What are the common problems with the 1977 Mercedes-Benz 280SE engine?

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The M110 2.8-litre twin-cam six in the ’77 280SE is generally bullet-proof, but after 186k miles/50 years there are a few things you’ll want to watch:

1. Timing-chain stretch – most owners budget for a new chain/tensioner around 150k km/100k mi; a worn chain can jump a tooth and bend valves.
2. Hardened valve-stem seals – expect a puff of blue smoke on cold start-up; seals can be swapped without pulling the head if the shop uses compressed-air trick.
3. K-Jetronic fuel headaches – cracked injector hoses or a sticky warm-up regulator give rough idle when cold; a simple pressure-test usually spots the leak.
4. Oil leaks from the cam-box gaskets and front cover – parts are cheap, but access is tight.
5. Noisy tappets if oil changes were skipped; the cam adjusters use shims, so top-end clatter means a shim job is due.

Good news: parts are still available and the engine is non-interference if the chain is kept fresh. Ask the dealer if the chain/tensioner and seals have been done—paperwork beats guesswork.

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Lot 9213: 1977 Mercedes-Benz 280SE

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Lot 9213: 1977 Mercedes-Benz 280SE

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