Mercedes-Benz Technical Companion?

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Index entries for Mercedes-Benz models included in this book can be found under ?Models? on page 392.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

A

ABS, 301, 307, 318. See also Brakes
ACC. See Automatic climate control system
Activated charcoal filter, 41?45
Air cleaner mounting bushings, 26
Air filters, 22, 111
blowby and, 114
replacing, 17, 26, 41?45
Air plenum, cleaning (190D/E), 9
Air suspension, 254?256
Airbags, 5, 246
Air-conditioning system. See also Automatic climate control system (ACC)
problems, 351
R-12 converted to R-134a, 341?344
tune-up, 347?348
Alignment, 263, 280?282
Alternator, 116, 191?195, 213
Altitude compensator, 58
Antenna replacement, 8, 196
Antifreeze, 104, 115. See also Coolant
Anti-roll bars, 273, 275
ATF. See Automatic transmission fluid
Automatic climate control system (ACC)
servo unit, (1976-1981), 320?328
blower, 353
calibration, 327?328
preventive maintenance, 323, 328
problems, 322?323, 352?353
repair, 324?328
water valve, 323, 326
1981 and later, 329?331
blower, 331, 353
circuit board, 331
mono-valve, 329?330
problems, 330, 351, 353
pushbutton panel, 329, 330
repairs, 330?332
solenoid-type control valves, 332
Automatic transmission. See Transmission
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF)
changing
300SD (W126), 28?29
change intervals, 11, 54, 100
E-Class, 12?14
M-Class, 16?17
overfilling, 14, 17, 29, 100
filters, 11, 14, 17, 28?29, 100
as fuel/oil additive, 55, 57
leaks, 121
level, 10?14, 100
linkage lubrication, used for, 55
permanent fill of, 121
removing excess fluid, 14
types, 10, 12, 55
Viscosity Index (VI), 10

B

Battery
chargers, use of, 60, 62
diesel models, cold weather use, 63
filler hole plugs, 213
fluid level check (M-Class), 18
high altitude use, 58
replacement, 60
stored cars, 62
Becker Grand Prix Electronic,179?185, 214
Belt. See Poly V-belt
Block heaters, 58, 63?64
Body. See also Interior; Locking system
convertible top maintenance, 371, 374
doors
gray market cars, 240
locks (See Locking system)
panel removal (300SD), 243
W210 E-Class doors, work on, 221?223
fender removal, 245
gray market cars, 240
hardtop seals, replacing SL, 245
lubrication (190D/E), 8?9
noises, diagnosing, 243
paint
fixing paint chips, 362?363
metallic paint cracking, 373
wheels and hubcaps, 298
protective hose, replacing, 245
rear view mirrors, 214, 240
seat belts, 214, 220
sunroof, 248
trunk
dust in, 244
leak, 245
washing and waxing car, 356?361
windows (See also Windshield washer; Windshield wipers)
defrosting windshield, 352
glass squeak, cure for, 244
gray market cars, 240
guides, 244
plastic convertible windows, cleaning, 371, 374
SLC window condensation, cure for, 237
windshield stickers, replacing, 373
Brakes
ABS, 301, 307, 318
bleeding, 304?305, 313?314, 318
booster, 314, 315
brake light, installing third, 190
brake lines, 317
breaking in, 316
calipers, 308?310, 314, 317
dust shields, 315
emergency brake, 315
fluid
changing, 30, 62, 304?305, 314
contamination of, 306
warning light, 316
fouled brake system, 306
master cylinder, checking, 313?314
overheating, 313, 314
pads, 308?311, 314?316
problems, 306, 313?318
rotors, 308?311, 316?317
warning lights, 316

