If it ain't broke, don't mend it.

[mikeruse]

Hi all,
I'm not normally a ditherer but I just can't make my mind up on this one. I need some common sense advice.
The background....I've been running a late '85 380 SEL for about four years now, which was originally a temporary replacement for a 560 which drowned in a flood. As it turns out, it is probably the best Merc I've ever had and I've had nothing else since the early 80's. Its got 360,000 Km on the clock - about 220,000 miles.
The problem....its burning oil and I suspect the valve guides: I intend to rectify this problem using my local Merc dealer here in Northern Spain. However, do I also go for the Timing Chain at the same time? How likely is it that this will give me problems if I don't replace it soon? I've heard a lot of horror stories but it always seems to have happened to a friend of a friend of a friend.
I am a great believer in preventitive maintenance but this is a very expensive fix even at the fairly reasonable Merc dealer rates in Spain.
Is it time to grasp the nettle?

 

[dave e]

Mike.

In my opinion, if you are going to the expense of having new guide seals fitted, then why not have a new chain at the same time, especially given the mileage.

 

[Andy]

Hi

While the cylinder head is off it is often prudent to replace the chain as its a small job while the cylinder heads are removed.


Regards

Andy @ www.mercedesservicing.com

 

[mikeruse]

Thanks guys,

Based on your responses it would be foolish not to go ahead and do the Chain. That makes me feel better as I suppose I knew it had to be done, but just needed someone to tell me to get on with it.
I'm going to have a quick look to see if I can replace the car before I go for it - I'll be making a posting in the General part of the Forum to see if there's a reasonable LHD S Class out there for me.
If you guys are passing anywhere near Galicia in the next six months or so, drop me a line on mike@ruse.org.uk and we'll have a beer.

Thanks again.

Mike