Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
Not sure if it is factory or not, but Rusty lists a pre-filter, and I have one on Gump. she came to me that way. As for the speaker cover, I changed to the wood trim dash and it was missing a cover. I found one at PnP, but it is pretty weather worn and needs to have the cover heated and re-attached. Anybody have a good idea how to make that happen? Thought a slow oven may do, but probably would just melt it all On Thursday, January 5, 2006, at 04:32 PM, R A Bennell wrote: This is a 115 so if it is like the 240 it may not have had the prefilter but I could certainly add one somewhere. -- Clay Seattle Bioburner 1972 220D - Gump 1995 E300D - Cleo 1987 300SDL - POS - DOA The FSM would drive a Diesel Benz
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
As for the speaker cover, I changed to the wood trim dash and it was missing a cover. I found one at PnP, but it is pretty weather worn and needs to have the cover heated and re-attached. Anybody have a good idea how to make that happen? Thought a slow oven may do, but probably would just melt it all That's a tough one. The Frankenheap's grille is hard black plastic, and is just fine. But the usual one I see, and the one that is in the Ebola Fishtank, is that glued-on vinyl/foam over metal thing. I never have seen a good one of those. One other option would be to make a nice wooden one. That would be somewhat labor-intensive. Temperature control on your oven would be critical. -- Jim
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
I would LOVE a wood speaker cover. Not good at wood shop, so would need to commission the part. I have a bunch of the hard plastic grilles, and picked this up hoping I could make it better. On Thursday, January 5, 2006, at 07:44 PM, Jim Cathey wrote: As for the speaker cover, I changed to the wood trim dash and it was missing a cover. I found one at PnP, but it is pretty weather worn and needs to have the cover heated and re-attached. Anybody have a good idea how to make that happen? Thought a slow oven may do, but probably would just melt it all That's a tough one. The Frankenheap's grille is hard black plastic, and is just fine. But the usual one I see, and the one that is in the Ebola Fishtank, is that glued-on vinyl/foam over metal thing. I never have seen a good one of those. One other option would be to make a nice wooden one. That would be somewhat labor-intensive. Temperature control on your oven would be critical. -- Jim ___ http://www.striplin.net 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://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net -- Clay Seattle Bioburner 1972 220D - Gump 1995 E300D - Cleo 1987 300SDL - POS - DOA The FSM would drive a Diesel Benz
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
There are four clips about an inch in from the corners front and back. Using a VERY thin prying screw driver, either pop up from the center and work to a side or pick a corner and pry up. May be a good thing to use the steel part to glue the wood onto On Friday, January 6, 2006, at 02:43 PM, R A Bennell wrote: Anyone know how I get this glued-on vinyl/foam over metal thing loose from the dash? The idea of making a wooden one appeals to me but I would need to get this one off first to use as a sort of a pattern. Randy -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Jim Cathey Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 7:45 PM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question As for the speaker cover, I changed to the wood trim dash and it was missing a cover. I found one at PnP, but it is pretty weather worn and needs to have the cover heated and re-attached. Anybody have a good idea how to make that happen? Thought a slow oven may do, but probably would just melt it all That's a tough one. The Frankenheap's grille is hard black plastic, and is just fine. But the usual one I see, and the one that is in the Ebola Fishtank, is that glued-on vinyl/foam over metal thing. I never have seen a good one of those. One other option would be to make a nice wooden one. That would be somewhat labor-intensive. Temperature control on your oven would be critical. -- Jim ___ http://www.striplin.net 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://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net ___ http://www.striplin.net 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://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net -- Clay Seattle Bioburner 1972 220D - Gump 1995 E300D - Cleo 1987 300SDL - POS - DOA The FSM would drive a Diesel Benz
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
The short answer would be no. I have generally done most of my own auto repairs for ever and ever. My wife's brother is a mechanic at a small shop and I sometimes take things there (as I get older) however, they are not into diesels and esp not old MB diesels. I have heard of a couple of places around town that I could take it to, apart from the one dealer in town but I have not gone looking for a mechanic. My friend with the 74 240D has someone he uses and seems relatively satisfied. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of andrew strasfogel Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 10:58 AM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question Randy, do you have a shop in Winnipeg that you're satisfied with?
