M-Class (W163) Produced 1998-2005: ML 230, ML 320, ML 350, ML 400 CDI, ML 430, ML 500, ML 270 CDI

Newbie Here: What's a vibration dampner?

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Old Dec 28, 2004 | 04:51 PM
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Newbie Here: What's a vibration dampner?

Hello all. Long time lurker, first time poster. I recently brought my 2001 ML320 in for service for a weird noise during turning. I was told my power steering fluid was leaking. They suggested I replace PS pump/reservoir/reservoir seal and p/s fluid for a total parts and labor of $813.57.

They also told me that the Vibration Dampner was coming apart. Total cost to replace, $424.06. My question is what the heck is the Vibration Dampner and is this a critical component?

Any thoughts would be much appreciated. Thanks
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Old Dec 28, 2004 | 05:35 PM
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From: In A Van Down By The River
2014 RX 350 F Sport, 2007 Scion tC, 2000 ML 430 Money Pit Finally Gone! Oh Happy Day!
Aka crankshaft balancer or harmonic balancer. You can read all about it here http://www.mercedesshop.com/shopforu...monic+balancer
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Old Dec 28, 2004 | 07:00 PM
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From: British Columbia Canada, Elko Nevada USA
2002 ML500,2005 Toyota 4Runner, 2006 F150 King Ranch, Kawasaki ZX1400 Ninja, 1978 Jeep CJ7
I sent you a PM about this and some info.
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Old Dec 28, 2004 | 07:38 PM
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2000 ML 430
from all accounts.. you definitely WANT to replace that harmonic balancer.. it's either 400 now, or 2k+ later when it comes apart..


dunno about the PS stuff.. did you check fluid level? might be a good idea to get a second opinion on this? (plus, there was a recall for some PS parts, so make sure that's done first)
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Old Dec 29, 2004 | 05:30 AM
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2005 ML 350
Hi,

did mb update the harmonic balancer on the new 05 ml350 or is it still the same as before,
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Old Dec 29, 2004 | 01:11 PM
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From: British Columbia Canada, Elko Nevada USA
2002 ML500,2005 Toyota 4Runner, 2006 F150 King Ranch, Kawasaki ZX1400 Ninja, 1978 Jeep CJ7
From what I've read, this was an issue mainly with 1998-2001 models, and the 2002 and up are using a different material.
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Old Jan 4, 2005 | 09:17 AM
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Thanks for the replies!!!
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