Body and Exterior Trim
Fixing the Tilting Sunroof
A true challenge - but you can do it with the right knowledge.
What's wrong with my Mercedes?
Body and Exterior Trim Problems
Body and Exterior Trim
Best Way to Jack up and Support the Front End
W124 Chassis procedure shown here but applies to many models
Body and Exterior Trim
How to Get a Benz to REALLY Shine
Kent recently discovered one product that shines above all the rest
Body and Exterior Trim
Door Latch / Catch Failure
Failure is almost always caused by corrosion due to high moisture environment and lack of lubrication
Body and Exterior Trim
Stopping and Detailing the Surface Rust Under a Car
You can do this in your own driveway with minimal tools and experience
Body and Exterior Trim
How to Straighten Major Body Damage Enough to Get it on the Road
Depending on where the damage is you can do amazing things with jacks and hammers.
Body and Exterior Trim
How Best to Handle Tough Car Problems
Just take a break!
Body and Exterior Trim
What is Causing Excessive Moisture in My Trunk
It could be coming from a number of places for a number of reasons
Body and Exterior Trim
Where to Start Your Restoration?
Start with something you can do yourself that is not super difficult and gives dramatic results.
Body and Exterior Trim
Adjusting the Power Tilting Sunroof
This covers most models with electric sunroofs from 1986 to 1995
Body and Exterior Trim
Removing Plastic Body Fasteners
The right tool can do the job without damage
Body and Exterior Trim
Filling a Dent with Minimal Effort
Put the body filler on in two phases and manage the time when you grate and sand it
Body and Exterior Trim
Finding Interior Color Codes
Location of the three digit numerical code and translation here
Body and Exterior Trim
Priming a Repaired Dent on a Budget
You don't have to use expensive spray equipment or 2 part expensive primer
Body and Exterior Trim
Buying a Newer Used Mercedes Loaded with Computers
It is not as scary as you would think and the deals out there are amazing
Body and Exterior Trim
What is the Best Older Mercedes Benz to Buy?
Kent believes there is no one correct answer. Just too many options...lol
Body and Exterior Trim
What to Do With Small Hidden Rust Spots?
If caught early enough they can be easily fix permanently with Miracle Paint
Body and Exterior Trim
Getting Your Car to REALLY Shine
There is one amazing product Kent recently found that polishes it all!
Body and Exterior Trim
Why Drive a Mercedes Benz?
Until you have driven one it is hard to explain
Body and Exterior Trim
How to Protect Your Car's Paint When Working on the Engine?
Nothing is better than a good thick fender cover
Body and Exterior Trim
Avoiding Expensive Mistakes Buying a Used Mercedes Benz
The best way to save money is to buy the right car in the first place
Body and Exterior Trim
Getting the Windshield Washer Nozzle Sprayer to Work Properly
It is simple to clean out the hole and adjust it with the right "tool."
Body and Exterior Trim
Preventing Pre-mature Failure of Key Mechanical Components
Anyone want to guess what the secret is???
Body and Exterior Trim
How to Get a Deep Shine on Older Faded Paint
In most cases it is a two step process - especially if your paint is faded.
Fuel Delivery Problems
Fuel Delivery
Testing Diesel Fuel Injectors for Peak Performance
You will need a bench mount pressure release tester to do this yourself.
Fuel Delivery
Using Diesel Purge: The Best Medicine for a Sick Diesel Engine
Learn how this works so well and how you can do it yourself
Fuel Delivery
Gasoline Fuel Smell in the Engine Compartment
Find the source and fix immediately to avoid an engine fire!
Fuel Delivery
1986 to 1993 Diesel Engine Fuel Heater Leaking in Engine Compartment
This is a very common problem on the 602 and 603 diesel engines
Fuel Delivery
Diagnosing Diesel Engine Fuel Injectors
How do you know if they are bad? If they have not been recently rebuilt they probably are!!!