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
Dealerships don't necessarily know how to work on old diesels either. Mechanic at a local dealership said they just teach them to read the computers and replace things. HE has been learning how to work on diesels b/c he bought a 300SDL and when I took the '87 300TD in for the free oxidation cat exhaust replacement (yahoo!), he did the work, thank God. Chris R A Bennell [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: The short answer would be no. I have generally done most of my own auto repairs for ever and ever. My wife's brother is a mechanic at a small shop and I sometimes take things there (as I get older) however, they are not into diesels and esp not old MB diesels. I have heard of a couple of places around town that I could take it to, apart from the one dealer in town but I have not gone looking for a mechanic. My friend with the 74 240D has someone he uses and seems relatively satisfied. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of andrew strasfogel Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 10:58 AM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question Randy, do you have a shop in Winnipeg that you're satisfied with? ___ http://www.striplin.net 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://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net Christopher McCann, Squier Park, Kansas City, Missouri -2005 Blue Point Siamese, Rose -1987 300TD, 151K, Rotkäppchen -1985 300SD, 210K, Wulf -1976 240D, ?K, AKP-Wagen (Alternativen Kraftstoffs Prüfenlastwagen) -1972 Jacobsen 21 Turbo Vent -1971 Case 222 Hydrive, 12HP Kohler, 38 deck, Snowcaster, One Banger - Yahoo! Photos Ring in the New Year with Photo Calendars. Add photos, events, holidays, whatever. From [EMAIL PROTECTED] Thu Jan 05 20:08:13 2006 Received: from bay101-dav2.bay101.hotmail.com ([64.4.56.74] helo=hotmail.com) by server5.arterytc5.net with esmtp (Exim 4.52) id 1EubPB-0008VG-G2 for [EMAIL PROTECTED]; Thu, 05 Jan 2006 20:08:13 + Received: from mail pickup service by hotmail.com with Microsoft SMTPSVC; Thu, 5 Jan 2006 12:08:10 -0800 Message-ID: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Received: from 71.115.62.131 by BAY101-DAV2.phx.gbl with DAV; Thu, 05 Jan 2006 20:08:10 + X-Originating-IP: [71.115.62.131] X-Originating-Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] X-Sender: [EMAIL PROTECTED] From: Rick Knoble [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Mercedes Discussion List [EMAIL PROTECTED] References: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Thu, 5 Jan 2006 14:08:19 -0600 MIME-Version: 1.0 Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset=iso-8859-1; reply-type=original Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit X-Priority: 3 X-MSMail-Priority: Normal X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook Express 6.00.2900.2180 X-MimeOLE: Produced By Microsoft MimeOLE V6.00.2900.2180 X-OriginalArrivalTime: 05 Jan 2006 20:08:10.0938 (UTC) FILETIME=[C08791A0:01C61233] X-Antivirus-Scanner: Clean mail though you should still use an Antivirus Subject: Re: [MBZ] 1980 240D for sale in Columbus X-BeenThere: [EMAIL PROTECTED] X-Mailman-Version: 2.1.6 Precedence: list Reply-To: Mercedes Discussion List [EMAIL PROTECTED] List-Id: Mercedes Discussion List mercedes_striplin.net.striplin.net List-Unsubscribe: http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net, mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] List-Archive: http://striplin.net/pipermail/mercedes_striplin.net List-Post: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] List-Help: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] List-Subscribe: http://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net, mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] X-List-Received-Date: Thu, 05 Jan 2006 20:08:13 - HAHAHAHAHAHA Rick Knoble '85 300 CD - Original Message - From: Sunil Hari [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Mercedes Discussion List [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 1:59 PM Subject: [MBZ] 1980 240D for sale in Columbus Guy at the local MB dealership is pseudo-interested in selling his 1980 240D. Reason he's pseudo-interested is that he has 2 other cars, but he doesn't know if he can replace his 240. Brown exterior, tan interior, perfect inside and out. 4-speed manual, everything works (incl. R12 A/C) but the power antenna. 160,000 miles, and he's the second owner. I'm pretty sure he has complete maintenance records. He wants $4500. Any takers? -- Sunil Hari [EMAIL PROTECTED] 513-205-7474 ___ http://www.striplin.net 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://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
Randy - first, the more the vehicle is stored, the more maintenance that will be required to keep it reliable, IMO. Diesels are made to be driven, not parked! As for the timing chain, it should be checked the next time you adjust the valves (every 15,000 miles). If it was running well, starting readily when you put it away, it can probably wait until you next check the valve clearances. Fuel filters are very important, ESPECIALLY is the car has been sitting for several months with fuel in the system. Always carry a set of fuel filters with you - you never know when you'll get a bad load of fuel away from home. The hoses that connect the oil cooler and transmission coolers usually last a lifetime - but if you see dry cracks, or they seem brittle, then of course it wouldn't hurt to change them. Just be warned that fooling with the oil cooler can result in a broken cooler connection, so be hesitant. Finally, a good, reliable battery is required, so if its getting near 5 years old, replace it! Not only does it have to be good to do the glow cycle, but cranking over a cold engine with 20 or more to one compression is a big battery drain. )I'm assuming the glow plug system is in good condition?) This should give you a start on some maintenance ideas! Good luck.. Werner '83 SD 210k miles '90 D 220k miles - Original Message - From: R A Bennell [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Mercedes Discussion List [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 3:07 PM Subject: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question I bought my 76 300D in July of 05. I drove it about 1500 miles before putting it in the garage for the winter at the end of October. I'm wondering what I should plan to change in order to ensure, so far as possible, that I keep the vehicle alive for the foreseeable future. I guess that I am supposed to pull the valve (cam?) cover and check for chain stretch etc but I also wonder what else you folks would suggest that I change to avoid trouble. My main thought is a concern about things like the oil cooler hoses giving up and dumping my oil before I have a chance to shut down. A friend with a 74 240D suffered an engine failure earlier this year as the result of his oil pump failing (at least that was what he says happened but he is not mechanically inclined and has a shop do all of the work for him). Are there similar hoses relating to the auto tranny that need to be changed out as well? (I know I could look at the CD manual or crawl under the car and look but I thought you folks would know and I'm sitting in my warm office wasting time when I should be working. I'm self employed so no one cares but me anyway, I guess.) How about the flex disk in the driveshaft? Should something like that be changed or should I leave it until it appears to be failing? I would like this vehicle to be relatively safe to take far from home. We routinely travel to a lake that is 180 miles from home and I don't like the idea of having trouble and needing to leave my poor car along the road. I have a woosh-woosh sort of noise in the accessory belt area as well when the engine is cold. I think changing the belts would be a good start before looking any deeper there. So far I have only changed the oil and filter twice and the air filter once. I have done nothing else. I have yet to change any fuel filters or the like. The return hoses on the injectors were done shortly before I bought the car so they appear to be fine. So, tell me what you think, so I can order up some parts and do a little preventative work before I start driving it again in the spring. Randy
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
-Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Werner Fehlauer Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 12:23 PM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question Randy - first, the more the vehicle is stored, the more maintenance that will be required to keep it reliable, IMO. Diesels are made to be driven, not parked! *** That probably is true but driving it around here in the salt that they put on the roads would not be good for it. Starting in the coldest weather would also be hard on it and me (but we have had a very mild winter so far.) As for the timing chain, it should be checked the next time you adjust the valves (every 15,000 miles). If it was running well, starting readily when you put it away, it can probably wait until you next check the valve clearances. *** I have yet to check the valves or anything else really. I just got it and it seems to start and run well so I have assumed things cannot be too far off the mark. However, I have no experience with MB Diesels and as such could be wrong. Fuel filters are very important, ESPECIALLY is the car has been sitting for several months with fuel in the system. Always carry a set of fuel filters with you - you never know when you'll get a bad load of fuel away from home. *** I note references to filters. So far as I have been able to tell I only have the one inside the metal container doodad. I understand there probably should be a prefilter in the line so will have to check further into that issue. Should change the one in the container and having some extras is probably good insurance. The father of a friend of my younger son had to leave his late model Ford F-250 diesel in Sioux Falls SD just before Xmas to be repaired after getting a bad tank of fuel. If I understand correctly it clogged the injectors and the truck had to be towed to a dealer and have some cleaning work done before it could be brought home. An expensive fix plus two extra trips to have his wife pick him up to get home and then to go back for it. The hoses that connect the oil cooler and transmission coolers usually last a lifetime - but if you see dry cracks, or they seem brittle, then of course it wouldn't hurt to change them. Just be warned that fooling with the oil cooler can result in a broken cooler connection, so be hesitant. *** Damned if you do and damned if you don't. Which is the safer course??? Finally, a good, reliable battery is required, so if its getting near 5 years old, replace it! Not only does it have to be good to do the glow cycle, but cranking over a cold engine with 20 or more to one compression is a big battery drain. )I'm assuming the glow plug system is in good condition?) *** Seemed to be fine throughout the summer but I have no idea how old it is. I have a small trickle charger that I intend to put on to keep it charged through the winter. Electronic control so it won't charge if it does not need it. This should give you a start on some maintenance ideas! Good luck.. *** Thanks for the input. Randy Werner '83 SD 210k miles '90 D 220k miles
