Gas 126s

* If you are noticing fuel odor, replace the gas cap and the filler neck seal.
* No/Low heat - Check the monovalve solenoid diaphragm for tears
* If the odometer is slow or not working and the speedometer is ok, you probably need a 12 tooth gear for the odometer.
* If you pull your instrument cluster for any reason, go ahead and replace the bulbs for the low fuel and high beams indicators.
* If the HVAC suddenly quits, there is a large strip fuse located in a separate holder near the main fusebox.
* The oil level sender on the oil pan has an O-ring which will harden and slowly leak oil.
* The valve cover on M103 has a breather port with a tiny hole in it which often gets plugged. You can poke it clear with a paper clip. It's the breather port near the center of the cover.
* Replace all the rubber air hoses under the air cleaner, and the vacuum fittings
* If the bearing in your smog pump starts to squeal, get ready to replace the bearings soon.
* Disappearing ATF can be either the cooler lines, or the diaphragm in the shift modulator.
* Replace the rear sway bar links if you hear clunking in the rear.
* Get tint or garage the car if you want to keep your leather soft.
* Big bass boxes in the trunk can rattle loose the taillight lenses and also messes with the fuel level sender. The low fuel light can actually flash to the music at times. No failure yet, but I'm sure it's possible if not likely.
* Don't move the front seats if you have the center console open for repair. It can catch and tear the seat.
* These airbags are no joke. They are as loud as a 12GA shotgun. Be careful working near them.
* COPPER CORE NON-RESISTOR PLUGS ONLY
* Replace the antenna seal if it shows any signs of age. Cheap insurance.
* Temp sensors should be replaced if they are older than 10 years - just cuz.
* If your ignition lock starts getting flakey, replace it BEFORE it quits completely. You will be screwed if it won't turn to position 1.
* Don't use armor-all. Get the MB Cockpit Care. Worth every penny.
* Keep your sunroof guides and your power antenna lubed with silicones.
* Periodically inspect under the rear window for ANY signs of water or rust. The rear window sill can rust away to nothing from underneath and it's hard to notice until it's too late.

I'm sure I can think of more. I'll post back.


-tp