Suspension Determining Parts Needed for Loose 126 Front Suspension Know what to look for and understand the parts you will need
Suspension W126 Chassis Front End Clunking Due to Support Rod Joint Failure Very very common on those chassis with over 150,000 miles
Suspension Diagnosing and Repairing Hydraulic Self Leveling Suspension (SLS ) If you have a Mercedes station wagon and want to use it to haul loads best to fix it right
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 What is the best glove for working on your car? Tips on how to make the gloves last longer!
Suspension Broken Studs and Damaged Threads in Rear Sway Bar Links This happens often enough you need to know the options available for repair
Suspension Clunking Noise In Rear Suspension When Going Over Bumps It could be a number of things including shock absorbers
Suspension 123 and 126 Chassis Front Torsion Bar Failure Alert! Check yours before experiencing a dangerous suspension failure
Suspension Loose and Rattling Exhaust System Failure to replace the donuts could leave your exhaust dragging on the ground!
Suspension Avoiding a Slipping Jack or Jack Stand When Raising Your Benz This is what Kent uses and you can build it yourself!
Suspension Restoring a W126 Chassis Diesel Kent shows some of the initial things he had to do to his own 1987 300SDL
Suspension Mounting a Mercedes Wheel on the Hub This can be frustrating without the right tool. Yes, there is a tool!
Suspension SLS Suspension Riding Rough - How to Test Accumulators. It is possible to test their condition on the car
Suspension How to Make Your Alloy Wheels Look This Nice? Not as hard or expensive as you might think. And yes, you can do it yourself!
Suspension Trailing Arm Failure: WARNING! On most models 1973 to 1991 trailing arms can collapse leading to dangerous consequences
Suspension 6.9 Hydraulic Suspension Diagnosis and Repair Here is what you have to deal with when owning this brute
Suspension Trying to Determine the True Mileage of an Old Benz The odometer can lie. Don't be fooled and make an expensive mistake!
Engine Troubleshooting Diesel Engine Hard Starting, Low Power and Exhaust Smoke Top problems for diesel owners. Kent recommends starting with the basics
Engine 1984 to 1995 601 602 603 Diesel Performance Enhancement Quick list of things you can consider to increase performance and mileage
Engine Preventing Catastrophic V8 Engine Failure Plastic guide rails and oiler clips can fail leading to major engine damage
Engine Bad Motor Mounts can Ruin a Diesel Engine Yes, Kent has seen it first hand. Don't neglect this!
Engine Diesel Won't Shut Off When the Key is Turned Off Could be any number of things causing the problem. Proper diagnosis is a must!
Engine Finding the Best Diesel Performance Upgrade Injectors do not last forever. Changing over to Monark nozzles can boost performance!
Engine Increasing Turbocharger Performance on Diesel Engines Don't just ignore your turbo charger or major problems can occur!
Engine Oil Cooler Hose Leaks and Failure on Older Mercedes (especially OM 616 and OM 617 Diesels) Failure of these hoses can lead to total destruction of your engine
Engine 615 616 617 Diesel Engine Timing Chain Routing and Parts Needed Good reference material if you plan to replace timing chain and related parts.
Engine 617 Turbo Diesel Engine Rack Damper (Idle Stabilizer) Adjustment This can help smooth out a rough shakey idle on an 5 cylinder turbo diesel
Engine Inspecting the Voltage Regulator BEFORE it Fails and Leaves You Stranded Do it very soon unless you know it have been done within the last 50,000 miles.
Engine My 102 103 104 Gas Engine Just Won't Start There are a number of reasons - don't throw money at the problem - diagnose first!!!
Engine How to Determine if Your Diesel Engine is Worn Out Before spending any money on a tired or ailing diesel engine - check the compression first
Engine Keeping the Power Steering Fluid Clean Many are surprised to learn there is a filter down inside the pump
Engine Removing Stubborn Spark Plug Wires from a M102 or M103 Gas Engine Doing it without damaging the wire boot and resistor is easy with the right tool
Engine Exhaust and Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks on Older Diesel Engines Alert for all Diesel Owners - Check for loose Intake / Exhaust Manifold Nuts.