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
I like to have fresh fuel lines, so check the ones at the tank and firewall. The returns are fresh, so no leaks there. Could not kill the car to get a fresh set of fuel filters, that way you know when they were new and can count from that point. Maybe do the valves at the same time, so that you change filter and adjust valves together in future. Unless you are totally confident in the water lines, get fresh and change the coolant to Zerex G-05 from the green. Lets you start a fresh three year clock on that job too. Take a look at the vacuum lines for oil. Check the fuel lines from filter to IP for leaks. Add some algae eater to the fuel tank so that you do not have bug clog the filters. Change ALL the fuses to fresh ones. Change your ATF/filter and fluid in the diff, so the clock can be reset there. While you have the car up off the ground, look at brake lines for dry rot, top off or change brake fluid and PS fluid. I always image that the old stuff that comes in any car I get has not been changed in years, so like to KNOW when the last time a bit of PM was done. On Thursday, January 5, 2006, at 12:07 PM, R A Bennell wrote: I bought my 76 300D in July of 05. I drove it about 1500 miles before putting it in the garage for the winter at the end of October. I'm wondering what I should plan to change in order to ensure, so far as possible, that I keep the vehicle alive for the foreseeable future. I guess that I am supposed to pull the valve (cam?) cover and check for chain stretch etc but I also wonder what else you folks would suggest that I change to avoid trouble. My main thought is a concern about things like the oil cooler hoses giving up and dumping my oil before I have a chance to shut down. A friend with a 74 240D suffered an engine failure earlier this year as the result of his oil pump failing (at least that was what he says happened but he is not mechanically inclined and has a shop do all of the work for him). Are there similar hoses relating to the auto tranny that need to be changed out as well? (I know I could look at the CD manual or crawl under the car and look but I thought you folks would know and I'm sitting in my warm office wasting time when I should be working. I'm self employed so no one cares but me anyway, I guess.) How about the flex disk in the driveshaft? Should something like that be changed or should I leave it until it appears to be failing? I would like this vehicle to be relatively safe to take far from home. We routinely travel to a lake that is 180 miles from home and I don't like the idea of having trouble and needing to leave my poor car along the road. I have a woosh-woosh sort of noise in the accessory belt area as well when the engine is cold. I think changing the belts would be a good start before looking any deeper there. So far I have only changed the oil and filter twice and the air filter once. I have done nothing else. I have yet to change any fuel filters or the like. The return hoses on the injectors were done shortly before I bought the car so they appear to be fine. So, tell me what you think, so I can order up some parts and do a little preventative work before I start driving it again in the spring. Randy ___ http://www.striplin.net 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://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net -- Clay Seattle Bioburner 1972 220D - Gump 1995 E300D - Cleo 1987 300SDL - POS - DOA The FSM would drive a Diesel Benz
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
Randy - there should be some maintenance records somewhere, but if the previous owner can't recall ever or when the valves were adjusted, and the mileage is some multiple of 15k, then it would hurt to think about doing that job. And since it involves removing the valve/cam cover, you can easily check the chain at that time. My experience with engines that have had proper oil and changes is that these engines can usually go 200k or more before chain replacement is indicated (by a stretch of 4-6 degrees, typically). For example, I just had the valves checked on my SD (210K miles) and the chain stretch was about 1.5 degrees.) I don't know that the 240 has a prefilter, but the 5 cylinders from 77 on have a small plastic filter before the primer pump, and if its the see-through version, you can see how the fuel looks right there. They are cheap, and it would be prudent to change those once a year, at least IMO. The big filter in the can usually lasts for 30k miles or so. And as long as the filters are working, there's no way that the injectors should ever get clogged. Speaking of