How to replace timing chain tensioner on Mercedes W124?
Begin by installing a new washer (yellow arrow) and the tensioner housing (red arrow) back into the engine and torqueing to spec. Next install the thrust pin (yellow arrow) and detent spring or clip (red arrow) into the tensioner housing. Then install the spring (green arrow).
Do you have to reinstall timing chain tensioner?
The tensioner is oil pressure fed and once removed from the motor must be reinstalled in a very particular order. Never just remove it and stick it back in, you may end up with the improper tension on the chain which can lead to catastrophic damage to the motor.
How to renew the chain in a Mercedes Benz?
The plastic chain guides, sprockets, pins, tensioner and chain can all be renewed through the valve covers, leaving the engine in place. Here is a simple step by step showing my first time through the process that hopefully shows you can do it without error. Loading…
Begin by installing a new washer (yellow arrow) and the tensioner housing (red arrow) back into the engine and torqueing to spec. Next install the thrust pin (yellow arrow) and detent spring or clip (red arrow) into the tensioner housing. Then install the spring (green arrow).
When do I need to replace my timing chain?
Hearing a harsh noise on startup, worn or discolored chain guides, squealing tensioners and a rough-running engine are all signs of needing a timing chain replacement. All the symptoms listed above point to a worn timing chain. Our technicians will recognize faulty sounds, oil contamination and others right away.
Can a worn out timing chain cause an oil leak?
A worn-out timing chain can leave small, broken pieces in the oil pan, which you may notice when draining your Mercedes’ oil. If metal shavings drip out, it can be an indication of a failing timing chain. Metal shavings are also an excellent warning of worn-out keepers, cylinder head valves, retainers and other hardware.
The tensioner is oil pressure fed and once removed from the motor must be reinstalled in a very particular order. Never just remove it and stick it back in, you may end up with the improper tension on the chain which can lead to catastrophic damage to the motor.
How is the M104 engine set at TDC?
The M104 engine is a contact motor, which means if the timing between the cams and pistons (via the crank) are off you will do serious if not terminal damage to the motor. The motor needs to make two full rotations to complete a cycle. This means the zeroes on the dampener can line up 180 degrees off of TDC.
How to time Mercedes Benz W124 engine at TDC?
To time the cams at TDC install a small Allen key into the hole in the back of the sprocket and it will lie flat on the head by the cam journals (red arrow) when at TDC. Need to buy parts for this project? Click here to order!
When to replace the idler pulley on a Mercedes Benz?
Get rid of that squealing idler pulley by replacing it with a new one. This article will show you how. A rough idling engine can be a sign of a dirty or broken resonance valve, check or replace yours with the help from this article. Fraying your belt? It could be time to replace your belt tensioner
Where is the tensioner located on the engine block?
The timing chain tensioner is located on the front right side of the engine block (red arrow). This photo illustrates where the tensioners thrust pin makes contact with the chain rail and holds it in position (yellow arrow). Note the chain housing cover is off only for illustration purposes; you do NOT need to remove it.