Engine The Challenge of Overhauling a 615, 616, or 617 Diesel Engine Applies to 220D 240D 300D 300CD 300TD 300SD 1972 to 1985
Engine 617 Turbo Diesel Timing Chain Tensioner Installation This MUST be installed properly when replacing it or timing chain or engine damage can occur!
Engine Isolating a Diesel Engine External Rattling Noise Usually means something is broken or loose in the engine compartment
Engine Preventing Bolt or Thread Seizure A special compound should be used - especially with steel bolts in aluminum threads
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 Leaking Mufflers and Exhaust Pipes If not too far gone you can fix them - and yes it is a miracle!
Engine Identifying a late 1984 or 1985 617 Turbo Diesel Engine with Trap Oxidizer Parts are different so it is important to know which engine you have!
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 Diesel Injectors Still Not Working Properly After Rebuild It is not the problem with the new nozzle - there are other issues that cause poor spray
Engine Diesel Engine Camshaft Inspection and Adverse Wear This can be a sign that the engine has not been well maintained
Engine Finding a Strange Ticking Noise in an Alternator If you don't look closely this one can be hard to find!
Engine Keeping Your Engine and Engine Compartment Clean and Detailed Are you concerned about damage to the electrical components and sensitive electronics?
Engine How to Tell if Your Thermostat is Failing? Monitor your engine temperature gauge in the morning for telltale signs.
Engine I Installed a New Timing Chain and It "Jumped" Some Sprocket Teeth Now the timing marks don't line up - What do I do! - Help...
Engine Finding a Use for Old Diesel Engine Parts Sometimes you just have to take a break from working on your diesel... :-)
Engine Garrett T3 Turbo Removal from Turbine Housing Sometimes it can be near impossible to get the bolts out and the parts separated
Engine Problems Adjusting Diesel Valve Clearances You of course need the right wrenches - but if one or more won't adjust - what then???
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 Is a Third Wrench Needed When Adjusting the Valves on an Old Diesel? This is how Kent deals with the problem
Engine Engine Oil Leaks On Your 201 124 and Late 126 Chassis Catch them with a diaper before they drip on the ground!
Engine Gas or Diesel Engine Runs Too Hot or Too Cold Too Cold think thermostat - too Hot think a number of possible causes
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 Excessive Engine Oil at the Inlet or Outlet of the Turbo Charger It could be turbo seals but it could also be excessive diesel engine blow-by
Engine Locating the OM616 and OM617 Internal Engine Timing Marks These can be hard to see if your engine is dirty and you don't know the exact location
Engine How Hard is it to Change the Glow Plugs? With the right instructions this is a beginner DIY job.
Engine Plastic Radiator Neck Failure - It Can Happen Anywhere and to Anyone! Even low mileage gas Mercedes as Kent recently discovered.
Engine Testing and Adjusting Turbo Charger Waste Gate Assembly A faulty 617 turbo diesel waste gate can really affect engine performance
Engine Inspecting and Replacing Rubber Exhaust Hangers With the right tool and a little know-how it is super easy.
Engine Slow Loss of Coolant and Minor Drips Around and Under Radiator or Coolant Tank Be sure to check your radiator / expansion tank cap
Engine Diesel Engine Front Crank Bolt Failure and Loss of Pulleys Pay attention! This is very common and can happen to you if you own a 1968 to 1985 diesel
Engine Troubleshooting Diesel Engine Overheating It could be a number of things causing the problem. Follow Kent's video series
Engine Removing Stuck Radiator and Coolant Hoses An old hose can be very difficult to remove due to age and corrossion
Engine Breaking Free Frozen Hex Bolts: Part 1 At all costs avoid rounding out the hex head of the bolt!
