Vintage Cars: 84 380sl timing chain, dental mirror, dual chain

Question
QUESTION: hi i saw an ebay posting that stated in 1984 was the First Year of Factory Dual Timing Chain Engine. how do i know if this is true?  i am looking at a 84 380sl with 40k miles on it.  my mechanic mentioned to me that single is problematic and that he hopes its dual.  any help would be appreciated

Scott

ANSWER: Scott
84 was not the first year of the dual chain, just the dual chain for the 380.The US version of the 380Sl, for the years of 1981-1983 were the only V8 107's to use the single-row timing chain and gears.  You should be fine, to make sure just take off the oil fill cap and using a dental mirror or similar peer twords the front of the valve cover and with a good light you should see two chains, the best way is removing of the vavle cover, either side.  But again - you should be fine
Happy Motoring
Ron

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---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thanks for quick response.  can you estimate the fair value of an 84 380sl with 40k miles?  has both hard and soft top.  body is in excellent condition.  assume engine is mechanically fine.

thanks

Answer
well make sure the AC and heat work, this is a major issue of this car.
If that is good, the body good, the engine good with good service history - perhaps 5K - 6K -max??
remember the 380 is the least powerfull and least desirable from the enthusiast standpoint, but still a great car and remember also it is 25 years old despite the mileage.  Once you start to drive it , things will need to be fixed - its just that simple
good luck