Priming the oil filter
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Junior Member
Joined: May 2024
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2008 e550 base WDBUF72X98B228774
Priming the oil filter
I have watched a few videos showing how to change the oil in a Mercedes, and noticed in every case a Mann cartridge filter was inserted dry. I'm used to priming oil filters so the bearings don't run dry at startup. I understand filter placement at the top of the engine might make priming less practical, but shouldn't you try? Also quickly learning Mercedes is...different. Just looking for best practice or an explanation as to why priming the filter is not in this case.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2017
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C320
It's a non issue. There's plenty of oil left in the galleries and bearings to keep the engine lubricated until oil pressure comes up. Fun fact: your engine lacks any sort of oil pressure sensor or oil pressure warning light. Have fun.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2013
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2021 GLB250 FWD, 2023 GLA250 FWD, 2013 C250, 2015 GLK350, 2005 ML350SE, 2003 E320
I have watched a few videos showing how to change the oil in a Mercedes, and noticed in every case a Mann cartridge filter was inserted dry. I'm used to priming oil filters so the bearings don't run dry at startup. I understand filter placement at the top of the engine might make priming less practical, but shouldn't you try? Also quickly learning Mercedes is...different. Just looking for best practice or an explanation as to why priming the filter is not in this case.
I think that the MB oil pumps are positive displacement, so priming could be done by manually rotating the engine. How much or how long would be necessary is an open question.
During my field work, I did prime the lubrication system on large industrial engines that sat idle for a long time between uses. Those had mechanical pumps included on them to do it.
