This weekend I replaced the hydraulic lifters in my '94 E320 (M104), a fairly involved process but not too bad as I followed closely the procedures outlined in the CD manual.

The biggest problem was the belt tensioner. Seems that the last fella who put in the NAPA serpentine belt broke the tensioning nut and over torqued the 10MM hex bolt that goes thru the center of the tensioner to compensate. When I removed the belt, I know I'd have trouble on the return trip. Well, I did. The over torque of the center bolt had caused the the Combination Support to split. The Combination Support is the aluminium thing that acts a crankcase breather and mounting support for the Pwr Steering Pump, A/C compressor and Tensioner. I was able to get it out, had to remove the Pwr Steering Pump and A/C compressor. The tough part was getting that poor mistreated tension centerbolt out.

Can't wait to call around for prices on this part (103 131 09 35). Could be $40, could be $400. What do you think?