I am looking for a W166 and want to find one with the most reliable and DIY engine out there. I decided against the diesel due to all the issues and my only other choices are the V6 and V8 Biturbo engines.

Seems the non turbo non diesel V6 is impossible to find so I am left to deal with the bi turbo models.

So wondering how they are in terms of DIY. If I need to replace a turbo do I need to pull the entire engine out of the car due to lack of space?

Same with jobs like timing components? Can they be done with the engine in the car or does it require removal.

Basically looking for an engine similar to the N55 BMW engine which is very DIY friendly and just need to replace some leaking gaskets, fuel injectors, water pump, etc. Nothing requiring the removal of the entire engine from the vehicle.

 

 

Doesn't seem to bad judging by those videos.

Can the head be removed with the engine still inside the car?

 

Never done that myself; however, changing the spark plug near the driver's side firewall is already painful. I cannot imagine undressing the cylinder head, and later trying to align it back in place (it is not a light item to move around). Changing the crankshaft position sensor from the top is painful as well. Space between the firewall and the back of the engine is minimal to work comfortably

A few photos here of the engine removed https://mbworld.org/forums/gl-class-...re-solved.html