There has to be an easier way to access the engine compartment without me (dumb*****) pulling the outside latch while the you know who pulls the inside hood release.And yes I broke it off.Tried the needlenose once and almost broke the grill.HELP

Thanks

P.S. Where is the hydraulic tank on the 300d with California emissions? Haynes manual has it upfront passenger side by that is where my air filter is.Again HELP

Not sure I have a great answer on the hood release, sorry. As to the hydraulic resevoir, I assume you are talking about the late 123 chasis, California wagons. On my '85 the resevoir is on the left (driver's side) front next to the windshield washer resevoir. It's a round translucent plastic tank with a metal tube coming out of the top. You can't miss it.

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LRG
1987 300D Turbo 175K
2006 Toyota Prius, efficent but no soul
1985 300 TDT(130K miles of trouble free motoring)now sold

mrdhh,

The hood latch mechanism is not a complicated deal. If you get a coat hanger and bend it in a pretty tight "U" shape, you should be able to hook the latch arm where the normal handle grabs it and pull it forward to release the safety latch. Get a flashlight and a hanger and it should be pretty straightforward. Good luck, Jim

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Own:
1986 Euro 190E 2.3-16 (291,000 miles),
1998 E300D TurboDiesel, 231,000 miles -purchased with 45,000,
1988 300E 5-speed 252,000 miles,
1983 240D 4-speed, purchased w/136,000, now with 222,000 miles.
2009 ML320CDI Bluetec, 89,000 miles

Owned:
1971 220D (250,000 miles plus, sold to father-in-law),
1975 240D (245,000 miles - died of body rot),
1991 350SD (176,560 miles, weakest Benz I have owned),
1999 C230 Sport (45,400 miles),
1982 240D (321,000 miles, put to sleep)