E320 Fuel Filler Cover Lock (Vacuum Actuated) Stuck!!! - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

tdhenning · #1 10-20-2003, 02:36 AM

I recently noticed my fuel filler cover stopped locking. The little pin that slips into the hole in the cover is stuck in the unlocked position. The vacuum actuator for that lock has been very noisy the last 3 months. Everytime I lock or unlock my doors I can here it from the inside or the outside very noticably. (Flump!!) I removed the interior panel in the trunk and I can see the actuator back there. Is there anyway to repair the actuator, or should I just go ahead and order a new one? Thanks for any help you can provide.

y2kimmel · #2 10-20-2003, 10:41 AM

Try Phil at the Parts Shop (top of the page links you there) - he may carry actuator repair parts.

If not - George Murphy carries actuator repair parts (865) 482-9175. I'm not sure if he carries a repair kit for this particular actuator, but I know he carries them for the HVAC actuators.

Personally, I'd just buy a new actuator - PartsShop should have it for less than $40 - and perhaps as low as $25.

Regards,
Troy
1995 E420

TROVERMAN · #3 10-21-2003, 09:48 AM

You know that you can just work it manually from inside if it gets stuck?

By the way, does anyone know why MB uses vacumn locks? I mean, why not standard electric actuators?

G-Benz · #4 10-21-2003, 11:39 AM

Supposedly quieter (which they are), and truthfully, the vacuum actuators are pretty reliable (I could get flamed for this).

When age takes a toll on the hoses, that's when trouble erupts.

MB has since changed that viewpoint, since my ML has electric ones...