Many owners of forage harvesters with Mercedes engines risk severe engine damage from ageing injectors, which can lead to a damaged camshaft or even a hole in the engine block. Westerink Parts supplies complete sets of reconditioned injectors with clear installation instructions, allowing you to start the season with complete confidence and a healthy engine.
What goes wrong?
The Mercedes engines, types 457, 460 and 502, fitted between 2001 and 2017 in Claas Jaguar and Krone BigX machines share one common problem: the injectors wear and cause engine damage. When an engine reaches 3,500 to 4,000 operating hours , it is time to replace them.
Because these injectors do not have a separate return line, internal leakage increases pressure in the injector housing. This raises the injector opening pressure, causing the injection pump to place excessive force on the roller tappet. Over time, this inevitably damages the roller tappet.
The consequences of a damaged roller tappet
A damaged roller tappet begins to wear into the camshaft. In the worst case, the roller tappet turns by a quarter turn and runs crosswise over the camshaft, removing metal from the shaft. The resulting debris spreads throughout the engine block and damages the cylinder walls and camshaft bearings. Many cases involving broken connecting rods or holes in engine blocks can ultimately be traced to overdue injector maintenance.
Are they difficult to replace?
No. It is a relatively straightforward job. You need a torque wrench and a slide hammer.
- Remove the rocker covers and injector lines.
- Remove the part of the line located inside the cylinder head.
- Remove the bridge that holds the injector down.
- Pull the injector out of the head with a slide hammer.
- Press in the new injector, tighten everything to the correct torque and reassemble the engine.
After bleeding the system, you will be surprised by how smoothly the engine runs again. When you purchase a set, Westerink Parts supplies detailed instructions including all tightening torques.
In brief
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What is the risk?
Worn injectors cause excessive pressure, which can destroy the camshaft and the complete engine block.
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When should they be replaced?
Preventively at 3,500 to 4,000 operating hours for Mercedes engine types 457, 460 and 502.
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What does Westerink Parts supply?
Complete sets of exchange injectors reconditioned and tested by specialists, including all required installation parts.
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Important:
Always provide your serial or engine number, as there are nine different injector versions.
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