Fuel Delivery
Banjo Fitting Care and Maintenance
Fuel Line and Transmission Cooler Line Leak Prevention
Fuel Delivery
How to Be Assured of a Quality Diesel Mechanical Fuel Injector
You need to look no further than the precision nozzles produced by Monark of Germany
Fuel Delivery
How Can You Tell if There is Algae in Your Diesel Fuel Tank?
Here are some ways to inspect for and prevent algae growth
Electrical Problems
Electrical
Troubleshooting an Electrical Problem
Unknown battery drain, electrical shorts, blown fuses - these can be difficult to isolate!
Electrical
O.E. Aluminum Fuse Failure
One of the most common problems we see on older Mercedes.
Electrical
How to Connect a Battery Maintainer / Tender up to the Newer Models
That have a different style battery clamp
Electrical
Charging a Totally Dead Battery
Some chargers won't start the charge cycle without some help
Electrical
Key Not Springing Back From the Start Position
This is a sure sign your electrical switch is going bad
Electrical
Frequent Glow Plug Failure
If you are constantly having to replace glow plugs do not immediately blame the plugs! Ream the carbon!
Electrical
Best Way to Fix a Non-Working Odometer or Speedometer
Kent recommends just sending it out for professional repair
Electrical
Premature Glow Plug Failure
If it is happening on a regular basis it probably is not bad glow plugs
Electrical
Properly Maintaining an Old Car Battery
Neglect is probably the No. 1 Cause of your Benz not starting
Electrical
Service Requirements for Power Antennas
Yes, they do need service if you want them to last.
Electrical
Replacing a Badly Burned Wiring Harness
Don't let anyone kid you... this is not an easy job!
Electrical
How to Open up and Clean Old Electrical Plugs
Corrosion on the contacts can cause all kinds of electrical problems
Electrical
Inaccurate or Erratic Fuel Gauge
This could be caused by one or even a combination of three things.
Electrical
Buffing and Sanding in Tight Places
This is one of Kent’s favorite tools to have around the shop
Electrical
Cleaning Up Ugly Battery Post Corrosion
You can do it with commercial products or something in the cupboard
Electrical
Engine Won't Turn Over When It Sits Overnight
Do not assume it is just a bad battery! Diagnose first...
Electrical
Pulling DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) from the Check Engine Light
Using an inexpensive code reader or scan tool is not difficult
Interior Problems
Interior
Ridding Your Interior of Ugly Spots and Stains
The key is in using the right products and techniques. Let Kent show you how.
Interior
Detailing Your Mercedes for Professional Results with Less Effort
Using the right methods and products are the key to the amazing results
Interior
Front Window Stuck in the Closed Position
How to get the regulator out the door when this happens
Interior
Adequate Lighting When Working Inside Your Car
Indoor lighting can be difficult. Kent has recently found the ultimate solution.
Interior
How to Fix Worn Color on Leather Seats
Get the right products and make a lasting repair yourself
Engine Problems
Engine
Preventing Bolt or Thread Seizure
A special compound should be used - especially with steel bolts in aluminum threads
Engine
Cleaning an Old Dirty Oily Diesel Engine
There is a better and cleaner way!
Engine
Removing Stuck Radiator and Coolant Hoses
An old hose can be very difficult to remove due to age and corrossion
Engine
Inspecting and Replacing Rubber Exhaust Hangers
With the right tool and a little know-how it is super easy.
Engine
Worn Out Engine Motor Mounts
How to determine if they need replacement
Engine
How to do OVER THE TOP Engine Compartment Detailing
It takes work but with the right products and techniques you will be amazed
Engine
Engine Won't Start? Could It Be the Distributor Cap?
You would be amazed at the pesky problems these can create!
