[W126 Coupe] Camshaft replacement

[Mike R.]

I use some 1/16" nylon line tied onto the timing chain to make sure I can 
get it back. I thread the line through the master link hole in the end of 
the timing chain, then toss the chain into the engine to get it out of the 
way, do my work on top, then pull it back out. Saves everyone around me from 
learning five new words and a dance step once I realize the chain is out of 
reach inside the engine.

If the timing chain is loose, and you're that far in the engine, it's very 
likely time to do the upper chain guides as well.

Later,
Mike Ramay

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Pete Williams" <hwilliamsjr2 at cox.net>
To: "'Mercedes Coupes Mailing Lists'" <mbcoupes at mbcoupes.com>
Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2008 4:48 AM
Subject: Re: [W126 Coupe] Camshaft replacement



> Andy,

> Cam timing marks are already there. There is a lot more "magic" involved. 

> At

> least two special tools, spring compressor and offset hex head wrench. 

> Don't

> try to just get by. There is the danger of the threads coming out with the

> bolts. Half of the bolts go into the head, half are head bolts entering 

> the

> block at approximately 1-1/2 degrees off perpendicular. Get all new 

> rockers.

> You'll need at least an oiler kit, very inexpensive. It'll be a good time

> for a timing chain and tensioner if they haven't been replaced in recent

> memory. If you do end up with tread problems, then you'll have to be a

> magician to master all of the "magic" involved. Make sure no washers, 

> bolts,

> master links, or loose timing chain ends fall into the engine where the

> timing chains enter. Remove the plugs for easy engine rotation. In case 

> the

> chain jumps on the other head, it's best to remove all of the rockers. If

> you do decide to do it yourself, there are a lot more "tricks" involved 

> but

> there are a lot of magicians on this forum to help you. It's all possible

> and can be very rewarding, but there can be a lot of frustration too.

> Good luck,

> Pete Williams

> 1972 350SL 4.5

> 1983 500 SEC AMG

> 1984 500 SEL (parts)

> MBCA, Central Oklahoma Section

>

> -----Original Message-----

> From: mbcoupes-bounces at mbcoupes.com [mailto:mbcoupes-bounces at mbcoupes.com]

> On Behalf Of Andrew Sporner

> Sent: Tuesday, June 24, 2008 2:54 AM

> To: Mercedes Coupes Mailing Lists

> Subject: [W126 Coupe] Camshaft replacement

>

> I am told that the right camshaft needs to be eventually replaced

> (makes a clacking sound when the motor is cold and their are grooves

> on one of the cams)  They tell me that the car can go up to 50K Kilometers

> more without problems -- or die next week.

>

> Can anybody suggest the level of difficulty.  I am not foreign to working

> on cars (rebuilt the motor on my 1976 Ford mustang -- though admittedly

> I sent the top-head away to get remachined).

>

> I suppose you just have to mark the gears on the timing chain and just

> replace?  Or is there more magic involved?

>

> Andy

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>

>

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