Timing Chain and Auto Gearbox Service Questions

[Japtastic]

Hi

I have a CLK 230K which I assume has a timing chain but I can't seem to find out when it's supposed to be changed, can any one tell me?

Also chain guides have been mentioned when do they get changed.

Another service question that I can't seem to find is when the auto box fluid should be changed...

Many thanks for reading, hope you can help

Cheers

Stewart

 

[Stratman]

It does have a timing chain but they're not on the service schedule. I don't know about the guides. The auto box is 'sealed for life' say Mercedes and the fluid 'never needs changing'. Many owners on here take their pride and joy to an independent garage and have it changed anyway at around the 60k-90k mark. Be warned, the fluid isn't cheap and it's a very expensive false economy to use the wrong stuff.

 

[Ian B Walker]

The guides in question? To change them requires nearly a total strip down of the front of the engine, not a nice job insofar as cost goes. However I have yet to change a set on a service. They are nigh on wear resistant.

 

[Japtastic]

Well that's good news then, two things that I don't have to bother doing!

This makes the CLK a very easy car to maintain and service.

 

[GazCaff]

Well that's good news then, two things that I don't have to bother doing!

This makes the CLK a very easy car to maintain and service.

I won't be alone in recommending getting the transmission oil done every 60-70k or so though.

 

[Dieselman]

And the chain at 150K along with the main tensioner guide.

 

[Japtastic]

Ok worth thinking about doing the auto transmission then as the car has just passed 110,000, any idea how they seal the unit as mentioned above?

 

[Dieselman]

It's not sealed and isn't sealed for life...

Initially MB said the fluid was filled for life due to using synthetic fluid. In reality this is a marketing gimmick to reduce the service costs while the vehicle is in initial lease period and warranty.

Do a search there are threads on draining and refilling the autobox. It's as simple as drain the box and torque converter (if possible) change the filter and bottom gasket, then refil with 7.5 litres of new ATF.

At 110k miles you are well past a change, 60K is about as long as you should leave it.

 

[Ian B Walker]

Be advised that the ATF to use for a 5 speed box is, Mb spec, 3353. Dexron 2 or 3 will kill your box. This oil is about £8.50 a ltr

 

[recycled]

Is there anyone here on this forum who has had a timing chain problem or breakage/snapping. Can you let us know any symptoms to look out for? Not that i am trying to cash in on your misfortune.

 

[Ian B Walker]

yes I have had a timing chain snap on me. No unusual noise then but the cries after when 4 valves, new head gasket and a machined head were paid for, lets not go there again

 

[Dieselman]

yes I have had a timing chain snap on me. No unusual noise then but the cries after when 4 valves, new head gasket and a machined head were paid for, lets not go there again

What mileage Ian.
I know someone who sold an E220 with about 180k and a year or so later it let go.

 

[Ian B Walker]

What mileage Ian.
I know someone who sold an E220 with about 180k and a year or so later it let go.

It went at 115k

 

[Dieselman]

It went at 115k

Oohh, a bit early.