Engine
Avoiding Internal Engine Corrosion
You neglect the maintenance here and you WILL pay the price
Engine
Diesel Engine Smoke and Lack of Power Problems - A Quick Reference Solutions Guide
Summary list of the most common causes and parts needed to fix them Part 2 of 5
Engine
What Oil and Fitler to Use? How Often Should I Change It?
These questions become more important with the long oil change intervals associated with Synthetic Engine Oil
Engine
Diesel Engine Starting Problems - A Quick Reference Solutions Guide
Summary list of the most common causes and parts needed to fix them
Engine
Understanding and Testing the EGR Valve
Find out what it does, how to test it, and what happens if it does not work.
Engine
Diesel Engine Shut Off / Stop Problems - A Quick Reference Solutions Guide
Summary list of the most common causes and parts needed to fix them Part 3 of 5
Engine
How to Determine the Real Condition of a Used Engine
It is best if you can see and hear it run - if not some tests are essential
Engine
Plastic Radiator Neck Failure - It Can Happen Anywhere and to Anyone!
Even low mileage gas Mercedes as Kent recently discovered.
Engine
Diesel Engine Fluid Leak Problems - A Quick Reference Solutions Guide
Summary list of the most common causes and parts needed to fix them. Part 5 of 5
Engine
Cleaning Large Engine Parts
You actually may not need a large tank to thoroughly clean them
Engine
Starter Motor Grinds When I Turn the Key - How to Bench Test?
Could be the starter itself, ring gear on the flywheel or a combination of both
Engine
How to Tell if Your Thermostat is Failing?
Monitor your engine temperature gauge in the morning for telltale signs.
Engine
Diesel Engine Knock and Noise Problems - A Quick Reference Solutions Guide
Summary list of the most common causes and parts needed to fix them Part 4 of 5
Engine
They Said it Only Needed a Head Gasket!
If the engine has been overheated it is almost never "just a head gasket"
Engine
Keeping Your Engine and Engine Compartment Clean and Detailed
Are you concerned about damage to the electrical components and sensitive electronics?
Engine
Temporary or Emergency Repair Kit Contents? - Especially When on the Road
Here are some of Kent's favorites - most you should carry in your trunk
Engine
Should I Buy a Cheap Mercedes?
6 part video series on reasons why you should or shouldn't
Engine
Dealing with Problem Engine Studs
How to get the frozen nuts off and the stud back in safely
Engine
Buying a Used Mercedes Quick Check No. 1
Your inspection should always include this
Engine
Where in the World Can You Get a Good Shop Light?
You may have to make your own like Kent did...:-)
Engine
How to Prevent Problems When Your Benz is Stored Over Winter
Do not neglect to give it Kents 30 day exercise program
Engine
Breaking Free Frozen Hex Bolts: Part 1
At all costs avoid rounding out the hex head of the bolt!
Engine
Checking Out a Diesel Engine Before Purchase
Here are some quick checks you can do yourself to determine how good the engine is.
Engine
How to Easily Add Life to Your Old Benz
You can do it with magnets!
Engine
Are There Better Shop Work Lights Out There?
Kent has been inspired to design his own series of ultimate shop lights
Engine
Possible to Fix a Broken Off Plastic Tank Radiator Neck?
If the break was clean and the tank still solid you can be repair it for less than $50.
Engine
How to Restore the Paint on Your Black Engine and Chassis Parts
With the right paint and technique YOU can do it yourself!
Engine
Removing a Broken Off Glow Plug
Not easy by any means. Options and ways to prevent it are listed here.
Engine
Draining Oil Out of Your Engine
The best way is to use an oil extractor
Engine
Using the Wrong Gasket Sealant
If you use RTV you can create some real problems
Engine
How to Clear the Check Engine Light: 1988 to 1995 OBD1 models
Very easy to do if you know what to do with that little numbered black box!