C

Camshaft (cam)
angle of (230SL), 117
chain and tensioner replacement (300D), 81, 82
cover seal, leaking (280SLC), 111
timing, 76, 96, 130
wear (280SL), 55
Carburetors, 157
adjusting (190SL), 39?40
Solex, 152?153, 167
warped covers, 145?147
Webers, 150?153
Zeniths, 145?151, 170
Chain tensioner. See Tensioner
Charcoal filter, 41?45
Chassis
guide to chassis numbers, 376?381
height, check of, 282
leveling, 261
W107
ATF level, 11
brake lights, 190
heating system, 339?340
valve adjustment, 79
wheels, 261, 292
W108
ATF level, 11
heating system, 333?338
horn ring problems, 189
seatbelts, 220
sub-frame mounts, 268
wheel bearings, 300
W109
air suspension, 254?256
ATF level, 11
heating system, 333?338
seatbelts, 220
wheel bearings, 300
W111
heating system, 333?338
sub-frame mounts, 268
wheel bearings, 300
W113
heating system, 333?338
sub-frame mounts, 268
wheel bearings, 300
window guides, 244
windshield wiper mechanism, 234?236
W114
ATF level, 11
horn ring problems, 189
transmission, 98?99
W115
ATF level, 11
horn ring problems, 189
transmission, 98?119
turn signal switch, worn, 247
W116
ATF level, 11
automatic climate control servo unit, 320?323
European headlights, installing, 201?203
heating system, 339?340
steering, 262
transmission, 99
valve adjustment, 79
wheels, 262
W123
ATF level, 11
automatic climate control servo unit, 320?323
door locks, frozen, 247
rear suspension, 252
steering, 262, 277
transmission, 98, 99
vacuum door locks, repairing, 218?219
valve adjustment, 79
W124
ATF level, 11
brake pad and rotor replacement, 308?311
headlights, upgrading, 197?200
motor mount replacement, 66?67
shift indicator light fix, 178
steering, 262
sunroof, 248
suspension, 250?252, 297
transmission, 12, 99
vibration, 296
wheels, 261, 292, 300
W126
antenna replacement, 196
ATF level, 11
brakes, 190, 315
cold weather starts, 63
gray market, 238
jacking points, 61
lambda control system, 128
rear suspension, 252
servicing, 24?31
steering, 262
timing chain replacement, 70?75
transmission, 28?29
valve adjustment, 79
water pump, 68?69
wheels, 261, 292
W129
transmission, 99
wheels, 292
W140
air filter replacement, 41?45
transmission, 99
W170, shock mounting, 266
W201
automatic transmission fluid (ATF) level, 11
brake lights, 190
front suspension repair, 250?251
steering, 262
vibration, 296
W202, shock mounting, 266
W208, shock mounting, 266
W210
combination switch, 208?211
doors, work on, 221?223
headlight systems, 204?207
shocks, replacing, 266?267
Check engine light, 5
CIS. See Fuel injection system
Clock, servicing VDO mechanical, 231?233
Clutch, 98
Connecting rods, 92?96
Convertible top maintenance, 374
Coolant. See also Cooling system
additives, 36, 59
antifreeze incompatibility, 104
capacity, 59
changing, 29?30, 59, 60, 62, 345
checking, 18, 345
dirty, causes of, 111
distilled or drinking water, use of, 59
leakage, 322
low coolant light, 171
low mileage cars, 62
stored cars, 61
temperature, 36, 109, 113?114
Cooling system. See also Automatic climate control system; Coolant
air in system, bleeding/correcting, 352
efficiency, increasing, 36
engine operating temperature, 112?113
fans, 112, 113, 345?347, 351
flushing, 328, 345
poly V-belt, 18, 64, 346?347
problems, 59, 112?114, 117, 352
refilling, 59
tune-up, 345?348
Crankcase ventilation system, 111, 115
Crankshaft, 92, 94?95, 112
Cruise control
actuator, refurbishing, 186?188
brake light bulb replacementand, 215
problems, 109, 173, 215, 247
Cylinder head
bolts, 102, 118
cracked, 111
diagnostic tests, 91?92
head gasket, 111, 115
installation, 96
oil leaks, 111
re-assembling, 87?88
removing, 85
rethreading tool, use of, 118
work on, 87
Cylinders
bores
engine re-assembly, 95
examining, 88?92
resizing, 93, 94
ridge in, 89, 91
idle problems, 109
leakage test, 85, 91
wear, 55, 93

D

Daimler-Benz engine test facility, 101?102
Dealers, servicing by, 3
Diagnostic Trouble Code Reference Guide, 34
Diesel engines. See Engine
Diesel fuel systems. See Fuel systems
Differential oil, changing, 30?31, 54
front differential, 15?16
rear differential, 16, 295
Doors. See Body
Drivability, 165?166
brakes, 313?315
engine, 108?110
suspension, 295
transmission, 119?120
Driveshaft vibration, cause of, 295
Dwell angle, 116, 117
Dwell meter, 56, 117

