CLK-Class (W208) 1998-2002: CLK 200, CLK 230K, CLK 320, CLK 430 [Coupes & Cabriolets]

How do I change spark plugs on 02 clk 430?

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Old Mar 20, 2014 | 03:47 AM
  #1  
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2002 CLK430
How do I change spark plugs on 02 clk 430?

A DIY with pictures would be awesome, I figured the passenger side would be fairly easy, but what about the driver side? What tools will I need for this procedure?
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Old Mar 20, 2014 | 09:53 AM
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99CLK320,
Check the DIY thread however, remove the coil packs so you have room to work. There is a plug wire removal tool which is basically a 17mm(I think) offset open end wrench used to remove the wire from the plug and the rest is pretty much straight forward. There is also a flex extended socket for the plug that can make life easier. Here's a pic on ebay
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mercedes-Spark-Plug-Wire-Wrench-and-Socket-Tool-112-113-/370764751584?pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&hash=item56534d22e0&vxp=mtr
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Old Mar 20, 2014 | 10:11 AM
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Pretty straight-forward. It's the same on any 55, 430, or 320 engine, I'm sure there is a pretty write-up with pics somewhere, but ft you need pics for this job, then maybe you should take it to a pro...
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Old Mar 20, 2014 | 05:13 PM
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CLK430
I think its a valid question, the drivers side does look like a total nightmare, that tool on ebay looks like it would be well worth it cost.
wonder if it can be "rented" from autozone or pep boys
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Old Mar 20, 2014 | 05:49 PM
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Originally Posted by Hitman0187
I think its a valid question, the drivers side does look like a total nightmare, that tool on ebay looks like it would be well worth it cost.
wonder if it can be "rented" from autozone or pep boys
If it's not used on a Chevy or a Ford, then probably not a tool that can be "rented" or even purchased at your local auto parts store.

I really didn't have a problem with standard sockets, extensions, 17mm wrench and patience.
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Old Mar 21, 2014 | 12:30 AM
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2002 CLK430
Which spark plugs should I get? On autohausaz I see part 6702 "Bosch Platinum" for $2.75, and part 7422 Bosch Platinum OEM for $5.18.. I really am tempting to get the $2.75 but is it recommended to get the OEM spark plugs..?

Also, do I need anti seize? If so, which one? Anti Seize for copper or for silver grade?

Last edited by eatbeef40; Mar 21, 2014 at 01:13 AM.
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Old Mar 21, 2014 | 12:31 AM
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If the car has Xenons, removing the headlamp washer fluid tank frees up a lot of room.

The 17mm wrench that DL referred to makes removing the wires a breeze. I also own a wire puller, and that wrench is a much better tool on a Mercedes. That wrench is also used to adjust valves on a diesel, so don't be surprised if you see that wording in the description. If you simply pull the wires by hand, there is a very good chance they will be damaged.

Also like DL said, unbolt and slide the coil packs back. I leave the wiring harness attached.

The hardest plugs to get to are the center plugs on the driver's side and the driver's side rear. I use a swivel head ratchet and that makes it easier to R&R the plugs. For the driver's side rear you'll either use a mirror or the feel method. I just feel them.

As for tightening, you're not getting a torque wrench on many of those of those plugs. Bosch has a method to properly tighten their plugs. A picture is worth a thousand words, and it is dead simple, so just take a look here.
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Old Mar 21, 2014 | 08:58 AM
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Bosch 7422 is OEM. I went with those from Autohauz. I always use anti-sieze, just the little packet at the counter of your local auto parts store, small dot on each one. They don't need to be too tight. Resist the urge to put too much force on spark plugs. Nice and snug should do it.
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Old Mar 25, 2014 | 03:48 AM
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Can i get the bosch platinum 6702? will those do fine? They're half the price of the OEM's.
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Old Mar 25, 2014 | 08:08 AM
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Originally Posted by eatbeef40
Can i get the bosch platinum 6702? will those do fine? They're half the price of the OEM's.
It probably won't make a difference, but I think everyone looking at this will agree that the original plugs are your best choice.
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Old Sep 16, 2025 | 07:05 AM
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Originally Posted by jonUF02
Pretty straight-forward. It's the same on any 55, 430, or 320 engine, I'm sure there is a pretty write-up with pics somewhere, but ft you need pics for this job, then maybe you should take it to a pro...
You couldn't be farther from the truth. Sometimes even the best mechanics wouldn't mind a tip or a trick to speed things along or make it easier from someone who's learned something. I don't know why you commented because you don't have anything to share. I'm not the kind of guy on a forum like this to call you arrogant
I'm sure other people in your life have.
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Old Sep 16, 2025 | 01:52 PM
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11 years too late to the party.

Are you just looking for someone to argue with?
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Old Sep 16, 2025 | 02:56 PM
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Originally Posted by MacVidMB-V8
11 years too late to the party.

Are you just looking for someone to argue with?

Wasn't looking, you were easy to find.
Forums like these are here to help people do it themselves.
We all know that we can "go to the pro" that's not why were here.

You didn't have and technical advice or tips to offer.

So how did you help?


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Old Sep 16, 2025 | 03:57 PM
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Originally Posted by RoadkKing2000
Wasn't looking, you were easy to find.
Forums like these are here to help people do it themselves.
We all know that we can "go to the pro" that's not why were here.

You didn't have and technical advice or tips to offer.

So how did you help?
Are you OK?

You exhumed an 11 year old post to argue with the poster.
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Old Sep 17, 2025 | 12:10 PM
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Originally Posted by MacVidMB-V8
Are you OK?

You exhumed an 11 year old post to argue with the poster.

Well, to be fair, it was ThunderRon who woke the dead.
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Old Oct 18, 2025 | 07:35 PM
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It helps to twist the spark plug metal boot to break it loose.
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