realrideracing

Our '04 E320 just turned 90K miles. It's been a great work horse. So reliable that we've nicknamed it "The Water Buffalo" (Strong, no fuss, always there for you). We simply keep up on the oil changes, regular service schedules, and recently replaced the Thrust Arm Bushings. The only issue (which was minor) was a dealer covered replacement of the SBC system.
It was my wife's daily driver but now I'm taking it over after we got rid of my daily driver. MBZ's are relatively new to me. But I recently noticed on cold starts, a tapping sound for the first 3 -4 seconds. I'm not sure if this is new, if it's always been there, or if this is typical. Before I switch to a heavier oil, I wanted to get some feedback on this.
Also, at 90K miles, any recommendations for timing belts, seals, etc? Thanks.

Shadow5501

Don't use any oil other than one recommended by MB. In the USA, Mobil1 0w-40 is by far the most available option.

The tapping is the hydraulic tappets bleeding down overnight. It is completely normal and harmless on this engine. Don't give it a second thought.

There is no timing belt to change on this engine, it uses a multi-link timing chain.