Mercedes Sprinter Timing Chain (Dual-Row) – Iwis | NCV3 & VS30 3.0L OM642 | #0009936376 (2007–2022)

A stretched timing chain on a Sprinter OM642 causes the valve timing to drift from specification — producing the cold-start rattle that is the OM642's first warning sign, and in advanced cases allowing cam timing to wander enough to cause misfires, power loss, and fault codes that won't clear until the chain is replaced. This is the Iwis dual-row timing chain for NCV3 and VS30 Sprinters equipped with the 3.0L OM642 V6 diesel engine, a direct OEM-equivalent replacement that restores precise camshaft timing and eliminates chain-related noise.

What This Part Does

The primary timing chain links the crankshaft sprocket to the camshaft sprockets, synchronizing valve operation with piston position across all six cylinders. The OM642 uses a dual-row (duplex) chain design for increased strength and load capacity — both rows carry the tension, reducing the per-row stress and extending service life compared to a single-row chain. As the chain's pins and bushings wear over high mileage, each link gains a small amount of slack — accumulated across the full chain length, this becomes measurable stretch that the tensioner can no longer fully compensate for. The result is timing retardation, increased valvetrain noise, and ultimately a chain that can skip a tooth on a cam sprocket and cause catastrophic engine damage.

Common Symptoms of a Stretched Timing Chain

• Cold-start rattle from the front of the engine that clears after oil pressure builds — early warning
• Rattle that takes progressively longer to clear on startup, or persists after warm-up
• Camshaft position deviation fault codes from timing that has drifted beyond tolerance
• Rough idle or misfire that developed gradually over time with no other identified cause
• Timing chain slack visible during inspection with the timing cover removed

When to Replace

Replace when chain stretch is confirmed by direct measurement during timing system inspection, or when cold-start rattle persists despite a known-good tensioner. Always replace in conjunction with the guide rails (6420502600) and tensioner (6420500311) — a new chain on worn rails and a tired tensioner will accelerate chain wear and produce noise immediately after installation. Note: 2015 Sprinters were a split production year — this chain does not fit models produced before 4/14/2015. Always verify by VIN.

NCV3 & VS30 OM642 Specific — VIN Verification Required

This timing chain is for NCV3 and VS30 Sprinters equipped with the 3.0L OM642 V6 diesel engine with the dual-row timing chain. Always verify your engine code, production date, and VIN before ordering. Contact us and we'll confirm fitment before you buy.

Fitment

• 2007–2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 / 3500 – 3.0L OM642 (NCV3/W906)
• 2007–2009 Dodge Sprinter 2500 / 3500 – 3.0L OM642 (NCV3)
• 2007–2018 Freightliner Sprinter 2500 / 3500 – 3.0L OM642 (NCV3)
• 2019–2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 / 3500 – 3.0L OM642 (VS30/W907)

✔ Dual-row (duplex) chain
✔ 2015 Sprinters: does NOT fit models produced before 4/14/2015 — verify VIN
✔ Always replace with guide rails (6420502600) and tensioner (6420500311)

Part Numbers

• Mercedes OEM: 0009936376 / A0009936376 / 000-993-63-76
• Cross-reference: 68087863AA / 0009931776
• Manufacturer: Iwis — 50042430 / 33902
• SKU: 0009936376