1999 ML 430 Removing Windshield Washer Reservoir

[Jim Herold]

How do I remove the windshield washer reservoir? I have removed the 10mm bolt from the long bracket that points toward the front of the vehicle. After removing that bolt, the reservoir is still attached from the bottom.

How do I release the reservoir from whatever is holding it from the bottom?

Thank you--Jim Herold

[mbdoc]

1 bolt & 1 clip....then pull up...somewhat TIGHT area.

[Jim Herold]

Is the "one bolt" the 10mm that I've already removed from the arm that sticks out from the front of the reservoir?

Where is the "clip" that you refer to and how do I remove that?

I really appreciate your help==Jim Herold

[kenyee]

Jim, could you take pics of the process if you have time?
The only DIY info I have is to remove the entire E-box to be able to get the new larger reservoir in. If you find a better way to do this (or if Gilly knows), I'd appreciate it...

BTW, superglue and waterproof caulk don't plug the seam cracks. I tried :-)

[Jim Herold]

My current reservoir is leaking if I fill it more than about halfway. I was going to try a repair. I wasn't planning on installing a larger replacement. I have the MBZ repair DVD and shifting to the larger reservoir looks like a big job.

Your footnote leads me to think leak repair might not be that effective???

[kenyee]

Mine filled up half way as well. It's a common problem.
I've heard that if you caulk it, it might last a year...the forces ripping it apart will do it again (it's pretty obvious why if you look at the position of those clips holding it to the top frame)-:
I used a q-tip to apply gorilla glue to it after cleaning it w/ no luck.

What does the repair DVD say to do to get the large reservoir in? Anything simpler than ripping out the entire e-box?

[YuCrew]

I've replaced the original design with the new larger design. I do not think there is a way to accomplish this fix without moving the ebox. I removed the headlight too but that doesn't really make the changeout any easier.

Good luck.

[sunedog]

I repaired the crack the my tank in my 99 ML 320 with this product (Goop Marine Adhesive).

http://www.amazinggoop.com/amazinggoop/index.html

Didn't have to remove it from the vehicle. Has lasted for a few years.

[Jim Herold]

I will try Goop Marine. Interesting suggestion. I am the one who started this thread. I talked off line with several manufacturers in the paint/solvent business. Their suggestion was to check into canoe/kayak repair solutions. Goop Marine is that type of product.

Thanks for the idea. I've had good luck with other Goop Products.

[ygpms]

Do I have to remove the radiator crossmember and headlight to remove the reservoir. I just discovered a leak from the reservoir and MB dealer no longer carries the original reservoir. How difficult to install the larger, 7.6L, reservoir?

[Jim Herold]

Background: I absolutely believe in keeping my vehicles in perfect condition with the best parts. However, this is one project that I decided just wasn't worth the effort. It's a lot of work to fit the larger reservoir. My solution: I keep my reservoir filled just short of the point where it begins to leak. That has worked for me since I first made my post on this subject in May, 2007.

[ygpms]

Have you tried to seal the reservoir? Your approach won't work for me - my leak is at the bottom of the reservoir.

[Carson357]

i know this sounds brutal, but just force it, insert the part towards the fender first and push, when i was at local dealer we had many issues with this and some techs said you must remove the fuse box and would get paid for doing that then simply force it in, trust me it can be done without causing any damage to the car or the reservoir