trying to change the fan clutch on the 190 2.6. how do you hold the fan pulley without damaging it? anyone have any creative ideas?

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"the simplest answer is usually the correct answer"

1991 190e, 2.6 (helga)
91,000 mi

The M103 engines require a special tool that inserts from BEHIND the pulley to counterhold!

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MERCEDES Benz Master Guild Technician (6 TIMES)
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in the abscence of the special tool, is there a "bubba" alternative? if not, is the tool readily avail at maybe napa or such?

__________________
"the simplest answer is usually the correct answer"

1991 190e, 2.6 (helga)
91,000 mi

You can use what I used and worked very well. An allan wrentch.

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190e 2.6 1990. 300,000 KM
C230 K 2000, 130,000 KM

You can use a small flat blade screw driver placed between two of the cap screws to break loose one the the other cap screws. Loosen it but don't screw it out all of the way. Repeat this procedure for the other three.

You can purchase a tool to hold the fan clutch (Performamnce Products) or you can make one using a bent finishing nail and a stiff piece of plastic tubing. There is slot cast into the housing behind the fan pulley which you line up with a hole in the pulley itself.

You can easily make the tool.

All you need is a length of mild steel round bar 5mm in dia, about 350mm long.
Use a vice and a hammer to shape it, and clean it up with a file.

Here is the shape of the end that locks the hub.
The length of the end that locks into the hub is about 12mm.

ozzy

Attached Thumbnails

 

A belt wrench (e.g. Sears / Harbor Freight) will often work too.