Exactly what parts/tools do I need to do chain/rails/tensioner on '86 420SEL?

[WANT '71 280SEL]

We will be purchasing an '86 420SEL with 190k mile son it tomorrow. It is rather inexpensive. (Yes, I know the pitfalls). What gaskets and what chain would it be? If it is original won't it be single row? What guide rails do I need? How about gaskets? Could someone please post a picture of the tool they use to remove the guide rail pins? I have read about a bolt and stack washer method. but, could someone please post a pic of the tool or especially while being used?
Thanks
David

[porkface]

http://tech.bentleypublishers.com/thread.jspa?threadID=6293&tstart=0


try this thread, i posted it for someone else. sorry, no pictures for the tool.

if the chain broke, this will cover it. if not, you will be off pretty cheap.

you do not pull the cover unless the chain broke and the rails INSIDE the cover need to be replaced. at this mileage and if the engine is out, this might be a good idea. at about 300k, they will be the next rails to fail.

the single run chains were early 380s only, and at your mileage, i seriously doubt the chain you see now is original. 100-125k seems to be the limit. good luck, chuck.

[Jim Dandy]

Buy a membership here. He covers beaucoup maintenance and repair subjects on your engine. Very informative, with good pictures and commentary.

[MikeTangas]

You'll need the chain, one rail in the right head, the two rails in the left head, a tensioner and a set of valve cover seals. Some purchase new guide rail pins ( a good idea because sometimes they get buggered up). Might be a good time to replace all the V-belts since you have tp pull the accessories.

The chain is a double row chain, only the 380, pre 85, (I think) had the single row. The order menu at FastLane tells you how many of each rail you need, if I recall correctly (2 long and 1 short, I think).

No pictures of the pin puller, sorry

[WANT '71 280SEL]

So I am buying quantity 3 of the same rail? I think that is what fastlane says. they say that there are 2 on left head and one on right head. I may have the side (left/right) mixed up.
Thanks for the quick responses.
David

[engatwork]

Homemade tool pic attached.

Make doggone sure that piece of allthread is screwed all the way down into the pin.

[WANT '71 280SEL]

Exactly what uis that tool made of? How do I make it and use it?
Thanks
David

[engatwork]

David,
It is a piece of allthread rod that will screw down into the pin. I do not know the thread size right off the top of my head. The "nut" is a homemade nut made from a piece of key stock. The nut has to have more thread contact than a conventional nut of the appropriate size. The socket is obviously a deep socket sized there the pin can go up inside of it while it is being pulled out. Put a flat washer between the nut and the socket.

[greenacres2]

Thread size for the puller is M6, 1.0 pitch. Another "while you're in there" job might be valve guide seals. Would add 2 or 3 hours but could be well worth it. If you do the seals, order the cam oiler tubes and connectors, as they may not survive the changing of the seals. Good luck