Thanks. The dealer says the fan bracket threw a bearing, and that caused the problem. Dealer quotes $600 to replace fan bracket and serp belt, but has to order the bracket. FWIW, on Fastlane the aftermarket bracket costs about $125 (list $230) and the belt $20 (list $35). I called Mr MB in Tarzana, and he will give me a quote in 1 hr.

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87 300e (white/black; amg body kit)
88 300ce (red/cream; amg body kit)
93 300ce cabrio (white/blue/blue top)
93 300ce cabrio (black/grey/black top)
98 ml 320 (totaled @ 137,000 miles)
99 clk320 (black/grey/black top)