Just started tearing down the engine on my 89 420 sel with 210k miles. Plan to rebuild the top down to the heads and to remove the front cover as well. Have found a great deal of info so far on the site but have a few questions:

I have the water pump ready to remove but I cannot remove the bottom bolt. The book says to line up the balancer so that the slot is in line with the bolt head to allow it to come out but I still can't get it out. Only about half the bolt head is in the slot. Any tricks?

Many of the wiring harnesses and wires in general have cracked or damaged rubber - the wires seem fine but the protective coverings are getting old.

Should I plan to replace these altogether or just attempt to repair the covers? I don't want to have to replace them later after everything is put back together. If you do suggest replacing them, are most these dealer items?

Looking ahead to fuel and break lines: steel, stainless,etc.? Anyone replaced these this rolled material and if so how hard was it to bend into the right position? I'm assuming the parts from the dealer are pre-bent to fit but will also cost a fortune... Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance