Problem with oil extraction with E400, need help!
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 723
Likes: 32
From: Central Jersey
2003 E500, 2004 G35X
Problem with oil extraction with E400, need help!
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 (new 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, 2 more quarts came out, about 4 quarts total. No matter what I did, no more oil. So temporary measure, I topped it up. The dipstick showed dirty oil left behind. Seems there is a baffle some sort in the oil pan preventing the full extraction. Never experienced this before!
Anyone, who has done the extraction with E400, can shed a light? Thanks.
Anyone, who has done the extraction with E400, can shed a light? Thanks.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 453
Likes: 149
From: Phoenix, AZ
2016 E350 Sport 2WD
Either the end of the extraction tube was blocked or it was above the level of the oil. I know of nothing that would block it in the pan. Next time you extract, cut the end of the tube at 45*angle and see if that helps, maybe turning tube 180* after 1st attempt at extraction. I find that just touching the pan with the tube provides most complete extraction, and it takes longer than you would think.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 453
Likes: 149
From: Phoenix, AZ
2016 E350 Sport 2WD
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 9,224
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From: V E G A S
1922 Ford Model T / no OBD
MB has dipstick tubes build for extraction, so inserting another tubing in it is not recommended.
Instead of figuring out what is wrong with your present setup, make a connector where big tube from extractor fits directly on the dipstick neck.
Most of the time the big tubing from Mityvac fits into funnel end of engine tube and with some hand pressure you can extract it this way.
Others made hose connector that clamp solid on engine tube.
Bare in mind that engine tube has small hole on the side to release vacuum, so using it for extraction you will have some gargling.
Instead of figuring out what is wrong with your present setup, make a connector where big tube from extractor fits directly on the dipstick neck.
Most of the time the big tubing from Mityvac fits into funnel end of engine tube and with some hand pressure you can extract it this way.
Others made hose connector that clamp solid on engine tube.
Bare in mind that engine tube has small hole on the side to release vacuum, so using it for extraction you will have some gargling.
