C36 AMG, C43 AMG (W202) 1995 - 2000

C43 Timing Chains?

Old Jun 14, 2011 | 12:37 AM
  #1  
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99 C43 ///AMG
C43 Timing Chains?

Hey guys, whats the story with timing chains on the C43s I hear they are "lifetime"? Ive dealt with a snapped timing chain on a Benz V8 before (old 380 crapola) so just wondering about the C43 I have now with approx 90k on it.

Only symptoms of "sound" I hear now is when its cold, there is a tapping sound coming from the engine for about 3 mins and then it fades away as this "part" get its lubrication from the oil finally. Father says it could need a new timing chain tensioner and the chain is possibly slapping? Sounds iffy and scary.



Im going to the shop this weekend however want to know some opinions. Car is otherwise doing fine.

Thanks!
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Old Jun 14, 2011 | 01:33 AM
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1999 C43, 2008 P30 E63, 2014 SQ5, 2024 Model Y Performance
Originally Posted by Benzonline
Hey guys, whats the story with timing chains on the C43s I hear they are "lifetime"? Ive dealt with a snapped timing chain on a Benz V8 before (old 380 crapola) so just wondering about the C43 I have now with approx 90k on it.

Only symptoms of "sound" I hear now is when its cold, there is a tapping sound coming from the engine for about 3 mins and then it fades away as this "part" get its lubrication from the oil finally. Father says it could need a new timing chain tensioner and the chain is possibly slapping? Sounds iffy and scary.



Im going to the shop this weekend however want to know some opinions. Car is otherwise doing fine.

Thanks!
I checked the WIS and it didn't mention anything about having a certain mileage/amount of time that the chain needed to be replaced at. I did find the WIS instructions on how to replace the chain if you are interested...
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Old Jun 14, 2011 | 02:50 AM
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I'd replace if there is any doubt in your mind. The thought of valves kissing piston heads is not very appealing.
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Old Jun 14, 2011 | 03:56 AM
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c43's might have problems with their timing chains if them cars are high mileage.
You'll hear some rattling from the chain, also it gets slacked.
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Old Jun 14, 2011 | 09:47 AM
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Problem is, I dont have high mileage and what is this valve like tapping sound upon cold startup for 3 mins?
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Old Jun 15, 2011 | 01:13 AM
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That noise is typically from the purge valve. On a CLK it's located up front near the ABS spider's nest. The purge valve is labeled MOT. I know I've posted photos of where it is before, but I have no idea what forum or even which website. A search on "MOT tapping" may reveal a photo.
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Old Jun 15, 2011 | 01:49 AM
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I recognize purge valve noise. Thats different. This is more like a valve knocking type sound for 3 mins.
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Old Jun 15, 2011 | 04:36 AM
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Originally Posted by Benzonline
Problem is, I dont have high mileage and what is this valve like tapping sound upon cold startup for 3 mins?
Could be the lifters tapping until filled with oil. What type of oil are you using? Could also be the oil used is too heavy on cold start ups.
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Old Jun 15, 2011 | 09:46 AM
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Benzonline's Avatar
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Mobil 1 0w-40.

Forget it guys ill have it figured out.
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Old Jan 2, 2014 | 10:14 AM
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Originally Posted by Benzonline
Mobil 1 0w-40.

Forget it guys ill have it figured out.
Strong bump
So WHAT was it?
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Old Feb 2, 2023 | 07:09 PM
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Originally Posted by 503C43 ////AMG
I checked the WIS and it didn't mention anything about having a certain mileage/amount of time that the chain needed to be replaced at. I did find the WIS instructions on how to replace the chain if you are interested...
Yes, can you please put in the instructions. I have a 17 C43 with 54k miles on it and local garage is telling me tensioner needs replaced and most likely timing chain. I have the same rattle at start last about 5 seconds. However I have the P0016 code as well. I'm trying to find more info on how to change the timing chain and specific tools needed. The Mercedes dealer is rough quoting $6k to $9k
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Old Feb 4, 2023 | 04:39 PM
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Originally Posted by Badams
Yes, can you please put in the instructions. I have a 17 C43 with 54k miles on it and local garage is telling me tensioner needs replaced and most likely timing chain. I have the same rattle at start last about 5 seconds. However I have the P0016 code as well. I'm trying to find more info on how to change the timing chain and specific tools needed. The Mercedes dealer is rough quoting $6k to $9k
This is the W202 C43 section. The WIS I have doesn't include vehicles from 2017. Check the other C43 forum
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