Does anybody know the nut size on the 1999 E300 turbo diesel oil filter housing? Is it 36 mm and can I use that size socket to remove or should I use a special tool?

Never measured it; just know it's really darn big. The torque on the plastic oil filter cap is very low, hence a crescent wrench or even slip-joint pliers are more than adequate for the task. No need to purchase an expensive, specialized socket or tool for this job - unless you're looking for an excuse, of course. In that case just ignore everything I've said.

You're right about the torque. It says no more than 25nm which translates to about 18 ftlbs. Maybe I will just channel locks or something.

That is a 36 MM size & MB special tool part number is 606-589-01-09-00. List price for this socket from MB is $16. An American size would be 1 13/32". The correct socket would be cheaper than a damaged filter cover.

__________________
MERCEDES Benz Master Guild Technician (6 TIMES)
ASE Master Technician
Mercedes Benz Star Technician (2 times)
44 years foreign automotive repair
27 Years M.B. Shop foreman (dealer)
MB technical information Specialist (15 years)
190E 2.3 16V ITS SCCA race car (sold)
1986 190E 2.3 16V 2.5 (sold)
Retired Moderator

Thanks M.B Doc. I'll buy a socket.

The socket is available at Sears, and costs less than $7. Jim

__________________
Own:
1986 Euro 190E 2.3-16 (291,000 miles),
1998 E300D TurboDiesel, 231,000 miles -purchased with 45,000,
1988 300E 5-speed 252,000 miles,
1983 240D 4-speed, purchased w/136,000, now with 222,000 miles.
2009 ML320CDI Bluetec, 89,000 miles

Owned:
1971 220D (250,000 miles plus, sold to father-in-law),
1975 240D (245,000 miles - died of body rot),
1991 350SD (176,560 miles, weakest Benz I have owned),
1999 C230 Sport (45,400 miles),
1982 240D (321,000 miles, put to sleep)