Engine What Does a Healthy 240D Diesel Engine Sound Like Listen and learn from a live video with sound.
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 Diesel Engine Transmission Torque Converter Flex Plate Failure This can be difficult to diagnose
Engine Engine Won't Start? Could It Be the Distributor Cap? You would be amazed at the pesky problems these can create!
Engine Finding a Replacement Turbo Diesel Oil Cooler Some are no longer available new and the last ones will disappear soon
Engine How to Prevent Problems When Your Benz is Stored Over Winter Do not neglect to give it Kents 30 day exercise program
Engine Curing the Common Valve Cover Oil Leak on the OM616 and OM617 Diesel Engines A very common problem that requires MORE than just installing a new rubber gasket
Engine Removing a Broken Off Glow Plug Not easy by any means. Options and ways to prevent it are listed here.
Engine They Said it Only Needed a Head Gasket! If the engine has been overheated it is almost never "just a head gasket"
Engine Throttle Linkages Binding Ball joints and pivot points should be lubricated on a 6 to 12 month basis
Engine Curing an Intermittent Rough Running Diesel Engine This can be a real challenge if the problem comes and goes either warm or hot
Engine Challenges to Owning a 1985 Model W123 or W126 Diesel Quite a number of changes for just a one year and final run of the 300D 300CD 300TD 300SD
Engine Diesel Motor Mount Bolt or Thread Damage A real problem when changing an engine or the rubber mounts
Engine 1976 to 1993 Gas Engine Shakes at Idle ( Runs Rough ) 4 key performance related issues to consider. Do proper troubleshooting first BEFORE buying parts
Engine 102 103 Engine Oil Consumption and Blue Smoke A common problem due to failed valve guide seals
Engine Troubleshooting Front Engine Noises on Newer Models It will require the removal of the serpentine belt
Engine Bad Diesel Engine Oil Leak at Front Crank Seal We have a special kit with complete instructions so you can fix it yourself.
Engine Removing a Power Steering Pump Pulley Most often this can be done without special tools using a helper and a heavy hammer
Engine Swapping Different Engines into My Old Tired Diesel When you engine wears out - look seriously at swapping in a different engine
Engine Excessive Oil in the Intake and Compressor on Turbo Diesel Engines This is normally not due to "leaking seals" inside the turbo charger
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 Where in the World Can You Get a Good Shop Light? You may have to make your own like Kent did...:-)
Engine My 190E 300E 300SE 300SEL Won't Start or Just Quits While Driving The distributor cap has become the number one culprit due to age and neglect!
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 Rounded Out or Damaged Hex Head Bolts Avoid the pain of having to drill or cut the bolts off
Engine Avoiding Engine Trouble When Running Vegetable Oil in your Diesel Fuel injectors will need the most attention
Engine 617 Turbo Diesel Loud Engine Rattle Noise Common problem due the failed air cleaner mounts and mounting bracket
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 Checking Out a Diesel Engine Before Purchase Here are some quick checks you can do yourself to determine how good the engine is.
Engine Avoiding Internal Engine Corrosion You neglect the maintenance here and you WILL pay the price
Engine Securing Rubber Exhaust System Hangers (Donuts) They can fall off especially if your exhaust system is sagging or not mounted properly
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 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 616 617 Used Diesel Engine Transplant / Major Service Requirements Don't just install the engine without taking care of a number of potential problems
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
Body and Exterior Trim Tilting Power Sunroof Panel Removal and Replacement The panel must be removed to properly repair and/or lubricate the tilting arm mechanism.
Body and Exterior Trim Malfunctioning Non-Tilting Sunroof Nothing like a good smooth working power or manually operated non tilting sunroof (up to 1985)!
Body and Exterior Trim Fixing the Tilting Sunroof A true challenge - but you can do it with the right knowledge.
