Thanks Carman.

I did a very thorough visual inspection this evening, in preparation for tomorrow's work. Seems I'll only need to detach the radiator hoses, remove the belt, and remove the fan shroud to gain clear access to the pump.

Then, the only real task seems to be removing the three bolts on the pump itself, and the larger one on the belt tensioner. I presume the pump can then be lifted out.

After purchasing a new front seal, I can understand how it can deteriotate -- and why stop leak products won't help much. I expected something more robust. (Interestingly, the rest of the pump looks factory new.)

I assume the metal core you refer to is the "outer ring" of the seal -- which is totally non-compressible and magnetic?

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2008 E350 4matic / Black/Anthracite

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Gone but not Forgotten:
2001 E430 4matic, 206,xxx miles, Black/Charcoal
1995 E320, 252,xxx miles, Black/Grey
1989 260E, 223,00 miles, Black/Black