"Fleece" Oil Filters
 

I just received some the warranty mandated fleece filters (A.642.180.00.09) for use in the OM642 (ML320 CDI) engine. I've never used fleece filters before, so I was expecting something like a standard oil filter cartridge with a fleece sleeve over it - somewhat like fleece seat covers.

What I received looks like an ordinary pleated oil filter that might - and I repeat might - have a little bit of fuzz on the pleats. Is this correct?

The filters were in sealed MB Parts boxes with the correct number on the outside, but the filter inside has a different number (A.642.184.00.25 Mann HU.821) on it.

Did I get the right ones?

The HU821 part number is also given at the MANN Hummel USA info site:

http://www.mann-hummel.com/mf_prodkata_usa/index.html?ktlg_page=11&ktlg_lang=1&ktlg_01_fzart=1&ktlg_01_fzkat=0&ktlg_01_mrksl=579&ktlg_01_mdrsl= 31&ktlg_01_modsl=27&ktlg_subpage=02

A fleece filter looks like this:

http://www.gani.com/public/benz/oil-filter.html

Mine looks nothing like the photo you posted, but does look like the photo on the Mann Hummel website - a standard pleated filter cartridge.

Interesting. Seems MBUSA is recommending fleece oil filters only for the M112, M113, M272 and M273 and paper filters for the others.

The mbusa.com website says that fleece is required on the ML320 CDI in order to meet the warranty requirements.

What concerns me is that the MB Part Box has the correct P/N, but the filter inside has a different MB P/N printed on it. I guess I need to save the box in case of a warranty claim.

Also interesting is the fact that my M113 filters come with 4 o-rings that fit into grooves on the filter stalk. This one only has 2 o-rings in the box. I'll be doing the oil within a week or so, so I guess I'll find out.

Related - None of the usual tool suppliers has the filter wrench to fit this engine. My MB dealer can get one. He says that there are only 25 in the whole US and zero in Germany. No price yet. I guess I'll use a strap wrench for this first time.

Dealer "cost" on the 642-589 oil filter socket is $57...quite pricy! would imagine that they will want $80-90 list.

Yes, you do have the correct filter.

Thanks DOC. If it were the dealer near me in the NE Atlanta suburbs, the price would be even more. :eek:

Don't know if you realize....RBM = really big money $$$$ !

I know as I was once employed there (20 years ago)!

It's not RBM. Believe it or not, that one in Gwinnett County takes MB suggested list prices on parts and accessories, and marks them up anywhere from 50-100% over MSRP; and, when confronted, freely and smugly admits it.

Just one of the reasons that I drove 43 miles (instead of 2 miles) to purchase the ML320 CDI.

Owned by the SAME family...worked there 11 years as well.

Filter wrench
 

If I may suggest using a pipe wrench/gas pipe wrench instead. I believe this is the correct name. I beleive a strap is too flexible. You may even try a chain and lever oil filter remover. Ps If you are concered about marking or chipping the paint or plastic on the cover try placing a cloth between the device metioned above and the paint or plastic

Picked up the MB oil filter wrench yesterday. Wow, is it ever over built. It weighs about 2 lbs. I'll bet that Hazet's new equivalent - not yet available in the US - will be much lighter and cheaper.

Oil Filter Wrench
 

For those who have a gas engine ML, you can get a "cap type" adaptor that works with your socket wrench at Wal Mart for $ 4-$5. Mine has lasted over 6 years at this point. Just measure the filter cover size before you shop.

After having a garage change my oil and filter for two years now, I decided to take on the small task myself. Just a week ago I received by mail my fleece filter for my 98 ML. I didn't have any time to spare as I was already over my 12k filter change(amzoil recommended).
With latex gloves on I removed the cover and filter with some resistance. The engine was cold from sitting overnight.
When reinstalling I made sure the new "O" rings weren't kinked and the cap set firm. I did notice the mechanic of the last filter/oil change didn't set the oil filter cap firm to the block/housing thus creating the small film of oil on the housing.

nisan17
 

Most mechanics suggest that you change the oil when the engine is warm-hot so that the oil drains out more completely. :book: