Thanks for the replies so far--

The person driving was making an 85mph pass up a two-lane hill. RPM's were probably around 5000+, which is no problem for this engine, but as mentioned there was a negligible belt tear. Yes, this person (no names mentioned!) has learned a lesson.

So far, so good. Continuing to monitor new belt.

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2002 Mercedes-Benz E320 4Matic
1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 Wagon
2005 Land Rover LR3 V8 SE
1999 Audi A8 4.2L quattro

Car was obviously in a low gear at the time, undoubtedly after downshifting when you -- er, I mean the nameless driver -- floored it to make the pass, guaranteeing belt failure.

Consider yourself lucky that this did not happen in the heat of summer.

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2008 E350 4matic / Black/Anthracite

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Gone but not Forgotten:
2001 E430 4matic, 206,xxx miles, Black/Charcoal
1995 E320, 252,xxx miles, Black/Grey
1989 260E, 223,00 miles, Black/Black

Yeah, lucky for the cold weather. Fairly abruptly we may put the wagon for sale next week should we purchase a 2000 ML320 this weekend. The wagon has been great, and personally I think the 24V m104 is better than the 18V V6 in the ML. However, this ML is 1-owner and particularly well cared for. (Mobil 1 every 3k miles)

Any ideas of how to get the main engine fan off to remove belt fragments still stuck in the viscous drive?

Thanks

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2002 Mercedes-Benz E320 4Matic
1995 Mercedes-Benz E320 Wagon
2005 Land Rover LR3 V8 SE
1999 Audi A8 4.2L quattro