Timing Chain replacement costs?

[embe560sl]

Hi Guys,
1989 560sl 105,000 miles.
I am thinking of getting the timing chain changed, tensioner, rail guides upper and lower, camshaft oiler kit, valve cover gaskets....the lot. Anybody had this done by an indi? Parts are not that expensive around $300 but how much labour time is needed to do the job? what do you you think I should expect to shell out? Any input is greatly appreciated.

[rowdie]

Upper guides, tensioner, chain, cam sprockets, and oiler tube fittings. 1K + -.
Lower guides are major surgery. Pull engine or front subframe to remove timing chain cover. Another 2K+.

[metavenue]

I just got two quotes for this from two separate independent mechanics.

One quoted 1100 approx including parts
Another quoted 550 in labor plus parts which would probably be at least 450 (including markup...)

So 1K+ sounds right

I think you could probably find a bit cheaper, especially if you find a mechanic who'll lets you bring the parts in

Good luck

[RadioTek]

How are you for doing things yourself? If you have some tools and a plce to work, this could be a one to one and a half day project. There are some 'fiddly' aspects to the job, but it is doable by someone with a little experience under their belt.

As my dad used to say: "Why let some idiot screw it up for parts and labor when you can screw it up yourself for just parts?"

Scott

[alabbasi]

I did this last week with a buddy of mine on the 560SEC. The process of rolling in a chain i pretty easy and quick. Removing the power steering pump, air pump, and alternator is a big headache.

All in all, it took about 8 hours, but i think it can probably be done in 4 by someone who knows what they are doing.

[embe560sl]

Thank you guys, your input has given me a pretty good idea what I am in for as far as job hours. Unfortunately, I cannot do the work myself, so will have to pay and pray.