Power Steering hose deteriorated
 

I noticed some power steering fluid leaking from my 1999 ML320 and soon thereafter started hearing a whining while making turns. My dealer rep recommeded calling roadside assistance, so I did. The service guy had to tighten the clamp, which was loose from recently have the power steering clamp recall service completed. The service guy also said I should replace the hose that is deteriorated (soft/gummy he said). Can someone tell me where I can purchase one, rather than going to the dealer? What part number, etc?

Also, on another subject, are the Trico 45220 wiper refills the proper ones for my make/model?

I just found this site this morning, and it seems to be a great resource. Thanks.

Joe D
"super novice"

If you can get the part number off the hose, go to the FastLane site (right above this page) and key it in.

If that doesn't work, give Phil at FastLane a call. He may be able to get one for you.

If they don't have it, check www.************************

The Trico refills should work if they have the metal scissor clip at the end. Alot of the newer wipers are measured in metric instead of english dimensions, so make sure you get the correct size.

I usually get Bosch replacements myself. They are readily available at auto parts stores...

I'm not sure this is a DIY task, but we have had trouble with the loose clamp, and our independent service technician just found the hose was deteriorated on our 2000 ML320. It was localized at one end. He cut off the last inch or so that was affected, and added a new clamp. Simple, clean and quick, but may not last forever.

I agree that Fastlane would be a good choice for sourcing out the parts, it helps out the site.

The wipers, I'm not sure on the numbers, but I'm sure lots of later ML owners are aware of this:
Starting in I believe either Feb 99 or Feb 2000, MB changed from a blade with a replaceable insert to a "1 piece" design for which replacement isn't possible. Have to replace the whole blade, although the price it seems to me seemed reasonable. One could also replace the blade assembly with the earlier style, which at that time was still available, although it costs more, was somewhat cheaper to obtain the insert.

Later they also used the same style on the smaller rear hatch wiper, although the 1 piece design AFAIK was never available as a replacement part, you had to buy the whole assembly with the replaceable wiper and after that you could replace just the insert.
Luckily, the rear wiper blade change to the 1 piece design seemed to have occurred AFTER the intro of the 2000 models, which means the blades were being replaced as part of the "free" maintenance commitment program.
I'm unsure what they're using on the new ones. as of I believe the 2003 models, wiper replacements are no longer included in the maintenance commitment:rolleyes: . I guess MB spotted the money leak.

Gilly

I appreciate the help.
I bought the Bosch blades rather than fooling around with the inserts, it was much easier and fairly reasonable in price.

I took my ML320 back to the dealer and had them replace the hose altogether, saying it was deteriorated due to the issue with the recall. They honored that without a question, free of charge.

Thanks again. This site is great and very useful.