Self-adjusting valves
 

Techs and mechanical gurus,

I'd like to know whether MB cars have self adjusting valves or not. When did this technology became mainstream? Which car makers have it? Any input would be greatly appreciated.


-Thanks,
Vu

Most MB gasoline engines have had "self-adjusting" valves for a long time. All of my gasoline MB's have had hydraulic lifters that automatically compensate for wear.

Most diesels have valves that require adjustment.

MB started using hydraulic compensators on the V8 in 1974.
The 6 cyl didn't see the hydraulics until the debut of the 103 engine.
The 4 cyl in the 190E was the first 4 cyl to use hydraulics also.
And the 60X series diesels were the first diesels to use the hydraulic elements. This info is for the US.
With the exception of exotic sports cars I would dare to say that practically all car manufacturers use some type of hydraulic compensating.

A lot of Honda products require valve adjusting. I might be wrong, but I think even late model Hondas do.

NO big deal but the 450s starting in 1976 were the first MB V-8s with hydraulic lifters. The last MB in the US that needed valve adjustment was the 1987 190E 2.3 16V engine.