C240 Tappet Replacement

[ben@benjaminhawkins.orang]

Hi Just wondering if anyone can advise about carrying out tappet replacement on 1997 2.4 v6.
I am quite handy but just dont know what is lurking under the cam covers on this lump and if i can do the job without removing the cams......

 

[Uncle Benz]

You can remove the rocker shafts without disturbing the cams, but I would recommend relaxing the timing chain tensioner first, as it tends to try to lift the tail ends of the cams up if you don't. You will hate me for this, as you will have to remove the alternator to get at it. You will need a 2mm drift through the tiny hole in the rocker arm to push the hydraulic lifter out. There is a tiny shim in there too, which must go back in as removed, so pay attention!!

 

[ben@benjaminhawkins.orang]

Thanks for that. Is the tensioner located near the alternator? I am keen to do the job with maximum knowledge but as this engine is not covered by haynes i have no diagrams but dont want to dismantle anything i dont have to searching for things!
I have just replaced the heat exchanger which had been letting coolant into the oil and i think this has lead to the top end getting a bit gunky. so far no let up with the hydraulic noise so think new tappets are the only option.

 

[Uncle Benz]

It is hidden away. Remove the alternator and it will be revealed. Maybe worth trying a good engine flush first. I have always favoured Comma flushing oil rather than these tip-in-a-tin jobbies.

 

[ben@benjaminhawkins.orang]

Thanks Uncle Benz.
I read an article on antifreeze in oil last night which explained that although the water in the antifreeze evaporates, the glycol combines with oil and sets into hard deposits when cold and jams the filter up(if youre lucky) so new filter and oil this morning and purring like a kitten!
Probably an obvious fix but not being fully aware I was reluctant to shell out the 50+ quid to do it and then get no result, as I only did this 6 weeks ago,with a tip in flush which I am sure finished off the oil seals in the heat exchanger. I saw the comma oil recently in my local parts shop and wondered if it was perhaps less abrasive than the small bottle flushes?
anyway thanks for your help-this forum is a priceless resource thanks to people like you.
Cheers