PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post

lrg · #7 10-25-2003, 02:21 AM

I'm not sure about later models but my '87 124 didn't require removal of the fan or radiator. The rad shroud got in the way but I found that I could get by just loosening it and moving it aside. I put some cardboard on the inside of the radiator to protect from damaging it. I did need to remove the the serpentine belt but that was an easy matter of just taking pressure off the tensioner and removing the belt. Used a 1/4" wrench since it it smaller and the bolts, at least in my case, were not very tight. The metal gasket I have since discovered is appropriate for the very early OM603 engines that don't have a drilling that sprays oil on the pump (I believe it's engines built prior to late '86 but I may be wrong). The metal gasket has a "dam" that allows oil to collect against the pump. Later engines are fine with the regular fiber gasket without the oil dam. You almost don't need instructions to remove the pump. As I recall there are about 5 bolts around the pump that you unscrew and just remove the pump. (Don't forget to remove the vacuum hoses on top first) The new pump goes right back like the old one came off. Keep the gaskets clean so they seal properly. My biggest PITA was scraping the mating surfaces clean of the old gasket. Try not to let the bits of old gasket get into the engine. When you get the new pump in position snug up the bolts, reassemble the belt and rad shroud and you are done. It's not a hard job, just take your time and keep everything as clean as you can. Good Luck!