how is the E-class Owner's Bible?

Looking for a good overall repair manual. I'm a easy-to-moderate DIY'er but would also like to learn more about the way my 1995 E320 Wagon is put together and works.

[dtf]

a very recent post (last week?) describes exactly this topic. I just bought the book too and for general info it is good but shows no detailed steps on how to fix anything. Also I am trouble shooting a no fan situation on my '94 wagon and the book has the wrong fuse pattern - the inside cover for the panel has a different one than in the book. Search E Class Bible and you;ll find it.

[1991300SEL]

A persons impression of this book would likely be inversely proportionational to their automotive tech skill level.

As mentioned above, was recently discussed.

In that thread(and I'm para-phrasing some), one contributor replied that it was ok for the coffee table; not so good for the garage. I believe that statement overall, best describes this book.

In my opinion, Stu Ritter was looking for some quick $$$. He could have done a lot better that this. He sold his garage in Denver and supposedly went into some kind of start-up internet operation which supposedly flopped pretty quick.

The Haynes UK book is far superior for about the same amt. of $$. Also, consider the MB CD-Rom and this site has a ton of info in the archives. The SEARCH function here will pull up all sorts of good information.

[softconsult]

Actually, you are incorrect. My understanding is that the book was controlled by the publisher. Stu was paid to technically consult on the book.
It was never intended to be a repair manual. He has stated that it is not a repair manual.

Steve

[Peter Guenther]

Originally Posted by 1991300SEL

A persons impression of this book would likely be inversely proportionational to their automotive tech skill level.

As mentioned above, was recently discussed.

In that thread(and I'm para-phrasing some), one contributor replied that it was ok for the coffee table; not so good for the garage. I believe that statement overall, best describes this book.

In my opinion, Stu Ritter was looking for some quick $$$. He could have done a lot better that this. He sold his garage in Denver and supposedly went into some kind of start-up internet operation which supposedly flopped pretty quick.

The Haynes UK book is far superior for about the same amt. of $$. Also, consider the MB CD-Rom and this site has a ton of info in the archives. The SEARCH function here will pull up all sorts of good information.

Evidently you have a problem with Stu Ritter, I read his articles in the "Star" where he is the Technical Editor, which is something you left out in the "critque". I am impressed with his knowledge and skills. I also usually look at what the critic has posted to verify their credentials and I am convinced that empty cans make more noise!

[Rahulio1989300E]

I just purchased this book, and I am quite happy with it, but I became a Mercedes W124 DIYer like 2 months ago...

It gives a good history of the car, along with the car's yearly updates. I read all about the fuel system and such.. it's a great starter's book!

[1991300SEL]

Originally Posted by Peter Guenther

Evidently you have a problem with Stu Ritter, I read his articles in the "Star" where he is the Technical Editor, which is something you left out in the "critque". I am impressed with his knowledge and skills. I also usually look at what the critic has posted to verify their credentials and I am convinced that empty cans make more noise!

You're right.

I have a problem with the fact that he's talented and allowed himself you become part of a pimp publication that hardly benefits anyone who's skills are a click or two north of an oil change.

Would you spend 30 yrs. of your life wrenching on fine automobiles to write a watered down book? He could have had a chapter or two of "simple simon", then put on paper what he did so well on the Ritter Easley list and elsewhere.

I agree..the publisher pulled the strings, I just don't believe he had to let them pull as hard as they did in the wrong direction.

Like I said....inversely proportional.

[ACM]

it sucks!!!!

[speedy300Dturbo]

Here's my honest opinion.

1. It's a good read, but 99.99% of the information on it can be found by searching Google and these forums.

2. For repair info, the UK Hayne's manual is better.

3. Even better are the factory repair CD's. Those are a must.

4. There's no need for this book if you have the factory repair CD's and are willing to search these forums.

[nglitz]

Originally Posted by ACM

it sucks!!!!

I agree. read the whole book, found one sentence of use and that was rather obtuse.

[kggkgg]

Originally Posted by speedy300Dturbo

Here's my honest opinion.

1. It's a good read, but 99.99% of the information on it can be found by searching Google and these forums.

2. For repair info, the UK Hayne's manual is better.

3. Even better are the factory repair CD's. Those are a must.

4. There's no need for this book if you have the factory repair CD's and are willing to search these forums.

I agree with speedy, its not a bad read if you are new to 124s but dont bother if you already know a bit, its unlikely to be useful in any practical sense. Haynes and the CDs kicks its ass.

Keith