Engine Mechanical:
Full overhaul, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, rings, connecting rods
Engine Fuel System:
Diesel injection pump (Bosch VE), injectors, fuel lines, filters, glow plug system
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil cooler (if applicable), oil change procedures, oil specifications
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, catalytic converter (later models), mufflers, pipes, mounting
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shifting mechanisms, fluid types
Transmission Automatic:
Service, fluid changes, torque converter, control systems (e.g., K4A/K4C series)
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle differential, hub assemblies
Suspension Front:
Independent suspension, control arms, ball joints, sway bar, shock absorbers, springs
Suspension Rear:
Semi-trailing arm independent suspension, shock absorbers, springs, alignment
Steering System:
Power steering system, steering box, tie rods, steering column, wheel alignment
Brakes Hydraulic:
Master cylinder, brake booster (vacuum assisted), brake lines, fluid specifications
Brakes Friction:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (most models), caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, pad/shoe replacement
Electrical System:
12V system, battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system (pre-glow), wiring diagrams
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fuse box locations and functions
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, bumpers, trim
Body Interior:
Dashboard removal, seat mechanisms, headliner, carpet, sound deadening
HVAC System:
Heater core, ventilation controls, air conditioning system (if equipped), refrigerant (R12)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacements (oil, fuel, air), coolant flush, brake fluid flush, lubrication points
Engine Repair:
Timing chain/belt replacement, head gasket replacement, piston ring installation, valve adjustments
Fuel System Repair:
Diesel injection pump timing, injector testing and replacement, fuel filter bleeding
Transmission Overhaul:
Complete disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of manual and automatic gearboxes
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder rebuild, bleeding procedure, rotor/drum replacement
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagram interpretation, component testing (alternator, starter, relays), fault diagnosis
Suspension Component Replacement:
Ball joint, tie rod end, control arm, shock absorber, spring replacement
Steering Component Replacement:
Steering box overhaul/replacement, tie rod replacement
Body Panel Adjustment:
Door alignment, hood and trunk adjustments, panel replacement
HVAC Component Repair:
Heater core replacement, blower motor service, AC system recharge (if equipped)
Troubleshooting Guides:
Specific symptom-based diagnostic trees for common issues
Depth:
Professional Level (OEM Equivalent)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics for engine, transmission, and electrical systems
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized Mercedes-Benz tools required for certain procedures
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or annually, depending on service type and oil used. Consult manual.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles) or as needed, especially in areas with variable fuel quality.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000-40,000 km (12,000-24,000 miles) or annually, depending on operating conditions. Inspect more frequently.
Valve Adjustment:
Periodic check and adjustment recommended, often around 40,000-80,000 km (24,000-50,000 miles).
Engine Coolant:
Glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. MB-specific coolant recommended (e.g., G48 specification or equivalent).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific MB recommendation and change interval, typically every 2 years).
Power Steering Fluid:
Hydraulic fluid meeting specific MB specification (often ATF Dexron II or equivalent, check manual).
Diesel Engine Longevity:
Generally very reliable; common issues include injector pump wear, glow plug system failures, and occasional oil leaks.
Rust And Corrosion:
A significant concern, particularly on wheel arches, rocker panels, jacking points, and around window seals. Requires proactive rust prevention and repair.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can wear over time, affecting steering and alignment. Rear axle subframe mounts can also degrade.
Vacuum System Leaks:
Central locking, cruise control, and HVAC flap controls often rely on vacuum actuation, which can fail due to brittle hoses or failing vacuum pods.
Transmission Slippage:
Automatic transmissions can develop slipping issues due to worn clutches or modulator problems; regular fluid changes are crucial.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring and components can lead to intermittent issues, especially in lighting, dashboard indicators, and climate controls.