E

E-Class models. See Models
EDS. See Electronic Diesel System
Electrical system. See also Alternator; Battery; Cruise control; Indicators; Instruments
air conditioner controls, 351
air conditioner/starter relay, 213
antenna replacement, 8, 196
anti-theft alarm, 214
brake light, installing third, 190
combination switch replacement, E-Class, 208?211
cruise control actuator, refurbishing, 186?188
fuses, 351
headlights
aligning European headlights, 216
E-Class H7 and xenon, 204?207
European headlight installation, 201?203
flasher, enabling, 216
upgrading, 197?200, 216
horn ring problems, 189
radio repair, Becker Grand Prix Electronic, 179?185, 214
seat control switch, E-Class, 176?177
Electronic Diesel System (EDS), 34
Emission test, passing (250C), 56
Engine test facility, Daimler-Benz, 101?102
Engine. See also Timing chain; Valves
bottom end overhaul, 90?96
break-in procedure, 118, 119
cleaning and degreasing, 81, 88,92, 374
compression test, 108, 109
computer, 108, 110, 171
diesel, 76 (See also Fuel systems, diesel)
cold weather starts, 58, 63, 64, 108
head bolts, 102
high altitude use, 58
oil filters, 23
on-board diagnostics, 5, 34?35
pre-glow systems, diagnosis of, 134?139
run-on, 110
turbocharger repair, 140?144
water separator, installation of, 169
work hints, 81?83
disassembly, 92
drivability, 108?110
dwell angle, 116, 117
exchange parts program, 104?105
four-stroke, operation of, 76
gasoline, 76, 85 (See also Fuel systems, gasoline)
high altitude use, 58
hot-start problems, solving, 124?125
oil filters, 22
valve adjustment, 79?80
guide to engine numbers, 376?381
idle (See Idle)
M100,159
M102,128?129, 159
M103,112, 129, 159
M104,53
M110,79?80, 99, 102, 111, 128, 159
M115,99
M116,118, 128?129, 159
M117,77, 118, 128?129, 159
M127,159
M129,159
M130,159
M189,159
M198,159
M199,159
mounts, 268
replacement, 66?67
vibration/noises, cause of,116, 295
oil (See Oil)
OM601,138
OM602,138, 345?348
OM603,138, 172
OM606,138, 170
OM615,105, 134
OM616,105, 134?135, 137?138
OM617,98, 105, 120, 134?135,137?138, 140
OM617A,140, 172?173
OM621,134
operating temperature, 112?113, 124
operation, 111?116
re-assembly, 94?96
rotating, 280S, 116
rpm
220SEb, 119
reducing, 295
service, 116?119
thermostat, 112?113
V-6,15
V-8,77?78, 98, 99, 112, 118, 119
V-12,78, 92, 98
Ethyl alcohol (ethanol), 58
European headlights
aligning European headlights, 216
E-Class H7 and xenon, 204?207
European headlight installation, 201?203
flasher, enabling, 216
upgrading, 197?200, 216
Exchange parts program, 104?105
Exhaust system. See also Turbocharger
gray market cars, 240
heat-risers, checking, 146?147
problems, 171?173
replacement, 300D/SE, 154?155

F

Fault codes, 34
Filters, 22?23. See also Air filters;Oil filters
automatic transmission fluid, 11, 14, 17, 28?29, 100
fuel, 22, 26, 156, 168, 170
power steering fluid, 24
Final drive lubricant, changing. See Differential oil, changing
Flexible Service System (FSS), 52?53
brake pad sensors, 314
indicator, LiteOff tool to turn off, 5
Fluids and lubricants. See also Automatic transmission fluid (ATF); Coolant; Lubrication service; Oil
assembly lube, 94, 118
battery fluid, checking, 18
brake fluid (See Brakes)
checks, 136
steering, 10, 18, 24?25
transfer case fluid, changing(M-Class), 16
Front end, 260?263, 296. See also Steering; Suspension system; Wheels
FSS. See Flexible Service System
Fuel filters, 22, 26, 156, 168, 170
Fuel injection pump
adjusting for maximum power, 130?133
problems, 55, 163, 166
R1 pump, 158?159
Fuel injection system
adjusting mechanical systems
idle adjustment, 157?158
for maximum power, 130?133
cold-start valve, 133
Continuous Injection System (CIS), 128, 159, 160
diesel injection, 157, 169
electronic fuel injection (EFI),159, 160
gasoline injection, 124?125, 157, 159
governor, 132?133
idling in fuel-injected engines, 157?160
injectors, 109, 164, 354
fuel leak-off fitting, rubber cap for, 170
nozzles, fouling of, 103, 164
replacement (300D), 81?83
water in diesel fuel, 169
overheated fuel problem (450SL), 165
pump (See Fuel injection pump)
warm-up regulator/system, 165, 166
Fuel pump. See also Fuel injection pump
failure, 166
safety switch, checking (450SL), 163
Fuel systems, 57?58. See also Carburetors; Fuel injection system; Idle
diesel
#1 and #2 fuel compared, 57
additives, 57
filters, 22
fuel injection, 157, 169
high altitude use, 58
knock, causes of, 169
selecting fuel, 57, 102?104
water in fuel, 156, 169
fuel mixture controller, 170
fuel pressure, 110, 163, 164
gasoline, 124
additives, 58
alcohol in gasoline, 58
fuel filters, 22
fuel injection, 124?125, 157, 159
high altitude use, 58
lambda control and oxygen (O2) sensors, 126?129
selecting fuel, 57, 102?104,167, 168
stored car, 62
hot-start problems, solving, 124?125
idle fuel shut-off valves, checking, 145
intermittent miss and, 110
lambda control and oxygen (O2) sensors, 126?129. See also Oxygen (O2) sensors
low mileage cars, 62
pre-glow systems, diagnosis of, 134?139
tank
capacity (240D), 168
cleaning, 168
fuel level in, 57
problems, 163, 167
trap oxidizer additives, approved, 58
vapor lock (See Vapor lock)

