Originally Posted by timf

I'm having a hard time making that connection - I suspect the rod may have had some latent defect from the outset causing it's premature failure.

Normally a metalurgist can tell what caused the rod to brake by looking at the structure under a microscope for example.
I used to work in F1 racing where rods would break on a regular basis - but never from an oil problem. They'd break either from over stress or some underlying defect in the forging.

In your case I'd suspect it was a latent defect and even though 77,000 miles is nothing these days for a rod - you are actually out of warranty, hence my suspicion you'll get no where with MB, especially as they've already given you a 'goodwill' discount.

As for taking it to court - I figure that's an exercise in futility as well for the same warranty reason mentioned above.

Probably best to move on and vote with your wallet.