Steve: I have followed your post and fine commentary since late last year. I kept wondering when I was going to experience this failure since I've had balancer failure, fuel pump failure, etc. So when the symptoms started, I immediately thought of your inputs on the CPS. I've already ordered it for $53 (dealer wanted $100).

Here are some part numbers that may help others:

Current MB number (at least for my 1999 ML430) 003 153 2828 (supercedes 003 153 2728);
on-line stores show this as F6010-140094;
The Bosch website shows this as Bosch 0 261 210 170
All the numbers seem to cross-reference to each other

I already have the 1/4" drive E8 external torx socket so I'm ready to get dirty when the part arrives.

Thanks for your response.

__________________
Jim