Do I need the special wrench to access the bolts? I can't even see them and they're covered by some kind of shield.

Is there are manual or video for this? I got set up to attempt it yesterday, I could see the bottom bolts but not the top one.

Thank you guys a bunch ahead of time

 

Search around… members, including myself have posted experiences. Yes, you need a special offset wrench or socket. The top bolt is tucked tight under the heat shield. You might be able to get at it with a stubby wrench.

RWD makes things a bit easier, access wise.

Experience varies, but I would say it’s a med-high difficultly job for average DIYer.

 

I did the starter so I'm vaguely familiar with that general area. Is the exhaust removal mandatory as it is with the 4matic models? I can't find a guide or anything. I'll order the tool though thank you for the tip so far.

How much time do you reckon it takes? I have an experienced BMW tech for a friend who will be with me but MB engine mounts are a little different.

 

MB methods per WIS is to drop the exhaust (at least on 4matics)... the alternate way is:

• lowering the P/S rack
• disconnecting the alternator
• jacking motor up while loosening motor mount top bolt
• removing MM heat shields
• pulling the old mounts out
• trying to figure how these new mounts will fit
• maybe this, no, maybe this way, no, maybe this way
• there's no way they'll fit
• wait maybe, no, no, no, no
• omg they fit right in
  

 

I'd set aside the entire weekend... if you have a lift, cut time in quarter. If have a lift, your likely more proficient and it allows for access to manipulate the mounts to get them into place. In addition to accessing the rear-facing heat shield bolts.

 

yeah that one video with the Russians looks like they had a fine ol' time but its bad when you can't even see one of only three fasteners, its hidden by a shroud you didn't know existed, uses a tool you didn't know you needed, and the bottom access is hidden by only every thing at once.

The K20 starter for Hondas requires an intake manifold removal with the engine-in which is a VERY unpleasant service, this reminds me of that. I think book time for this job is 5 hours I thought it was overbloated but it's starting to line up. Thanks for your feedback so far I'm at least happy someone else has done it. I don't have access to lifts yet so this is a driveway deal.

 

This covers a lot: https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...-question.html

Not specifically RWD, but a gist of what's needed. I'd have to take a look under the car again, but the lack of axles will help. Might not even need to drop the P/S or alternator.

 

I did the motor mounts on my M273 earlier this year albeit in a w211. I did the passenger side in my driveway in about an hour but for the life of me the divers side looked impossible.

My buddy had a lift and we considered dropping the suspension cradle but opted to remove the exhaust instead. Once the decision was made, the exhaust was on the ground in 10 minutes. Four nuts on the manifold (2'+ of extension required), four bolts on a short crossbar spanning the transmission tunnel, and a half dozen rubber donuts (super easy with the right tool, not so much w/o). Whole job rolling on/off the lift was two guys and about an hour. Drivers mount came out in two pieces.