I have recently been told that I need to change the Transmission Chain in my S320. In fairness she has done 175,000 miles. Which I understand is way over the recommended amount. However my question is should I change the gaskets,seals when the job is being done. As I understand it is a big job, and probably worth doing?. Well this is what I am told.

 

There is no such part as a transmission chain.

Could you clarify what you were told?

 

Hi thanks for your help firstly. Apparently it is the timing chain. Somewhere along the line as I am based in the Ukraine, I was mistranslated the part by the locals. So my friend recommends that I change the gaskets while its being done?. Incidentally I have noticed that when she is jacked up, she sinks in the front. And only after repeated efforts does she rise?. Could it be the struts?. As they have never been changed. Is there a way of checking the struts?. I mean from observation or by having them handchecked by a mechanic. As over here they simply dont have the technology to check them. I have already spent around the current value of the car on its rennovation in the past few weeks, and labour over here is ludicrously cheap. Just out of interest 200$ for 24 hours!. So I am onto a winner in terms of labour. Thanks once again for your help its the only light at the tunnel my end)) bar from the labour charges

 

There is no service inteval for the timing chain, as far as I know. But all parts do wear out. Timing chain/belt is a critical item and usually is replaced along with the water pump at the same time due to proximity of the two parts.

I would guess that this is not a cheap item to replace.

 

Timing chain should last the life of the car. Only needs replacement if its broken or if you have a really messed up tensioner/guide.

 

wow I would kill for $8/hour labor charges!