Body and Exterior Trim Badly Oxidized and Faded Aluminum Window Trim It can be restored but it takes a special power tool and hard work
Body and Exterior Trim Avoiding Buying a Rusty Mercedes in the First Place Be careful or you could end up losing big time
Body and Exterior Trim Restoring Faded Plastic, Chrome and Body Paint Imperfections If is seems too good to be true - then in this case it is true!
Body and Exterior Trim Hood Pad Removal and Installation They are ugly when deteriorated - beautiful when replaced properly!
Body and Exterior Trim W116 W123 and W126 Chassis Wiper Drive Mechanism Failure Regular cleaning and lubrication is the key to long life
Body and Exterior Trim Figuring Out How to Get a Trunk Emblem Off It is a little tricky and very easy to damage it.
Body and Exterior Trim Understanding the Difference Between a Non-Tilting Verses a Tilting Sunroof Both are repairable by the DIY mechanic with the right knowledge and supplies.
Body and Exterior Trim Can't Open Hood Because the Release Cable is Broken There is a way to do it without damaging anything on many older models
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 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 New Sunroof Seal Does Not Fit Right It could be that you installed in upside down
Body and Exterior Trim Finding the Best General Purpose Trim Adhesive This one has just the right combination of benefits
Body and Exterior Trim Fixing the Most Annoying Problems on Your Old Mercedes Most in this list are avoided due to cost - Fix them yourself with our kits and save hundreds $$$.
Body and Exterior Trim Exhaust System Rattles and Shakes Fix it before it leads to major failure! Exhaust muffler found dead on road...
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 Removing the Rear Trunk Emblems On 1973 to 1985 models this has to be done with care to prevent damage
Body and Exterior Trim How to Get a New Hood Pad on Straight When using contact cement you have one shot to get it right! Kent's video will show you how to prevent mistakes.
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 Tell if Your Sunroof Seals Need Replacing Knowing what to look for will help you decide if replacement is needed
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 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 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.
Body and Exterior Trim Can't Get My Sunroof Cable Out My sunroof motor does not run or it runs but the cable does not move
Body and Exterior Trim W123 W126 W201 W124 Chrome Grill Strip Alignment Tired of seeing little gaps show up?
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 Adjusting the Power Tilting Sunroof This covers most models with electric sunroofs from 1986 to 1995
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 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 W123 and W126 Hood Hinge Operation and Maintenance 2 Primary reasons these hood hinge assemblies fail
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 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 to Protect Your Car's Paint When Working on the Engine? Nothing is better than a good thick fender cover
Body and Exterior Trim Finding Interior Color Codes Location of the three digit numerical code and translation here
Body and Exterior Trim Finding your Mercedes Factory Paint Color Code This can sometimes be a real challenge if you do not know where to look
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 Removing Damaged Door Striker Plate Bolts Easy to round out the hex head bolts - then what do you do ?? !!!
Body and Exterior Trim Sunroof Not Moving? We have resources to help you fix both power and manual sunroofs yourself
Body and Exterior Trim Rust Along the Inside Bottoms of the Doors Stop it BEFORE bubbles in the paint and holes start to appear!
Body and Exterior Trim Troublesome Trunk Seal Leaks Be sure to look UNDER the trunk seal - you might be surprised!
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 Door Latch / Catch Failure Failure is almost always caused by corrosion due to high moisture environment and lack of lubrication
Fuel Delivery Testing Diesel Fuel Injectors for Peak Performance You will need a bench mount pressure release tester to do this yourself.
Fuel Delivery Fuel Restriction at the Internal Fuel Tank Filter Screen A plugged filter inside your fuel tank can lead to hard starting and power loss
Fuel Delivery Diesel Engine Fuel Leaks The sources of fuel leaks and procedures needed to repair them are many
Fuel Delivery Diesel Engine Prechamber Collar Nut Fuel Leaks A unique special tool so affordable every diesel owner should have one
Fuel Delivery 102 103 104 Gas Engine Difficult or Slow to Start Begin with the "back end" fuel delivery system first.
