97 E-320 Burned wire smell,Alternator Area
 

On my 97 E-320, after a short trip of 15 miles there was a strong odor of burned wires under hood. The smell seemed to be coming from area of alternator. Car has 67,500 miles and has had all recommended service at proper intervals. Took car by independent who services car (specializes in Mercedes) and he advised not to drive it out of town, but to continue driving around town until further problem or warning shows. Checked output on alternator, at idle with no load, checks at 13.7 volts and under a full load 12.54 volts. (Battery shows 12.5 volts after sitting overnight) No warning lights or messages coming on. Car runs fine, no evidence of any burned wiring, belt is tight. Only a faint burned smell remains. Vehicle has "in line" 6 cyl engine and underneath alternator is air pump but no evidence of any damage there. Any suggestions as to origin of problem or what to check?

The problem with the burned smell on the 97 E-320 was the air pump located under the alternator. Replaced the air pump and hose and that cured problem. The alternator was fine.