On the wrenches, the other writer was correct. Get some cheap open-end
wrenches (14 or 15mm? I think), put the open end in a vise, heat it with
a torch about 1 inch above the working part, bend it 45 deg, then heat
it again about 2 in beyond that and bend it back the other way so it is
parallel to the working end. I got a couple at HF, made in India (from
recycled ships or something, no doubt), for $3 or so for a set of 5 -- I
got two sets and use the othersin the set for beating on things. These
are functionally indistinguishable from the $100 sets. You will need to
buy the feeler gauges, not very expensive though, Sears or auto parts
store. There is another tool called out to hold the big washer at the
bottom from turning, you can use a screwdriver slid in there if it does
turn.
The chain stretch is readily apparent when you have the valve cover off,
and the cam gear cleaned off a bit at the front where the chain is, so
you can see the mark. Also clean the engine well so you can see the
timing marks on the damper (is that the damper?) down below. I had to
use a brush on mine with some degreaser to get the grime off so I could
see the marks.
It's pretty easy to do -- the hardest part is getting the throttle
linkage stuff off so you can get the valve cover off. That takes a
couple of allen wrenches in tight places and prying the balls/sockets,
and a screw or two. Not hard, just fiddly. Oh, and you might want to
replace the valve cover gasket while you're at it. I think you are
supposed to when it comes off, but don't really have to do that.
It is not a hard job, and a good satisfaction-feeler when done. Wimpier
"guys" in the neighborhood will be amazed when they see you working on
an engine with the guts exposed, and will feel compelled to rush home to
reply to those emails we all get.
--R
Levi Smith wrote:
OK, so I haven't yet decided on whether I'm going to attempt the valve
adjustment on my 83' 300D myself or hope I can find someone who knows
what they're doing. If I decide to go that route, it sounds further
complicated since from what I recall the engine is supposed to be cold
as in "let to sit overnight".
Either way, I know it's been discussed before, but I can't seem to find
the references. Where's the best/cheapest place to get the valve
adjustment tools? Or wouldn't I really need them? I didn't see them
listed at buymbparts. I think I saw a set on ebay but for $100. I was
thinking someone said you could get them for more like $50...
Also on the subject of tools... How important is the glow plug reamer,
and what's the best place to get one?
And I keep hearing about the timing chain stretch. If I do the valves
myself, is it quite easy to measure the stretch at that time? Or do I
still need to dig deeper or disconnect the chain or some such thing to
measure it?
And I got a couple cans of diesel purge. Is this best done at idle, or
should I try to rig it up so I can drive around with it?
And on the same lines, does it make much difference what order I do the
valve adjustment/diesel purge?
Thanks!
Levi
Might be getting time to wake the 83' 300D from it's winter slumber...
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