My 98 ML320 with 47K miles is at the dealer as I write this to have the crankshaft damper replaced. The thick rubber piece broke away and was banging on the fan blades and oil pan. Luckily this happened when starting the vehicle in my driveway as opposed to driving down the highway at speed. Interesting enough the vehicle is out of warranty due to time and not mileage and I had heard this was a common problem on M112 engines. I called MBUSA and they advised me to speak to my local MB service manager thinking they would repair it under their good faith policy. It was towed to the dealer yesterday and I am hopeful they will pick up at least 50% of the repair bill. One thing for sure....had I not been the original owner and the vehicle not been serviced by the dealer I'd be out on my own. They made that point loud and clear. I'll report back when I get this resolved. I'm told they have engineered a new damper as a replacement.

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99 E300 133K
98 ML320 99K
87 Saab 900 Turbo Conv 123K