ETA Replacement

[CHBinAsheville]

New member and was wondering how difficult it is to replace the ETA. I replaced the top wiring harness with no problems. It's on a 1992 400E with 216k on it. I think I should clean the throttle body and the egr valve at the same time I guess. It also has the oil leaks at the front of the heads and the power steering fluid leak. I love my car and have had it since 153k. The previous owner did so many repairs on it like the a/c evaporator etc. and it still looks fantastic for the age. This site is such a great find. I use benzworld and one of the members there directed me here. I know I don't have the wonderful 500E but I think that most of the mechanical things are closer than the inline 6 cars.
Anyway thanks for any help with the ETA question. I don't have any ASR or ABS lights going on, just the occasional and intermittent limp mode engaging. It seems like if I drive it hard/brake hard, or steer abruptly from side to side something moves inside of the ETA and then it accelerates normally until the next time I start it up again.
Does this sound like the ETA to you guys?
Curt in Asheville, NC

 

[gsxr]

The ETA replacement isn't too hard, but it's a challenege getting it in & out of the manifold, as clearance is very tight. However, I'd check & clear all codes, and see which ones return. The problem you describe could also possibly be due to the gear position indicator switch (neutral safety / starter lockout switch) on the tranny. Hard to say for sure though.

The oil leaks at the front head covers is likely just from the cam solenoids - fairly easy to fix, photos are here:
http://www.w124performance.com/images/M ... _solenoid/

Power steering leaks are a common problem. I would do everything at once (except the pump itself, if that's dry) so it's all over with. Common sources are the short hose above the pump, the pump front shaft seal, both low-pressure rubber hoses along the left frame rail (one curved, one straight), and the output shaft seal on the steering box. I've had to replace all those items on both my 500's, but they both have zero power steering leaks now! Assorted photos are here:
http://www.w124performance.com/images/M119/PS_pumps/

 

[CHBinAsheville]

Thanks so much for the help. I used Valvoline power steering fluid in it lately instead of Pentosin product until I can get the leak fixed. I will do the repair on the cam solenoids and the pump at the same time. What would a clogged up catalytic converter exhibit? It runs so strong when I give it moderate peddle, and halls ass when I punch it. The transmission was rebuilt about a year ago and I notice the shifter seems to have unusual play. This was done by ex at $$$. I think the neutral safety switch thing might be causing issues and probably some kind of bushings in the shifter as well. Winter makes doing these things a pain as I have no garage. My SPG popped a brake hose tonight......nothing like the feeling of "Gee Marge, no brakes! Hold on!" Thank goodness I was just backing out of the drive way.
The ETA thing will be put off until I get the leaks etc. fixed as I don't experience the Limp Mode thing on a regular basis. To me a $500.00 part after 18 years isn't something to get upset about. It could be a Jap car with few miles, payments, and still not be in the same realm of quality as the 124. Again, thanks for your help.
Curt

 

[DerFuror]

Re: ETA Repair Reference Info



Here's two thorough DIY ETA Removal, Insulation Inspection and Rewiring Guides (superb jobs by the authors). Although specific for cousin Benzes, this is real good reference info for appreciating the basic rebuild process or for when you choose to bite the bullet yourself.

NOTE: The second reference link is found within the attached document.

 

[CHBinAsheville]

Thanks guys. I haven't had the time to get these things done yet but your posts are going to make this so much easier. This is the only site I have found that has info on my car and members that know them. I've been driving my SPG during this winter with the MB in the garage and only taken out in good dry weather. I don't plan on ever letting go of this car. It is so right in every way.
To bad the new ones have lost all of the qualities of this vintage.
Again, thanks.
Curt

 

[pesuazo]

If you have not done it yet, go to peachparts.com forum, you will find plenty of information there.

I did mine last summer (rewire) all issues of limp mode and ASR gone.

PESuazo