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1983 Mercedes 380SL           

Regarding whether the single timing chain in some 380SL's should be retrofitted with dual timing chains, I contacted MBA and received the following email from Mercedes support:

 MERCEDES STATEMENT START:

"...all we are saying is that it is impossible to predict timing chain failure. There are too many variables (age, mileage, usage, driving conditions, etc.), and because of this we do not provide a listing, or recommended mileage for replacement. We now only provide a double-rolling chain because we used it on the new 6 and 8 cylinder engines after 1985. Because it is retrofittable for the previous engines, why supply both? It is simply an evolution of parts. We don't feel the single rolling chain is a "time bomb", it was a very effective design, and yes many have lasted (according to owner reports) in excess of 200,000 miles." 

MERCEDES STATEMENT END 

SO regarding my 1983 380SL with the single timing chain, Mercedes is telling me not to worry!! 

But, do I believe Mercedes?

Its not that simple, and it appears Mercedes has not provided the definitive answer on this subject.  

Its not a matter of simply replacing the single timing chain with a double timing chain - instead you have to convert the engine sprockets, guides, etc so it will work with the double timing chain -- a very expensive conversion and for some 380SL's that costs more than the car is worth.

Further conversation with Mercedes is that Mercedes says to not convert the engine to double timing chain until you have to open up the engine for some other reason - when is that - timing chain failure and the engine blows??  Mercedes has said to stop replacing timing chains with the single timing chain, and Mercedes also has decided to no longer supply single timing chains.  In effect, Mercedes is not making it possible to maintain an engine by replacing single timing chains with new single timing chains - the only path is an EXPENSIVE CONVERSION so the engine will accept double timing chains.

I smell something awful here and I suspect Mercedes knows that there is a reliability issue with the single timing chain.

I keep thinking back to that statement in my owners manual:  "You have chosen to drive a MERCEDES-BENZ, a car in whose construction and production we have taken great pains because we believe that quality is not a matter of chance."

This is what other experts say about Mercedes infamous single timing chain - Click Here

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