thetonka

I took my R320 in for a LHM leak and a couple of sensor problems. They found the passenger side Exhaust Manifold is cracked, and apparently they found a TSB for this.
Mercedes told them they need to replace both manifolds and the turbo, which just sounds like a dealership trying to make money to me.

Anyway, the shop is a small shop and the MB tech is having some personally problems so they can't fix it for me. Bummer.

I know of a mechanic a friend uses in San Diego that can do the work for me if I run out of time. HOWEVER. This begs the question in my mind, what is the manifold made of? If the crack is not too sever, I should be able to weld it up. I can weld mild steel easily at home, and I have friends who can TIG Stainless Steel for me.

Does anyone know what the manifolds are made of? I am going to crawl under and try to pull it off tomorrow.

Plutoe

cast iron

thetonka

That sucks. Cast iron is a PITA to weld.

Carsy

Try brazing it.http://www.weldguru.com/braze-cast-iron.html

thetonka

Unfortunately this current don't have a torch. May be a good excuse to buy one.

Carsy

Take it to a good farm machinery/engineering workshop or boilermaker to have a top job done without any distortion.

thetonka

I have some friends who can weld it for me.