Camshaft Timing Adjustment

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1992 Mercedes-Benz 400E. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Intake camshafts are adjusted for more engine torque output. Camshafts are adjusted in advanced direction depending on engine speed and load. The camshaft timing adjusters each have a solenoid which actuates control piston for hydraulic/mechanical adjustment. Solenoids are controlled by LH control unit. See Fig 1 . When transmission is in "P" or "N", camshaft adjustment is dependent only on engine speed. For camshaft timing adjustment with transmission in gear and engine under partial load, see CAMSHAFT TIMING SPECIFICATION table below. When transmission is in "P" or "N", camshaft timing is not advanced until engine speed is approximately 3000 RPM.

CAMSHAFT TIMING SPECIFICATION

Engine RPM

Adjustment

4.2L

Up To 2000

Retarded

2000-4000

Advanced

From 4200 ⁽¹⁾

Retarded

⁽¹⁾	When vehicle speed reaches 155 MPH, camshaft timing is advanced.

Fig 1: Locating Engine Components

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH AMERICA.