Hmmm.....I found and took out THREE smaller bolts. I'll take another look tonight to see if I can find a fourth. That may well be the problem!

I did already disconnect the intake manifold support bracket, and I've taken the exhaust manifold off altogether since I'm planning on replacing all the studs and nuts...again all original with 13 years of corrosion! Boy I must admit this car is a lot tougher to do than any others I've done (Saabs and Porsches). Does Mercedes employ very small German gnomes to put these engines together??? 8^)

On a positive note when I took the plugs out they looked pristine after 20K miles of teenage driving!

Thanks!

Steve