The waterpump of my 300SE (103 engine) has some radial play.
With the belt removed I can move the pulley a little bit from side to side.
Is this normal for this engine? The pump is not leaking.
If this is a sign of breaking down I would like to fix it before I take a much needed holiday trip to the south. I already ordered the snap-on tool.

Don't wait. I paid the ultimate price for a failed water pump (overheat and blown head gasket) Get your tool, get a new pump and fix it ASAP.

Use only a factory pump. I have seen the aftermarket pumps fail quickly with much damage...and the core is no good.

If you aren't a tech, take it to one for this. If you are, have fun... This is a good job. Book time is 4.8 hours. I can do it right in under 1.5.

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Benzmac:
Donnie Drummonds
1981 280GE SWB
1987 16V
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

Thanks for your reply's, I will replace the waterpump as soon as possible.
I already planned to do so, but wanted your confirmation. I know how to wrench, but lack your experience and I don's want to replace something that is ok.
Last summer I did some work on the engine, valve guides, timing chain and rails and piston rings. I put a lot of work and sweat (even in the Netherlands it can be hot) in this car and now it runs great. I want to keep it this way.

Get the Snap-on FLXM13 (1ft or so 3/8 drive extension with a ball type universal joint/ 13mm socket on one end, very compact head) that Benzmac recommends. I had to chase down a Snap-on guy to get it. (I haven't received the bill yet, he said about $35). It decreased the job to 2-1/2 to 3 hours total for me. Benzmac said he can do it without removing the tensioner or power steering pump bolts, but I couldn't get it to clear the upper tensioner adjuster bracket without loosening the power steering pump bracket and tilting it out. I'm not sure if the tensioner really needed to be removed (I removed it first, no help) The tool does make it so the a/c compressor bolts can be left in place and all work done from the top)

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Bob Johnston
87 300E