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Split Timing Chain

micky13

Member
Joined
Oct 19, 2014
Messages
52
Location
Gillingham Kent UK
Car
C280 w202 and 280S w108 A class w169
Just picked up my new timing chain for A Class. But it is a split chain. Do I really need a special tool to fit the link or can I fit it with a couple of moles. [ not the garden type ]. or if anyone in UK has one they would be willing to loan would be more than happy to pay postage and a drink etc.
 
Didn't it come with the extra link? It is split to facilitate fitting without having to dismantle the front of the engine.
 
Hi Marku, Thanks for your reply it came with the link and the other side plate that the pins fit through. But there is no master clip as there are no grooves to facilitate it. So is it just a push on job with a mole or pliers. Or will I also have to flare out the end of the pins with a punch so it does not come apart. Any suggestions would be much appreciated. The engine is out as I had to replace the Timing Cover as the chain had rubbed a hole in it. { Prior to my obtaining the car } thanks for your time. mick
 
The correct way of doing this is with a chain rivet tool. A mole grip will not peen the end over properly. There’s not a lot of sideways load/movement on the pins in a chain but you don’t want it coming loose nor a stiff link. I have seen timing chains which use E-clips on the links but I’ve never been keen on those although they’re obviously easier to fit.

If you really can’t get a riveting tool you’ll have to peen the end over carefully with a metal block and a suitable hammer. If you know what you’re doing it should work. Check your work very very carefully - maybe use a magnifying glass or zoom in on a picture to make sure the head of the pin is mushroomed out well and then link moves freely. Bearing in mind you’ve got the timing cover removed though it’s a pity you couldn’t get an endless chain!

Good luck :cool:
 
Motorcycle chains used to have this arrangement also (at least they did when the chain was central). Maybe then, motorcycle vendors are a better source for a riveting tool than MB (if MB over-priced) and the chain sizes are close enough.
 
Hi Marku, Thanks for your reply it came with the link and the other side plate that the pins fit through. But there is no master clip as there are no grooves to facilitate it. So is it just a push on job with a mole or pliers. Or will I also have to flare out the end of the pins with a punch so it does not come apart. Any suggestions would be much appreciated. The engine is out as I had to replace the Timing Cover as the chain had rubbed a hole in it. { Prior to my obtaining the car } thanks for your time. mick
Surprised at that when I replaced the chain (genuine MB part) on my 450 it came with a master link and clip and was quite easy to fit.
 
I have fitted new chains with a split link before must make sure you fit the split link facing in the direction of engine rotation so cannot come undone, not a problem even done them with engine in situ in car and pulled the new chain through the engine by turning it over from crankshaft then connect chain with link,
 
The correct way of doing this is with a chain rivet tool. A mole grip will not peen the end over properly. There’s not a lot of sideways load/movement on the pins in a chain but you don’t want it coming loose nor a stiff link. I have seen timing chains which use E-clips on the links but I’ve never been keen on those although they’re obviously easier to fit.

If you really can’t get a riveting tool you’ll have to peen the end over carefully with a metal block and a suitable hammer. If you know what you’re doing it should work. Check your work very very carefully - maybe use a magnifying glass or zoom in on a picture to make sure the head of the pin is mushroomed out well and then link moves freely. Bearing in mind you’ve got the timing cover removed though it’s a pity you couldn’t get an endless chain!

Good luck :cool:
Yes I Know but I rang the dealer up and they said only supply split chain for this model. Think I may now have found someone with a tool to do the job so keep fingers crossed. Thanks again. mick
 

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