I am in the process of doing all of the usual maintenance one needs to do to a used car after purchasing it. What about the timing chain? I have a 94’ E420 with 106k miles on it. Is this something I should be looking at replacing soon or just wait till it takes a dump on me?
So far, I have changed ALL of the fluids, filters, belt, hoses that needed it, checked suspension bushings, etc. I have new brakes and rotors for my next weekend project. Anything else I should look at?
hmm, I haven't had to do this yet, but if you have to remove both valve covers, this might be a risk if you haven't changed your wiring harness. All that movement might cause problems. On my 108 changing the chain can be a breeze just cut, connect the new to the old and turn the engine by hand whilst another person holds the chain. I hope our m119's are as easy, but i doubt it.
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::Familie von Mercedes::
'00 German Sheperd ("Hans")
'89 300 TE 117k
'92 400E (killed in action)
'68 280 SE/8 (High School Sweetheart)
'95 E320 (mother's)
'60 190D (dad's new project)
'05 A6 Allroad 2.7t (dad's ride)
'84 190E (sold)
'90 300CE (brother's)
Changing the timing chain on a m119 engine is a much more expensive and involved venture. As you will see when you search this forum or other MB forums for more information regarding this matter, there are various schools of thought about "when to change" the timing chain on a M119. If you are concerned, you should have your mechanic measure for chain stretch. (Assuming no one has already replaced the chain tensioner.) The M119 uses a double row chain, but the chain length is quite long. The upper chain guide rails will get brittle over time and crumble. When the covers are removed to check chain stretch, have the upper guild rails checked.
Timing chain on a M119 is definitely a job best left to a pro MBZ tech. Factory literature clearly states that this is not a do it yourself job. My 92 M119 has 205K on original chain. Chain stretch should not be worried about until it starts making the noise from the tensioner not being able to compensate for stretch anymore. Ignition components are critical to maintain. Also use a high quality lubricant such as Mobil 1 15W 50 with a factory O.E. filter. These engines tend to run a little warm and need all the protection they can get. Don't be concerned with the 106K miles, That is still low mileage for an M119. Also, do not neglect the cooling system. Make sure and drain both sides of the block along with the radiator. USE FACTORY APPROVED FLUIDS ONLY. There is a good reason for this.
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