Flash Gordon

I have been using oil extractor for the past 15 years with no issues with different make of cars. Today when I tried it with my E400, there was a problem. I pushed the extractor tube into the dipstick as usual, reached the bottom, I started my extractor, only about 2 quarts came out (should be 6.9). Tried to push in deeper and after wiggle the tube, the tube did go in a few more inches. However, no suction whatsoever! After tried it for some time, a few more quarts came out, about 4 quarts total. No matter what I did, no more oil. So temporary measure, I topped it up.

Anyone, who has done the extraction, can shed a light? Thanks.

JasonF

You may want to post this in the W212 forum as well since more eyes may see it. I'm interested in the responses too - I have an extractor but don't want to run into any issues. Best of luck.

putter

I've been extracting oil for about 15 years too. I use a Mityvac 7400. Here are my thoughts on your situation.

Have you used the same extractor for those 15 years? If so, it may be time for a new one. If the tubes are reaching the oil, the tubes are clear and the pump is working, oil should be coming out. Of course, maybe the quantity of oil was much less than you think and you got all that there was. What does the dipstick indicate? Good luck.

Flash Gordon

I will, thanks.

Flash Gordon

Just got a new one before the oil change. The problem is the access to the engine oil, suction is fine. Tube will stop at first stop, got 2 qts. out, have to twist and turn the tube to get in deeper, even then no oil come out but the extractor is holding the vacuum! Just never experience like this before. I think maybe there is a baffle in the oil pan somewhere blocking it. The oil is dirty so there was definitely dirty oil left behind.

rocky raccoon

All Mercedes engines are designed for vacuum oil extraction. The dipstick tube itself extends to the lowest point in the engine sump. The proper method is to attach your extractor tubing to the TOP of the dipstick tube. Inserting a separate, small diameter plastic tube through the dipstick tube is defeating that feature. At best, it will slow the extraction process because the tube is smaller and at worst it will not allow the tube to reach the lowest point in the sump.

Fashion a fitting that will clamp over the upper end of your dipstick tube and all your problems will be solved. That is the way the dealers do it and the way I have always done it on my 1983 300CD and my 2008 E320 Bluetec. I too use the MityVac extractor. BTW, loosen your oil filter cap first so it can drain into the sump and you will get that oil also.

Flash Gordon

I will try your/dealer way. I always wonder how dealer does it. What material did you use to attach to the extractor and to cover the top of the tube? Please provide photo of yours. Many thanks!

rocky raccoon

I found an aluminum nipple with an o-ring that works. Don't know what it really is. Fits nicely into the dipstick tube. I think you can easily make something up out of rubber/plastic tubing and worm clamps. It would be equally as effective clamping and sealing to the outside of the dipstick tube.

Flash Gordon

Thanks for the photo and description!