OEM Parts

Getting ready to do as much as I can of the 60K service on my newly acquired 1988 300CE .... got the service maunal on cd .... but would like some info on OEM or recommended parts/materials (I did a couple of searches on this topic .... with no specific info returned). I was able to find Beru as the recommended spark wiring provider but how about: 1. spark plugs, 2. rotor, 3. distributor cap, 4. fuel,air, and oil filters, 7. ATF, steering, brake fluids, 8. engine and rear axle oil, 9. coolant 10. lubrucant for linkage and hinges.
Pretty basic stuff .... promise I won't ask again :-) Thanks!

[Mike Murrell]

Looking thru Robert Nitske's book on MBs, I see there is a 12 valve(M103 motor) and a 24 valve(M104) motor for the 300CE. Your post says 300CE so I'll assume you're talking about the single-cam(M103) motor and not the dual cam 24 valve M104 motor.

- Spark plugs - Bosch - Part H9DCO. There is also an H9DC, but the electrode is not as wide as the H9DCO. I've always believed the wider electorde carries current better. Who knows?

- Rotor-Cap - Numerous possiblities here. Look for German made parts...ie....Bosch, Beru.

- Fuel-Air-Oil filters. Look for Mann, Hengst; Mahle-Knecht - all OEM

- ATF - Dexron-III - pick any name brand.

- Power steering - MB part # 000-989-88-03/2 - Made by Febi-Bilstein.

- Brake Fluid - Use Dot-4 - Lots of possibilities here as far as brand - Castrol Dot-4 is widely available.

-Engine Oil - pick any name brand. Use the correct viscosity for your climate.

Axle Oil - I use 85W-140, but then I live in a very warm climate. If you live in a cold climate, 80W90 is likely a good choice.

- Coolant - use the MB brand or one of the extended use varieties. There have been all sorts of horror stories written about what will happen if you do not use MB coolant. I use the stuff, but do not believe the horror stories. What's important is to drain-froward/backward flush the engine annually and replace with 50/50 coolant/water. I prefer distilled water - no impurities.

If you're thinking about ordering parts, remember that this site sells everything you need.

[Mr. BILL]

Ditto's to everything Mike said. Additional note, don't be tempted to put platinum plugs in your car. It simply wasn't designed for them.

Bill

[Ashman]

I would get the vin number, and call phil at partsshop and order the OEM stuff through there.

The 87-89 300ce had the m103 12 valve motor. in 1990 it got the 24 valve m104 engine, and I do not believe they sold them with the m103 after that point. the m104 was standard. at least in the U.S.

Alon