thanks for all the responses

i tried replacing the plugs myself but gave up after no being able to get the crossover pipe off. i was able to get it off of the manifold side but not the turbo side. i took the screws out but the crossover pipe, or the 'charge air pipe' as its called in the service manual wouldnt come off. i could move it around but couldnt get it off, it felt like it was being held on with rubber or something.

is the charge air pipe held on at the turbo side with anything other than the 2 screws and the the angled bracket they go through?

after i gave up i took it over to the shop and had them do it, so its all good, but maybe next time

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1991 300 D 2.5 Turbo, 220k
also in the family:
1981 240 D 185k
1991 350 SD 185k
2006 S 500
2005 SLK 350