I used the grinder to remove the ridges on the outer rim of the brake disc. That allowed the caliper to slide off, then I hung it off to the side with a piece of wire tied to the spring. I was then able to hammer loose the nut holding the steering knuckle to the axle ball joint. That was tough, and the theoretically free bolt was just about as tough to break loose from the knuckle body. This promises to be fun. I got the bolt out easily enough using a punch, but of course the knuckle was still solidly stuck to the ball joint. The book says to use a 'spreader' on the goop-filled slot, which I assume means a chisel point. Okey-dokey, I've got one of those. The strut was in the way so I removed it, it's obvious that it's no longer got the resistance it should. (I'll measure it according to the book later.) Its boot is shot, too. Using a jack stand I was able to support the tie rod ball joint enough that hammering on the wrench on the steering arm's long bolt finally broke it loose. It came out hard, but once it was out far enough some penetrant finally got in there and it came out fairly easily the rest of the way. With the steering arm off the steering knuckle was finally completely free and unencumbered and spinning easily on the ball joint. It could be turned enough on the ball joint that the chisel could then reach the sealed slot, the sealant feels like some sort of bituminous goop. Perhaps Shoe Goo will do as a replacement? Something tougher than RTV, that's for sure. Anyway, I hammered the chisel into the slot the steering knuckle and was finally able to lift it off of the ball joint (hub and rotor both still attached). I then removed the ball joint's boot and retaining spring, exposing its guts. Gunky, but not as bad as I'd feared. I don't think it was ready to fail just yet. (Good.) I used the wire brush to clean off the area, then got out the Harbor Freight ball joint kits. Looking at it, it's not obvious what to do, exactly. Well, I've got time to think about it as I again ran out of time.
-- Jim _______________________________________ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
