Engine
Preventing Catastrophic V8 Engine Failure
Plastic guide rails and oiler clips can fail leading to major engine damage
What's wrong with my Mercedes?
Engine Problems
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
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
How to Restore the Paint on Your Black Engine and Chassis Parts
With the right paint and technique YOU can do it yourself!
Engine
Rubber Exhaust Hanger ( Donut ) Replacement
These can be a little tricky to get on
Engine
Gas or Diesel Engine Runs Too Hot or Too Cold
Too Cold think thermostat - too Hot think a number of possible causes
Engine
Cleaning Old Engine Aluminum Parts
How can you do it without removing them from the engine?
Engine
Rotating Your Engine During Service and Maintenance
Best done from the front crankshaft bolt
Engine
How to Easily Add Life to Your Old Benz
You can do it with magnets!
Engine
Gas Engine Runs Rough
Sometimes fuel injector cleaner can work wonders
Engine
Removing Stuck Radiator and Coolant Hoses
An old hose can be very difficult to remove due to age and corrossion
Engine
Using the Wrong Gasket Sealant
If you use RTV you can create some real problems
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
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
Keeping Your Engine and Engine Compartment Clean and Detailed
Are you concerned about damage to the electrical components and sensitive electronics?
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
Slow Loss of Coolant and Minor Drips Around and Under Radiator or Coolant Tank
Be sure to check your radiator / expansion tank cap
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
Draining Oil Out of Your Engine
The best way is to use an oil extractor
Engine
Removing a Stubborn Power Steering Pump Pulley
Sometimes they are really stuck on the shaft!
Engine
Buying a Used Mercedes Quick Check No. 1
Your inspection should always include this
Engine
Worn Out Engine Motor Mounts
How to determine if they need replacement
Engine
Checking for Slow Power Steering Fluid Leaks
Check Your Low Pressure Power Steering Pump Hose
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
Breaking Free Frozen Hex Bolts: Part 1
At all costs avoid rounding out the hex head of the bolt!
Engine
Inspecting and Replacing Rubber Exhaust Hangers
With the right tool and a little know-how it is super easy.
Engine
Removing Rounded Out or Damaged Hex Head Bolts
Avoid the pain of having to drill or cut the bolts off
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
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
How to Tell if Your Thermostat is Failing?
Monitor your engine temperature gauge in the morning for telltale signs.
Engine
Keeping Things in Place - On and Off a Car
This is Kent's favorite
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
Cleaning Large Engine Parts
You actually may not need a large tank to thoroughly clean them
Engine
They Said it Only Needed a Head Gasket!
If the engine has been overheated it is almost never "just a head gasket"
Engine
Dealing with Problem Engine Studs
How to get the frozen nuts off and the stud back in safely
Engine
Leaking Mufflers and Exhaust Pipes
If not too far gone you can fix them - and yes it is a miracle!
Engine
Where in the World Can You Get a Good Shop Light?
You may have to make your own like Kent did...:-)
Engine
Fan Belt Noises
They can be a little tricky to isolate
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
Should I Buy a Cheap Mercedes?
6 part video series on reasons why you should or shouldn't
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
How to Prevent Problems When Your Benz is Stored Over Winter
Do not neglect to give it Kents 30 day exercise program
Brake Problems
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
Brake Rotor Chatter or Pulsation
Causes and cures for this common problem
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
Chasing Brake and Clutch Fluid Leaks
If you are losing brake fluid the source must be found quickly
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
Hydraulic Clutch and Brake Component Rusting
Clutch and brake fluid can be unkind to your cylinders and pistons
Brake
Losing Brake Fluid During Brake Hose and Caliper Replacement
Some simple precautions can save a big mess and ease brake system bleeding
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
Brake
Protecting Your Health When Working on Brake Systems
This is not to be taken lightly!
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
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!
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
Interior Problems
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
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
Inside Rear View Mirror Removal and Replacement
Improper technique can break the mirror glass or permanently damage the ball socket
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
Power Window Troubleshooting
When all else fails check the wiring
Interior
Adequate Lighting When Working Inside Your Car
Indoor lighting can be difficult. Kent has recently found the ultimate solution.
Interior
Front Window Stuck in the Closed Position
How to get the regulator out the door when this happens
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
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
Drooping or Floppy Sun Visors
There is a simple fix to keep those old sun visors up
Body and Exterior Trim Problems
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
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
Finding the Best General Purpose Trim Adhesive
This one has just the right combination of benefits
Body and Exterior Trim
Preventing Pre-mature Failure of Key Mechanical Components
Anyone want to guess what the secret is???
