"I spoke to two Mercedes mechanics in my area and both offered reasonable prices for a rebuild ($1650, $1700) but were not willing to consider the possibility of making a partial repair."

And these 2 "Mercedes mechanics" wanted $1700 for a rebuild without even a diagnostic,which would have solved the problem, just like Steve solved it from God knows how many miles away (without even being present).

I wouldn't come back to those clowns.

Is this a great forum or what?

Steve, I owe you at least a six pack on my next visit to Florida.

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1999 Porsche 996 Carrera Convertible
1994 420E - SOLD
1986 300E - SOLD, what a car
609 Certified