G

Gear shift knob, removing, 122
Generator, 191?192
Glow plugs, 63, 134?139
Gray market cars, 238?241, 252

H

Hardtop seals, 245
Headlights
aligning European headlights, 216
cleaning, 207
E-Class H7 and xenon, 204?207
European headlight installation, 201?203
flasher, enabling, 216
upgrading, 197?200, 216
Heating system. See also Automatic climate control system
gurgle kits (300E), 352
heater flaps, fixing/restoring, 339?340, 352
heater control lever replacement, 333?338
problems, 352
Horn ring, 189

I

iATN shop finder, 2
Idle
adjusting, 132?133, 148, 157?160
in fuel-injected engines, 157?160, 163
problems, 108?110, 115, 163?164, 168
Ignition system. See also Idle; Start
distributor points, 250, 116
ignition analyzer, how to build, 32?33
ignition points (280SL), 56
ignition switch, 97, 125
intermittent miss and, 110
spark plugs (See Spark plugs)
timing, 38?39, 56
Independent repair shops, servicing by, 3?4
Indicators
ABS indicator light flicker, 318
brake warning light, 316
FSS (Flexible Service System) indicator, turning off, 5
low coolant light, 171
MIL (malfunction indicator light), resetting, 5
oxygen sensor, 171
seat belt warning light, 214
shift indicator light fix, 178
Information resources
Diagnostic Trouble Code Reference Guide, 34
iATN shop finder, 2
Mercedes-Benz mailing lists, 3
technical information, 387
Workshop Information System (WIS) Website, 382?386
Instruments. See also Indicators; Odometers,VDO
gray market cars, 240
instrument panel, electrical problem with, 246
mechanical clock, VDO, 231?233
speedometer, 246?247
turn signal switch, worn, 247
Interior. See also Instruments
leather care, 364?365
vinyl dash, cracks in, 373
wood maintenance/restoration, 366?370

J

Jacking points (300SD), 61

L

Leather care, 364?365
Lights. See Electrical system
Limp home mode (300SEL), 108
LiteOff, use of, 5
Locking system
frozen door locks, 247
intermittent operation, cause of, 247
remote, 19
vacuum door locks, repairing, 218?219
vacuum leak, finding, 247
Low-mileage use, 62
Lubrication service, 27, 136. See also Fluids and lubricants
body (190D/E), 8?9
front suspension system, 37
linkage and shafts, ATF used for, 55
system repair, older models, 37

M

Main bearings, 92, 94, 95
Maintenance, 60?61. See also Filters; Fluids and lubricants; Lubrication service; Tune-ups
300SD (W126), 24?31
body, 64, 356?361, 371, 374
choosing shop for, 2?4
hands-on how-to instructions, 60
interior, 364?367
low-mileage use, 62
M-Class, 15?19
suspension, self-leveling rear, 252?253
Maintenance Indicating Systems (MIS), 52
Major Components and Exchange Parts Program, 104?105
Manual, repair, 387
Manual transmission. See Transmission
M-Class models. See Models
Measurements, conversion to S.I. of, 61
Mechanic, selecting, 2?4
Methyl alcohol (methanol), 58
MIL (malfunction indicator light), resetting, 5
MIS. See Maintenance Indicating Systems

