100. Are you trying to say any repair over $100 isn't worth it?

simonshearer · #2 12-11-2009, 08:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dhjenkins

That's ridiculous.

If he doesn't have the tools to do a simple timing chain switch, he damned sure isn't going to have what he needs to swap a motor.

I mean christ, if his indy is going to (over)charge him $2k-$3k for a simple chain swap, what are they going to want to swap out a whole motor? $10k?

I got my project car for $100. Are you trying to say any repair over $100 isn't worth it?

Firstly, I certainly have the tools, and even the inclination to do this project.

Cliffmac: yes it has run (well) from the moment I bought it; sorry to leave out that detail, although I would have not been considering timing chain as a first option for a non-operational vehicle!

I have never done it, but with both my project cars EVERY attempt at being an MB mechanic is a first!

I work for AMF. We operate 310 bowling alleys in the US and Mexico. I've been with them for 28 years; 20 years in the US as (now) head of construction and facilities management; but before that, in 1977, I started as a bowling alley mechanic in Australia. I am not afraid of new technical challenges and I believe I have the aptitude.

I was not able to find a complete DIY description on multiple searches; and got a bit scared and decided to ask first. Thanks for your link wbain5280...

The car runs and actually runs quite well, given the PO was a filthy cretin who couldn't give a crap about it; I have achieved so many positive improvements to it that even my wife has changed her mind about the car. I couldn't list the upgrades; most of which I have forgotten. Needless to say that original $1,000 has been amended by about another 4 grand so far - it will never be a profitable endeavor but that isn't the point. I cannot claim to be a W126 expert, but I am getting better at it every day, and I love the learning experience.

I am with you dhjenkins - the investment in time, effort, sweat, tears, heartache and muscle cramps (I'm in my mid-50's so yes muscles are not so forgiving these days!), is absolutely worth it and you have to forget the sunk cost.

These are just nice cars to drive; especially when you've done a brake job and your car stops at the traffic light; a silent fist pump in the air is something visceral, personal and rewarding and a) it doesn't matter how cheap the acquisition price was, b) it doesn't matter what the investment has been, and most importantly (at least in my conversations with my wife), c) it doesn't matter that there is no return on investment calculation that makes financial sense; it's a project, and it's fun! I am very lucky; I have a wife that truly understands that. It is my birthday tomorrow and although sadly it has not arrived on time, she bought me back passenger footrests I found in the correct color (Brazil Brown) BECAUSE even though it's a 560SEL accessory (and wasn't offered in the 420SEL, to my knowledge), it will be cool to have.

I really appreciate the encouragement to make this a DIY project; I am actually keen to do it myself. I am also prepared to purchase the necessary tools if I don't have the right ones.