Been wanting to install/change the belts & hoses on my '86 300SL for some time and finally started into it today. This is in conjunction of a good engine compartment detailing. I believe this car has the M103 engine.

Wasn't quit sure on how to remove the belt, so I loosened two bolts on the P/S pump mounts and the main bolt on the tensioner, then backed off the long, hollow bolt between the water pump & P/S pump. The tension slacked up and off came the belt. Did I do that right?

After I did that I got to thinking that maybe this tensioner isn't for the belt, but perhaps something to do with the timing chain or timing. Is the tensioner actuated by oil pressure?

Whats the correct reinstall procedure? There is a plastic indicator that points to some timing like marks on the tensioner. The indicator has moved during the cleaning.

Hope I didn't get something totally out of wack!

Thanks,
Cliff

Move the pointer to the minimum mark on the tensioner, then tighten the tensioner until the pointer reaches the maximum mark, or, until the serpentine belt is tight enough to satisfy you. Some people are hesitant to mess with the tensioner, but as long as the rubber bushing is ok, you shouldn't have any problems.

__________________

1993 190E 2.3
2001 SLK230
1971 LS5 (454) Corvette Convertible

Thanks SLK for the tip.

Also found some good info by searching past threads.

Cliff

This is such a PITA tensioner. I'd like MB to come up with a replacement spring loaded tensioner, like other car manufacturers use.

__________________
Regards

Warren

Currently 1965 220Sb, 2002 FORD Crown Vic Police Interceptor

Had 1965 220SEb, 1967 230S, 280SE 4.5, 300SE (W126), 420SEL

ENTER > = (HP RPN)

Not part of the in-crowd since 1952.

I'll drink to that!

__________________
I got too many cars!! Insurance eats me alive. Dave

78 Corvette Stingray - 3k
82 242 Turbo Volvo - Manual - 270k
86 300e 5 speed manual - 210k
87 420sel - 240k
89 560sl - 78k
91 420sel - 205k
91 560sel - 85k
94 GMC Suburban - 90k
97 Harley Davidson Heritage Softail - 25k
00 GMC Silverado 1 ton 30k

i share your sentiments.

__________________
David S Poole
European Performance
Dallas, TX
4696880422

"Fortune favors the prepared mind"
1987 Mercedes Benz 420SEL
1988 Mercedes Benz 300TE (With new evaporator)
2000 Mercedes Benz C280
http://www.w108.org/gallery/albums/A...1159.thumb.jpg