Models

180, thread cleaning, 118 190D
air plenum housekeeping, 9
antenna replacement, 8
cooling system, 351
oil and oil filter change, 6?7
pre-glow system, diagnosis of,134, 138
transmission, 54, 99
wheels, 260?262, 292, 293
190E
air intake and plenum, 9
airbag replacement, 246
antenna replacement, 8
blowby, 114
engine clicking, 110
engine rebuild, break-in for, 118
engine replacement, 118
fuel level, 57
fuel mixture controller, 170
lambda control system/oxygen sensors, 128?129, 171
linkage and shafts, lubricating, 55
motor mount replacement, 66?67
oil and oil filter change, 6?7
starting time, 110
suspension, 250, 298
transmission, 99, 120
valve stem seals, 114
wheels, 260?261, 292, 293, 300
190SL
carburetion, 152?153
rear suspension, 257?259
tuning, 38?40
200D, pre-glow system, 134
220b, transmission, 98
220D
alternator mounting, 116
compression, 108
exchange engine, 105
oil filter, 53
pre-glow system, diagnosis of, 134
220S
carburetors, 150, 167
fuel selection for, 168
220SE
brakes, 315
fuel selection for, 168
idle adjustment, 158?159
rpm, 119
230, carburetors, 150
230S, carburetors, 150?151, 170
230SL
automatic transmission fluid (ATF), 55
brakes, 314
cam, position of, 117
fuel injection system, 132?133
heating system, 352
idle adjustment, 159?160
start, 163, 164
windshield wiper mechanism, 234?236
240D
coolant, 111
exchange engine, 105
fuel system, 168, 170
high altitude use, 58
noises, diagnosing, 243
oil, 54, 114
pre-glow system, 134, 135, 137?138
seat belt warning light, 214
starter, noisy, 110
throttle linkages, disconnecting, 61
tires, 296
transmission lock-out switch, 97
valve adjustment, 60
250
carburetors, 150
distributor points, 116
transmission, 121
250C
emission test, passing, 56
smoking problem, 115
250S
carburetors, 150
seatbelts, 220
250SE
brakes, 317
fuel injection system, 132?133
headlight flasher, enabling, 216
seatbelts, 220
subframe mounts, 268?270
250SL
advertisement, 174
fuel injection system, 132?133, 166
windshield wiper mechanism, 234?236
260E
transmission, 99
valve stem seals, 114
wheels, 300
280
head bolts, 102
starter problem, 213
280C, valves, 117
280CE
fuel pump failure, 166
valves, 79
wheels, 299
280E
automatic climate control servo unit, 320?323
valves, 79
280S
engine rotation and dwell angle, 116
seatbelts, 220
valves, 79
wheel bearings, 300
280SE
cooling system, refilling, 59
drivability problem, 166
fender removal, 245
fuel injection system, 132?133
fuel selection, 167
gear shift knob, removing, 122
heating system, 333?338
idle adjustment, 160
ignition timing, 56
seatbelts, 220
suspension, 297
transmission, 11, 55
valves, 79
wheel bearings, 300
280SEL
heating system, 333?338
idle, engine surge during, 110
preparing stored car for use, 61
seatbelts, 220
wheel bearings, 300
280SL
brakes, 314
crankcase ventilation system, 115
front crankshaft seal, leaking, 112
fuel injection system, 130?133, 163
heating system, 333?338
hot start problems, 125
ignition points, 56
plug fouling, 55
speedometer, 247
transmission, 98, 122
valve adjustment, 79?80
wheel bearings, 300
window guides, 244
windshield wiper mechanism, 234?236
280SLC, oil leak, 111
300c
transmission, 11, 98, 99
wire-coil oil filter, 53
300CD
cold weather starts, 64
engine mounts, 116
pre-glow system, diagnosis of, 135, 137?138
wheels, 298
300CE
headlights, upgrading, 197?200
motor mount replacement, 66?67
wheels, 292, 300
300D
air-conditioning, heat and climate control systems, 320?323, 345?348, 352, 353
battery, charging, 60
brake light, installing third, 190
brakes, 314, 316, 317
cooling system, 60, 117, 345?348
cruise control actuator, refurbishing, 186?188
engine run-on, 110
engine work hints, 81?83
exchange engine, 105
exhaust system, 154?155
fuel for, 57, 169
fuel leak-off fitting, rubber cap for, 170
idle, rough, 164
motor mount replacement, 66?67
oil filter change intervals, 51
oil pan gasket leak, 112
paint cracking, 373
pre-glow system, 134?135, 137?138
shift indicator light fix, 178
steering, 277
sunroof, 248
suspension, 298
timing chain and tensioner, 119
towing trailer, 296
transmission, 119
trap oxidizer, 172
trunk, dust in, 244
turbocharger, 140, 172
wheels, 261
300d, transmission, 11, 98, 99
300D Turbo
automatic climate control, 351
cruise control, 173
fault codes, 34
fuel, water in, 156
idle, rough, 109
multi-grade oil, use of, 54
pre-glow system, 138
