Front Wheel Bearing change on a 240D
 

am the original owner of a pristine 1982 240D. Through the years I performed most all the maintenance by myself. I believe this particular automobile is the last of it's kind and even though the factory in Stuttgart would offer a brand new one in exchange for it, I would never let her go for any amount of money or a "new one" She is Texas girl, but now she lives in a Island between Italy and Greece were you must know what to do and how to do it.
I need to replace the front wheel bearings. I have everything that I need. New German bearings, Liqui-Molly bearing grease, Harbor Freight bearing extractor set, machinist's portable dial (inches) and the magnetic base needed for the dial. I have tried to read just about any answer I could find in this forum on the subject. I do not know how to use effectively the magnetic base and dial. Is there someone that could direct me step by step on how to do it correctly and on the first try. I am as you could say, mechanically very inclined and I only need to be shown once. You see, here there aren't the right kind of shops to take your pride and joy in case of an error. Things have to be shipped in from the States and at pretty good penny at that, and in case of an error...well...good luck. It has to go out of the Island. Anyway, if someone can provide the help needed, Helga and I would very much appreciate it. By the way, we will be coming home soon.

The magnetic base will attach to the wheel flange & the center pin of the dial goes against the end of the shaft of the steering knuckle.

Tighten the nut until the desired play is achieved.

Doc, Thank you for the reply. I do have a favor to ask you and forgive me for it, but based on your experience you are the man to ask not as much as a favor but an advise or both. Do you have by any chance the work shop manual? and if yes, would it be possible and convenient for you to email me the page(s) with the job procedure? I have done all the standard maintenance (transmission, brakes, valves and even suspension) this one is the first time for me, I used to have an excellent shop in Houston repack the bearings as needed. Now I must do it and do it right. To be honest with you, if we were back home I would take her to that shop and have it done, but where we are, is impossible. Thanks again.