vacuum pods

[myanoch]

1988 560 sl center air, not working
my question is the the center air duct vacuum element buried inside the main air unit
in the dash ?
Does anyone have some pics of this job or steps on the way it should be preformed?

[Strife]

The pod involved for the center vent in my case was to the left of the vent, accessible behind the instrument panel. I bought a pod popper/diaphragm kit and repaired the pod. It was HORRIBLE to remove - I had to use a cable-operated Dremel to remove the rivet holding the arm from the glove compartment side - but I did it. Both of the internal diaphragms were rotted on mine. This is not the "by the book" method but it worked and was easier (easier....heh...).

I advise you to test ALL the pods while you are back there with a vacuum pump (one of those hand held ones is great). You do NOT want to do this type of job twice.

This is a difficult, horrible job, but the savings for a DIY'er are enormous. I am MUCH happier with my car now that it's fixed.

[myanoch]

Thanks for the infromation
Did you buy rebuild kit off one of these companys or new from the dealer?
Is your car a 560sl ?
Did you leave the center console intack
just remove the instrument cluster???

[Strife]

It's a 560sl, an '86.

http://juliepalooza.8m.com/sl/mercedes.htm

I did not remove the center console; it would have helped to remove the radio but I didn't have to, just the instrument panel and glove box.

Be VERY CAREFUL when removing the instrument panel. Force NOTHING; be careful to avoid distorting the surrounding vinyl padding or it could crack.

I got the kit from a guy who is mentioned on this board several times (use the search, I forget the name). The tool is a requirement; I think the odds for breaking the pod are very high without it.

The worst part was drilling out the rivet, and it took a tiny drill to do this (again, this is not the "by the book" fix, but several people have done it this way with good results). Beats taking the entire dash apart!

[myanoch]

I have taken the dash out before to repair a guage
I know what you mean
I appreciate the help
I am going to order the pod rebuild kits
And get started
thanks again

[RickM]

I just fixed mine by using a hook scew to hold the center vent flap open. This required me to remove the glove box liner and is a right angle drill.
Not perfect but much much easier than getting at that actuator.

Here's the link to the repair kit: http://www.autoluxmbz.com/

[kip Foss]

Strife,

I went to the site you listed but only saw info on a shifting module. Did I miss a connection?

I have repaired my vacuum pots with a hot glue gun but much prefer a proper diaphram if available. New single action pots are about $45 through MB I think.

[GermanStar]

RickM posted the link you want: Autolux

[myanoch]

I just ordered the cups last night
He only sells one style upper and lower
So I hope they will fit my 88 560sl
It sure is a good deal
One more question I have pertaining to wheels
Is the coating on the factory wheels paint ?
confused:

[RickM]

Yes it is paint. Wurth makes the paint you'll want if refinishing. Silver and clear.

If Fastlane doesn't carry then try www.pelicanparts.com or www.Carcareonline.com