interference engine

[ryates]

Can someone tell me if an '87 300SDL has an interference engine. ie... If the timing chain breaks, does it damage the valves?

[janko]

most certainly an 'interference' engine.

[Jim Anderson]

All diesels are interference engines.

[blackmercedes]

I haven't heard of a Mercedes engine that is not. The gasser M116, M117, M119, M102, M103, M104, M111, M112 and M113's are all. I think all the 603 and 606 diesels are too.

[ILUVMILS]

If the chain breaks on a 603 it'll damage more than the valves. I've seen plenty 603's with broken camshafts, cracked pistons and even bent connecting rods as a result of failed chains. When in doubt, throw it out.