Engine
Keeping Things in Place - On and Off a Car
This is Kent's favorite
Brake Problems
Brake
Chasing Brake and Clutch Fluid Leaks
If you are losing brake fluid the source must be found quickly
Brake
Extracting Fluid from Brake Reservoir, Power Steering Reservoir and Automatic Transmission
After looking for years Kent has finally come up with the ideal no-spill fluid extractor
Brake
Determining If Your Brake Booster Has Failed
Don't be too hasty to buy a new one
Brake
Replacing Flexible Rubber Brake Hoses - ALL models
If over 15 years old then this is a must do job to prevent braking problems!
Brake
Losing Brake Fluid During Brake Hose and Caliper Replacement
Some simple precautions can save a big mess and ease brake system bleeding
Brake
Protecting Your Health When Working on Brake Systems
This is not to be taken lightly!
Brake
Avoiding Brake Caliper Seizure
There are some signs that will let you know your calipers are locking up.
Brake
ABS Brake System Malfunction - ABS Light On
Some simple maintenance could help to solve the problem
Brake
Excessive Brake Pad Dust on Your Alloy Wheels
Can the problem really be solved? Kent has been on the hunt for a solution.
Rust / Corrosion Problems
Rust / Corrosion
Stopping Small Areas of Rust BEFORE They Become Holes in The Body
It is all about prevention. Remember rust never sleeps!
Rust / Corrosion
Fixing Rust: Learning the Many Uses of Miracle Paint
It works on any type of rust - on any iron based metal - on any vehicle or part
Rust / Corrosion
Best Way to Prevent Water From Getting into Your Benz
Easy preventative maintenance you should do at least every six months... unless you live in the desert..:-)
Rust / Corrosion
How to Prevent Miracle Paint from Getting Hard in the Container
You have to keep the air away from it
Transmission Problems
Transmission
1998 to 2006 722.6 Automatic Transmission Shifting Problems
If your transmission locks up in 2nd gear and won't shift there is hope!
Transmission
Measuring Automatic Transmission Fluid Level
Minor frustration for most of us who service our own transmissions
Transmission
Filling an Automatic Transmission to the Correct Level
A medium frustration for most of us who service our own transmissions
Transmission
Dealing with an Over Filled Automatic Transmission
A major frustration for most of us who service our own transmissions
Transmission
Checking Automatic Transmission Fluid Level
There is a proper way to do this to determine proper level inside transmission
Transmission
How do I inspect the transmission and related components on an Old Benz
Get a good light and get under the car.
Climate Control Problems
Climate Control
Location and Replacement of Cabin Air Fitlers
These really get neglected and they are easy DIY
Climate Control
W140 Heater Blower Motor Won't Run
Learn the correct procedure to determine how to fix the problem
Lights Problems
Lights
What to Do with Rusty or Faded Tail Light and Fog Light Reflectors
Tail lights we are talking all models from 1960s to Mid 1990's - Fog lights only on those with removable lenses.
Lights
Moisture Buildup Inside Your Headlights
This can happen on a number of models for a number of reasons
Lights
Preventing Rust from Forming Inside Your Headlights
Sometimes the fix can be real simple and real cheap.
Suspension Problems
Suspension
SLS Suspension Riding Rough - How to Test Accumulators.
It is possible to test their condition on the car
Suspension
No Room to Install a New Shift Rod Bushing on the Transmission
Sometimes you can only do it with our special tool - a few occasions you have to drop the rear of the tranny
Suspension
Clunking Noise In Rear Suspension When Going Over Bumps
It could be a number of things including shock absorbers
Driveline and rear end Problems
Driveline and rear end
1970's to 2000 Rear End and Rear Suspension Component Failure
Knowing your rear suspension design and theory will help troubleshoot a problem
Driveline and rear end
Installing Shift Rod Bushings - What Does Not Work
Nothing like having the right tool
Driveline and rear end
Worn Out Rear Axles
Best way to test them is out of the car on the bench
Vacuum Problems
Vacuum
Keeping Mice Out of Your Car
Double check for damage and use a product to scare them away