For owners of a 2005 Slk Mercedes Benz, particularly the SLK350 model, concerns about the balance shaft issue are not uncommon. This query from an SLKWorld.com forum member highlights a typical worry among enthusiasts of this generation of Mercedes vehicles.
The owner of a 2005 SLK350 with 48,000 miles is proactively investigating potential balance shaft wear, a known issue in some Mercedes engines of this era, including the M272 V6 found in the SLK350. They’ve checked their cam timing marks, noting that they appear centered at 301 degrees of engine indexing and slightly off-center at 305 degrees. The question is whether this observation can indicate the condition of the balance shaft gear.
It’s a valid question, as a worn balance shaft gear can indeed affect cam timing. If the gear is significantly worn, it could lead to timing discrepancies that might be detectable when checking the cam timing marks. However, the user’s observation of the marks being “nicely centered” at 301 degrees could suggest that the wear, if any, might not be severe yet.
Mercedes service’s reassurance that there’s “no serious issue” with these engines should be taken with caution but also considered in light of the specific engine and its mileage. While not all M272 engines are affected, the balance shaft issue is a recognized potential problem.
For a 2005 SLK Mercedes Benz owner experiencing similar concerns, checking the cam timing marks is a good initial step. However, it’s not a definitive diagnosis of balance shaft wear. Further investigation might be needed if symptoms like engine noise, rough running, or fault codes related to camshaft timing appear. Consulting with a Mercedes-Benz specialist or a mechanic experienced with M272 engines is advisable for a thorough assessment and peace of mind.
