Belt change: How to 300E 2.6
 

Okay I need help. I have the new belt, the old one is trashed. but I have another issue. How do you get the tension to release? The Tension adjuster (http://catalog.peachparts.com/ShopByVehicle.epc?q=&yearid=1990%40%401990&makeid=63%40%40MERCEDES+BENZ%40%40X&modelid=6194%3AEB|608 %3AED|10000010%3ASM|847%3AMBC|1490%40%40300E+2.6&keyword=tensioner&subcatid=P:241024@@Acc.+Belt+Tens ion+Adj.&mode=PA ) is broken... Just flops around and I can get an allen key in there but all it does is loosen the wheel. What am I doing wrong?

There is a 17/19mm bolt (16) on the front that needs to be loosened just enough. If that tensioner is original, chances are you've killed the bushings inside now and it won't lock up again. Incorrect procedures on an already weak item unfortunately. Cross your fingers, follow the procedure here and hope it doesn't snap on retorque (75nm. Very important).

Well I figured out my problem, the tension adjuster is broken, The all thread was broken off of the piece it attaches to. How much of a PITA is the going to be and what will I need? The new belt is on.. but I see me having to tear the front end down (radiator and such) to put that new piece in.. oh joy

Colorado220, shouldn't need to remove the radiator when replacing the accessory belt tensioner, but the job is a challenge. Best to get a Haynes Service and Repair Manual for step-by-step instructions because all the steps are not necessarily intuitive.

Consider it an opportunity to clean the front of the engine as you access/replace the tensioner assembly.

That's what I am thinking. Is the haynes manual good enough or is there a better one?

Reference both. Radiator does not need to be removed, but it does give you more space. If you haven't flushed your cooling system in the last year, I'd say just take the opportunity to flush the system and completely clean, drain + flush radiator. Remember to stick with Zerex G-05.


PDF Here

Colorado220, the Haynes Manual suits me. Not aware of any other repair manuals that are readily available for that vintage MB automobile.

I looked for one last night and never found a Haynes for that car... Weird.

Colorado220, I have a Haynes "Mercedes-Benz 124 Series '85 to '93" Manual that I bought 10 years ago at Pep Boys.

Checked the Haynes website and did not see that particular manual listed so it may be out of print now. You might want to try calling Haynes and see if they have some old stock, or check on Ebay.