radiator replacement, 117
transmission service, 12?14
wheels, 300
300E, 48
battery replacement, 60
brakes, 315, 316
coolant change, 59
headlights, upgrading, 197?200
heating system, 352
high altitude use, 58
motor mount replacement, 66?67
oil, 51, 111, 112
shift indicator light fix, 178
spark plugs, 56
steering, 296
suspension, 250
transmission, 99, 120
valves, 55, 114
vibration, 296
wheels and tires, 261, 292,300, 301
300Sc, idle adjustment, 157?158
300SD
air-conditioning system, 350, 351
brakes, 313
door panel removal, 243
drivability problem, 166
European headlights, installing, 201?203
idle, 109, 168
jacking points, 61
locking system/cruise control operation, 247
noises, diagnosing, 243
pre-glow system, 137?138
servicing, 24?31
starts, 63
timing chain replacement, 70?75
transmission, 98, 120, 122
trunk leak, 245
turbocharger, 140, 172?173, 173
valve cover, 112
water pump replacement, 68?69
300SDL
pre-glow system, diagnosis of, 138
sunroof, 248
wheels, 261
300SE
fuel injection system (W109), 132?133
heating system (W109), 333?338
idle adjustment (W109), 158, 160
transmission (W126), 120
300SEL (including 3.5, 4.5, 6.3)
fuel system, 132?133, 167
head oil leaks, 111
heating system, 333?338
idle/start/missing problems, 108, 110, 213
rear air suspension bellows, 254?256
seatbelts, 220
suspension, 297
transmission, 11
valves, 115
wheel bearings, 300
300SL (Gullwing, Roadster)
idle adjustment, 157?158
300TD
battery replacement, 60
brakes, 314
pre-glow system, diagnosis of, 135, 137?138
suspension, 297
transmission, 11
wheels, 300
300TE
brakes, 318
headlights, upgrading, 197?200
motor mount replacement, 66?67
350SD
poly V-belt, 64
pre-glow system, 138
350SDL
oil, 51?52
pre-glow system, 138
350SL
cruise control, 173
exhaust manifold repair, 171
oil leak, 118
vibration, 295
380SE
cooling system, 113
lambda control system, 128
oil consumption, 115
snow, handling in, 296
timing chain, 78
380SEL
idle, rough, 109
lambda control system, 128
timing chain, 78
380SL
air-conditioning system, 351
brakes, 316
lambda control system, 128
low mileage use, 62
operating temperature, 113
premium fuel, use of, 57
start, 164
timing chain, 78
wheels, 292
400E
motor mount replacement, 66?67
suspension, 297
valves, 115
420SEL
cooling system, 114
wheels, 261
450SE
headlights, upgrading, 216
heating system, 339?340
protective hose, replacing, 245
450SEL
air-conditioning system, 350
heating system, 339?340
rear suspension, 252
suspension, 297
transmission, 98
450SL
air-conditioning system, 351
automatic climate control system, 353
battery, 213
engine rpm, reducing, 295
hardtop seals, replacing, 245
heating system, 339?340
idle/drivability problems, 163, 165
oil consumption, 63
spark plugs, 171
start, 125
wheels and tires, 292, 298, 301
windshield washer nozzles, leaking, 214
450SLC
drivability problem, 165
heating system, 339?340
speedometer conversion, 246
start, 125
window condensation, 237
500E, motor mount replacement, 66?67
500SE, gray market, 238?241
500SEC, lambda control system, 128
500SEL
automatic climate control system, 353
lambda control system, 128
oil filler cap seepage, 111
suspension, 298
500SL
brakes, 315
instrument panel, 246
tires, 244
windshield wipers, 244
560SEC
brakes, 313
coolant temperature, 113
wheels, 261
560SEL
anti-theft alarm, 214
start, 164
timing chain, 76
wheels, 261
560SL
air-conditioning system, 351
differential oil, changing, 295
low mileage use, 62
wheels, 261, 292
windshield, 373
600SL, low mileage use, 62
C32 AMG, suspension, 284?285
C280
storage, 62
wheels, 299
E-Class
brake pad and rotor replacement, 308?311
combination switch replacement, 208?211
doors, work on, 221?223
headlight systems, 204?207
shocks, replacing front, 266?267
transmission service, 12?14
upgrades, 48
E300D
fuel filter, changing, 170
pre-glow system, 138
E320, 48
brakes, 314
oil filter, 53
seat control switch, repairing, 176?177
storage, 62
transmission, 121
E420, fuel system, 171
E500, operating temperature, 112
M-Class (ML320)
basic service, 15?19
LiteOff model for, 5
oil changes, 52
specifications, 19
S-Class
activated charcoal air filter replacement, 41?45
gray market, 238?241
rear suspension, 252
S350 Turbo, pre-glow system, 138
SL320
oil, 53
window glass squeak, cure for, 244
SLC window condensation, curing, 237
SLK230, Maintenance Indicating Systems (MIS), 52
upgrades to later models, 48

