My dealer found cracks in the rubber component of the harmonic balancer, while my 1998 ML-320 was in for a Mass Air Flow sensor replacement at 57,435 miles ($512), and recommended it be replaced before it failed completely. Replacement only took about an hour and cost $239. I'll be more relaxed now on trips not having to worry about the harmonic balancer coming apart, with all of the safety issues; costly repairs; and inconvenience this would entail. I reported the failure to NHTSA through their web site. If they get enough reports this repair cost may be refunded.

__________________
Tom H.