injectors, a common maintenance issue is hardening and leaking fuel return lines. Easy to replace, just get about 3 ft of the hose from Rusty or your local dealer - pay particular attention to the end cap on the last injector. I'm assuming you have the M-B block heater? wouldn't hurt to plug it in for at least 30 minutes before you try and start it. Does wonders for ease of starting and longer battery life! Did we mention the rubber brake hoses at each wheel? when they get 10-15 years old, they can swell up inside and actually reduce or block fluid flow to that wheel's brakes. A cheap replacement before you flush the fluid (every 2 years) and before you take that long trip. And again, I wouldn't fool with the oil cooler lines unless you really think they are about to break. IMO, if they ain't broke, leave well enough alone! Werner - Original Message - From: R A Bennell [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Mercedes Discussion List [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 5:47 PM Subject: Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Werner Fehlauer Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 12:23 PM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question Randy - first, the more the vehicle is stored, the more maintenance that will be required to keep it reliable, IMO. Diesels are made to be driven, not parked! *** That probably is true but driving it around here in the salt that they put on the roads would not be good for it. Starting in the coldest weather would also be hard on it and me (but we have had a very mild winter so far.) As for the timing chain, it should be checked the next time you adjust the valves (every 15,000 miles). If it was running well, starting readily when you put it away, it can probably wait until you next check the valve clearances. *** I have yet to check the valves or anything else really. I just got it and it seems to start and run well so I have assumed things cannot be too far off the mark. However, I have no experience with MB Diesels and as such could be wrong. Fuel filters are very important, ESPECIALLY is the car has been sitting for several months with fuel in the system. Always carry a set of fuel filters with you - you never know when you'll get a bad load of fuel away from home. *** I note references to filters. So far as I have been able to tell I only have the one inside the metal container doodad. I understand there probably should be a prefilter in the line so will have to check further into that issue. Should change the one in the container and having some extras is probably good insurance. The father of a friend of my younger son had to leave his late model Ford F-250 diesel in Sioux Falls SD just before Xmas to be repaired after getting a bad tank of fuel. If I understand correctly it clogged the injectors and the truck had to be towed to a dealer and have some cleaning work done before it could be brought home. An expensive fix plus two extra trips to have his wife pick him up to get home and then to go back for it. The hoses that connect the oil cooler and transmission coolers usually last a lifetime - but if you see dry cracks, or they seem brittle, then of course it wouldn't hurt to change them. Just be warned that fooling with the oil cooler can result in a broken cooler connection, so be hesitant. *** Damned if you do and damned if you don't. Which is the safer course??? Finally, a good, reliable battery is required, so if its getting near 5 years old, replace it! Not only does it have to be good to do the glow cycle, but cranking over a cold engine with 20 or more to one compression is a big battery drain. )I'm assuming the glow plug system is in good condition?) *** Seemed to be fine
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
someone may have already mentioned this...and I missed what car we're talking about, but you can call MBUSA (1-800-FOR-MERC) and request the maintenance book. Some are no longer available - most are. I think I got the last W123 240D, becuase now I'm photocopying it for friends and I only bought it cuz W115 240D was out of print (my other two were still available) - ANYWAY, they tell you all the PM that needs done at what intervals. You can do it all yourself, sign the book yourself, etc. There are a ton of people and resources here to help you do the work as it comes up. Chris R A Bennell [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Werner Fehlauer Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 12:23 PM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question Randy - first, the more the vehicle is stored, the more maintenance that will be required to keep it reliable, IMO. Diesels are made to be driven, not parked! *** That probably is true but driving it around here in the salt that they put on the roads would not be good for it. Starting in the coldest weather would also be hard on it and me (but we have had a very mild winter so far.) As for the timing chain, it should be checked the next time you adjust the valves (every 15,000 miles). If it was running well, starting readily when you put it away, it can probably wait until you next check the valve clearances. *** I have yet to check the valves or anything else really. I just got it and it seems to start and run well so I have assumed things cannot be too far off the mark. However, I have no