I didn't have to remove them totally. Loosen at the top of the injector so i could move the line a bit more.

I am into it and am fighting the nut from hell.
 

Bottom right of the air filter housing is a nut 12mm I think that holds the brackets that hold the housing. It is perpendicular to the centerline of the car, and hidden by the bracket. ( was wondering why it wasn't cooperating on that side.)

Can't find a combination that will a fit right, and b flex just enough to both turn and bite... am afraid I will strip it. If I did there is no possible way to get a visual. Why would german engineers do that? sigh

You can buy the socket from the store here on the forums from fastlane just contact Phil and tell him what you need. They run around $50+ I just couldn't swing enough to get the one here and I ordered mine from Pelican Parts it cost around $48 with shipping and everything.

The part #TOL-M0019-SIR

Just be sure you use some type of oil on the o rings before you install them don't install them dry it's a pretty easy job. I just done the same job monday on my 300SDL. The socket is uses on just about all Mercedes diesels. Just be careful when you pull them out because there is a spring and copper washer under each one. Take them off slowly so you don't lose any parts and do one at a time

By the way you can get the o-rings for about 45 cents a piece at the flastlane store on the top of the forums. I ordered my o-rings here and the socket on another site just because it was about $10 more here I just didn't have it otherwise I would have gladly supported the forums more by ordering the socket here instead.

air into IP
 

Hello, anybody with fuel leacking from top of IP has experienced air into IP of fuel filter and car difficult to start?
My problem started when parking uphill. Then I could not stard and I could see air in the pipe going from the filter to the IP. I changed all the return hoses from the injectors but now is even worse. I can see a drop of fuel comming off the #3 valve on top of the IP. Could this be related to air comming into the fuel system?
Thanks

Very likely you have the issue. My sons '87 300D is starting to leak at the top of the IP. Been one thing after another on this car for the past few weeks!
Anyway anyone rent the special socket? Having a difficult time shelling out $40 for the tool and the orings and washers can be had for $10.

If anyone has this I'd be glas to put a deposit down for a new one then use it and return it. I've done this same thing with a special crankshaft socket on Honda's. So if you have the 32 tooth socket and want to rent it out let me know the detail.