Body and Exterior Trim
Malfunctioning Non-Tilting Sunroof
Nothing like a good smooth working power or manually operated non tilting sunroof (up to 1985)!
What's wrong with my Mercedes?
Body and Exterior Trim Problems
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
How to Get a Benz to REALLY Shine
Kent recently discovered one product that shines above all the rest
Body and Exterior Trim
Troublesome Trunk Seal Leaks
Be sure to look UNDER the trunk seal - you might be surprised!
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
Manual Operating Sunroof Service and Repair
Ignore it and you will be sorry! Can you remove and service it yourself?
Body and Exterior Trim
Removing Plastic Body Fasteners
The right tool can do the job without damage
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
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
Opening Up Stuck Doors on Old Mercedes
Most common when car has sat outside for long periods without use
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 the Best General Purpose Trim Adhesive
This one has just the right combination of benefits
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
Rust Along the Inside Bottoms of the Doors
Stop it BEFORE bubbles in the paint and holes start to appear!
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
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
Finding Interior Color Codes
Location of the three digit numerical code and translation here
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
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
New Sunroof Seal Does Not Fit Right
It could be that you installed in upside down
Body and Exterior Trim
Why Drive a Mercedes Benz?
Until you have driven one it is hard to explain
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
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
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
Preventing Pre-mature Failure of Key Mechanical Components
Anyone want to guess what the secret is???
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
What is Causing Excessive Moisture in My Trunk
It could be coming from a number of places for a number of reasons
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
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 Prechamber Collar Nut Fuel Leaks
A unique special tool so affordable every diesel owner should have one
Fuel Delivery
Fuel Leaks Between Diesel Fuel Injector Body Halves
More common than you think and easy to fix with right tools
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
Gas Engine Fuel Smells in Car
This one you definitely do not want to ignore!
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
Emergency Plug for a Fuel Hose
You will be amazed how well this works!
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
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
How Can You Tell if There is Algae in Your Diesel Fuel Tank?
Here are some ways to inspect for and prevent algae growth
Fuel Delivery
Fuel Tank Inspection and Service
Very important for cars over 20 years old.
Fuel Delivery
Removing and Installing a Diesel Engine Hand Primer Pump
This can be a frustrating challenge without the right tools.
Fuel Delivery
How to Accurately Set Diesel Injection Pump Timing
With the right tools and procedure you can get precise results yourself
Fuel Delivery
What Oil Should I Use in My Old Injection Pump
1976 and older Mechanical Injection Pumps had their own oil supply.
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
Rebuilding Diesel Injector Nozzles - Warnings and Advisements
Must read info BEFORE you rebuild your injector nozzles
Fuel Delivery
My Gas Engine is Running Too Rich ( Excessive Fuel Mixture )
Kent shares 3 indicators of an excessively fuel rich running gas engine
Fuel Delivery
Leaking or Stuck Late 1960's Electric MFI Fuel Pump
All too common problem with these old gas fuel injected cars
Brake Problems
Brake
How to Diagnose Common Brake Troubles
Shake, side pull, binding, grabbing, grinding, squealing, overheating and soft / hard pedal issues.
Brake
Replacing Worn or Damaged Brake Mechanical Parts
Fixing brakes is not difficult and can save you hundreds
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
Brake Rotor Chatter or Pulsation
Causes and cures for this common problem
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
Chasing Brake and Clutch Fluid Leaks
If you are losing brake fluid the source must be found quickly
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
Replacing Flexible Rubber Brake Hoses - ALL models
If over 15 years old then this is a must do job to prevent braking problems!
Brake
Avoiding Brake Caliper Seizure
There are some signs that will let you know your calipers are locking up.
Brake
Preventing Front Fender Damage from Brake Fluid, Scratches and Dings
A good soft fender cover is the BEST solution!
Brake
Determining If Your Brake Booster Has Failed
Don't be too hasty to buy a new one
Brake
Hydraulic Clutch and Brake Component Rusting
Clutch and brake fluid can be unkind to your cylinders and pistons
Interior Problems
Interior
Inside Door Related Problems
Failure to do preventative maintenance could lead to some very expensive repairs
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
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
Inside Rear View Mirror Removal and Replacement
Improper technique can break the mirror glass or permanently damage the ball socket
Interior
Drooping or Floppy Sun Visors
There is a simple fix to keep those old sun visors up
Interior
Turn Signal Lever Won't Hold Position When Pushed Up or Down
Tired of holding it up or down in a turn - Kent has a simple fix
Interior
Adequate Lighting When Working Inside Your Car
Indoor lighting can be difficult. Kent has recently found the ultimate solution.