N

Noises
blower, chirping sound from, 353
clicking, engine, 110
diagnosing, 243
engine mounts, 116
starter, 110
tapping noise, caused by valves,115, 117
wheels, tire, and suspension system, 280
window squeak, 244

O

O2 sensors. See Oxygen (O2) sensors
Odometers,VDO
repair/replacement, 228?230, 246
trip, resetting/repairing, 224?227, 246
Oil. See also Differential oil, changing; Oil filters
antifreeze in, 115
as automatic transmission fluid (ATF) additive, 55
black oil sludge, causes and formation of, 20?21
changing, 6?7, 15?16, 28, 51?53
change intervals, 51, 52, 54, 85,90, 92
compatibility of brands, 52
low mileage cars, 62
oil pressure and, 53
checking level of, 53
consumption levels, 63, 114?115
as diesel fuel additive, 57
factory-approved engine oils, 104
fuel injection pump oil level, 166
for high altitude use, 58
lack of oil, engine damage from, 92
leaks, 64, 111, 112, 118
pressure, 21, 53, 114
single-grade vs. multi-grade, 54
stored cars, 61?62
synthetic oil, use of, 53
temperature of engine oils, 54
Oil dipstick heaters, 64
Oil filler cap seepage, 111
Oil filters, 15, 22?23
canister filter (220D), 53
change intervals, 22, 51
changing, 6?7, 28
filter torque (M104), 53
wire-coil oil filter (300c), 53
Oil pan gasket leak, 300D, 112
On-board diagnostics, 5, 34?35
Otto engines. See Engines, gasoline
Overload protection relay, 108
Oversteer, 271
Oxygen (O2) sensors, 109, 126?128, 171

P

Paint chips, 362?365
PCV valve. See Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve
Pistons, 55, 93?96, 114
Plastic window, 371
Poly V-belt, 18, 64, 346?347
Positive Crankcase Ventilation(PCV) valve, 111
Pre-glow systems, diagnosis of, 134?139

R

Radiator, 117
Radio repair, Becker Grand Prix Electronic radio, 179?185
Repair manual, 387
Resonance, causes of, 278?282
Restoration costs, 48
Roll bar (600SL), 62
Rotors, 308?311, 316, 317

S

S-Class models. See Models
Seat belts, 214, 220
Service. See also Lubrication service; Spark plugs
choosing shop for, 2?4
engine, 116?119
fuel system, 170
M-Class, 15?19
manual, 387
repair costs vs. car value, analysis of, 46?48
transmission, 12?14, 122
vibration and resonance, causes of, 278?282
W126 300SD, 24?31
Workshop Information System (WIS) Website, 385?386
Shock absorbers, 264?267, 276, 280
Snow, handling in, 296
Spark plugs, 85
changing (M-Class), 17
fried spark plug wires (450SL), 171
platinum plugs, use of, 56
plug fouling (280SL), 55
rethreading/thread-chaser, 61, 118
Speedometer, 246?247
SRS-airbag light, LiteOff tool to turn off, 5
Start. See also Idle; Ignition system
cold start device switch, 125, 164
cold weather starts, diesel engines, 63?64, 108
cold-start valve, fuel injection system, 133
hot-start problems, 124?125,163, 164
remote starter switch, 97
slow start, 163
starters, problems with, 110, 213
starting surge, 163
starting time, 110
Steering, 260?263, 282
fluid, 10, 18, 24?25
kingpin inclination, 262?263
oversteer/understeer, 271?276
problems, 277, 296
Storage of cars, 61?62, 350
Sub-frame mounts, 268?270
Sunroof, 248
Suspension system. See also Differential oil, changing;Shock absorbers
C32 AMG, 284?285
front, 37, 250?251, 260?263
noises, 280
pressure reservoirs, checking/replacing, 297
rear
190SL, repair, 257?259
changing air suspension bellows, 254?256, 297
lowering, aftermarket kits for, 298
purging air suspension tank, 297
rear axle problems, 295, 298
rear axle ratio, 295
rear axle steel coil spring, 297
self-leveling suspension maintenance, 252?253
rubber bushings, checking/replacing, 298
snow, handling in, 296
Sportline version, conversion to, 297
steering and, 275?276
sub-frame mounts, replacing, 268?270