Fuel Delivery Early V8 Gas Engine Back End Fuel Delivery Fuel pump, filter and related components most likely will need your attention on 25+ year old Mercedes
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 Fueling Your Old Diesel from a Fuel Container Try to do this without spilling fuel on your car and all over the ground!
Fuel Delivery Fuel Leaks Between Diesel Fuel Injector Body Halves More common than you think and easy to fix with right tools
Fuel Delivery Improving Diesel Engine Power Performance Already done filters, injectors, tuning and still want more power - there is one more thing you could do.
Fuel Delivery Tuning Rough Running C.I.S. Gas Fuel Injection Here are some things you should look out for!
Fuel Delivery Gasoline Fuel Smell in the Engine Compartment Find the source and fix immediately to avoid an engine fire!
Fuel Delivery 601 602 603 Injection Pump Delivery Valve Seal Replacement Common fuel leak problem but repair must be approached with care
Fuel Delivery Hard Starting and Rough Running Gas Engine with C.I.S. Bosch Fuel Injection Sometimes it can be something quite simple - other times not...
Fuel Delivery Diesel Engine Timing Device This important device is not immune to problems as the older diesel engines age!
Fuel Delivery Improving Mileage and Performance on Your Older CIS Injected Benz Gas Engine Most owners forget about the fuel injectors - Cap, rotor, wires and plugs may not be enough
Fuel Delivery Fuel Leaks at Rear of Car Fix at first sign of wetness under car - BEFORE total failure
Fuel Delivery Rebuilding Diesel Injector Nozzles - Warnings and Advisements Must read info BEFORE you rebuild your injector nozzles
Fuel Delivery What to Expect When Getting An Old Diesel Running after Sitting for Over Three Years Depends a lot on the climate and how the car was stored but you should always begin with new fuel and filters
Fuel Delivery How to Accurately Set Diesel Injection Pump Timing With the right tools and procedure you can get precise results 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 Stopping Fuel Leaks when Performing a Diesel Compression Test The fuel from the injection pump can be shut off by following this tip:
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 Old Diesel Won't Start After Fuel Starvation or Filter Change You have to be sure all air is removed from the fuel lines and hoses
Fuel Delivery Removing Stubborn Diesel Fuel Injector Heat Shield Washers with Special Tool Applies to all 200D 220D 240D 300D 300CD 300TD 300SD 190D 300SDL 350SD and 350SDL
Fuel Delivery Dirty and Plugged Up Fuel Tank Lack of attention here will leave you stranded on the road!
Fuel Delivery Diesel Engine Taking Too Long to Start in the Morning If you know your glow plugs are working properly it could be a fuel pressure issue
Fuel Delivery Removing and Installing a Diesel Engine Hand Primer Pump This can be a frustrating challenge without the right tools.
Fuel Delivery Banjo Fitting Care and Maintenance Fuel Line and Transmission Cooler Line Leak Prevention
Fuel Delivery My OM617 Turbo Diesel Does Not Produce Good Power and Smokes Too Much These are signs your turbo over boost protection system is not working properly
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
Interior Ignition Key Sticking or Jamming Steps to diagnose and repair it before it becomes a MAJOR problem. Steps to fix it after it does!
