The airbox can be removed by just removing the the fasteners / screws / bolts that hold it in.

Your car has what is called a throttle actuator, and it sits underneath the intake manifold. You can remove it without taking off the manifold. Should take about 2 hours.

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Paul S.

2001 E430, Bourdeaux Red, Oyster interior.
79,200 miles.

1973 280SE 4.5, 170,000 miles. 568 Signal Red, Black MB Tex. "The Red Baron".