T

Technical resources, 387
Temperature sensors, 321?322,329, 351
Tensioner, 70, 74?78, 82, 119
Throttle
damper, throttle-closing, 131?132
electronic throttle actuator, 171
linkages, 61, 130?132, 215
stop screw, 131
valve, 157
Timing chain, 76, 96
checking, 70?72, 77
rattling sound from, 110
replacement, 70?75, 77?78, 119
single-row, 78
wear and stretch, 76?77, 119
Tires, 282. See also Wheels
240D, choices for, 296
ABS operation and, 301
approved tire list, 287, 301
Euro-Metric v. P-Metric, 288
gray market cars, 240
guide, 283?288
load ratings, 285?286, 289?291
noises, 280
pressure, 287?288, 301
radial tire rotation, 301
reading sidewall, 285
revs per mile, 289?291
runout tolerances, 278
S-Class cars, 244
sizes, 284?285, 288?291
snow, 288, 296, 300
speed ratings, 286, 288?290
steering and, 272?278
temperature ratings, 287
traction ratings, 287
tread wear, 286?287
upgrade, reasons for, 284
UTQG wear rating, 288
vibration, 301
Torque converters, 98
Torque measurement units, 61
Towing, 296
Transfer case fluid, changing(M-Class), 16
Transmission
automatic, 98?100
dipstick, 121
fluid change intervals, 54
identification numbers, 98
modulator pressure, 120?122
problems, 119?122
servicing, 12?14
standing and starting, 99?100
VCV pressure measurement tool, 122
drivability, 119?120
identification information, 11
linkage, worn, 119
lock-out switch, 97
manual, 10, 54, 98, 121
operation, 121
service, 12?14, 122
S/W mode switch (E320), 121
Trap oxidizers, 58, 172
Tune-ups, 55?56, 136
190SL, 38?40
280SL, basic tune-up, 130
Turbo boost pipe and hollow bolt, cleaning, 26
Turbocharger, 140?144, 172?173
Turn signal switch, 208?211
Type numbers, 379?381

U

Understeer, 271

V

Vacuum door lock, 218
Vacuum leaks, 109, 110, 247, 314,315, 353
Vacuum pump, 81, 83, 110, 314
Vacuum retard, checking, 130
Valve
cover leaks (300SD), 112
guides, 84?86, 114
Valves, 76
300E, tapping of valves in, 55
adjusting, 25?26, 60?61, 79?80, 117
adjusting tappets (190SL), 39
clearances, 108, 110, 117, 130
cover gasket, leaking, 118
high altitudes, adjustment for, 58
noise (280C), 117
seal replacement (300D), 81, 82
stem seal replacement, 85, 114
tappet, 115
tapping noises, causes of, 115
valve job, 84?89, 115
wear, 84?85
Vapor lock, 57, 125, 164, 167
VDO
clock, 231?233
repair/replacement, 228?230, 246
trip, resetting/repairing, 224?227, 246
Vehicle serial number, 240?241, 376?377
Vibration
causes of, 278?282, 295, 296, 301
damper, 109

W

Water pump, 352
checking, 114
replacement (300SD), 68?69
Water separater, 169
Wax, 356?361
Wheels
alignment, 263, 280?282
balancing, 279?280
bearings
adjustment, 308
grease, 299
grooved ball vs. roller, 300
service intervals, 300
worn, 299
brake dust shields, 315
camber, 261?262, 275, 282, 296
caster, 262, 282, 296
centering clearance, 280
cleaning, 315
cornering, 296
front, 260?263
guide, 283?288
hubcap color, 298
lugs, 292, 299
noises, 280
offset, 292?293
repainting, alloy wheels, 298
replacing, 290
runout tolerances, 278, 296
safety of, 105
snow, handling in, 296
steel (W124), 300
steering and, 272? 276
toe-in, 261, 276, 282
torques, 299
vibration, 278?279, 296
Windows. See Body
Windshield
defrosting, 352
replacing stickers, 373
Windshield washer.See also Windshield wipers
leaking nozzles, 214
mix, 64
use of, 244
Windshield wipers
glass scratched by, 244
maintenance, 64
wiper mechanism replacement,SL models, 234?236
WIS. See Workshop Information System
Woodwork, 366?370
Workshop Information System (WIS) Website, 382?386

X

Xenon headlights, 204?207

Z

Zenith carburetor, 145?151, 170