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 Protect Your Car's Paint When Working on the Engine?
Nothing is better than a good thick fender cover
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
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
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
How to Get a Benz to REALLY Shine
Kent recently discovered one product that shines above all the rest
Body and Exterior Trim
New Sunroof Seal Does Not Fit Right
It could be that you installed in upside down
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
Why Drive a Mercedes Benz?
Until you have driven one it is hard to explain
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 Tell if Your Sunroof Seals Need Replacing
Knowing what to look for will help you decide if replacement is needed
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
Troublesome Trunk Seal Leaks
Be sure to look UNDER the trunk seal - you might be surprised!
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
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
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 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
Opening Up Stuck Doors on Old Mercedes
Most common when car has sat outside for long periods without use
Body and Exterior Trim
Side Body Trim Strip Removal and Repair
With the right tools and parts you can fix this nagging problem yourself
Body and Exterior Trim
Finding Interior Color Codes
Location of the three digit numerical code and translation here
Body and Exterior Trim
Removing Plastic Body Fasteners
The right tool can do the job without damage
Body and Exterior Trim
Comparing a W108 6 cylinder to a W109 Big V8
They look the same except for a just a few major differences!
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
Getting Your Car to REALLY Shine
There is one amazing product Kent recently found that polishes it all!
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
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
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
Manual Operating Sunroof Service and Repair
Ignore it and you will be sorry! Can you remove and service it yourself?
Suspension Problems
Suspension
Diagnosing Loose Front End Steering
Inspect the tie rod ends first for wear
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
Hard to Remove Tie Rod Ball Joints
It may take a special tool
Suspension
Mounting a Mercedes Wheel on the Hub
This can be frustrating without the right tool. Yes, there is a tool!
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
Electrical Problems
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
Fuse Repeatedly Burns Out?
Isolate the source of the short to finally solve your problem
Electrical
Properly Maintaining an Old Car Battery
Neglect is probably the No. 1 Cause of your Benz not starting
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
Key Not Springing Back From the Start Position
This is a sure sign your electrical switch is going bad
Electrical
Best Way to Fix a Non-Working Odometer or Speedometer
Kent recommends just sending it out for professional repair
Electrical
Power Antenna Failure
There is a quick fix as well as a more permanent repair
Electrical
Engine Won't Turn Over When It Sits Overnight
Do not assume it is just a bad battery! Diagnose first...
Electrical
Charging a Totally Dead Battery
Some chargers won't start the charge cycle without some help
Electrical
Replacing a Badly Burned Wiring Harness
Don't let anyone kid you... this is not an easy job!
Electrical
Battery Staying Charged During Prolonged Vehicle Storage
You have a couple options to keep the battery alive!
Electrical
Inaccurate or Erratic Fuel Gauge
This could be caused by one or even a combination of three things.
Electrical
How to Open up and Clean Old Electrical Plugs
Corrosion on the contacts can cause all kinds of electrical problems
Transmission Problems
Transmission
Does Your Automatic Transmission Really Need Replacing?
Be careful to not let someone sell you a rebuilt 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
Isolating and Repairing Diesel Engine Fluid Leaks
Find the actual source of the leak before jumping to conclusions
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
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.
Transmission
Preventing Transmission Oil Pan Leaks
Be Kind to Your Transmission Pan Gasket!
Transmission
1968 to 1981 Automatic Transmission Won't Go Into or Slips Badly in Reverse
Yes, you are fortunate there is an adjustment!
Transmission
Checking Automatic Transmission Fluid Level
There is a proper way to do this to determine proper level inside transmission
Transmission
Reviving a High Mileage Automatic Transmission
How to improve performance and prolong the life of a tired gas or diesel automatic transmission
Fuel Delivery Problems
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
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
Fuel Tank Inspection and Service
Very important for cars over 20 years old.
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
Leaking or Stuck Late 1960's Electric MFI Fuel Pump
All too common problem with these old gas fuel injected cars
Fuel Delivery
Emergency Plug for a Fuel Hose
You will be amazed how well this works!
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
Gas Engine Fuel Smells in Car
This one you definitely do not want to ignore!
Lights Problems
Lights
Preventing Rust from Forming Inside Your Headlights
Sometimes the fix can be real simple and real cheap.
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
Lights
Really Dim Pre 1985 Headlights
If your car has the old style sealed beam headlights there is a great solution!
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
Vacuum Problems
Vacuum
Keeping Mice Out of Your Car
Double check for damage and use a product to scare them away