experience with MB Diesels and as such could be wrong. Fuel filters are very important, ESPECIALLY is the car has been sitting for several months with fuel in the system. Always carry a set of fuel filters with you - you never know when you'll get a bad load of fuel away from home. *** I note references to filters. So far as I have been able to tell I only have the one inside the metal container doodad. I understand there probably should be a prefilter in the line so will have to check further into that issue. Should change the one in the container and having some extras is probably good insurance. The father of a friend of my younger son had to leave his late model Ford F-250 diesel in Sioux Falls SD just before Xmas to be repaired after getting a bad tank of fuel. If I understand correctly it clogged the injectors and the truck had to be towed to a dealer and have some cleaning work done before it could be brought home. An expensive fix plus two extra trips to have his wife pick him up to get home and then to go back for it. The hoses that connect the oil cooler and transmission coolers usually last a lifetime - but if you see dry cracks, or they seem brittle, then of course it wouldn't hurt to change them. Just be warned that fooling with the oil cooler can result in a broken cooler connection, so be hesitant. *** Damned if you do and damned if you don't. Which is the safer course??? Finally, a good, reliable battery is required, so if its getting near 5 years old, replace it! Not only does it have to be good to do the glow cycle, but cranking over a cold engine with 20 or more to one compression is a big battery drain. )I'm assuming the glow plug system is in good condition?) *** Seemed to be fine throughout the summer but I have no idea how old it is. I have a small trickle charger that I intend to put on to keep it charged through the winter. Electronic control so it won't charge if it does not need it. This should give you a start on some maintenance ideas! Good luck.. *** Thanks for the input. Randy Werner '83 SD 210k miles '90 D 220k miles ___ http://www.striplin.net 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://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net Christopher McCann, Squier Park, Kansas City, Missouri -2005 Blue Point Siamese, Rose -1987 300TD, 151K, Rotkäppchen -1985 300SD, 210K, Wulf -1976 240D, ?K, AKP-Wagen (Alternativen Kraftstoffs Prüfenlastwagen) -1972 Jacobsen 21 Turbo Vent -1971 Case 222 Hydrive, 12HP Kohler, 38 deck, Snowcaster, One Banger - Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less From [EMAIL PROTECTED] Thu Jan 05 21:28:24 2006 Received: from web30001.mail.mud.yahoo.com ([68.142.200.64]) by server5.arterytc5.net with smtp (Exim 4.52) id 1Eucem-0001Hq-EV for [EMAIL PROTECTED]; Thu, 05 Jan 2006 21:28:24 + Received: (qmail 40774 invoked by uid 60001); 5 Jan 2006 21:28:21 - DomainKey-Signature: a=rsa-sha1; q=dns; c=nofws; s=s1024; d=yahoo.com; h=Message-ID:Received:Date:From:Subject:To:In-Reply-To:MIME-Version:Content-Type:Content-Transfer
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
Fuel lines is a good idea. I lost a whole tank of gasoline from my 68 Chevy pickup when the line on the bottom of the tank rotted out. Glad no one tossed a cig butt out the window while driving by my truck. The coolant lines look ok but I have to admit that I have not poked them too much. Don't know where to find the Zerex anti freeze around here but it must be available. Is there a comparable item under a different brand name? I need to do some vacuum line work in any event as the door locks are wonky. Also may be an issue with cruise control as it will not hold. ATF and other fluids is always a good and relatively inexpensive idea. I pulled the diff plug to ensure that there was sufficient fluid in there. There was and it appeared clean. Still a good thing to change it out. Need to get one of the ps fluid filters I see talked about and change the ps fluid too I guess. Same with brake fluid etc. I have to say this car has better brakes than anything that I can recall driving. I took that as a good sign. Randy -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of redghost Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 1:01 PM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question I like to have fresh fuel lines, so check the ones at the tank and firewall. The returns are fresh, so no leaks there. Could not kill the car to get a fresh set of fuel filters, that way you know when they were new and can count from that point. Maybe do the valves at the same time, so that you change filter and adjust valves together in future. Unless you are totally confident in the water lines, get fresh and change the coolant to Zerex G-05 from the green. Lets you start a fresh three year clock on that job too. Take a look at the vacuum lines for oil. Check the fuel lines from filter to IP for leaks. Add some algae eater to the fuel tank so that you do not have bug clog the filters. Change ALL the fuses to fresh ones. Change your ATF/filter and fluid in the diff, so the clock can be reset there. While you have the car up off the ground, look at brake lines for dry rot, top off or change brake fluid and PS fluid. I always image that the old stuff that comes in any car I get has not been changed in years, so like to KNOW when the last time a bit of PM was done.
