This 1995 E420 with 45,000 miles on it has the short rubber hose from the reservoir to the pump leaking and seems to be the only part leaking. It has gradually worsened in the last year or so.

In following the suggestions on this forum from other owners, I've taken the hose off by finally cutting it and discovered there is only a 1/4" between the two nipples the hose connects too. Making it impossible to put another one without removing the pump and separating the reservoir from the pump. The hose connector on top of the pump though has three bolts that attach to the pump and seems like removing it would allow me to be able to attach a new hose without removing any thing else.

My question is: Is this a feasible way to do this and if someone has tried this or even if I've made it clear in describing my intentions. Have people replaced this little hose without removing the pump? Perhaps there are different versions of this pump or hose connector lengths for the M119 engine. Others have noted changing it without pump removal.

If anyone can shed some light on this it would be most appreciated as I don't want to tear apart more than I have too. Thanks!

midnightlcs,
Remove the three bolts holding the resevoir to the body,

Remove the tall stud that attaches the resevoir cap

Remove the nipple from the body (I do not remember I think 12mm Allen) then you can slide the hose off the pump.

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Paul

Thanks a lot Paulwho, you really saved me from taking apart way much more than I would need too.
I followed your instructions and very quickly was able to put on the new hose relatively easily. I think these should be standard instructions for this power steering hose replacement, since it's a common occurence on this M119 engine and I would never have guessed the top nipple would just unscrew right out.
Thanks again.

Midnightlsc