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 …
Rust / Corrosion Problems
Rust / Corrosion
Rocker Panel and Floor Permanent Rust Repair without Welding
You can do it yourself without the hassle and bad side affects of welding!
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
How to Prevent Miracle Paint from Getting Hard in the Container
You have to keep the air away from it
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
Stopping Small Areas of Rust BEFORE They Become Holes in The Body
It is all about prevention. Remember rust never sleeps!
Rust / Corrosion
What to do When you Get Tired of Working on Your Benz
Sometimes You Just Need to Go Have Some Fun!
Electrical Problems
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
O.E. Aluminum Fuse Failure
One of the most common problems we see on older Mercedes.
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
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
Buffing and Sanding in Tight Places
This is one of Kent’s favorite tools to have around the shop
Electrical
Battery Staying Charged During Prolonged Vehicle Storage
You have a couple options to keep the battery alive!
Electrical
Frequent Glow Plug Failure
If you are constantly having to replace glow plugs do not immediately blame the plugs! Ream the carbon!
Electrical
Cleaning Up Ugly Battery Post Corrosion
You can do it with commercial products or something in the cupboard
Electrical
Properly Maintaining an Old Car Battery
Neglect is probably the No. 1 Cause of your Benz not starting
Electrical
Inaccurate or Erratic Fuel Gauge
This could be caused by one or even a combination of three things.
Electrical
Engine Won't Turn Over When It Sits Overnight
Do not assume it is just a bad battery! Diagnose first...
Electrical
Best Way to Fix a Non-Working Odometer or Speedometer
Kent recommends just sending it out for professional repair
Electrical
Charging a Totally Dead Battery
Some chargers won't start the charge cycle without some help
Electrical
Premature Glow Plug Failure
If it is happening on a regular basis it probably is not bad glow plugs
Electrical
OM 636 Diesel Engine Slow Starts
Tired of it taking sooooo long to heat up your glow plugs
Engine Problems
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
Engine or Climate Control Heater not Getting Hot
It is almost always a failed thermostat
Engine
Preventing Bolt or Thread Seizure
A special compound should be used - especially with steel bolts in aluminum threads
Engine
Worn Timing Chain and Guides
Failure of these chains can lead to catastrophic engine failure
Engine
Exhaust and Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks on Older Diesel Engines
Alert for all Diesel Owners - Check for loose Intake / Exhaust Manifold Nuts.
Engine
Removing Rounded Out or Damaged Hex Head Bolts
Avoid the pain of having to drill or cut the bolts off
Engine
Checking for Slow Power Steering Fluid Leaks
Check Your Low Pressure Power Steering Pump Hose
Engine
Challenges Purchasing an early to mid 1990's Model Mercedes
Do your homework and proceed carefully BEFORE buying! Type of Problem: troubleshooting
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
They Said it Only Needed a Head Gasket!
If the engine has been overheated it is almost never "just a head gasket"
Engine
How to Tell if Your Thermostat is Failing?
Monitor your engine temperature gauge in the morning for telltale signs.
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
Dealing with Problem Engine Studs
How to get the frozen nuts off and the stud back in safely
Engine
What Does a Healthy 240D Diesel Engine Sound Like
Listen and learn from a live video with sound.
Engine
Where in the World Can You Get a Good Shop Light?
You may have to make your own like Kent did...:-)
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
Are There Better Shop Work Lights Out There?
Kent has been inspired to design his own series of ultimate shop lights
Engine
Challenges When Doing Valve Adjustment on Early Gas Engines
Special tools are needed but you can still run into problems
Engine
Restoring a 1950's and 1960's Era Mercedes that has been stored
If the car has been stored or not driven regularly plan on some problems - some may be hidden!
Engine
Diesel Engine Starting Problems - A Quick Reference Solutions Guide
Summary list of the most common causes and parts needed to fix them
Engine
Should I Buy a Cheap Mercedes?
6 part video series on reasons why you should or shouldn't
Engine
How to Prevent Problems When Your Benz is Stored Over Winter
Do not neglect to give it Kents 30 day exercise program
Engine
Securing Rubber Exhaust System Hangers (Donuts)
They can fall off especially if your exhaust system is sagging or not mounted properly
Engine
Throttle Linkages Binding
Ball joints and pivot points should be lubricated on a 6 to 12 month basis
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
Cleaning an Old Dirty Oily Diesel Engine
There is a better and cleaner way!
Engine
Badly Pitted Water Pump or Thermostat Housing Hose Nipple
If you don't fix it the problem will get worse and the coolant hose will leak
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 Old Engine Aluminum Parts
How can you do it without removing them from the engine?
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
Leaking Mufflers and Exhaust Pipes
If not too far gone you can fix them - and yes it is a miracle!