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
I have some of the old original records from when the vehicle was new but it is 30 years old and the more recent information is unwritten and less reliable. The vehicle is local and was sold by the Winnipeg dealer as a new vehicle. I am told by the fellow that I got it from that the original owner was a Doctor. The Doctor, I am told kept the car for a long time and then sold it to his barber. The barber, I am told, kept it a long time and sold it to the fellow from whom I bought it. He did not have it long and did not drive it much. He had it about 3 years and had some work done on it, including having it repainted. he tells me he only drove it about 1,000 miles in total over the time he had it. The odometer showed 999 miles when I got it but given that it resets at 100,000 I cannot say whether it has gone around more than the one time or not. The car is in pretty good condition for 30 years old. The driver's seat needs to be repadded (and the passenger but the driver's is worse). There are minor stains on the headliner near the light over the rearview mirror. The grill in the middle of the dash that looks like it would cover a speaker is coming apart but apart from that it is really nice for a 1976. This is a 115 so if it is like the 240 it may not have had the prefilter but I could certainly add one somewhere. There is a block heater and it works well. I had it plugged in for a bit earlier in the winter and then started it as I needed to add some antifreeze to bring it up to a safe level and wanted the coolant to circulate and mix well. Randy -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Werner Fehlauer Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 1:05 PM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question Randy - there should be some maintenance records somewhere, but if the previous owner can't recall ever or when the valves were adjusted, and the mileage is some multiple of 15k, then it would hurt to think about doing that job. And since it involves removing the valve/cam cover, you can easily check the chain at that time. My experience with engines that have had proper oil and changes is that these engines can usually go 200k or more before chain replacement is indicated (by a stretch of 4-6 degrees, typically). For example, I just had the valves checked on my SD (210K miles) and the chain stretch was about 1.5 degrees.) I don't know that the 240 has a prefilter, but the 5 cylinders from 77 on have a small plastic filter before the primer pump, and if its the see-through version, you can see how the fuel looks right there. They are cheap, and it would be prudent to change those once a year, at least IMO. The big filter in the can usually lasts for 30k miles or so. And as long as the filters are working, there's no way that the injectors should ever get clogged. Speaking of injectors, a common maintenance issue is hardening and leaking fuel return lines. Easy to replace, just get about 3 ft of the hose from Rusty or your local dealer - pay particular attention to the end cap on the last injector. I'm assuming you have the M-B block heater? wouldn't hurt to plug it in for at least 30 minutes before you try and start it. Does wonders for ease of starting and longer battery life! Did we mention the rubber brake hoses at each wheel? when they get 10-15 years old, they can swell up inside and actually reduce or block fluid flow to that wheel's brakes. A cheap replacement before you flush the fluid (every 2 years) and before you take that long trip. And again, I wouldn't fool with the oil cooler lines unless you really think they are about to break. IMO, if they ain't broke, leave well enough alone! Werner
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
I have the original booklet that came with the car so could copy and use it. Randy -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Christopher McCann Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 1:26 PM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question someone may have already mentioned this...and I missed what car we're talking about, but you can call MBUSA (1-800-FOR-MERC) and request the maintenance book. Some are no longer available - most are. I think I got the last W123 240D, becuase now I'm photocopying it for friends and I only bought it cuz W115 240D was out of print (my other two were still available) - ANYWAY, they tell you all the PM that needs done at what intervals. You can do it all yourself, sign the book yourself, etc. There are a ton of people and resources here to help you do the work as it comes up. Chris R A Bennell [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Werner Fehlauer Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 12:23 PM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question Randy - first, the more the vehicle is stored, the more maintenance that will be required to keep it reliable, IMO. Diesels are made to be driven, not parked! *** That probably is true but driving it around here in the salt that they put on the roads would not be good for it. Starting in the coldest weather would also be hard on it and me (but we have had a very mild winter