I just checked the part number on my 2000 ML320 and it is 112 035 00 00. I guess I have one that is problematic, but so far it still appears in good condition. However, I only have 37,000 miles on the vehicle so far. This vehicle was an early build 2000 model so I guess they were still using the original design on some 2000 models. I think I will try to get part updated before it goes out of warranty in October. If they won't replace it before it goes bad, I will at least get it documented before it goes out of warranty.

It is hard to believe that Mercedes just does not replace all of these "old style" balancers to save them the costs associated with the tow, replacement of the timing cover and oil pan and inconvenience to the customer when it fails at an inopportune time. I pity the poor Mercedes customer who relies exclusively upon the Mercedes and the dealers service department to keep their relatively new vehicles trouble-free.

I still have not taken my ML 320 in for the power steering hose clamp recall but have checked the hose in question and found the clamps to be only slightly loose probably due to compression of the rubber hose over time. Hose clamps apprear to be fine and I tightened them until I take it in for the next FSS servicing. Hopefully, Mercedes will "Wise Up" and issue another recall for the balancers so that I can get all of these issues resolved during one visit.