I bought some longer 8mm bolts from the local NAPA store and pulled a bunch of large washers from my parts bin. One of the longer bolts was able to reach in and "grab" a couple of threads. I tightened it a bit and the axle pulled in. I removed the bolt and added a couple more washers, then repeated with more washers and shorter bolts, until I could get the factory bolt to catch. Now it's all the way in.

I noticed the FSM says that the tension washer is not to be reused but I don't have new ones. Do you know whether any of the on-line Mercedes parts places carry such a small item? I suppose I could try the local Mercedes dealer but they will require a part number, which I don't have either.

In the meantime, I'll use my press to flatten out the washer a bit and reuse it.

Thanks for your advice.

Jeremy

__________________

"Buster" in the '95

Our all-Diesel family
1996 E300D (W210) . .338,000 miles Wife's car
2005 E320 CDI . . 113,000 miles My car
Santa Rosa population 176,762 (2022)
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . 627,762
"Oh lord won't you buy me a Mercedes Benz."
-- Janis Joplin, October 1, 1970