Merc 300TE 1989

[murray]

Hi I have a 1989 300 TE I was driving along the other day and the timing chain snapped.

Does anyone know would it have done damage to the valves and pistons? I dont want to take the head off if its not required.

alternativly does anyone have a engine for a 300 TE that they have for sale?

I have been offered a V8 from an E class does any one know if it will fit the auto box from the 300?


Many thanks

Murray

 

[Chazchuzzlewitt]

I don't think the V8 will bolt-on or fit properly. If you want a new engine try a merc breaker like Mercman in southampton or Mercland in trowbridge.

 

[flagstaff]

in my opinion, it would be madness to replace the chain and hope for the best. even if you were travelling at a relatively slow speed when the chain went, it's more than likely that one or more of the pistons contacted an open valve. a ding in the piston crown is not so much the problem as a bent valve stem and/or guide; but that's not to say that a conrod wouldn't have got bent out of shape also. either way, the best plan would be to drop a known working motor in there. as regards putting in a V8: it will physically fit in the engine bay, obviously, and the bell housing of the gearbox will also be compatible - but you will have problems with the steering box and a couple of other components. these problems were enough to dissuade MB from fitting the V8 motors to the RHD W124 chassis.

 

[paulcallender]

Basically, what murray is asking is: is this engine a safe or unsafe one, ie do the valves contact the pistons, if the timing goes? Most engines these days are unsafe. I don't know exactly if this one is or not; but I've heard stories where people with unsafe engines and broken timing have been lucky.

The way to check, would be to slowly turn the engine over, on a bar, with the plugs out, and see if there's any unusually high resistance, etc. Then if all goes well, take off the head and physically inspect for damage, eg to piston crowns and valves. Any contact should be obvious.

 

[murray]

300 TE timing chain

I have taken the head off and found the only damage it 2 bent valves.

Does anyone know if the head bolts are re usable or not? as a lot of engines have stretch bolts on the head.
Does anyone know what the head shoud be torqued down to when I re fit it.
and finaly does anyone know how to set up the timing? there does not apear to be any timing marks on the case!

many thanks

Murray