JohnyT

I have a 2005 W203 C230K with 92,000 miles. I recently learned, through the forum, that the timing chain stretches on the M271 engine and that I should change it in order to avoid engine damage. While searching FCP Euro, I noticed that they have two timing chain kits, one that includes the Balance Shaft Chain & Balance Shaft Tensioner and another kit that does not include those parts and just comes with the Timing Chain, Timing Chain Tensioner, Left Guide Rail, Right Guide Rail, Upper Guide Rail, so my questions are:

Am I correct in thinking that I should get the timing chain changed asap?
Should I go ahead and buy a kit that includes the tensioners and rails or is just the chain enough?
When doing the chain, should I also change the Balance Shaft Chain & Balance Shaft Tensioner?
Does the engine need to come out to do the Balance Shaft Chain & Balance Shaft Tensioner like with the M272 engine?

I searched and have not found an answer to these questions.

Thanks

Gforce007

Johny, engine coming out is likely. Big labour costs on timing chain replacement. But like many here say, do you need to? Old thread but either way, Good luck bro.

slammer111

Super old thread, but who knows at this point.

In theory everything wears, but interestingly enough I haven't seen anybody here have a balance shaft chain failure on a M271. It's always the timing chain.

Most chains wear because of lack of lubrication. The big question then becomes why this happens. In this regard I haven't been able to spot a pattern. Some people say that not having enough oil accelerates wear. Others say that using the wrong grade of oil or waiting too long between intervals are the cause.

Personally I'm still on the original chain, at 252k km. All I know is I stick to the 15k intervals, and only use MB approved oil. I also add 1L whenever the car tells me to, which is every 2500km or so. So the oil is somewhat replacing itself just by regular driving.

C230 Sport Coup

Lots of threads about stretched chains eating gears, messing up timing, carbons the valves and burns them.
Many people recommend replacement at 100K miles.
Personally I would do it. Check the compression 1st make sure you don't already have damage.
If you do try seafoam and then do it again.
So I've heard. Actually suggested this to someone and they
increased their compression from doing this.
I don't know you've gotten this far without a problem Slammer.
You and that prison guard guy from Texas but then his car got wrecked sadly.
BTW- We are both at same mileage but different engines.
PS- I never heard of anyone replacing a balance shaft chain on a M271 but then they typically don't last long enough to fail
I suppose. Slammer is lucky!