W126 belt tensioner damper removal/installation

[stephenson]

I need to replace the damper (only) on my 126 (350SDL) and was wondering if this is possible without removal of the entire tensioner assembly (tensioner, damper, and spring)?

It looks like there is room, but I don't want the darn thing "spronging apart" all over the place as I remove either of the mounting bolts.

The CD-ROM doesn't discuss this partial procedure.

Thanks in advance.

George
1991 350SDL

george.stephenson@trw.com

It's easy. It will not "sproing apart". Do you see the hole about 1/2" to 3/4" in dia. in top, left of black bracket that upper end of spring is attached to? When you get to the point of needing to remove damper attach bolt, stick end of lug wrench (or big screwdriver or appropriate lever) into the hole and apply appropriate leverage to relieve pressure on bolt. When reinstalling, take care to ensure that hook on lower end of spring is in appropriate slot.