I have a 99 e320. Yesterday, I started hearing an awful grinding noise in the front of the engine and pulled over and shut it off. I had it towed back to my house and upon further inspection this morning I determined that the rubber bushing came out of the harmonic balancer and allowed to to slide back so it is rubbing the front of the engine.

I did a little research on this forum this morning and found out that this is a relatively common problem.

I would like to replace this myself. What is the best way to get it off?
How would you go about keeping the crankshaft from turning while loosing the 17mm allen head bolt? Should I use an air impact wrench? Lastly, does that bolt have left or right hand threads?

From what I can tell, I don't think the pulley rubbed through the oil pan. I guess I can tell when I get it off.


Thanks in advance for the help.

Ron

I did this job on an E430, you'll need some special tools, hopefully there is more space on the E320 - the retaining bolt is a right hand thread.

Here's some tips...

Changing the harmonic dampener/crankshaft balancer on an E430

Good luck,

Peter

Thanks for the info. Where did you get the special tool?

Ron

eBay, there are a number of individuals and and businesses selling this tool. Here's a link to the auction I bought from...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2497660495

Peter

Just though I would let everyone know, the MB dealer is having the car towed in and doing the repair free of charge. He said that they are about to do a recall on that part and basically just wanted to know where to pick up the car.

Good news.

Ron

What years and models will the recall cover and when will it take effect?

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Fred Hoelzle

Sorry Ferdman, I didn't get the particulars.

I was ready with all my arguments to get Mercedes Benz to fix my car and when he just nonchalantly said "no problem, where can we have it picked up from", I just didn't think to ask.

He did say that they know it is a big problem. I would guess that it should include the 98, 99 and maybe the 2000's.

I would just call you dealer and I bet they can make arrangement to have it brought in.

Ron

Rondo,

Can you provide anymore information? Just last week my dealer would not replace mine. Anymore info will be appreciated.

Thanks,

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Donwo
1999 SL 500 Sport (30K miles)
1998 E320 (SOLD)
1989 560SL (SOLD)
1987 300E (TOTALED)
1986 300E (SOLD)
1984 300SD (SOLD)

They can't get mine in until Thursday. I will try and get more details when I am there.

Ron

rondo,


Did I miss the update on your balancer situation?

__________________
Donwo
1999 SL 500 Sport (30K miles)
1998 E320 (SOLD)
1989 560SL (SOLD)
1987 300E (TOTALED)
1986 300E (SOLD)
1984 300SD (SOLD)