Okay, here's my ulterior motive for wanting to know where the text search function was located:

I was informed by my local MB dealer that there is a brand new timing chain upgrade for the 617 engine. The part number I have been given is:

003 997 62 94
$158.20

Can you confirm this? My local parts guy actually had to call Mercedes Benz for verification. Apparently it is an 'openable' chain. The part number for the master link is:

000 997 28 98
$2.88


I searched through your parts lisings and these numbers do not come up. Do you, or will you carry these parts in the near future? I hope you guys can beat this pricing.

Thanks,

James

Denver, CO

We stock the timing chain with link under 001 997 30 94 . ~$93.00

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Bill Wood - Webmaster
MercedesShop.com, LLC

Thanks for the info on your timing chain part number. I guess I have a few lingering questions as to the applicability of the openable (master link) chain. It is my understanding that earlier (years ago), Mercedes had master link chains, then, for some reason, decided to move away from them to the 'crimped' chain.

Do you know why this is?

Is this chain you quoted me the old style master link type or is it a new style master link type that addresses deficiencies in the earlier design?

If this new style master link chain is indeed superior to previous master link designs, does it remain inferior to the crimp type chain? Is one less inclined to stretch than the other?

Have there been past (disastrous) issues with master link chains opening up while in use?

Why does Mercedes Benz have to be so nebulous about timing chain issues (rhetorical)?

Questions, questions questions.

Any help you can provide is, of course, gratefully appreciated.

JDEN-
Part # 000 997 28 98 is a crimpable link, not a master link. The chain I quoted is the new style.
The openable chain link is basically used when replacing an old chain. The new chain is attached to the old chain with this link and then the old chain is pulled out thus feeding in the new chain. The link in not for use in a running engine.

I will send you an e-mail with additional info.




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Bill Wood - Webmaster
MercedesShop.com, LLC