Hi Houston
Reread the thread again. I'm not the one being harsh. I won't name names, YOU tell ME who's being harsh (ps it's not you).

The spark plug ideas you have are fine, I prefer to NOT use antiseize on spark plugs, it's not really meant for a high temp environment, and me, being a good German, won't do it unless MB says you're supposed to. Also I recommend torqing things to spec, the spark plugs are torqued to 28nm, I suggest obtaining a torque wrench and tightening the plugs based on the spec, not "feel".

If you want to just remove the plugs, clean threads, anti-sleaze them, fine. They're about 2 bucks a piece if you shop them out, you decide what to do.

If you'd rather not replace the fuel filter until the engine gives you some indication that there's a problem, that's fine too. However there is a reason it's called "preventative maintenance", and don't come callin me when you're engine is runnin like crap and you were supposed to be at O'Hare 1/2 an hour ago .

Now if you'll excuse me, there is someone in the service entrance who needs their mufflers rotated .

Gilly