As a note if you stripped the head you probably did not get the tool seated all the way in or you may have gotten it off on an angle a bit. If you get it in good and square and keep it that way while applying torque they should always come out without damage.

I am glad you got it finally. Sometimes writing a thread like this helps sort your mind and is a positive contribution.

Even if you are experienced with a benz they will take much longer than a Chevy to disassemble and reassemble. If you are used to chevys and like them and expect a mercedes engine to be like one of them to work on you will be frustrated all the while.

If you approach the mercedes engine with an open mind and patience you will eventually come to love and respect the quality of materials and design that goes into one.

They're not fast though, to work on.

The quality of the fasteners though is outstanding and if you do it correctly you will almost never break a fastener on a benz.

Tom W

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.