Engine
Getting an Old Mercedes Diesel to Start Quicker
Tired of waiting for the glow plugs to heat up - we have the answer!
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
How to Easily Add Life to Your Old Benz
You can do it with magnets!
Engine
Fan Belt Noises
They can be a little tricky to isolate
Engine
Rubber Exhaust Hanger ( Donut ) Replacement
These can be a little tricky to get on
Engine
Keeping Your Engine and Engine Compartment Clean and Detailed
Are you concerned about damage to the electrical components and sensitive electronics?
Engine
Using the Wrong Gasket Sealant
If you use RTV you can create some real problems
Engine
Is a Third Wrench Needed When Adjusting the Valves on an Old Diesel?
This is how Kent deals with the problem
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
Gas Engine Runs Rough
Sometimes fuel injector cleaner can work wonders
Engine
Gas or Diesel Engine Runs Too Hot or Too Cold
Too Cold think thermostat - too Hot think a number of possible causes
Engine
Buying a Used Mercedes Quick Check No. 1
Your inspection should always include this
Engine
Avoiding Internal Engine Corrosion
You neglect the maintenance here and you WILL pay the price
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
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
Breaking Free Frozen Hex Bolts: Part 1
At all costs avoid rounding out the hex head of the bolt!
Engine
Draining Oil Out of Your Engine
The best way is to use an oil extractor
Engine
Worn Out Engine Motor Mounts
How to determine if they need replacement
Engine
Using Silicone RTV Gasket Adhesives
Alert! Use at your own risk
Engine
Troubleshooting Diesel Engine Overheating
It could be a number of things causing the problem. Follow Kent's video series
Engine
Rotating Your Engine During Service and Maintenance
Best done from the front crankshaft bolt
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
Removing Stuck Radiator and Coolant Hoses
An old hose can be very difficult to remove due to age and corrossion
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
Keeping Things in Place - On and Off a Car
This is Kent's favorite
Engine
Problems Adjusting Diesel Valve Clearances
You of course need the right wrenches - but if one or more won't adjust - what then???
Engine
I Can’t Get My Old Distributor Lined Up So Points Are Timed Right
This is especially important when installing an aftermarket electronic ignition
Engine
Finding a Use for Old Diesel Engine Parts
Sometimes you just have to take a break from working on your diesel... :-)
Engine
Challenges Restoring a 123 Chassis Diesel
Thoroughly check the car and especially the engine before spending big $$$
Engine
Cleaning Large Engine Parts
You actually may not need a large tank to thoroughly clean them
Transmission Problems
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
Does Your Automatic Transmission Really Need Replacing?
Be careful to not let someone sell you a rebuilt transmission!
Transmission
Rattling or Loose Automatic Shifter Linkage
New bushings will solve the problem and possibly prevent disaster
Transmission
Checking Automatic Transmission Fluid Level
There is a proper way to do this to determine proper level inside transmission
Transmission
Measuring Automatic Transmission Fluid Level
Minor frustration for most of us who service our own transmissions
Transmission
Reviving a High Mileage Automatic Transmission
How to improve performance and prolong the life of a tired gas or diesel automatic transmission
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
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
Isolating and Repairing Diesel Engine Fluid Leaks
Find the actual source of the leak before jumping to conclusions
Transmission
Installing New Seals in the Engine, Transmission or Rear End
Care must be exercised to prevent damage or premature failure
Transmission
How do I inspect the transmission and related components on an Old Benz
Get a good light and get under the car.
Transmission
What To Use in Place of Dexron III Automatic Transmission Fluid?
Watch the video and Kent will explain his recommendations.
Suspension Problems
Suspension
Diagnosing Loose Front End Steering
Inspect the tie rod ends first for wear
Suspension
Hard to Remove Tie Rod Ball Joints
It may take a special tool
Suspension
Clunking Noise In Rear Suspension When Going Over Bumps
It could be a number of things including shock absorbers
Suspension
Diagnosing Strange Front End Rumbling Noises
Suspect front wheel bearings
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
Mounting a Mercedes Wheel on the Hub
This can be frustrating without the right tool. Yes, there is a tool!
Vacuum Problems
Vacuum
Keeping Mice Out of Your Car
Double check for damage and use a product to scare them away
Lights Problems
Lights
Preventing Rust from Forming Inside Your Headlights
Sometimes the fix can be real simple and real cheap.
Lights
Really Dim Pre 1985 Headlights
If your car has the old style sealed beam headlights there is a great solution!
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
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
Driveline and rear end Problems
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
Climate Control Problems
Climate Control
Location and Replacement of Cabin Air Fitlers
These really get neglected and they are easy DIY