HELP! need to replace water pump
 

I need a new water pump for my '86 300E, but the real problem is that I have no where close to enough money to pay for this to get done. My macanic quotes about $720 for the whole project. Please if anyone know where to find a good working pump for less money, or that can help me try to install it, let me know asap. Even if you just know what all need to come out to get the new pump in. Thanks :(

I would post where you are from....there may be a member who will help you.

Most people are going to say...just do a search.

But if you are overwhelmed by this, you are probably not driving the right car. Nearly everyone on this board would tackle the job themselves for about 150 dollars including the water pump, and the short hose.

After the water pump, it will be the a/c, then.......

These cars are approaching 20 years old.

That also works in our favor... they are relatively easy to work on...especially with the knowledge of the people on this board.

I don't think the pump is very expensive- probably the 6hrs of labor!


Use the search feature on this site-there is plenty of water pump replacement information for M103 engines.


Michael

im from lansing, michigan
 

I'm just new to mercedes, had it 5 months now. Anyways, after searching I have come up with some ideas on how to tackle this project. I'm also new to this board, didnt realize how many posts there already were on the subject. thanks though. I see on ebay some pumps around 150, let me know if you know where to find on cheaper.

Members here will probably also have a strong opinion on what water pump to use and which ones to avoid.

Saving 25 dollars on a certain name, could mean re-doing the job in a year... most seem to put 5-6 hours on doing the job.

The consensus is that you can do it without removing the radiator, however it is more aggravating to do it with the radiator in...

When...and I say when I have to do it.. I will pull the radiator to give me work space.

Try getting one from a dealership rebuilt. Some dealerships sell at wholesale prices. Quite a bargin b/c MB will cover replacement for 2 years -parts and labor.


Michael

Click on Fastlane above and get Phils phone number. Call him and ask which is the best brand he sells. After you've done the job, you'll see why we are concerned that you use the best pump you can get. You don't want to do this job twice if you can help it.

Good luck,

This is one part you'll wish you didn't buy "cheap" because you'll be doing it again not long afterwards.

Buy only OEM quality MB water pumps.

Excellent advice about getting the pump from MB. What you get from the dealer is usually, maybe always, a rebuilt unit and they are just fine. Last one I bought for my 240D was under $40. The aftermarket pumps are known to cause overheating issues because the impellers don't have the same clearance as on the OEM ones.

Len

After taking a good look at the pump, the only problem I see is that I'm not sure exactly yet how to loosen the drive belt. I think I know where the tensioner is (right above the alternator?) , but it doesnt move at all. I need to figure out how to losen the belt so I can retighten it for a new one. Thanks

merrim19, I just finished doing an extemely detailed write up of replacing a 300E waterpump for this forum. Search for 300E, waterpump or 103.

cheers, guenter