Interior Inside Door Related Problems Failure to do preventative maintenance could lead to some very expensive repairs
Interior Window Will Not Stay Closed Tight When a Regulator Fails Here is a temporary fix until you get get the replacement parts
Interior Detailing Your Mercedes for Professional Results with Less Effort Using the right methods and products are the key to the amazing results
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 Door Panel Removal Can be frustrating and a little mysterious if you have not done it before
Interior Non Air Bag Steering Removal Can be problematic without using the correct tools and techniques
Interior Inside Rear View Mirror Removal and Replacement Improper technique can break the mirror glass or permanently damage the ball socket
Interior Auto Dimming Mirror Available for Older Benz? Yes, for W107, W123. W126, W201 and W124 from 2phast Motorsports
Interior Preventing Ignition Tumbler and Steering Lock Failure Cleaning and proper lubrication can add years to your key tumbler and save you hundreds $$$
Interior What is that Left-Over Part After I installed a New Ignition Tumbler? Only applies to certain models from 1984 to 1995. See list below
Interior Outside Rear View Mirror Trouble Removing it, replacing it, lubricating it, replacing the glass with out breaking it - you can do it!
Interior How to Fix Worn Color on Leather Seats Get the right products and make a lasting repair yourself
Interior I Can’t Find the Rear Bolts to Get My Seats Out If you don’t see the head of the bolt then you have to …
Interior Finding the Source of Interior Water Leaks This can drive you crazy. Never assume anything. The leak may be coming from a place you would least expect
Interior Removing a Stuck Electric Power Front Seat The seat has to be able to move back and forth in order to remove it!
Interior W 126 Plastic Window Slides Keep Breaking Find the real reason so you don't have to keep replacing them
Interior Removing a 1973 to 1985 Non-Airbag Steering Wheel Care must be exercised to prevent damage to the steering lock mechanism
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.
Electrical Diesel Engine Glow Plug Timer Relay Failure - Options for Repair Here is an option to replace the pre-glow factory unit with a reliable manual controlled relay
Electrical Troubleshooting an Electrical Problem Unknown battery drain, electrical shorts, blown fuses - these can be difficult to isolate!
Electrical Weak U.S. Round or Square Headlights on 1985 and Older Models Installing H4 headlight upgrades will make a difference between night and day
Electrical 126 Chassis Sedan Window Glass not Moving Up and Down Common to all 126 sedans 1981 to 1991 - you hear the motor mechanism running but glass is not moving or it's binding
Electrical Premature Glow Plug Failure If it is happening on a regular basis it probably is not bad glow plugs
Electrical Best Way to Fix a Non-Working Odometer or Speedometer Kent recommends just sending it out for professional repair
Electrical My New Power Antenna is Not Working It just may not be wired properly. Most likely it is NOT the antenna.
Electrical Frequent Glow Plug Failure If you are constantly having to replace glow plugs do not immediately blame the plugs! Ream the carbon!
Electrical Knowing How to Use the Cruise Control Lever on Older Mercedes We share with you the factory instructions for most models from the late 1970's to late 1980's
Electrical Properly Maintaining an Old Car Battery Neglect is probably the No. 1 Cause of your Benz not starting
Electrical Problems with Glow override Solenoid Relay Installation - How to Test Kent will show you some quick checks to test operation
Electrical Buffing and Sanding in Tight Places This is one of Kent’s favorite tools to have around the shop
Electrical What Could Go Wrong When Changing an Ignition Switch or Steering Lock?? If the wiring plug falls apart on you, you won't know what coded wires go where!!!
Electrical Replacing a Badly Burned Wiring Harness Don't let anyone kid you... this is not an easy job!
Electrical Removing a Tumbler from a Steering Lock if the Key Won't Turn It is possible to do this but you have to cut the black cap off first.
Electrical Cleaning Up Ugly Battery Post Corrosion You can do it with commercial products or something in the cupboard
Electrical Key Not Springing Back From the Start Position This is a sure sign your electrical switch is going bad
Electrical Ignition Switch Wire Plug Comes Apart Accidentally You will need a wire schematic to figure out which wires go into which holes
Electrical How to Open up and Clean Old Electrical Plugs Corrosion on the contacts can cause all kinds of electrical problems
Electrical Removing the Buzzer Switch From an Ignition Lock Assembly Not as easy as it looks and easy to break if you don't know the proper tricks
Electrical Engine Won't Turn Over When It Sits Overnight Do not assume it is just a bad battery! Diagnose first...
