Well, the water pump finally came out. I don't know what I did, but it just popped out. Then I discovered that I had messed up the housing enough that I'm going to replace that before proceeding. I also took the opportunity to purchase an OEM water pump. I've heard enough about NOT using run of the mill parts, and this has been enough work, that it's worth it to do it now.

I'm finding the major problems I've been having recently with this car is the old, rounded (or stripped) bolts. I think I'm replacing some parts for the first time and am trying to get 20-year old bolts out is no fun...

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1987 300SDL 265,000 mi.
1982 300SD 325,000 mi. (and holding)
1956 Packard Clipper 150,000 mi.