so far.) As for the timing chain, it should be checked the next time you adjust the valves (every 15,000 miles). If it was running well, starting readily when you put it away, it can probably wait until you next check the valve clearances. *** I have yet to check the valves or anything else really. I just got it and it seems to start and run well so I have assumed things cannot be too far off the mark. However, I have no experience with MB Diesels and as such could be wrong. Fuel filters are very important, ESPECIALLY is the car has been sitting for several months with fuel in the system. Always carry a set of fuel filters with you - you never know when you'll get a bad load of fuel away from home. *** I note references to filters. So far as I have been able to tell I only have the one inside the metal container doodad. I understand there probably should be a prefilter in the line so will have to check further into that issue. Should change the one in the container and having some extras is probably good insurance. The father of a friend of my younger son had to leave his late model Ford F-250 diesel in Sioux Falls SD just before Xmas to be repaired after getting a bad tank of fuel. If I understand correctly it clogged the injectors and the truck had to be towed to a dealer and have some cleaning work done before it could be brought home. An expensive fix plus two extra trips to have his wife pick him up to get home and then to go back for it. The hoses that connect the oil cooler and transmission coolers usually last a lifetime - but if you see dry cracks, or they seem brittle, then of course it wouldn't hurt to change them. Just be warned that fooling with the oil cooler can result in a broken cooler connection, so be hesitant. *** Damned if you do and damned if you don't. Which is the safer course??? Finally, a good, reliable battery is required, so if its getting near 5 years old, replace it! Not only does it have to be good to do the glow cycle, but cranking over a cold engine with 20 or more to one compression is a big battery drain. )I'm assuming the glow plug system is in good condition?) *** Seemed to be fine throughout the summer but I have no idea how old it is. I have a small trickle charger that I intend to put on to keep it charged through the winter. Electronic control so it won't charge if it does not need it. This should give you a start on some maintenance ideas! Good luck.. *** Thanks for the input. Randy Werner '83 SD 210k miles '90 D 220k miles ___ http://www.striplin.net 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://striplin.net/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_striplin.net Christopher McCann, Squier Park, Kansas City, Missouri -2005 Blue Point Siamese, Rose -1987 300TD, 151K, Rotkäppchen -1985 300SD, 210K, Wulf -1976 240D, ?K, AKP-Wagen (Alternativen Kraftstoffs Prüfenlastwagen) -1972 Jacobsen 21 Turbo Vent -1971 Case 222 Hydrive, 12HP Kohler, 38 deck, Snowcaster, One Banger - Yahoo! DSL Something to write home about. Just $16.99/mo. or less ___ http://www.striplin.net For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
No way to prove the mileage to my knowledge since it is the old style that resets at 100K. It was at 999 miles when I got it and I have put about 1500 miles on it so far. Hope to do better next summer. I made 11 trips to the lake this past summer but only one was with the Mercedes. Went out and back the same day and never missed a beat. About 350 miles round trip according to the odometer. Ran 60-70 mph throughout and did about 28 mpg (on imperial gallon). Temp guage was steady and oil pressure pegged the whole way. I was happy. Randy -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Christopher McCann Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 1:28 PM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question and be SURE to ask for a high mileage badge application if you have over 163,000 miles. And register your car with them as it makes it easier if you ever need to use their free Roadside Assistance (free fuel if you run out, free jump, free tire change...other stuff is NOT free) - very nice service. Chris Christopher McCann [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:someone may have already mentioned this...and I missed what car we're talking about, but you can call MBUSA (1-800-FOR-MERC) and request the maintenance book. Some are no longer available - most are. I think I got the last W123 240D, becuase now I'm photocopying it for friends and I only bought it cuz W115 240D was out of print (my other two were still available) - ANYWAY, they tell you all the PM that needs done at what intervals. You can do it all yourself, sign the book yourself, etc. There are a ton of people and resources here to help you do the work as it comes up. Chris
Re: [MBZ] Preventative Maintenance Question
Werner Fehlauer wrote: The hoses that connect the oil cooler and transmission coolers usually last a lifetime But the rubber pads in the transmission line clamps do not. The steel lines for the tranny fluid are clamped to the engine. If the line directly touches the clamps, it will eventually wear through. Cut some pieces of fuel hose and pad those tranny lines with it.