Electrical Lost 116 and 123 Fuse Box Location Chart Knowing what fuse does what is a must when troubleshooting electrical problems
Electrical Fixing or Replacing a Broken Hirschmann Power Antenna Originals are hard to fix and not available new - Universal new antenna may be best option
Electrical Service Requirements for Power Antennas Yes, they do need service if you want them to last.
Electrical Charging a Totally Dead Battery Some chargers won't start the charge cycle without some help
Electrical New Tumbler Installed and Key is Stuck - HELP! We are getting too many emails like this usually after parts are bought somewhere else
Electrical Inaccurate or Erratic Fuel Gauge This could be caused by one or even a combination of three things.
Electrical Testing Diesel Engine Glow Plugs for Proper Operation Burned out glow plugs, bad pre glow relay, blown fuse, wiring - all need to be tested
Electrical Rear Door Power Window Failure Do proper testing BEFORE ordering parts or removing door panel
Electrical Rear Door Power Window Failure Do proper testing BEFORE ordering parts or removing door panel
Electrical Battery Staying Charged During Prolonged Vehicle Storage You have a couple options to keep the battery alive!
Transmission Diagnosing, Adjusting and Fine Tuning Mercedes Automatic Transmissions You CAN do this yourself if you have the right information and equipment!
Transmission Automatic Transmission Erratic Shifts Proper diagnosis is priority one - then repair! DIY testing and repair kits available.
Transmission Does Your Automatic Transmission Really Need Replacing? Be careful to not let someone sell you a rebuilt transmission!
Transmission Transmission Oil Leaks Some leaks are not difficult to fix. Others require removal of the transmission
Transmission Component Failures Due to Lack of Lubrication You might be surprised at just how many problems and failures could be avoided with periodic and proper lubrication
Transmission Rattling or Loose Automatic Shifter Linkage New bushings will solve the problem and possibly prevent disaster
Transmission Measuring Automatic Transmission Fluid Level Minor frustration for most of us who service our own transmissions
Transmission Broken or Leaking Transmission Bowden Shift Control Cable Both problems require removal and it can be a little "tricky"
Transmission Filling an Automatic Transmission to the Correct Level A medium frustration for most of us who service our own transmissions
Transmission Isolating and Repairing Diesel Engine Fluid Leaks Find the actual source of the leak before jumping to conclusions
Transmission Dealing with an Over Filled Automatic Transmission A major frustration for most of us who service our own transmissions
Transmission How do I inspect the transmission and related components on an Old Benz Get a good light and get under the car.
Transmission Installing New Seals in the Engine, Transmission or Rear End Care must be exercised to prevent damage or premature failure
Transmission Diesel Automatic Transmission Oil Cooler Line Wear This can leave you stranded if not caught early enough
Transmission Checking Automatic Transmission Fluid Level There is a proper way to do this to determine proper level inside transmission
Transmission What's Wrong Help Needed - Quick Links to the Most Common Problems If you could just figure out what is wrong you know you could fix it!
Transmission Reviving a High Mileage Automatic Transmission How to improve performance and prolong the life of a tired gas or diesel automatic transmission
Transmission Repairing Leaking Transmission Cooler Metal Pipes on Older Diesels Often caused by loose fittings and engine vibration
Transmission What To Use in Place of Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid? Watch the video and Kent will explain his recommendations.
Brake Replacing Worn or Damaged Brake Mechanical Parts Fixing brakes is not difficult and can save you hundreds
Brake How to Diagnose Common Brake Troubles Shake, side pull, binding, grabbing, grinding, squealing, overheating and soft / hard pedal issues.
Brake Flushing Old Fluid and/or Excessive Air Out of Your Brake System Efficient and affordable pressure bleeding, system flush and fluid capture is here for all.
Brake Preventing Front Fender Damage from Brake Fluid, Scratches and Dings A good soft fender cover is the BEST solution!
