Made a quick stop to the auto parts store this afternoon, and picked up a headlamp, and a small inspection mirror. Replacing the headlamp was a snap. Remove reflector, remove trim ring, replace bulb assembly, test, reassemble.
The inspection mirror was needed to check inside the valve cover to have a look at the timing chain. In a previous post, I indicated it was probably due for a change. Turns out, in this engine for model years 1981-1983, there was a single row timing chain. In 1984, they moved to a double row. The single row chains have shown a lot less reliability over the long haul, and have been known to give out early. I have seen recommendations to have the chain changed at 40K to be on the safe side. Though it would be a great excuse to drop a 5.6L engine in the bay (the repair for a broken timing chain can cost between $6-9K, and you may as well upgrade at that point, if you ask me), I am not ready to go through that kind of work so early into our experience. Unfortunately, the procedure for changing it is complicated enough that I'll definitely farm that one out. For those interested, search on '380 SL Timing Chain', you'll get all the information you need, plus some you don't.
I was able to get a not-so-great glimpse of the chain, and I certainly didn't see the double row on the off chance that it was retrofitted. Project this week - find someone to deal with that. Also, while under the hood, one of the accessory belts has about 3/4" of play in it (it's one of two side-by-side belts) so we may as well tack that on as well.
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