Brake ABS Brake System Malfunction - ABS Light On Some simple maintenance could help to solve the problem
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 Excessive Brake Pad Dust on Your Alloy Wheels Can the problem really be solved? Kent has been on the hunt for a solution.
Brake Avoiding Brake Caliper Seizure There are some signs that will let you know your calipers are locking up.
Brake Chasing Brake and Clutch Fluid Leaks If you are losing brake fluid the source must be found quickly
Brake Removing Stubborn Front Brake Rotors from Hub Must be done anytime you replace front brake rotors
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
Rust / Corrosion Miracle Rust Repair for Your Old Mercedes Yes there is! Miracle Paint and fiberglass cloth can work miracles.
Rust / Corrosion Welding in New Sheet Metal When Repairing Rust Out Not always the best solution as you will see here.
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
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 What to do When you Get Tired of Working on Your Benz Sometimes You Just Need to Go Have Some Fun!
Vacuum 126 Chassis Sedan Vacuum Door Lock Failure Different from the 116 / 123 chassis and more difficult to troubleshoot
Vacuum Determining Correct 1980 to 1985 Diesel Vacuum System Hose and Line Routing When troubleshooting your vacuum system you must know where the hoses and lines go
Vacuum Vacuum Line Under Dash Not Plugged into Anything! Common concern on 1980 to 1985 Mercedes Diesel 240D, 300D, 300CD, 300TD
Vacuum What is Causing Diesel OM616 and OM617 Vacuum Pump Failures? Pump mechanisms breaking apart and piston bolt failures
Vacuum 603 Diesel Engine Vacuum Hose Leaks and Faulty Routing If the hoses are leaking or are not hooked up properly a number of problems could occur.
Driveline and rear end Drive Line Flex Disk Deterioration and Catastrophic Failure Start with inspection and replace at first signs of wear to prevent expensive damage to transmission
Driveline and rear end Diagnosing and Repairing Common 114 115 107 116 123 and 126 Rear End Problems The Differentials are very rugged. It is the associated parts that usually fail due to age and high mileage
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 Can or Should I Replace My Rear Axle Boots? If the axle joints are still good new boots are sometimes a good solution
SVO / Biodiesel Installing a Mercedessource Diesel to Vegetable Oil Fuel Conversion We offer an easy to install kit or you can build one from our components
SVO / Biodiesel Converting an Older Mercedes Diesel to Run on Vegetable Oil (SVO) Using the Mercedessource STC Kit? Questions and answers to help you decide if this is right for your diesel
SVO / Biodiesel Running your Diesel Engine on Straight Vegetable Oil The pros, cons, effort, and expense of running your Mercedes Diesel on waste vegetable oil
SVO / Biodiesel How to Run Waste Cooking Oil in Your Diesel With Only One Fuel Tank? Mercedes diesel engines are the only ones well suited for one tank operations
SVO / Biodiesel Diesel to WVO / SVO Conversion Fuel Starvation List of possible causes and remedies for hard starting and loss of power
SVO / Biodiesel Sorting Out the Claims When Considering a Diesel to Vegetable Oil Conversion Here are some tips to considering when putting together your own conversion
Climate Control Heater Blower Motor Won't Run A common problem on all models. Options for repairing it yourself and saving big $$$.
Climate Control Intermittent Cabin Heat - Second Generation Climate Control Applies to late 123 and 107 chassis and all 126 chassis 1981 to 1991
Climate Control Location and Replacement of Cabin Air Fitlers These really get neglected and they are easy DIY
Lights Preventing Rust from Forming Inside Your Headlights Sometimes the fix can be real simple and real cheap.
Lights Replacing a Plastic Headlight Door Surround on a W126 or W124 Get rid of and change that ugly head light door yourself. What a difference!!
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 What If It Is NOT My Dash Light Bulbs If your dash is not lighting up at night it could be a number of problems